Shed Permit in Denver, Colorado
By Mario Bailey Last verified 2026-06-17 · 2 official sources
Quick answer
One-story detached sheds used for storage that do not exceed 200 square feet of projected roof area, an 8-foot top plate height, or 14 feet to any point are exempt from a building permit in Denver. Sheds that exceed these limits require a building permit. Depending on the zone district, even smaller sheds may require a zoning permit. Applications are submitted through the CPD e-permits system.
Permit required?
Sometimes, depending on the project.
Typical threshold: sheds up to 200 sq ft with 8 ft top plate and 14 ft max height do not require a building permit but may require a zoning permit in some zone districts.
When a permit is usually needed
For sheds exceeding size or height limits or in Former Chapter 59 zone districts
Permit cost and what affects it
Fees are set by the locality and are not published here. See the official fee schedule or contact the office for current amounts.
Permit costs generally depend on the project valuation, the scope of work, and the inspections required. Ask the office how the fee is calculated for your specific project.
Where to apply
City and County of Denver Community Planning and Development
- 201 W. Colfax Ave., Dept. 205, Denver, CO 80202
- Phone: 720-865-2720
- Email: planreview@denvergov.org
Frequently asked questions
- Do you need a shed permit in Denver?
- One-story detached sheds used for storage that do not exceed 200 square feet of projected roof area, an 8-foot top plate height, or 14 feet to any point are exempt from a building permit in Denver. Sheds that exceed these limits require a building permit. Depending on the zone district, even smaller sheds may require a zoning permit. Applications are submitted through the CPD e-permits system. The typical threshold is sheds up to 200 sq ft with 8 ft top plate and 14 ft max height do not require a building permit but may require a zoning permit in some zone districts. Always confirm with the office before starting.
- How much does a shed permit cost in Denver?
- Fees are set by Denver and are not published here. Contact the office for current amounts.
- How long does a shed permit take in Denver?
- Processing time for a shed permit in Denver varies by workload and project scope. Contact the City and County of Denver Community Planning and Development for a current estimate.
- Where do you apply for a shed permit in Denver?
- You can apply through the Denver permit portal or contact the City and County of Denver Community Planning and Development directly. The links are listed on this page.
Official sources
- https://www.denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Agencies-Departments-Offices-Directory/Community-Planning-and-Development/Plan-Review-Permits-and-Inspections/Single-Family-and-Duplex-Projects/Residential-Sheds
- https://www.denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Agencies-Departments-Offices-Directory/Community-Planning-and-Development/E-permits
Last verified: 2026-06-17 Report an error on this page