Denver Building Codes Every Homeowner Should Know

Denver adopts the International Residential Code (IRC) with local amendments. Denver Community Planning and Development (CPD) enforces codes through the permit and inspection process. Codes are updated periodically — your contractor should know the current applicable code for your project type.

Required: new construction, additions, structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, HVAC, roofing (full replacements), basement finishing, deck construction, fences over 6 feet.

Not required: painting, flooring replacement, cabinet replacement in-kind, minor repairs, and most cosmetic work that doesn't affect structure, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems.

Smoke and CO detectors: Required on every level, in every bedroom, and outside sleeping areas. CO detectors are especially important in Denver due to high-altitude combustion risks.

Egress windows: Basement bedrooms require windows with minimum 5.7 sq ft opening.

GFCI protection: Required in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, outdoors, and near water.

AFCI protection: Required for bedroom circuits and most living area circuits in new work.

Fence heights: Up to 6 feet in rear yards, 4 feet in front yards without a permit.

Inspectors want projects to pass. Schedule rough-in inspections before walls are closed. Have your permit posted and plans available on site. Ask your contractor to be present for inspections. If work fails inspection, the inspector specifies exactly what needs correction — this is normal and not a crisis.