Quick permits are trade-specific permits that can be issued without the need for a plan review.
These permits are usually issued after the applicant has obtained a general commercial or residential construction permit. Most building projects in the city of Denver -- including new construction, remodeling and repairs -- require general construction permits to allow construction, and then trade-specific permits for each part of the project.
Homeowners obtaining their own permits cannot apply via email, but must bring their photo I.D. and apply in person at the permit counter. Check in for the "quick permits" line. View counter hours and location here.
Please note: No structural modifications can be permitted as a quick permit.
All exterior work on landmarks/historic buildings or structures located in landmark/historic districts requires approval from Landmark Preservation staff before applying for a quick permit.
How to apply
For minor work requiring quick permits but introducing little to no visible change to a historic structure or property:
Quick review approvals may be issued by Landmark Preservation staff for like-for-like replacement of the following existing exterior features providing that the applicable design guidelines and standards are met:
For more significant alterations, visit the Landmark Design Review webpage for guidelines and instructions on how to apply.
Permit application
Single-family and duplex structures and garages
Multifamily or commercial structures
Like-for-like replacements of the following — no new installs — and the replacement does not have a change in geometry, demand, or material:
The boiler and refrigeration items listed below CANNOT be permitted under a quick permit. Apply in person at the walk-through counter for the following:
Permit application
Single-family and duplex structures only
Multifamily or commercial structures
Minor Work Only:
The electrical items listed below CANNOT be permitted under a quick permit. All of the work below, except for special events, will require stamped and signed, engineered plans brought in person to the electrical walk-through counter for review.
Single-family and duplex structures and garages
*The building permit for a residential A/C can be issued as a quick permit. Zoning reviews are done at the single-family/duplex walk-through counter.
Multifamily or commercial structures
Like-for-like replacements of the following — no new installs — and the replacement does not have a change in geometry, demand, or material:
Ensure that replacement equipment meets current IECC efficiency standards, which will need to be verified upon inspection.
The mechanical items listed below CANNOT be permitted under a quick permit. Apply in person at the walk-through counter for the following:
Permit application
Single-family and duplex structures and garages
*The building permit for a pool heater can be issued as a quick permit. Zoning reviews are done at the single-family/duplex walk-through counter.
Multifamily or commercial structures
Like-for-like replacements of the following — no new installs — and the replacement does not have a change in geometry, demand, or material:
The plumbing items listed below CANNOT be permitted under a quick permit. Apply in person at the walk-through counter for the following:
Permit application
A roof permit is always applied for separately from the general construction permit, even for new construction. All roofing/siding work on landmarks or in historic districts must be first approved by Landmark Preservation (PDF).
The roofing/siding items listed below CANNOT be permitted under a quick permit. Apply in person at the Log In counter for the following:
Some projects do not require building permits. See more detailed information on project exemption in our Easy Projects Guide or in the Denver Building Code, Section 130.3 Exempted Work.
Please note: A permit from Wastewater, Zoning, or the Fire Department may be required even if a building permit is not required. You may also need to consult Public Works if you need a permit for a street closure. If you think your planned work is exempt, please contact Development Services to be sure.
(1) Review the criteria for your quick permit and download the application using the drop-down menus on this page. Applications are also available here.
(2) Fill out the credit card authorization form (PDF).
(3) Email both your completed permit application and credit card form to quickpermits@denvergov.org.
(4) Allow 2-3 business days for processing. A cashier will call you between 7:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. for your credit card to complete the transaction.
Fax. For a limited time, you may still fax your application and credit card authorization form to 720-865-3020.
If you do not receive your permit by 2:30 p.m. the day payment is processed, call the cashier at 720-865-2780.
For questions on emailed applications or permit fees: (720) 865-2705