Permits for New Homes and Additions

Construction Permits

New homes and additions need zoning, building, and sewer use and drainage permits (SUDP). Projects that upload all of the information required for these three permit types (zoning, building, and SUDP) with their initial online application can receive a simultaneous review.

Trade Permits

You will also need trade permits, such as electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and roofing and siding permits. These can be applied for at any time, and in most cases, are issued online as quick permits. Find out what qualifies as a quick permit.

Other Permits 

Other permits, such as demolition, fire suppression, tree removal, right-of-way, and conveyance permits may be required depending on the project design and site conditions. These permits require separate applications.

Residential Permitting Guide

For a detailed list of what to upload with your project application, please download and review the Residential Permitting Guide. The permitting guide provides guidance on the requirements needed for the following reviews conducted by the residential plan review workgroup within Community Planning and Development.

• Residential Review
• Structural Review
• Energy Review
• Zoning Review
• Zone Lot Verification Review

Residential Permitting Guide(PDF, 2MB) 

Production homebuilders building multiple model homes on one development site (not infill development) may use the Master/Type Approved Guide for big picture submittal requirements. For more detailed checklists, use the Residential Permitting Guide.

Master/TA Guide(PDF, 651KB)

Depending on your project, you may need to submit the following forms:

• Energy checklist
• Sloping, benching, and shoring documents
• Second kitchen acknowledgement
• Certificate of appropriateness – for properties that are an individually designated landmarks or located within a historic district
• Simultaneous zone lot amendment and residential review – this will be provided to applicants as needed

Sample Plans and Tips

Download a sample site plan and building elevations:

• Sample site plan and elevations(PDF, 875KB)

Download tip sheets that explain important zoning standards:

• Block-sensitive primary street setback(PDF, 285KB)
• Zoning base planes, building height and bulk(PDF, 270KB)
• Grading standards for the primary street setback area(PDF, 243KB)
• Zone lot lines(PDF, 261KB)
• Setback/separation verification(PDF, 279KB)
• The difference between a Zone Lot and a Parcel(PDF, 131KB)

Apply for permits online

First-time e-permits users will need to create an online account. Once signed into e-permits, go to "Apply for a Permit" under "Development Services."

For zoning, building, and SUDP permits: When prompted to select a permit type, select "building log." On the project details page of the application, under project information, select the following:

• Project Classification: Single Family/Duplex Residential
• Project Scope: New Home, or Addition

For trade permits (electrical, mechanical, plumbing, roofing and siding): When prompted, select the appropriate permit type under "Quick Permits" and follow the prompts.

For demolition permits: Review Denver's requirements for demolition permits.

Note: production homebuilders applying for Master and Type-Approved projects

For a building-only review of a model home: When prompted to select a permit type, select "building log." On the project details page of the application, under project information, select the following:

• Project Classification: Single Family/Duplex Residential
• Project Scope: New Master

For a site-specific building and zoning review of a model home: When prompted to select a permit type, select "building log." On the project details page of the application, under project information, select the following:

• Project Classification: Single Family/Duplex Residential
• Project Scope: New Type-Approved

Landmarks and Historic Districts

Additions and new construction (infill) that are located in a historic district or a designated landmark will require a certificate of appropriateness, meaning the project's design has been reviewed by Landmark Preservation and is appropriate for the historic nature of the property. It is highly recommended that you obtain this certificate before applying for building and zoning permits.

Learn more about meeting design guidelines for landmark properties.

Parkways

If your property is along a designated parkway and the project encroaches on the parkway setback, you will need to download an Exception Request form (located under Contact the Parkways Team on the Parkways webpage) and email it to parkways@denvergov.org. 

Visit the Parkways webpage

Sewer Lines

If you plan to build a new structure over or within 2 feet of the existing sanitary sewer, you will need to replace the sanitary sewer with approved materials. A plumbing contractor can help you locate the sewer lines on your property. View application, guidelines, and other information on the Sewer Use and Drainage Permit (SUDP) page. 

Transportation

Transportation review and approval is needed if you are changing the location of any driveways that connect to public streets or proposing improvements, such as changing the curb cut, within the right-of-way (ROW), which includes public streets and sidewalks. Note: Alterations to a driveway that connects to an alley, instead of a public street or sidewalk, do not require transportation review.

Forestry

If there are trees located in the public right-of-way, or trees requiring protection in the primary street setback or side street setback, you will need to contact the Office of the City Forester at (720) 913-0651 or forestry@denvergov.org.

Learn more about forestry requirements. 

Research your property