Permit Required? Required (attached or over 30 in)
Typical Fee Range $100–$500 Freestanding decks under 200 sq ft and 30 inches high exempt
Fee Method Valuation-based
Apply Online Apply at Denver Community Planning & Development →

What's Required in Denver

  • Deck Permits in Denver are regulated by Denver Community Planning & Development (CPD)
  • Denver's frost line is 42 inches — all footings must extend below this depth
  • Call Colorado 811 at least 48 hours before any digging to locate utilities
  • Permits are applied for online through Denver's e-permits (Accela) system
  • Work must be performed by licensed contractors for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC
  • Historic districts may have additional design review requirements

When a Deck Needs a Permit in Denver

Whether a deck needs a building permit in Denver 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 Denver, only freestanding decks under 200 square feet and no more than 30 inches high are exempt — anything larger, taller, or attached needs a permit. 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 Denver

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 Denver. 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 Denver Community Planning & Development before starting; the requirements above outline what Denver expects.

How to Get a Deck Permit in Denver

1

Call 811 Before You Dig

Colorado law requires calling 811 at least 48 hours before any excavation. This locates underground utilities and is required for permit compliance.

2

Create e-Permits Account

Register at Denver's e-permits portal (Accela) at denvergov.org/cpd. All permit applications are submitted online.

3

Submit Application & Plans

Upload your site plan, construction drawings, and project details. Simple projects may not require professional drawings.

4

Pay Fees & Await Review

Permit fees of $100–$500 are valuation-based. Plan review typically takes 3–10 business days for residential projects.

5

Schedule Inspections

Post permit on-site and schedule required inspections through the e-permits portal as work progresses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Attached decks and decks over 30 inches high always require a permit. Freestanding decks under 200 sq ft and 30 inches high may be exempt.
Denver deck permit fees are valuation-based. Most residential projects fall in the $100–$500 range. Plan review adds 50% of the permit fee for projects over $2,000 in valuation.
Denver's frost line is 42 inches deep. All footings for decks, fences, additions, and new construction must extend below this depth to prevent heaving during freeze-thaw cycles. This is strictly enforced during inspections.
Usually not — swapping decking boards or railing on the same structure is generally considered maintenance in Denver. Replacing the framing (joists, beams, footings), rebuilding, or enlarging the deck typically does require a permit. Check the scope with the Denver Community Planning & Development.