Arvada additions, ADUs and whole-home remodels.

It can. Arvada's wildfire resiliency requirements apply to additions and to re-roofing or siding replacement that exceeds 25 per cent, which covers most re-roofs. Defensible space zones apply and new juniper plantings are prohibited. Fire sprinklers are required for new single-family homes, townhomes and duplexes, but the code explicitly does not extend that requirement to existing structures, additions or remodels. If you are re-roofing or re-siding, get the material specification settled before you order anything.

It depends on your lot, which is unusual and generally favourable. The cap is tiered: up to 600 sq ft on lots of 6,000 sq ft or less, 850 sq ft from 6,000 to 12,499 sq ft, 1,000 sq ft from 12,500 sq ft up to an acre, and 1,200 sq ft above an acre. A second cap also applies - no more than 40 per cent of the primary living space. ADUs are allowed in all residential zones where a detached single-family home already exists, and the 2024 code permits a homeowner to build one themselves.

We confirm this with the city rather than quoting it, because Arvada's published material did not settle either point. What is settled is the state floor: Colorado HB24-1152 generally bars a new parking requirement for an ADU and bars any permanent owner-occupancy commitment in subject jurisdictions, and Arvada is a subject jurisdiction. We get the current local position in writing before anything gets drawn.