Denver Commercial Energy Code

The Denver Commercial Energy Code applies to all multifamily and commercial buildings in Denver. The 2025 Denver Energy Code (DEC) is substantially similar to the 2022 DEC; both use the same base code, IECC-2021. Resources originally produced for the 2022 DEC can be used for the 2025 DEC by referencing the Key Commercial Amendments (below).

Commercial Energy Code Compliance Pathways

The Denver Energy Code has two compliance pathways for buildings to take. You can either follow the Prescriptive Pathway or the Performance Pathway. Learn what is required for each of these pathways.

Energy Code for Existing Commercial Building Projects

Existing commercial buildings undergoing an addition, alteration, and/or change of occupancy or use must follow the requirements in Chapter 5 Existing Buildings of the Denver Energy Code.

2025 Denver Energy Code - Key Commercial Amendments

The 2025 Denver Energy Code is very similar to the 2022 Denver Energy Code. However, there are some key differences. See those differences and how they apply to you.

Commercial Electric Vehicle (EV) Requirements

Learn about commercial electric vehicle requirements

Permitting a Heat Pump

Many of Denver's contractors are unfamiliar with exactly how to properly pull a permit for a heat pump. See step by step instructions for correctly permitting a heat pump to avoid delays in projects.

Commercial Energy Code Fact Sheets

Resources for specific sections of the Denver Energy Code for commercial buildings

Denver Energy Code Training

While a lot of the provisions in the building code are more critical for designers and architects, there is content that is helpful for contractors. See the trainings we developed specifically for contractors to navigate the Energy Code with Confidence.

Community Energy Code Resources

We've curated an extensive list of resources that partners and peers have developed. These will give you insights about how other organizations are thinking and talking about energy codes, zero emissions building, and how to comply.