When does a deck need a building permit in Denver?

Decks 30 in or more off the ground, and every covered patio, porch, pergola or carport, need a building permit. Uncovered decks under 30 in off the ground don't need a building permit.

Do I also need a zoning permit for a deck in Denver?

Denver requires a zoning permit for uncovered decks 12 in or more off the ground, for every covered structure, and for any deck on a landmark or in a historic district.

Where do I apply for a deck permit in Denver?

Apply through Denver e-permits (Accela), or call 311 (720-913-1311).

Do you need a permit for a deck in Denver, CO?

It depends on size and placement.

Uncovered decks need a zoning permit from 12 in off the ground.

A building permit kicks in at 30 in off the ground.

Any covered deck, porch, pergola or carport needs both zoning and building permits.

Rules last checked by a person on October 19, 2026. Guidance only; confirm with Denver before you build.

Check your exact lot

Setbacks depend on your zoning district, and a flood zone can change the permit answer. Enter your address to see both.

Permits a deck can need in Denver

Permit	When it applies
Zoning permit	Denver requires a zoning permit for uncovered decks 12 in or more off the ground, for every covered structure, and for any deck on a landmark or in a historic district.
Building permit	Decks 30 in or more off the ground, and every covered patio, porch, pergola or carport, need a building permit.
Floodplain development permit	If the lot is in a FEMA special flood hazard area, all development there needs a permit.

Local details

Denver's deck page says both '12 in or more' and '12 in or less' at the exact 12 in mark. If your deck is right at 12 in, ask zoning.
Some decks also need a sewer use and drainage permit (SUDP). Denver reviews it together with zoning and building when you upload everything at once.
Call 811 at least a few days before you dig footings or post holes. Utility locating is free.
HOA covenants and deed restrictions can be stricter than city rules. Check yours before you build.

How to apply

Questions people ask

When does a deck need a building permit in Denver?: Decks 30 in or more off the ground, and every covered patio, porch, pergola or carport, need a building permit. Uncovered decks under 30 in off the ground don't need a building permit.
Do I also need a zoning permit for a deck in Denver?: Denver requires a zoning permit for uncovered decks 12 in or more off the ground, for every covered structure, and for any deck on a landmark or in a historic district.
Where do I apply for a deck permit in Denver?: Apply through Denver e-permits (Accela), or call 311 (720-913-1311).

Sources

Denver CPD, Residential Decks, Porches, Patios, Pergolas, and Carports. Checked 2026-10-19.
Uncovered decks 12” or more off the ground require a zoning permit. If they are 30” or more off the ground, they will also require a building permit. All covered structures... need both a zoning and a building permit.
44 CFR 59.1, definition of development (NFIP). Checked 2026-10-19.
Development means any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures...
44 CFR 60.3, floodplain management criteria. Checked 2026-10-19.
Require permits for all proposed construction or other development in the community...