A building permit is required any time there is an addition, alteration, repair or conversion to the home. Examples include reroofing, water heater replacement, remodeling a kitchen, finishing a basement and building a deck. Permits are not required for painting, drain cleaning, new floor coverings, gutters or cosmetic improvements. If you have any questions about whether a permit is needed, contact Town Hall at 303-795-1434 or bzapata-diaz@columbinevalley.org.
Note that do-it-yourself (DIY) projects often require a building permit. Homeowners may obtain a building permit to work on their own property without a contractor’s license. However, if subcontractors are employed for all or part of the work, they must be licensed by the Town to perform such work. A building permit will not be issued to a homeowner for work performed by unlicensed contractors.
Types of Building Permits
Applications for the three types of building permits—cosmetic/non-structural projects, more complex projects requiring a plan review and new roofs—are below.
Non-Structural Building Permit Application: Examples of use include replacing an air conditioner, water heater, siding, like-for-like windows (no change to opening size), exterior stucco, or change to electrical service or gas line. Please call Town Hall if you have questions regarding appropriate use.
Building Permit Application with Plan Review Application: Examples of use include new home build, home remodel with changes to structure, plumbing or electrical; structures that are anchored by footings or caissons (a pergola, for example); and complex landscaping projects that involve electric, gas or plumbing. Please call Town Hall if you have questions regarding appropriate use.
Roofing Permit Application: This application is for standard roof replacement. If the project requires structural modifications and you have an engineering report, include the stamped engineer letter and additional costs. If your project still needs to be reviewed, use the Building Permit Application with Plan Review.
Building Permit Requirements
Submittal requirements depend on the complexity of the project. If plans are required, they may be hand drawn or they may need to be completed by a design professional (depending on the complexity of the project). Call Town Hall for questions about which permit is appropriate for your project. Every application for a building permit should be accompanied by:
- A copy of the signed contract between the contractor and homeowner
- HOA approval for any project that alters the exterior of the property, including windows and roofs
Once the application is accepted, the Town will issue a permit as soon as possible. In most cases, for small projects, such as a patio cover, deck or basement finish, your permit will be ready in a few days. For larger projects, such as an addition to your home, it may take up to a week to receive a permit.
Building Permit Fee
Regardless of the complexity of the application, the building permit fee, which is based on the estimated value of the work being done, is payable when the permit is issued.