Deck Permit Rules Across the Denver Metro

Ask three neighbors in three different suburbs whether a low deck needs a permit and you may get three different answers, and they could all be right. Deck rules vary by jurisdiction across the Denver metro. Here's how the main ones compare, and what any building department will want to see.

Denver

Denver's rules are based on height and whether the deck is covered:

Some decks also need a sewer use and drainage permit (SUDP). If you're removing an old structure first, Denver says you'll need a demolition permit. Lights, heaters or water added to a deck need trade permits, usually issued online as quick permits. Projects that upload everything needed for zoning, building and SUDP review with the first application can get simultaneous review.

Homeowners who qualify can apply without a contractor; see pulling your own permit in Denver.

Parker

The Town of Parker says permits are required for all decks regardless of height or size. There's no low-deck exemption. Parker also offers "EZ Permits" help for homeowners. See decks in Parker and Castle Rock.

Northglenn

Northglenn's "Do I need a permit?" page lists decks and decks with patio covers among the projects that require a permit, along with patio covers, awnings and carports. See the Northglenn page.

Wildfire code areas

In wildfire-mapped areas, deck projects can trigger the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code. Jefferson County's defensible space guidance says decks are considered structures, so the 0–5 foot zone 1 rules apply around them. In Lone Tree, constructing new structures in mapped areas triggers the code. See Colorado's wildfire resiliency code.

HOAs

Permits are only half of it in many suburbs. The Highlands Ranch Community Association says all exterior home improvements require approval, and sub-associations may have their own guidelines. Get HOA approval before you apply for a permit, or at least before you build. See Highlands Ranch.

What inspectors want to see

Denver's deck page lists what to include for uncovered decks, and it's a useful checklist anywhere:

• Site plan drawn to scale, with lot lines, existing structures, and distances from the deck to lot lines and buildings.
• Elevations with dimensions and the deck height.
• Framing details: joist (rafter) size and spacing, beam size and span, post size, footing size and depth.
• Ledger connection details showing how the deck attaches to the house.
• Uplift connections and blocking, especially for cantilevered decks.
• Decking size and type.
• Stairs, guards and handrails.

Covered decks also need roof framing, connection to the house roof, foundation details and roofing materials.

Inspections

Inspection steps vary by jurisdiction, but they typically include a footing inspection before concrete is poured, a framing inspection before decking goes on, and a final inspection. Don't cover framing or ledger connections before they're inspected.

Replacing an existing deck

Rebuilding an old deck is usually treated like building a new one. If you're only replacing deck boards on sound framing, some jurisdictions don't require a permit, but replacing joists, beams, posts, footings, the ledger, stairs or railings usually does. Old decks were often built before current ledger and guard rules, so a rebuild is a good time to bring the structure up to code. Ask your building department where your project falls before you tear anything out, and remember that Denver requires a demolition permit to remove an existing structure first.

Setbacks and zoning

Zoning review checks setbacks from lot lines and lot coverage. A deck that fits structurally may still be too close to a side or rear lot line. Check zoning before you design.

Tips

1. Check with your city or county first, even for a low deck.
2. Get HOA approval early.
3. In wildfire areas, choose compliant materials up front.
4. Keep permit records for resale.

For costs, see deck building cost. For design and materials, see our decks guide.