In addition to the previous page of research information; the following information is a checklist of research and requirements to obtain a permit for a deck structure on an existing single unit dwelling or duplex lot within the City and County of Denver. 

The following information is required at the "Residential Walk-Through" counter.         

• Construction information listed on ICC - Building Guides - English version, Spanish version
  • R311.5.6 Handrails shall be provided on at least one side of each continuous run of treads or flight with four or more risers.
    R311.5.6.1 Height - Handrail height, measured vertically from the sloped plane adjoining the tread nosing, or finish surface of ramp slope, shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm).
    R311.5.6.2 Continuity - Handrails for stairways shall be continuous for the full length of the flight, from a point directly above the top riser of the flight to a point directly above the lowest riser of the flight. Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals. Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space of not less than 1½ inch (38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.
    Exceptions:
    1. Handrails shall be permitted to be interrupted by a newel post at the turn.
    2. The use of a volute, turnout, starting easing or starting newel shall be allowed over the lowest tread.
  • R312.1 Guards - Porches, balconies, ramps or raised floor surfaces located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below shall have guards not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height. Open sides of stairs with a total rise of more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below shall have guards not less than 34 inches (864 mm) in height measured vertically from the nosing of the treads.
    Porches and decks which are enclosed with insect screening shall be equipped with guards where the walking surface is located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below.
    R312.2 Guard opening limitations.
    Required guards on open sides of stairways, raised floor areas, balconies and porches shall have intermediate rails or ornamental closures which do not allow passage of a sphere 4 inches (102mm) or more in diameter.
    Exceptions:
    1. The triangular openings formed by the riser, tread and bottom rail of a guard at the open side of a stairway are permitted to be of such a size that a sphere 6 inches (152 mm) cannot pass through.
    2. Openings for required guards on the sides of stair treads shall not allow a sphere 4 3/8 inches (107 mm) to pass through.
• Advisory -305  Site Plan (includes address, and owner's name and phone number)
• Advisory -317  Unobstructed Open Space
• Advisory - 319 Bulk Plane and Height Measurements varies between each Zone District
• Wastewater    Sewer Use and Drainage permit (for new foundations only)    

Who can obtain a permit?  

HOMEOWNER:  Homeowner permits cannot be issued to LLC's, Trusts, Corporations, etc.  Denver Assessor records shall have homeowner listed as a natural person.  If permitting as a Homeowner, you MUST apply for permit in-person and provide Proof of Ownership or recorded Power of Attorney.  If ownership information differs from  Assessor Records due to a recent real estate purchase; provide copies of closing papers with the settlement page showing recording fees paid, other acceptable proof of ownership includes:  recent Denver Property Tax Statement, or Recorded Deed.  A Photo ID is required and will be verified at issuance of a Homeowner permit.  Acceptable identification includes: a driver’s license or a non-driver’s ID issued by a State Department of Motor Vehicle.  Keep in mind if pulling a homeowner's permit you must comply with Policy 151.2,  or a Licensed Contractor will have to pull the permit;