Build a Barndominium in Colorado
Explore the rise of barndominium Colorado builds. From Denver and Colorado Springs to the mountain towns, Colorado barndominium homes mix modern ranch living with rugged landscapes. Learn about barndominium plans in Colorado, Colorado barndominium kits, and the cost to build a barndominium in Colorado.
Colorado Advantage
Barndominiums in Colorado: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Colorado barndominiums meet local codes? Yes, they must follow state building standards, with zoning and permitting that vary by county.
Can a barndominium in Colorado be a primary residence? Yes, once permitted, barndominiums can be full-time homes and must comply with Colorado residential codes.
Are barndominiums in Colorado used as rentals? Yes, they are popular in ski towns, ranch areas, and urban markets with strong demand for vacation rentals.
What is the cost to build a barndominium in Colorado? The barndominium cost Colorado typically ranges from $150–$250 per square foot, depending on land prep, finishes, and location.
Are kits the only option in Colorado? No, you can also choose DEN’s farmhouse and barnhouse designs as alternatives to Colorado barndominium kits.
Builders & Costs
Barndominium Builders in Colorado & Prices
Working with experienced barndominium builders in Colorado ensures a smooth build. The cost to build a barndominium in Colorado ranges from $150–$250 per square foot depending on finishes and mountain or urban location.
Colorado Barndominium Plans
Barndominium plans Colorado combine rustic ranch charm with modern mountain layouts.
Designs fit ski town cabins, mountain ranches, suburban homes, and vacation rentals statewide.
Pair barndominiums with Colorado farmhouse plans for flexible options.
Energy-efficient construction adapts to Colorado’s mountains, plains, and varied climates.
Regulations
Building a Barndominium in Colorado: What You Need to Know
Before starting your barndominium in Colorado, it’s essential to understand permits, zoning, and codes. Colorado counties regulate inspections, septic approval, and energy compliance. These rules affect whether your project qualifies as a primary residence, ranch property, or short-term rental. Below are the most important regulations to consider, with resources for barndominium cost Colorado, kits, and county-level requirements.
Key Regulation Areas & Resources
Zoning & Barndominium Permits: Colorado counties require permits for barndominiums, covering site plans, septic approval, and inspections. Mountain and metro zones may add extra steps.
Colorado Building Code Resources →
Minimum Standards for Barndominiums: Colorado enforces the International Residential Code (IRC) with state amendments. Requirements include structural safety, energy efficiency, and electrical systems.
Colorado Building Code →
Rural & Mountain Builds: In rural areas, barndominiums on acreage may have different zoning paths. Septic approval is managed by county health departments and state water boards.
Colorado Septic System Rules →
Energy Code & Insulation: Colorado follows the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). Metal barndominiums often need spray foam insulation, radiant barriers, and efficient HVAC systems.
Colorado Energy Code Resources →
Local Zoning & Planning: Zoning for Colorado barndominiums varies by county. Mountain towns, farmland, and suburban regions each have unique restrictions.
National Zoning Atlas – Colorado →
Legal Framework for Barndominiums: Colorado classifies barndominiums as residential structures. They must pass inspections under the state’s adopted codes.
Colorado Building Code Administration →
Tip: Unsure about zoning or permits? Contact your county planning office for guidance. The resources above are a strong starting point when planning a barndominium in Colorado.
Still got questions? Maybe we can help.
FAQ
Barndominiums & Ranch Homes in Colorado: Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about building a barndominium in Colorado, designing Colorado ranch style homes, and understanding costs, permits, and zoning across the state.
Do I need a permit to build a barndominium in Colorado?
Yes. Most Colorado counties require permits for barndominiums and ranch houses, including septic approval, site plans, and compliance with snow load and energy codes. Always confirm with your county planning office before building.
Can a barndominium be my primary residence in Colorado?
Absolutely. Once built to code and inspected, a Colorado barndominium qualifies as a permanent residence. Many owners live in them full-time on mountain acreage, plains ranches, or near ski towns, often customizing with large windows and energy-efficient systems.
Are barndominiums in Colorado allowed as short-term rentals?
In many areas, yes—but it depends on location. Popular regions like Colorado Springs, Denver metro, and Summit County have local short-term rental regulations. Check with county zoning rules before offering your Colorado barndominium as a rental.
How much does it cost to build a barndominium in Colorado?
The cost to build a barndominium in Colorado typically ranges from $130–$200 per square foot, depending on finishes and location. Extra costs may apply for mountain parcels requiring wells, septic, or fire mitigation. Overall barndominium cost Colorado varies by region and design.
Does DEN provide Colorado barndominium kits and plans?
Yes. Our barndominium kits and plans are available for Colorado barndominiums. These barndominium plans Colorado are designed for mountain, plains, and rural living, balancing efficiency with modern design.
Ranch & Barndominium Hotspots
Top Regions in Colorado for Barndominiums & Ranch Homes
Barndominiums in Colorado and Colorado ranch style homes are expanding across mountain towns, plains, and vacation areas. Explore the most popular regions where Colorado ranch homes and barndominiums are being built today:
Rocky Mountains
Around Estes Park, Breckenridge, and Durango, Colorado barndominiums are popular as second homes and vacation rentals with mountain views.
Front Range & Plains
From Fort Collins to Colorado Springs, Colorado ranch homes and barndominiums sit on open acreage ideal for families and rural living.
Western Slope
Near Grand Junction and Montrose, barndominiums in Colorado are built for ranching, retirement living, and wide-open land use.
Southern Colorado & River Region
Along Pueblo, Trinidad, and the Arkansas River, Colorado ranch homes and barndominiums combine small-town charm with outdoor access.
Residential
Best Residential Areas for Colorado Ranch Homes & Barndominiums
Looking to build a permanent residence or second home? These regions of Colorado offer strong value for ranch houses and barndominiums:
Denver Metro Outskirts
Families are choosing Colorado barndominiums in suburbs like Parker and Castle Rock, where land is affordable yet close to jobs.
Boulder & Northern Front Range
Barndominiums in Colorado near Boulder and Loveland blend outdoor lifestyle with country acreage and lower housing costs.
Colorado Lakes & Reservoirs
Around Horsetooth Reservoir and Blue Mesa, ranch style homes and barndominiums are ideal for vacation retreats and waterfront living.
Historic Small Towns
In towns like Salida and Trinidad, Colorado barndominium buyers enjoy small-town charm, history, and affordable lots.
Colorado Ranch & Barndominiums
Top Barndominium & Ranch-Style Plans in Colorado
Explore barndominiums in Colorado and Colorado ranch homes—plans designed for the Rocky Mountains, Front Range, and wide-open plains across the state.
