Jefferson County board approves short-term rental permit for Conifer cabin with occupancy limits

The Jefferson County Board of Adjustment voted unanimously on Nov. 19, 2025, to grant a special-exception permit allowing a short-term rental at 28763 Columbine Drive in Conifer, after a contested hearing that included staff testimony, an applicant presentation and a neighbor’s formal opposition.

Alex Folkes, the county case manager, told the board that staff found the 1.009-acre Sedgwick property meets the lot and building standards for the MR1 zone district, has four on-site parking spaces and a three-bedroom septic system sized for six occupants. Folkes said staff recommends approval of the special exception subject to the conditions outlined in the staff report, including a requirement that the property secure a defensible-space permit from the fire district before operation. “Staff recommends approval of this case, subject to the following conditions,” Folkes said during the presentation.

During the public-comment period, neighbor Nathan Shriver, who lives…