When does a patio, walkway, or driveway need a building permit in Denver?

At 30 in or more off the ground, it also needs a building permit. Under 30 in high, no building permit is needed.

Do I also need a zoning permit for a patio, walkway, or driveway in Denver?

A surface more than 12 in off the ground is treated like a deck and needs a zoning permit.

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

It depends on the details of your project.

Uncovered patios 12 in or less off the ground need no permit.

Covered patios always need zoning and building permits.

At 30 in or more above the ground, the surface also needs a building permit.

A person last checked these rules on October 19, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Denver before you build.

Permit	When it applies
Zoning permit	A surface more than 12 in off the ground is treated like a deck and needs a zoning permit.
Building permit	At 30 in or more off the ground, it also needs a building permit.
Floodplain development permit	Paving and fill in a FEMA special flood hazard area need a floodplain permit.

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.

When does a patio, walkway, or driveway need a building permit in Denver?: At 30 in or more off the ground, it also needs a building permit. Under 30 in high, no building permit is needed.
Do I also need a zoning permit for a patio, walkway, or driveway in Denver?: A surface more than 12 in off the ground is treated like a deck and needs a zoning permit.
Where do I apply for a patio, walkway, or driveway permit in Denver?: Apply through Denver e-permits (Accela), or call 311 (720-913-1311).

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...