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Loveland Zoning & Land Use Guide

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Key Zoning Facts

Planning Department
City of Loveland Community Development(970) 962-2523
Building Code Edition
2021 IBC with Loveland Amendments
ADUs Allowed
Yes
Primary District
R1e Residential Low Density Estate
Max Height
35 ft

Loveland Zoning Overview

Loveland is a city of approximately 76,000 in Larimer County, situated between Fort Collins and the Denver metro area along the I-25 corridor. Known for its vibrant arts community and the Benson Sculpture Garden, Loveland has grown from a small agricultural town into a significant northern Colorado city. The city's zoning code establishes residential, commercial, industrial, and employment districts that reflect Loveland's mix of established neighborhoods, newer suburban development, and commercial areas along US 34 and I-25.

Loveland's comprehensive plan directs growth toward designated growth areas while preserving agricultural land and open space. The city manages growth within a Growth Management Area established through intergovernmental agreements with Larimer County. Loveland's downtown has been a focus of revitalization efforts, with arts-oriented development and mixed-use projects transforming the city center.

Community Development handles planning, zoning, and building services for the city.

Key Zoning Districts

Loveland's zoning includes R1e (Estate), R1 (Low Density), R2 (Medium Density), and R3 (High Density) residential districts. Commercial districts include C1 (Neighborhood Commercial), C2 (Community Commercial), and employment districts near I-25.

ADU Regulations

Loveland permits ADUs in residential zones under Colorado HB 24-1152. ADUs are limited to 800 square feet and 20 feet in height. No additional parking is required. Permits are processed within three to six weeks.

Development Process

Loveland's development review includes administrative approval for by-right projects and Planning Commission hearings for discretionary actions. Building permits are processed by the Building Division.

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Loveland

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — Colorado

  • Building Code: 2021 IBC (locally adopted)
View Colorado zoning overview

County — Larimer County

  • Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning

City / Municipal

The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.

Overlay Districts

No overlay districts identified.

Private Restrictions

  • HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
  • Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.

Primary Zoning Districts

R1eResidential Low Density Estate
Min Lot
15,000 sq ft
Max Height
35 ft
Front Setback
25 ft
Side Setback
7.5 ft
Rear Setback
25 ft
R3Residential High Density
Min Lot
5,000 sq ft
Max Height
45 ft
Front Setback
20 ft
Side Setback
10 ft
Rear Setback
15 ft
C1Neighborhood Commercial
Min Lot
None
Max Height
35 ft
Front Setback
15 ft
Side Setback
0 ft
Rear Setback
10 ft

ADU Rules in Loveland

ADUs:Allowed
Max Size
800 sq ft
Max Height
20 ft
Rear Setback
5 ft
Side Setback
5 ft
Parking
No additional parking required
Owner Occupancy
Not required
Permit Timeline
3-6 weeks

Permit Costs & Timelines

Permit Costs & Timelines

Specific permit fee schedules for Loveland are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.

Check Loveland permit fees →

Official Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build an ADU in Loveland?
Yes. Loveland permits ADUs in residential zones under Colorado HB 24-1152. A building permit is required.
How do I find the zoning for my property in Loveland?
Visit the Loveland Community Development website for zoning maps, or call (970) 962-2523.
What zones allow multi-family housing in Loveland?
Multi-family housing is allowed in R2 (Medium Density) and R3 (High Density) residential districts, as well as mixed-use zones.