Everything you need to know about getting a deck permit in Denver: fees, requirements, exemptions, and direct links to the Community Planning and Development (CPD).
Permit Fees
Valuation-based: $1-$500 = $20, $501-$2,000 = $35, $2,001-$25,000 = $35 + $8 per additional $1,000 over $2,000. Plan review fee: 50% of permit fee for projects over $2,000. 2.5% surcharge on credit/debit payments.
A $10,000 deck project: $35 + ($8 x 8) = $99 permit + $49.50 plan review = approximately $148.50
Processing Time
3-10 business days for standard residential projects. Real-time status dashboard available at denvergov.org/buildingpermitstatus.
Apply Online
Yes — via Denver E-permits
Building Code
Denver Residential Code 2021, based on the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) with Denver amendments
Uncovered decks 12 inches or less off ground: no permit needed. Uncovered decks over 12 inches: zoning permit required. Uncovered decks 30 inches or more off ground: both zoning AND building permits required. All covered structures need both permits.
If your deck does NOT meet all exemption criteria, you must obtain a permit before construction. Building without a required permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, and required demolition.
Review the exemption criteria above. If your deck exceeds any threshold, a permit is required.
You'll need a site plan, deck dimensions, framing details, and footing specifications. Check Denver's specific documentation requirements.
Apply through Denver E-permits . Pay the permit fee at submission.
Once approved, post your permit visibly and schedule required inspections (typically footing, framing, and final).
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Sources
Data verified April 2026. Fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. Always confirm current information with Denver's Community Planning and Development (CPD).