PlainPermit

Do I need a permit for a driveway or patio in Denver, CO?

Short answer: No, a permit is not required for a driveway or patio in Denver, CO.

Last verified: · Confidence: high · Status: Verified from official source

Not legal advice. Always confirm with your local building department. Rules change, and your parcel's zoning, HOA, historic district, floodplain or utility work can change the answer. We show the official source and the date we last checked it so you can verify for yourself.
No permit required Confidence: high

No building permit for flatwork such as sidewalks and driveways up to 30 in above grade, not over a basement. Right-of-way work needs a separate permit from the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure.

What changes the answer

Cost

Fee not extracted; see Denver development fees. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Agencies-Departments-Offices-Directory/Community-Planning-and-Development/Plan-Review-Permits-and-Inspections/Development-Fees · All verified Denver permit fees

Where to apply

Denver e-permits (Community Planning and Development)

Permitting authority: City and County of Denver Community Planning and Development (CPD). Landmark/historic district properties need a Certificate of Appropriateness and often a permit even for otherwise-exempt work. See also: how to apply for a building permit.

Official sources

“Flatwork (hardscape) including sidewalks, ramps, and driveways, with walking surfaces not more than 30 inches (760 mm) above grade, not over any basement or story below and not part of an accessible route.”

Source: https://denvergov.org/files/assets/public/v/3/community-planning-and-development/documents/ds/building-codes/2025_denver_building_code.pdf

Verified: · Status: verified · Confidence: high

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Other projects in Denver

Driveway or patio permits in other cities

Compare driveway or patio permit rules in all 25 cities · All Colorado cities