Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $150–$400 Fee is calculated based on project value; includes structural plan review.
Fee Method Valuation-based
Apply Online Apply at Pikes Peak Regional Building Department →

What's Required in Colorado Springs

  • Building permit required for decks more than 30 inches above grade.
  • Structural plans showing footing size, joist spacing, and ledger details.
  • Footings must reach a minimum depth of 30 inches (frost line).
  • Handrails required for all decks with 4 or more steps.
  • Guardrails must be 36 inches high with baluster spacing under 4 inches.
  • Deck cannot exceed allowed lot coverage for your residential zone.

When a Deck Needs a Permit in Colorado Springs

Whether a deck needs a building permit in Colorado Springs usually comes down to how high and how big it is. Low, ground-level platforms are often exempt, while raised decks need a permit — in Colorado Springs, the line is a deck floor more than 30 inches above grade (where guardrails and footings come into play). Attached decks almost always require a permit because they tie into the house’s structure, and even a freestanding deck usually needs one once it passes the size or height cutoff. Check the requirements above before you build, and note that zoning setbacks from property lines apply regardless.

Do You Need a Permit to Repair or Replace a Deck in Colorado Springs

It depends on how much you’re changing. Swapping worn decking boards or railing on the same layout is usually treated as maintenance and often doesn’t require a permit in Colorado Springs. But replacing the structural framing (joists, beams, posts, or footings), rebuilding the deck, enlarging it, or changing its height generally does — at that point it’s regulated like new construction. When in doubt, describe the scope to the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department before starting; the requirements above outline what Colorado Springs expects.

How to Get a Deck Permit in Colorado Springs

1

Step 1: Structural Design

Create scale drawings of the framing and foundation.

2

Step 2: Submit Portal

Upload plans to the PPRBD online portal.

3

Step 3: Plan Audit

Structural engineers review plans for code and snow load compliance.

4

Step 4: Permit Issuance

Pay valuation-based fees to activate the building permit.

5

Step 5: Inspections

Requires footing (pre-pour), framing, and final structural checks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Only if it is more than 30 inches above grade or attached to the house.
Colorado Springs requires footings to be at least 30 inches deep.
Yes, as an owner-occupant of the primary residence.
Often yes, depending on size and height. Colorado Springs typically exempts low ground-level decks but requires a permit once a deck is raised (more than 30 inches above grade) or attached to the house. Confirm setback and footing rules with the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department.
Usually not — swapping decking boards or railing on the same structure is generally considered maintenance in Colorado Springs. Replacing the framing (joists, beams, footings), rebuilding, or enlarging the deck typically does require a permit. Check the scope with the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department.