Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU) Applications

An Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a dwelling unit that is either attached to the principal single-family dwelling unit or is contained in a structure on the same parcel as the principal structure (e.g., in a garage or barn, or a standalone dwelling). 

ADUs may be allowed in most areas of La Plata County, provided the ADU complies with LUC Sec. 73-3. ADUs can fall under a few different permit types; see below for information regarding which type may work for your needs. If the parcel is in the Animas Valley different requirements may apply, please contact the Planning Department.

Please be advised additional review fees may be required as part of the application process if existing structures and/or uses are found to be out of compliance with the land use code pursuant to LUC Sec. 80-8.V. 

Please contact the Planning Department to confirm which of these application types meets your needs prior to applying.


Application for ADU Director Determination (LUC Sec. 73-3.III)

If the parcel is less than 6 acres, all utilities are required to be shared (see Option B).
If your source of water is a well, a pump test and water quality test will be required.  The items required to be submitted with the application can be found on the application. Please review the list before submitting or the application may be denied, label documents accordingly.  Note that your application will require a site plan. The site plan should include the existing structures and what they are, the location of the driveway and location of the proposed ADU, the location of septic and well (if not taps), and the location of the electric meter. If buildings are located close to parcel boundaries, please measure the setback and show the measurement on your site plan. 

Option A
  1. The parcel is tax assessed as agricultural in the most recent county assessment and is at least thirty (30) acres for a second dwelling unit and forty-five (45) acres for a third dwelling unit.
  2. Other requirements may apply in regards to source of water, on-site waste water (sewer), and/or driveway standards. LUC Sec. 70-4, 70-3, & 74.
Option B
  1. The second dwelling unit will share the same electrical meter, water source, on-site wastewater treatment system (septic), and access (driveway) as the primary dwelling unit.
  2. The livable floor area of the second dwelling unit does not exceed the size of the primary dwelling unit or two thousand (2,000) square feet, whichever is less. 
  3. Other requirements may apply in regards to source of water, on-site waste water (sewer), and/or driveway standards. LUC Sec. 70-4, 70-3, & 74.


Application for ADU Administrative Permit (LUC Sec. 73-3.IV)

If your source of water is a well, a pump test and water quality test will be required.  The items required to be submitted with the application can be found on the application. Please review the list before submitting or the application may be denied, label documents accordingly.  

One (1) second dwelling unit on one (1) parcel that is at least six (6) acres or more. Other requirements apply in regards to source of water, on-site waste water (sewer), driveway standards, and county road and driveway standards as well as level of service standards. LUC Sec. 70-4, 70-3, 70-11, 74-2.II, 74-3, and 74-8. Please confirm with the Planning Department whether the road(s) would need improvement and if the requirements are feasible for the applicant before submitting an application.



Application for ADU Minor and Major Permit (LUC Sec. 73-3.V.and VI)
If your proposal does not meet the criteria outlined above, please fill out a Project Information Form and the Planning Department will provide feedback regarding the permit type required. Note that your application will require a site plan. The site plan should include the existing structures and what they are, the location of the driveway and location of the proposed ADU, the location of septic and well (if not taps), and the location of the electric meter. If buildings are located close to parcel boundaries, please measure the setback and show the measurement on your site plan.