We are looking to add a prefabricated Caretaker Dwelling Unit (CDU) on a mountain property near Aspen, CO. Pitkin County has confirmed the CDU is allowed, with a maximum of 1,000 sq ft of living area total across all free-standing structures. The county looks favorably on pre-manufactured/modular structures. We are seeking quotes from vendors who can deliver a unit to this site — 2BR/2BA minimum, 3BR/2BA preferred.
2. Site Conditions
Elevation
7,296–7,318 ft (per topographic survey by Aspen Survey)
Terrain
~20 ft elevation change across property (slopes west to east)
Build location
Road-side (west) of property, within defined Activity Envelope, 15–20 yards from road
Current condition
Bare land — no existing foundation or pad at proposed build location
Exposure
Unsheltered — full exposure to weather and snow
Water feature
Roaring Fork River along east boundary — 100 ft stream setback (CDU will be on opposite side)
Must carry Colorado Division of Housing insignia or be approvable in Colorado
Delivery method
Multi-module or panelized acceptable
Foundation
Vendor should recommend type based on site slope and soil conditions
Heating system
Flexible — vendor's recommendation for this site and budget
4. Existing Utilities
Water
Well on property (Basalt Water Conservancy District). Capacity TBD — new well may be needed.
Electricity
Available on-site
Septic
Existing system for primary residence. New septic required for CDU.
Gas
Natural gas confirmed on property — can be routed to CDU
Internet
Available on property
5. What We Need From You
Feasibility confirmation — Can you deliver to a narrow mountain road with a very tight turnaround near Aspen?
Colorado approval status — Do you carry CO Division of Housing insignia, or can you obtain it?
Snow load engineering — Can your structure be engineered for 80–100+ PSF ground snow load?
Itemized quote — Structure cost separate from site work, foundation, delivery, and installation
Floor plan options — 2BR/2BA and 3BR/2BA configurations within 1,000 sq ft, with pitched roof. If 3BR requires trading the living room, show us that layout.
Timeline estimate — From order to delivery-ready
Scope of work — What do you handle (turnkey) vs. what requires a local GC?
6. Property Photos
Existing primary residence and surroundings — click to enlarge.
Additional Information
Reference detail on permitting, zoning, and county contacts — useful for accurate quoting and timeline planning, not required to start the conversation.
Permitting Context
CDU confirmed by Pitkin County (calls 3/30 and 3/31/2026) — 1,000 sq ft max living area
Special review required (~6 months) for detached CDU on non-conforming lot
Deed restriction required — occupancy limited to employees or immediate family
No architect required for land use application (Rebecca, Planner of the Day, 3/31)
Modular homes treated same as site-built under Colorado law (IRC/IBC plans submitted to CO Division of Housing)
Foundation designed by CO-registered professional required for modular placement