ADU Permit Fees & Costs in Denver, Colorado
Everything you need to apply for a adu permit in Denver, Colorado — documents, fees, steps, and a downloadable submission packet.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes
- Submission method
- Online
- Typical fee range
- $6,750 – $23,100
- Review time
- Varies by jurisdiction
- Inspections
- 6 inspections required
Limited Data Available
Some information on this page has not been fully verified. We're working to improve data quality. Always verify with Denver directly.
Estimated Total Fees
$6,750 – $23,100
Range based on typical residential solar PV system. Actual fees depend on project valuation and system size.
| Fee Component | Range | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| ADU Permit Fee[1][2] Fees based on construction valuation and scope. Denver allows expanded ADU use under recent zoning changes. Includes plan review and inspection fees. | $4,500 – $14,000 | ✓ |
| Plan Review Fee[3][4] Plan review fee is typically 50-65% of the permit fee. | $2,250 – $9,100 | ✓ |
| Estimated Total | $6,750 – $23,100 |
Fees shown as ranges. Always verify the exact amount with Denver before submission. Additional fees may apply for expedited review or resubmittals.
Avoid rejections — generate a submission-ready packet
Get a personalized ADU permit packet for Denver, Colorado — tailored to your project details.
- Required forms: Building Permit Application, and more
- Pre-filled templates: Permit Cover Sheet
- Fee breakdown: $2,250–$14,000 estimated total
- Step-by-step Denver Community Planning and Development portal submission guide
- Inspection prep checklist (6 items)
- Personalized for your specific project details
Free to preview · Pro to download
Required Documents
Denver requires the following documents for this permit application.
Building Permit Application
Completed Denver building permit application submitted through ePermit system
Architectural Plans
Complete set of architectural drawings stamped by Colorado licensed architect, including all required details per Denver Design Guide
Site Plan
Site plan showing lot lines, setbacks, building footprint, parking, usable open space, and landscaping
Structural Calculations
Structural design and calculations sealed by Colorado licensed structural engineer
Utility Plans
Utility connection plans showing water, sewer, electric, and gas connections with separate metering information
Solar Ready Waiver (if applicable)
Solar ready waiver if solar installation not feasible on new ADU
Permit Process
Follow these steps to submit your permit application through Denver Community Planning and Development.
- 1
Pre-Application Meeting
Discuss ADU project with Denver staff to confirm zoning compliance and design requirements
- 2
Online Submission via ePermit
Submit application and all documents through Denver ePermit online system
You'll need: Building Permit Application, Architectural Plans, Site Plan, Structural Calculations, Utility Plans
- 3
Plan Review
CPD reviewers examine plans for compliance with Denver Zoning Code and Building Code
- 4
Respond to Comments
Address reviewer comments and submit revised plans if required
- 5
Pay Permit Fees
Pay permit fees calculated based on project valuation
- 6
Construction Phase with Inspections
Schedule required inspections during construction phases
- 7
Final Approval and Use Certificate
Obtain approval to use certificate after final inspection
Authority Sources
Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a adu permit in Denver?
- Yes. Denver requires a adu permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.
- How long does adu permit approval take in Denver?
- Processing times in Denver vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 7 steps. Contact Denver Development Services for current timelines.
- What documents are required for a adu permit in Denver?
- Denver requires 6 documents including Building Permit Application, Architectural Plans, Site Plan, Structural Calculations, and others. See the full list above for details.
- What happens if I build without a adu permit in Denver?
- Building without a permit in Denver can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.
- Can PermitMagic help prepare my adu permit submission in Denver?
- Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to Denver's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.
- How much does a adu permit cost in Denver?
- ADU permit fees in Denver typically range from $6,750 to $23,100, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with Denver.
Related Permits
Other permits in Denver
Ready to apply? Build your submission packet.
Answer a few project questions and get a adu permit packet for Denver, Colorado — with every document, form, and fee organized for submission.
Build My Permit PacketFree to preview · Pro to download