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.

ADU Permit Online Portal Guide in Denver, Colorado

Everything you need to apply for a adu permit in Denver, Colorado — documents, fees, steps, and a downloadable submission packet.

Build My Permit Packet View Requirements

Key Facts

Permit required: Yes
Submission method: Online
Typical fee range: $6,750 – $23,100
Review time: Varies by jurisdiction
Inspections: 6 inspections required

VerifiedLast verified: Feb 15, 20262 verified sources

Denver Community Planning and Development

Verified

7-step online submission process — account registration required[1][2]

Open Portal

Step 1: Pre-Application Meeting

[3][4]

Discuss ADU project with Denver staff to confirm zoning compliance and design requirements

Portal steps may change without notice. Always confirm the current process at Denver's online portal.

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

Build My Permit Packet

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

Fees and Timeline

Fee Breakdown

Fee	Range	Confidence
ADU Permit Fee	$4,500 – $14,000	Verified
Plan Review Fee	$2,250 – $9,100	Verified

Inspections Required

Foundation inspection per IBC standards

Framing inspection and structural verification

Electrical rough-in and panel inspection

Plumbing rough-in and fixture inspection

Mechanical and HVAC system inspection

Final inspection and Certificate of Occupancy

Authority Sources

Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.

Denver Community Planning and Development

Last verified: February 15, 2026

2 sources referenced

Official page

Denver Zoning Code Section 59-1-602 (ADU)

Verified February 15, 2026

Portal guide

Denver ePermit System

Verified February 15, 2026

Official page

Denver Design Guide and ADU Standards

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.