Building permits & applications
Building permits process overview
To obtain a building permit, complete a Building Permit application and submit it with two sets of construction documents. The construction documents should include: a foundation plan (an engineered design may be required) and a site grading plan (if any resolutions and/or land use permit(s) are associated with this property, you will need to submit them as well). Colorado statutes require most commercial projects and some residential projects to be sealed by a Colorado Licensed Design Professional. A plan check fee is collected at time of submittal.
The building permit review process includes a review for compliance with the Land Use Code, for compliance with the 2015 IRC and 2015 IBC building codes, and other adopted construction codes. After the review is complete, the final fees will be calculated and the permit will be ready for issuance.
A building permit becomes null and void if the work authorized is not commenced within 180 days of the date of issuance and if work is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after commencement.
All electrical permits are to be issued through the state. For electrical inspections call: 1-877-314-1094 or 1-877-320-9150.
Permit applications
Single family dwelling
Single family dwelling (complete packet)
This includes all the permit applications needed for a new single family dwelling construction (building permit, driveway permit, grading permit, septic (OWTS) permit.
Manufactured dwelling
Manufactured dwelling (complete packet)
This includes all the permit applications needed for a new manufactured dwelling construction (building permit, driveway permit, grading permit, septic (OWTS) permit.
Commercial or multifamily dwelling
Commercial or multifamily dwelling (complete packet)
This includes all the permit applications needed for a new commercial or multifamily dwelling construction (building permit, driveway permit, grading permit, septic (OWTS) permit. It is recommended that the application and/or architect meet with a Building Plans Examiner at the end of design development phase and prior to submission of the construction documents.
Accessory dwelling unit (ADU)
Accessory dwelling unit (ADU) (complete packet)
This includes all the permit applications needed for an accessory dwelling unit construction. Please note: ADU’s are limited to a maximum floor area of 1,000 square feet. A maximum number of one (1) ADU is allowed per lot. See ADU regulations to verify that the ADU is in compliance with the standards, regulations and requirements.
A Secondary or Accessory Dwelling unit located within the same structure as a primary dwelling unit invokes certain Building Code provisions that require proper detailing of construction assemblies on the part of the designer, as well as proper execution at the job site by the builder.
Garfield County residential projects with two or more dwelling units in the same structure require a Colorado licensed Architect to wet-seal drawings submitted for building permit. The Architect shall specifically address key fire resistance provisions of the Building Code and the Architect must wet seal/ stamp the drawings submitted along with the building permit application.
General building
General building permits: Residential or Commercial
These are general building permit applications for all small construction projects (decks, fences, etc.) and additions (room additions, detached/attached garage, etc.) or alterations (converting unfinished basement into finished) for any residential or commercial building.
Agricultural employee housing
Agricultural employee housing (affidavit)
If you want to build an agricultural employee dwelling unit to provide housing for an agricultural employee, the owner will need to submit this agreement form along with a general building permit. Fees are based on square footage.
Garage agreement
Garage agreement
If you want to build a garage prior to building a dwelling, the owner will need to submit this agreement form along with a General Building permit.
Grading permit
Grading permit (complete packet)
A permit is required for any excavation, grading or earthwork construction, including fills and embankments. A grading permit is not needed if there is a building permit in place for the same project.
Onsite wastewater treatment system
To alter, repair or install an onsite wastewater treatment system, submit an Onsite Wastewater Treatment System application, along with a completed site and soil evaluation, system design, and site plan to Garfield County. After January 1, 2020, Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) in Garfield County are regulated and permitted through Garfield County Public Health’s Environmental Health Division.
Re-roofing permit
Re-roofing permit application PDF-|
Re-roofing permits are limited to the removal and/or replacement of roofing materials and underlayments only. If any sheathing or structural members are to be replaced, a building permit will be required. Roofing permit fee is $100.
Demolition permit
Demolition permit application PDF-|
Demolition permits are required to remove, change or alter any existing structure (residential or commercial) within Garfield County. Asbestos and abatement information. Demolition permit fee is $25.
Sign permit application
Sign permit application PDF-|
Sign permit applications shall be accompanied by site plans, sign specifications, drawings of proposed signs and may require engineered drawings. Sign permit fees are $1 per square foot, plus a flat fee of $25.
Building guides
Patio covers and carports
Re-roof
One-story addition
Basement finish
Uncovered decks and porches
Enclosing existing patio covers
One-story detached garage
Pole barn
Solar system permitting requirements
Fees
Use this work sheet to help determine the Building Permit fees (PDF worksheet / Excel worksheet) that will be due for your project.