The Architectural Review Design Guidelines passed by City Council on October 25, 1999 control the design of future residential development in the City of Thornton. The standards require all subdivisions to provide a variety of different home styles and materials.

All residential developments (single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments) are covered by the ordinance. Builders of entire subdivisions as well as the builders of a single home need administrative approval from the Current Planning Division prior to obtaining a building permit. Single-family homes and duplexes must meet a minimum standard in six different areas of the home’s design. Those areas are intended to provide flexibility of design, but also encourage more neighborhood-friendly architecture.

Front facades of each home must vary from model to model. A percentage must meet masonry requirements and covered front porch requirements. Corner lots must meet additional standards that address the street facing side as well as the front facade. All corner lots must meet strict masonry requirements.

Windows and doors must be clad in masonry or 4” wide trim. Windows must meet standards for size, design and construction while doors must emphasize the front entrance if not opening to a covered front porch. Roof color, pitch, overhangs, as well as materials are regulated. The rooftop regulations address the location as well as the color of rooftop equipment.

Carports are no longer allowed on single-family detached homes. Garages must meet both design and material standards that will integrate the garage into both the house and the neighborhood.

Homes that back onto public streets and landscape areas are required to meet height requirements depending on the grade of the property.

Every home must provide a minimum of four quality enhancements from a list of twelve. Some of those quality enhancements include house size, additional masonry, and garage door windows.

Architectural review for multi-family buildings (apartments and condominiums) is conducted in conjunction with the Development Permit.

Architectural Review General Requirements
Application for Architectural Review (single model)
Application for Architectural Review (multiple models)
Architectural Review Applications Supplement