Lakewood Planning Commission addresses new residential zoning and size limitations

Lakewood's Planning Commission meeting on April 23, 2025, spotlighted significant proposed changes to residential zoning, particularly concerning single-family home sizes and the future of livestock permissions. A key takeaway was the reaffirmation that horse and livestock permissions will remain intact across all new residential zones, addressing community concerns about maintaining Lakewood's strong equestrian culture.

The meeting also unveiled plans for three new residential zones: rural, suburban, and urban, each with specific maximum building sizes. The rural zone will limit new homes to 3,250 square feet, potentially affecting 40 existing homes. The suburban zone proposes a cap of 3,000 square feet, impacting about 12 homes, while the urban zone will restrict new builds to 2,500 square feet, with fewer than 30 homes likely to be non-conforming.

In addition to zoning size discussions, the commission reviewed various properties identified as miszoned over the past 15 years. Notable proposals include rezoning areas along Colfax Avenue to promote pedestrian-friendly development and addressing vacant properties on arterial roads that currently have single-family zoning, which is deemed impractical.

The commission's discussions reflect a broader effort to adapt Lakewood's zoning laws to better fit the city's evolving landscape and community needs, ensuring that both residential development and the preservation of local culture are balanced. The next steps will involve public feedback and further deliberation by the Planning Commission and City Council.