Do you need a permit for a pergola, play set, or carport in Denver, CO?
It depends on the details of your project.
Every pergola, gazebo, and carport needs zoning and building permits.
Covered patios and porches also need zoning and building permits.
Denver issues these permits through its e-permits system.
A person last checked these rules on October 19, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Denver before you build.
Check your exact lot
Your zoning district sets the setbacks, and a flood zone can change the permit answer. Enter your address to see both.
Permits a pergola, play set, or carport can need in Denver
| Permit | When it applies |
|---|---|
| Zoning permit | Denver requires zoning and building permits for every pergola, gazebo, and carport. |
| Building permit | Denver requires zoning and building permits for every pergola, gazebo, and carport. |
| Electrical permit | Lights, fans or outlets need an electrical permit.Medium confidence |
| Floodplain development permit | Structures in a FEMA special flood hazard area need a floodplain permit. |
Local details
- 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
- Denver e-permits (Accela)
- Single-family and duplex projects
- Denver zoning map
- Denver Zoning Code
- Phone: 311 (720-913-1311)
Common questions
- When does a pergola, play set, or carport need a building permit in Denver?
- Denver requires zoning and building permits for every pergola, gazebo, and carport. No building permit for a play set.
- Do I also need a zoning permit for a pergola, play set, or carport in Denver?
- Denver requires zoning and building permits for every pergola, gazebo, and carport.
- Where do I apply for a pergola, play set, or carport 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.
- 2024 IRC R105.2, Work exempt from permit (text published by the City of Benson, AZ). Checked 2026-10-19
One-story detached accessory structures, provided that the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet. Fences not over 7 feet high. Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a…
- 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...