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Denver Development Services

Inside the Home

Depending upon the complexity of your project, the permit requirements and inspection process may vary from the information presented below.

For detailed information on zoning and building permits for projects on single-family homes and duplexes, including minimum submittal requirements, download the Residential Permitting Guide (PDF). 

Also, review our slide decks for help Navigating Denver's Residential Permitting Process (PDF) and Landmark Preservation and Residential Plan Review (PDF), and avoid delays by checking for these common mistakes in residential submittals (PDF). 

If your project involves a home or in-home daycare built before 1978 and would disturb painted surfaces, download the EPA's Renovate Right brochure to learn about the Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (RPP) Rule and requirements to prevent lead contamination. 

If you have any questions, please contact us.

Project Guides

Listed below are projects that commonly occur inside the home. For exterior work, visit our "Outside the Home" page.

Don't see your project?

  • See the Denver Building Code, Section 130.3 Exempted Work, for activities that do not require a building permit.
 
New Submittal Rules

Please note that zoning and/or building permit applications for logged-in residential projects will now only be accepted if minimum submittal requirements are met. 

Please refer to the Residential Permitting Guide (PDF) for complete information on these requirements. 

 

Guidance on dealing with asbestos and lead

CO Department of Public Health and Environment Logo

Colorado requires an asbestos inspection before remodeling if there might be asbestos-containing materials, and before any demolition work. This inspection determines whether abatement is required. Unsafe removal of asbestos releases microscopic fibers that can cause severe lung disease and cancer when inhaled.

Learn more about state asbestos rules and permits.

Denver Water logo

To prevent breaks, low-pressure issues, and health risks, replace water service lines that are older than 50 years or that are made of non-copper materials, particularly lead and galvanized pipe. Contact Denver Water Sales Administration to find out if the water lines on your property need to be replaced.

Learn when and how service lines must be replaced.

US Environmental Protection Agency logo

The EPA requires firms performing renovation, repair, and painting in homes, childcare facilities and preschools built before 1978 to use an EPA-certified renovator trained to follow specific work practices to prevent contamination from lead-based paint.

Find certified RRP contractors.

 

Need help with building repairs or upgrades?

These organizations help serve Denver-area residents, from installing wheelchair ramps, snow removal and landscaping to minor electrical/plumbing work, energy-efficient upgrades, and more. 

 
 
Permit Review Types
clock icon Quick permit - Trade-specific permits that can be issued without plan review. Examples include minor electrical work, roofing and siding.

 

calendarSame-day review - A permit counter walk-through for simple single-family house or duplex projects that may involve reviews for zoning and building code compliance. Examples include porches, patios, interior remodels and basement finishes. 

 

Plan review - or "Log-in" review. Drop off single-family and duplex plans for review. Examples include new single-family houses, new duplexes, additions and attic conversions. Staff will provide an estimated review completion date.
 
See permit counter hours for service times and instructions. 

Thinking of a do-it-yourself (DIY) project?

Are you getting ready to complete a home project and trying to figure out whether to hire a licensed contractor or complete the work as a do-it-yourself project?  Here are some things to consider:

Online Services

Search a list of companies that currently have obtained a contractor's license from the City and County of Denver.  Be sure to check the expiration date and status to make sure the contractor's license is still active.

Submit residential projects through e-permits

Log in your next single-family or duplex project through e-permits.

  1. Register for an e-permits account 
  2. Select Development Services > Apply for a permit
  3. Select Building Log
  4. For residential walk-through permits:
  5. Under project scope, select “New Accessory Structure” or “Non-structural Remodel” to qualify for a 2-day review

Find instructions here.

Site Development and/or SUDP reviews only

  1. Register for an e-permits account 
  2. Select Development Services > Apply for a permit
  3. Select the appropriate Site Planning option 

Electronic plan review for fire permits

Apply for fire permits that need to be logged in for plan review (e.g., fire suppression, low voltage & fire alarm, CO2 system install, etc.) through e-permits.

To check your permit status using the property address, click below and then go to the "Development Svcs" tab where you can search by address to pull up the permit record. You will find processing status under "Record Info."

 

Alternatively, you can check permit status using the log number you received when you submitted your application and building plans.

You can schedule building and zoning construction inspections online, in person, or by using the automated phone system. To schedule a zoning inspection for a sign-off on a business license, or to report a property maintenance concern, call Denver 3-1-1 at 720-913-1311.

Use the  DevelopDENVER mapping tool to view property details including zoning, landmark status, inspector districts and more.