The Complete Guide to Denver Building Permits

If you're a developer, contractor, or builder looking to start a project in Denver, you’ll have to navigate the city’s building permit process. Different permits are available for different kinds of work, and many projects require more than one permit. 

Denver's permitting system helps to ensure that all construction meets safety standards, local building codes, and Colorado state requirements. By following the law, you’ll avoid hiccups during your project and construction problems down the road.

This guide provides detailed information on what requires a permit, how to obtain one, and tips for a smooth application process.

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What requires a building permit in Denver?

In Denver, most construction requires a building permit. Whether you’re putting up a new building, altering an existing structure, or doing big repairs, a permit is necessary to ensure that the work meets city standards for safety and compliance. 

Here’s a general overview of what typically requires a permit in Denver:

• New construction: Any new building, whether residential or commercial, requires a building permit before construction can begin.
• Additions: Adding a room, a second story, or extending an existing structure requires a permit.
• Structural changes: Modifications that affect a building’s structural integrity, such as removing or adding load-bearing walls, need a permit.
• Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work: Major updates or changes to these systems generally require permits.
• Roofing and siding: Replacing a roof or siding usually requires a permit, especially if the work involves structural changes.
• Decks and patios: Building or modifying decks, patios, and other similar structures typically requires a permit.
• Demolition: Tearing down a building or part of a building requires a permit to ensure safe practices.

Do you need a permit to pour concrete in Denver?

For the most part, yes, you generally need a permit to pour concrete in Denver. Permits are required for pouring a new foundation, driveway, sidewalk, or other structural element. Smaller projects such as minor repairs or replacements may not need a permit, but you should check with the city first before starting any concrete work.

What size building requires a permit in Denver?

The only buildings that don’t require a building permit are ones that don’t need a concrete foundation and do not exceed 200 square feet in size. Other than that, you should plan to apply for a permit. Keep in mind, even small structures require a permit if they include electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems.

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How do you obtain a building permit in Denver?

Your building permit won’t be issued until city officials are sure your project is planned from start to finish. If your application is missing any information, the City of Denver will request it before issuing a permit. This is why it’s important to have materials like plans, drawings, cost estimates, and contractor licenses handy before you apply. 

With your project information in order, the next step is to figure out which permit your project requires. You may need a building permit, electrical permit, plumbing permit, or a combination of these and others depending on the work you’re doing. 

1. Prepare your application

Get your documents together before starting your application. Create an account with Denver’s Permitting and License Center, and locate the permit applications that are relevant to your project. You may be asked for project plans, zoning information, proof of residence, and more. Submit your application through Denver’s e-permits portal.

2. Pay fees and await review

Your application isn’t complete until all required fees are paid. Once that happens, city officials will begin reviewing your materials. The process usually takes between 3-10 business days, but can be much longer for larger projects. 

This is the time when the City of Denver will contact you with questions and clarifications. Be ready to answer promptly so your permit approval isn’t delayed any further.

3. Get your permit and schedule inspections

Once your application is approved, you’ll be given a permit to print off and keep at the job site throughout construction. Now is the time to begin scheduling periodic inspections. The city will want to see that your work is up to code, so provide them with the time they need to inspect it.

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What is a quick permit and does my project qualify?

Denver offers quick permits for certain types of projects. These permits can be issued without a plan review, which obviously speeds up the process quite a bit. However, the City of Denver is trusting you to provide complete, accurate information. Anyway misrepresentations will lead to a revoked permit. 

Projects that might qualify for quick permit include:

• Exterior HVAC work
• Non-structural roofing work
• Pool heater installation
• New electrical service rated 200 Amps or less
• Up to 9 circuits (all connected to a single pole)
• Ductwork
• Showers, tubs, and sinks
• Exterior wall coverings

Quick permits are also issued on Denver’s e-permits portal, so start there. 

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How long do building permits last in Denver?

Once a permit is issued, construction must begin within 180 days (six months), otherwise the permit could expire and you’ll have to reapply. Once construction begins, the permit remains active as long as work continues without significant interruptions. If work stops for more than 180 days, the permit may expire.

If your permit is about to expire and you need more time, you may be able to apply for an extension. 

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Who do I contact about my Denver building permit?

The Denver Community Planning and Development department is your primary source for information. Here’s how you can contact them:

• Phone: (720) 865-2700
• Email: planreview@denvergov.org
• In person: Community Planning and Development, Webb Municipal Building, 201 W. Colfax Ave., Second Floor, Denver, 80202

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Using a Denver permit expediter

As you can see, there’s a lot to juggle when obtaining a building permit in Denver. Many developers and contractors use the services of a permit expediter to let someone else handle the paperwork and communicate with the city. Permit expediters specialize in navigating the permitting process and can often secure permits faster than you could on your own.

Permit expediters are particularly useful in projects that involve multiple permits or where the developer may be unfamiliar with Denver’s permitting requirements. However, this premium service comes at a cost, sometimes amounting to hundreds of dollars per hour.

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Use PermitFlow instead

There’s a convenient, cost-effective way to manage your Denver building permit: with PermitFlow.

PermitFlow is software that simplifies the permitting process by letting you manage applications, track progress, and communicate with city officials all in one place.

PermitFlow makes the permitting process more efficient and less stressful through step-by-step guidance and 24/7 access. You’ll receive automatic reminders about important deadlines and helpful information about each step of the application process. 

Get all the perks of working with a permit expediter in a simple, cost-effective app. Ready to learn more about streamlining your permit application with PermitFlow? Talk to one of our Denver permitting experts today.

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