All Forum Posts by: Dorothy Ma

Hey Jason, there are the type of development deals I'm looking for. This one is right next to one we are developing so didn't make sense for us, but let's get in touch soon

Love this thread, I've been advocating architect as developer for a longtime and just wrapping up my first 6plex development project in Denver.  Would love to hear and chat with fellow designers and architects in other locations.

If there is a SFR on the property and its zoned duplex or multifamily then you will be able to build additional units if you follow the zoning code and your lot size allows. It could also be zoned SFR but with the ability to add ADUs- accessory dwelling units. I think Longmont is working on allowing ADUs where permitted and having plans that are provided and pre-approved by the city so that yo don't have to hire an architect or submit for zoning- you would be able to just get your permit and build it, which is really nice.

@Andrew Lapham - I agree with @Bill S., you will have many headaches if your strategy is to rezone. With Denver, it is a log tedious process that requires a public hearing and takes lots of time...you would have to have purchased the property already since rezoning could take months, even a year. Longmont had their own zoning code so if that's where you are focusing, don't read the Denver zoning code- that won't apply. I am working with a non profit to rezone a piece of land gifted to them by a church in Longmont to build affordable housing units and the city is open to doing that. Longmont is a smaller community and may be easier than Denver, but rezoning always requires a good reason to present to the city, not just because you can financially benefit.

I'd be interested to learn more

@Greg Ressler I am an architect and developer in Denver. If you've never build new construction before I would highly recommend finding a mentor or hiring a superintendent/contractor to help with the process.  It's very different from rehab and you don't want to mess it up.  I would agree with that you also need to hire a local architect who is familiar with the city process. Here in Denver the city takes forever (9 months-12 months avg for multifamily rowhomes projects) and there's a specific submittal process and if your architect is familiar with it, can save you time and money.  

I'm curious where you came up with the number 15 units? are these studio apartment condo units? 

@Bill S. What's the current use? If you're just changing the use you go through zoning, which is totally separate from Building...if it's a simple change of use that makes sense you may just need to fill out a form. I just recently did a change of use and it didn't require anything brought up to 2015 code..is this Denver?

@Dan Sheeks - I have a few licensed engineers I work with. PM me for info.

@john wanberg

Architect and developer here, RH-3A allows for accessory dwelling, just make sure you confirm to setback and zoning requirements per Denver Zoning code section 5.3.4.5.

The Denver zoning code is super tricky and confusing. The front facing entrance for RH zoning you refer to are only for if you were to build row homes. There are zoning categories, and them "building form categories" within each zoning designation. Under the RH zoning, you can also build other building forms such as SFR, duplex, and rowhomes. I'm assuming the current "building form" of the existing house would fall under single family based on what you provided.

With previous mentions of the delay at the city, this is true.  And they've recently changed same day permits to no longer be same day, but still fairly "quick" compared to login. You can always go to the login counter and speak to someone at zoning to get all the information you need. Make sure you login online so you're not waiting hours down at the city.

In terms of your concerns with inspection- I would recommend permitting the ADU separately from the structural work needed for the main house. Depending on the scope of work, the structural work on the main house would get through the city fairly quickly under quick permits. The ADU would need to go through zoning review then building permit review.