Building permits in Colorado are issued locally by cities and counties. The state has adopted the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC), though jurisdictions may amend or adopt their own versions.
Contractors and developers should also be aware of special considerations, such as wildfire mitigation zones, snow load requirements, and energy efficiency standards.
Learn what requires a building permit in Colorado, who issues them, permit requirements, costs, and how to navigate the process.
Who issues building permits in Colorado?
Permitting authority in Colorado is local — cities, towns, and counties administer and enforce building codes.
Examples of permitting authorities include:
- City and County of Denver – Community Planning & Development
- City of Colorado Springs – Pikes Peak Regional Building Department
- Boulder County Community Planning & Permitting
- Jefferson County Building Safety Division
Smaller mountain towns and rural counties, such as Pitkin County (Aspen) or La Plata County (Durango), often manage permitting directly.
Colorado does not issue permits at the state level for general construction, though state agencies regulate certain professional licenses (electricians, plumbers, etc.).
Colorado building permit requirements
In Colorado, most construction, structural changes, and major utility work require permits.
Projects that require a permit include:
- New residential and commercial buildings
- Structural remodels, additions, and demolitions
- Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing installations or replacements
- Decks, garages, sheds, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs)
- Roofing and siding replacements involving structural work
- Basement finishing and conversions
- Energy system installations, such as solar panels and geothermal systems
Often exempt projects include: Painting, flooring replacement, cabinetry, minor repairs, and small non-permanent structures.
Colorado building permit costs
Permit fees in Colorado vary widely by jurisdiction and are typically based on project valuation, square footage, or fixed trade fees.
Typical fee structures:
- Residential permits: Average $1,000–$3,500 for new homes, depending on square footage
- Commercial permits: $5,000+ for mid-size projects, based on valuation and plan review
- Flat-rate permits: Average $50–$250 for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or re-roof permits
- Impact and system development fees: Additional charges may apply for water, sewer, and transportation infrastructure in growing municipalities
Example: Denver calculates fees based on project valuation, with additional plan review and trade permit costs.
Unique considerations when permitting in Colorado
Snow load & wind load requirements
Mountain regions (e.g., Summit County, Aspen) require specialized engineering for heavy snow and wind.
Wildfire mitigation
Many counties in the foothills and mountains require defensible space plans and fire-resistant materials for permits.
Energy efficiency codes
Cities like Boulder and Denver have strict green building and electrification standards that exceed base state code.
Short-term rental regulations
Renovations or conversions for STRs may trigger additional permits and inspections.
Historic preservation review
Cities like Denver and Durango require approval from historic commissions before altering designated structures.
Water rights and septic approvals
Rural counties often require separate approvals for water and wastewater before issuing building permits.
How to get a building permit in Colorado
The building permit process in Colorado usually involves the following steps:
- Confirm jurisdiction – Check whether your project is regulated by the city, county, or a regional building department.
- Zoning review – Ensure the proposed use and size comply with local zoning.
- Prepare documents – Construction drawings, site plan, energy compliance, and contractor information.
- Submit application – Larger cities like Denver and Colorado Springs offer digital submission portals.
- Plan review – Conducted by building officials, zoning staff, and fire departments if applicable.
- Pay fees – Based on valuation or scope of work.
- Receive permit – Must be posted on-site during construction.
- Schedule inspections – Framing, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, energy compliance, and final inspection.
