You are viewing the permanent link for the record currently in effect, published 2026-07-17.
Arvada building permits
VerifiedArvada, Colorado — as published 2026-07-17.
Verified 2026-07-17 · Source
Codes adopted
Permit types & fees
Residential Building Permit (New Construction)
VerifiedRequired for construction of new single-family homes, duplexes, and townhomes in Arvada. CONFIRMED LIVE 2026-07-17: the City's Adopted Building Code page (arvadaco.gov/165) now lists the 2024 IRC and the Colorado Model Low Energy Carbon Code (based on the 2024 IECC) as 'Current adopted building codes' (adopted March 24, 2026; implementation effective July 1, 2026, per arvadaco.gov/1388's past-tense confirmation 'The changes went into effect on July 1, 2026'). Permits submitted before July 1, 2026 could still use the 2018 IRC/IECC. New single-family/duplex/townhome construction also now requires residential fire sprinkler systems per this same code cycle (confirmed via arvadaco.gov/1388).
Verified 2026-07-17 · Source
Requirements
- Application and plan sets submitted online via eTRAKiT (arvadapermits.org); permits are no longer processed over the counter
- Plans must comply with the 2024 IRC and the Colorado Model Low Energy Carbon Code (based on the 2024 IECC) — confirmed as Arvada's 'current adopted' codes via live re-check of arvadaco.gov/165 on 2026-07-17; the 2018 IRC/IECC remain usable only for permits submitted before July 1, 2026
- New single-family homes, duplexes, and townhomes built per the IRC now require residential fire sprinkler systems, confirmed live via arvadaco.gov/1388 ('these changes require sprinkler systems to be installed in new single family homes, duplexes and townhomes'); this does not apply to existing homes, additions, or remodels
- Design criteria must reflect Arvada's adopted wind (136/150 Vult), snow (30 psf roof/ground), frost depth (36 in.), and Exposure Category C values — confirmed unchanged through the code transition via live re-check of arvadaco.gov/165 on 2026-07-17
- Commercial and multi-family combination permits must list all subcontractors at application or the permit is placed on hold
- Only a combination permit is issued where more than one category of work (building, electrical, plumbing, HVAC) is involved, unless the Building Official allows separate permits
- Use tax is collected on every permit per Arvada Municipal Code § 98-84, based on 58% materials / 42% labor of the building valuation
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (eTRAKiT)Online application through arvadapermits.org; homeowners create a public account, licensed contractors log in with their AEC contractor number
- RequiredConstruction Drawings / Plan SetFull plan set drawn to scale showing structural, MEP, and energy compliance details; engineered/stamped plans required for structural elements
- RequiredSite / Plot PlanProperty lines, setbacks, existing and proposed structures to scale
- RequiredSubcontractor FormsRequired for any licensed mechanical, electrical, or plumbing subcontractor working under the combination permit
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $1.00 to $500.00 | $34.00 | Arvada Municipal Code Chapter 18, Table 18-1, per the 2026 Building Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026 |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $501.00 to $2,000.00 | $34.00 for the first $500.00 plus $3.05 for each additional $100.00 or fraction thereof | Table 18-1 |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $2,001.00 to $25,000.00 | $79.75 for the first $2,000.00 plus $14.00 for each additional $1,000.00 or fraction thereof | Table 18-1 |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $25,001.00 to $50,000.00 | $401.75 for the first $25,000.00 plus $10.10 for each additional $1,000.00 or fraction thereof | Table 18-1 |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $50,001.00 to $100,000.00 | $654.25 for the first $50,000.00 plus $7.00 for each additional $1,000.00 or fraction thereof | Table 18-1 |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $100,001.00 to $500,000.00 | $1,004.25 for the first $100,000.00 plus $5.60 for each additional $1,000.00 or fraction thereof | Table 18-1 |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $500,001.00 to $1,000,000.00 | $3,244.25 for the first $500,000.00 plus $4.85 for each additional $1,000.00 or fraction thereof | Table 18-1 |
| Building Permit Fee — valuation $1,000,001.00 and up | $5,669.25 for the first $1,000,000.00 plus $3.45 for each additional $1,000.00 or fraction thereof | Table 18-1 |
| Valuation Basis | Higher of the ICC Building Valuation Data (Table 18-2, e.g., R-3 one- and two-family valuation ranges $155.59–$198.67/sq ft by construction type) or the actual contract value | Table 18-2, reviewed and adopted annually by Arvada City Council; combined with RS Means Building Construction Cost Data |
| Residential Combination Permit — Electrical/Heating/Plumbing subcontractor fee | 30% of the calculated building permit fee | For new single-family detached/attached combination permits, per the Building Fee Schedule overview |
| Use Tax | Assessed on the building valuation using a 58% materials / 42% labor split | Arvada Municipal Code § 98-84; source for the materials/labor split is RS Means Building Construction Cost Data 2025, Denver-area City Cost Indexes |
| Foundation Only Permit — one- and two-family | $285.00 | Table 18-4 |
Residential Addition / Remodel Permit
VerifiedCovers additions, structural alterations, egress window additions, and interior remodels (basement finishes, kitchen/bath remodels) to existing homes in Arvada. Additions and exterior structural work use the 'Residential Exterior' application; interior-only remodels use 'Residential Interior.' CONFIRMED LIVE 2026-07-17: the City's Adopted Building Code page now lists the 2024 IRC as the 'Current adopted' code (2018 IRC applies only to permits submitted before July 1, 2026, per arvadaco.gov/1388's past-tense confirmation that the changes 'went into effect on July 1, 2026').
Verified 2026-07-17 · Source
Requirements
- Additions, attached/detached garages, egress window additions processed via the Residential Exterior permit type
- Interior remodels (basement finishes, egress windows added as part of a basement finish, kitchen/bath remodels) processed via the Residential Interior permit type
- Plan review is required for exterior permit types — plans must be submitted for review before a permit is issued
- A license is not required if the owner/occupant performs the work themselves; a City-licensed contractor (Class I-B, II-B, or III-B) is required if any part of the work is contracted out
- Non-owner-occupied residences must use a licensed contractor to obtain the permit
- Any added electrical, plumbing, or gas line work must be clearly identified on the plans, including gas line sizing calculations where applicable
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (eTRAKiT — Residential Exterior or Residential Interior)Online application selecting the correct project category
- RequiredPlan SetDrawn to scale; engineered plans required only if structural changes are involved; Arvada's building guides can substitute for full plan sets on straightforward projects
- RequiredPlot PlanShows dimensions of the project and its relationship to existing structures and property lines (required for exterior/addition projects)
- OptionalSubcontractor FormsRequired for any licensed mechanical, plumbing, or electrical subcontractor on the project
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — valuation-based (same Table 18-1 as new construction) | Varies by valuation — see Residential Building Permit fee tiers above ($34 minimum up to $5,669.25 + $3.45/$1,000 over $1M) | Arvada Municipal Code Chapter 18, Table 18-1 |
| Use Tax | Assessed on the building valuation using a 58% materials / 42% labor split | Arvada Municipal Code § 98-84 |
| Basement Finish — Added Cost (Type VB) | $31.50 per sq ft (added valuation basis, Type VB construction) | Table 18-2 Building Valuation, 'Basement Finish – Added Cost' line |
| Additional plan review (changes, additions, revisions, or deferred submittal — minimum 1 hour) | $80.00 per hour | Table 18-3 |
Electrical Permit
VerifiedRequired for residential and commercial electrical work in Arvada. The City of Arvada Building Division issues the electrical permit and performs plan review and inspections directly — it does NOT defer permit issuance to the Colorado State Electrical Board. However, a State of Colorado electrical contractor license (issued by the State Electrical Board under C.R.S. Title 12, Article 23) is a prerequisite: Arvada's Building Inspection Policy requires a State-licensed electrical contractor of record to be listed on the permit before it can be issued, and City inspectors verify State license status on every job site.
Verified 2026-07-17 · Source
Requirements
- Homeowner-occupants may obtain the permit themselves for their own residence; all other electrical work requires a State of Colorado-licensed electrical contractor listed as contractor of record on the permit
- A single line diagram is required with the application for homeowner-completed projects
- Panel ratings over 200 amps require an engineered, signed and stamped set of plans
- Commercial structures require an engineered, signed and stamped set of plans
- New utility meter or telephone cabinet installations require a site plan locating the new installation
- If electrical work is part of a larger project (mechanical appliance install, remodel, new construction), it is covered by that project's combination permit rather than a stand-alone electrical permit
- Per City policy implementing C.R.S. 12-23-116, the Building Division verifies the electrical contractor's State contractor license AND master electrician license are current before permit issuance, and City inspectors may verify on-site worker licensure at every inspection
Required documents
- RequiredElectrical Permit Application (eTRAKiT)Online application via arvadapermits.org; homeowners may also submit by email to the Building Permits Division
- OptionalSingle Line DiagramRequired for homeowner-completed projects
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Replace or New Service | $54.00 plus Use Tax | City of Arvada Electrical permit fee page, current published flat fee |
| Residential Construction Meter | $54.00 plus Use Tax | — |
| Residential Meter Housing (replacement) | $50.00 plus Use Tax | — |
| Residential New Wiring Circuit | Building Permit Fee (Table 18-1, valuation-based) plus Use Tax | — |
| Commercial (all subtypes) | Building Permit Fee (Table 18-1, valuation-based) plus Use Tax | — |
| Residential Electrical Service Change (flat-rate table) | $60.00 | Table 18-5, Residential Flat-Rate Permit Fees |
| Temporary Electric / Construction Power | $60.00 | Table 18-3, Miscellaneous Permits and Fees |
EV Charger / EVSE Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation of a residential electric vehicle charging circuit in Arvada. The City of Arvada Building Division issues and inspects the permit as an electrical permit, and prices it as its own distinct flat-rate line item — 'Residential EV Charger' — under Table 18-5 (Residential Flat Rate Permit Fees) of the City's Building Permit Fee Guide and Administrative Fee Schedule (effective January 1, 2026), separate from the general valuation-based electrical permit fee (Table 18-1) and from the flat $60.00 Residential Electrical Service Change fee.
Verified 2026-07-20 · Source
Requirements
- A hardwired EV charger or new 240V circuit/outlet (e.g. NEMA 14-50) for EV charging requires a City of Arvada electrical permit and safety inspection
- Homeowner-occupants may pull the permit themselves for their own residence; otherwise a State of Colorado-licensed electrical contractor must be listed as contractor of record
- Billed as the flat-rate 'Residential EV Charger' line item (Table 18-5) — minor electric wiring is included, but a panel/service change or upgrade is not included in this permit fee and is billed separately
- A single line diagram is required with the application for homeowner-completed projects
Required documents
- RequiredElectrical Permit Application (eTRAKiT)Online application via arvadapermits.org; homeowners may also submit by email to the Building Permits Division
- OptionalSingle Line DiagramRequired for homeowner-completed projects
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential EV Charger (flat rate) | $55.00 | City of Arvada Building Permit Fee Guide and Administrative Fee Schedule, Table 18-5 (Residential Flat Rate Permit Fees), effective January 1, 2026 — distinct EV-specific line item; minor electric wiring included, service change/upgrade not included |
| Residential Electrical Service Change (if the EV charger install also requires a panel/service upgrade) | $60.00 | City of Arvada Building Permit Fee Guide and Administrative Fee Schedule, Table 18-5 — separate flat-rate line item from the Residential EV Charger fee |
| Plan review fee (electrical permit not part of a combination permit, if plan review is required) | 50% of total permit fee | City of Arvada Building Permit Fee Guide and Administrative Fee Schedule, Table 18-7 |
Plumbing Permit
VerifiedRequired for residential and commercial plumbing installations, alterations, and repairs in Arvada, processed as part of the 'Residential Mechanical & Plumbing' permit category. The City of Arvada Building Division issues the plumbing permit and performs plan review and inspections directly — a State of Colorado plumbing contractor license (issued by the State Plumbing Board under C.R.S. Title 12, Article 155) is a prerequisite for contractors, verified by the City before permit issuance, per the same contemporaneous-review policy structure used for electrical.
Verified 2026-07-17 · Source
Requirements
- Homeowner-occupants may install their own water heater or perform their own plumbing work at their residence, per Colorado state law, as long as they occupy the home
- A State of Colorado-licensed plumbing contractor must be listed as contractor of record for all contracted plumbing work; the City verifies the contractor's State plumbing contractor license and master plumber license before issuing the permit
- Water heater installations/replacements require a licensed plumbing contractor, permit, and inspection under Colorado state law
- Boiler installations over 200,000 BTU require a permit AND inspection from the State of Colorado (in addition to any City permit)
- Water conditioner installations require proof of certificate from the State of Colorado if not installed by a Master Plumber
- Gas line and evaporative cooler work may be filed under either Residential Plumbing or Residential Mechanical, depending on scope
Required documents
- RequiredPlumbing Permit Application (eTRAKiT for licensed contractors; email application to Building Safety Division for homeowners)Online application only available to City-licensed contractors; homeowners submit by email or in person at City Hall
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Permit Fee — valuation-based (general/new plumbing work not on the Table 18-5 flat-rate list) | Assessed as the Table 18-1 valuation-based Building Permit Fee (same schedule as new construction; see Residential Building Permit fee tiers, $34 minimum up to $5,669.25 + $3.45/$1,000 over $1M) plus Use Tax | The Residential Mechanical & Plumbing page states general plumbing fees are published on the Building Fee Schedule page (arvadaco.gov/1263) rather than a separate standalone flat plumbing table — that Building Fee Schedule page IS Table 18-1, the City's published valuation-based fee table, which is the grounded basis for general/new plumbing permit fees; specific fixture types (water heaters, backflow preventers, elevators) instead use the flat Table 18-5 rates cited below |
| Water Heaters (flat-rate) | $55.00 | Table 18-5, Residential Flat-Rate Permit Fees; minor electric wiring included, but a service change/upgrade is not |
| Backflow Preventer (flat-rate) | $55.00 | Table 18-5 |
| Residential Elevator or Dumbwaiter/Chairlift (flat-rate) | $135.50 | Table 18-5 |
| Use Tax | Assessed on the plumbing work valuation using the 58% materials / 42% labor split | Arvada Municipal Code § 98-84 |
Mechanical / HVAC Permit
VerifiedRequired for furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, boiler, and other HVAC equipment installation or replacement in Arvada, processed under the 'Residential Mechanical & Plumbing' permit category. UNRESOLVED LIVE CONTRADICTION as of 2026-07-17: the operational Residential Mechanical & Plumbing page (arvadaco.gov/434) still states requirements 'follow the 2018 IRC and 2018 IECC' and frames the 2024 IMC/IFGC/Colorado Model Low Energy Carbon Code transition as 'upcoming,' even though Arvada's Adopted Building Code summary page and its 2026 Building Code updates page (past tense: 'went into effect on July 1, 2026') both describe the 2024-code suite as already current citywide. Confirm the applicable code cycle directly with Building Safety Division.
Verified 2026-07-17 · Source
Requirements
- Like-for-like equipment replacements (same size and type, no gas/electrical/ductwork changes) generally do not require a full plan review
- If BTU output changes by 5% or more versus the existing unit, it is treated as a modification requiring full documentation (Manual J load calc, equipment spec sheets, etc.)
- New ductwork installation, or modification of 20% or more of an existing duct system, requires a Manual D calculation
- Gas line additions or modifications require a gas line sizing calculation per IRC G2413/402
- Boiler installations over 200,000 BTU require a separate State of Colorado permit and inspection in addition to the City permit
- Contractor's license needed varies by equipment: furnace/AC/gas fireplace = Residential Mechanical license; boiler/water heater = Residential Plumbing license; gas line/evaporative cooler = either Residential Plumbing or Residential Mechanical
Required documents
- RequiredMechanical Permit Application (eTRAKiT for licensed contractors; email/in-person for homeowners)Online application for City-licensed contractors; homeowners apply via email or in person at City Hall
- RequiredFloor Plan / Site PlanSimple, clearly labeled sketch showing equipment location — stamped drawings not required for typical replacements
- RequiredManufacturer Equipment SpecificationsSpec sheets, performance data, and model numbers including efficiency ratings (SEER, HSPF, AFUE, EF per IECC R403)
- OptionalManual J Load CalculationACCA-approved Manual J required for new HVAC systems and downsized replacements (IRC M1401.3)
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Air Conditioners (flat-rate) | $55.00 | Table 18-5, Residential Flat-Rate Permit Fees |
| Furnace Replacement (flat-rate) | $55.00 | Table 18-5 |
| Heat Pumps / Mini-Split (flat-rate) | $81.00 | Table 18-5 |
| Evaporative Coolers (flat-rate) | $55.00 | Table 18-5 |
| Gas Logs / Inserts (flat-rate) | $55.00 | Table 18-5 |
| Generator (flat-rate) | $55.00 | Table 18-5 |
| More than one appliance installed (flat-rate) | $82.50 | Table 18-5 |
| Use Tax | Assessed on the mechanical work valuation using the 58% materials / 42% labor split | Arvada Municipal Code § 98-84 |
Roofing Permit (Re-Roofing)
VerifiedRequired for residential and commercial roof replacement in Arvada. Replacement of up to 100 sq ft of roofing material per year is treated as maintenance and does not require a permit. CONFIRMED LIVE 2026-07-17: unlike most other Arvada permit types, the operational Re-Roofing page (arvadaco.gov/417) still explicitly and repeatedly cites 2018-cycle codes as governing — 'Commercial Roofing IBC-2018,' Chapter 15 of the 2018 IBC as amended, and 'Residential Roofing / Re-Roofing IRC-2018,' Chapter 9 — even though the City's Adopted Building Code summary page lists the 2024-cycle codes as already current elsewhere on the site. Additionally, the live Re-Roofing page states 'Ice Barrier (Ice and Water Shield) not required. See attached letter,' directly contradicting the Adopted Building Code page's statement that ice/water shield 'is required in Arvada... this is a change per our new adopted building codes.' Properties in an identified wildfire risk zone that replace more than 25% of the roof covering will additionally need to comply with the Arvada Wildfire Resiliency Code, which the City's 2026 Building Code updates page confirms (past tense) has been adopted — though the Re-Roofing operational page itself makes no reference to this new code.
Verified 2026-07-17 · Source
Requirements
- Replacement of roofing material up to a total of 100 sq ft per year is considered maintenance and does not require a Re-Roofing permit
- If only one face/side of a roof is damaged, that portion may be replaced alone if allowed by the manufacturer's installation instructions and applicable code
- All commercial roofs must be installed per Chapter 15 of the 2018 IBC (as amended) and manufacturer installation requirements for the wind speed at the site (136/150 Vult depending on location relative to Highway 93) — CONFIRMED still the live-cited code edition on arvadaco.gov/417 as of 2026-07-17
- Energy code upgrades required where sheathing is exposed during re-roofing and no cavity insulation exists: insulate above sheathing to R30ci, or below to R38 (flat) / R49 (attic)
- Ice Barrier (Ice and Water Shield): the live Re-Roofing page (arvadaco.gov/417) states this is 'not required,' while the City's separate Adopted Building Code page states it 'is required in Arvada' as a change under the new code cycle — an unresolved contradiction between two of the City's own live pages as of 2026-07-17; confirm directly with Building Safety Division before assuming either way
- A duty-rated ladder (minimum 200 lb capacity, extending 3 ft above the roof edge) must be provided on-site for all roofing inspections, including a second-story ladder if applicable
- Re-roofing that replaces more than 25% of roof covering on a property within an identified wildfire risk zone will require compliance with the Arvada Wildfire Resiliency Code, confirmed adopted per the City's 2026 Building Code updates page (verified live 2026-07-17), though this specific trigger is not mentioned on the Re-Roofing operational page itself
Required documents
- RequiredRoofing Permit Application (eTRAKiT)Online or in-person application; licensed contractors log in with their AEC contractor number
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roofing Permit Fee — valuation-based | Per Table 18-1 (valuation-based schedule) plus Use Tax | Residential and Commercial re-roofing use Table 18-1 of the Building Fee Schedule; the City directs applicants to its online Fee Calculator for a project-specific estimate — no separate flat re-roof dollar figure is published |
| Roofing Valuation Basis (per 100 sq ft) — used to compute the Table 18-1 fee when actual contract cost is not documented | 3-tab: $187.50/100 sf; Dimensional shingles: $252.00/100 sf; Shakes (untreated): $439.00/100 sf; Light-weight tile: $439.00/100 sf; other/special/treated shakes: use actual contract amount | Building Fee Schedule, Table 18-6 (Roofing Valuation), confirmed live 2026-07-17; if the contractor/homeowner submits proof of actual material cost, the contract amount is instead split 58% material / 42% labor per the same use-tax convention used elsewhere in the fee schedule |
Solar PV Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation of rooftop or ground-mounted solar photovoltaic systems on residential and commercial structures in Arvada. Reviewed against the currently adopted 2023 NEC, plus Arvada's wind (136/150 Vult), snow (30 psf), and Exposure C design criteria.
Verified 2026-07-17 · Source
Requirements
- Engineer's report required on the existing roof structure's dead-load capacity to support the added PV system weight, including site-specific wind speed and roof snow load
- Engineer-stamped wiring diagram required, following the adopted National Electrical Code, showing conductor sizing, overcurrent device ratings, panel busbar ratings, and module series/parallel configuration
- Equipment cut sheets required for modules, inverters, disconnects, and any batteries, including UL listings and rapid-shutdown compliance
- Subcontractor approval form required if the electrical contractor is not associated with the general contractor
- Roof-mounted systems must use permanent standoffs mounted to structural members and properly flashed to accommodate future re-roofing
Required documents
- RequiredSolar Permit Application (eTRAKiT)Apply online at arvadapermits.org or drop off plans/application in person at City Hall
- RequiredPlan Set / Plot Plan with 3-Line Wiring DiagramEquipment location within the structure and a three-line wiring diagram
- RequiredEngineer's Structural ReportDead-load capacity analysis for the existing roof, including required wind speed and roof snow load for the site
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Solar Permit Fee — Residential | $50.00 | City of Arvada Solar permit page (arvadaco.gov/522), current published flat fee, reconfirmed live 2026-07-17 ('$50 Residential'). NOTE a discrepancy with the Building Fee Schedule: Table 18-5 of arvadaco.gov/1263 lists 'Solar Photovoltaic Panels' at $55.00 flat rate, not $50 — the same two-sources-disagree pattern already documented for Hot Tubs & Above-Ground Pools elsewhere in this file. The dedicated Solar page's $50 figure is used here as the more permit-type-specific citation; confirm via the Fee Calculator before budgeting |
| Solar Permit Fee — Commercial | Table 18-1 valuation-based fee, not to exceed $1,000.00 | City of Arvada Solar permit page |
| Plan Review Fee | $36.00 | City of Arvada Solar permit page |
| Use Tax | Assessed on the full system valuation prior to any rebates | City of Arvada Solar permit page; Arvada Municipal Code § 98-84 |
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Permit
VerifiedRequired for construction of a new Type A (detached, lockable/rentable) or Type B (attached or inside the primary dwelling, lockable/rentable) Accessory Dwelling Unit in Arvada. Both types are treated as a separate dwelling unit under the building code, requiring fire separation from the primary dwelling and a separate HVAC system. CONFIRMED via live re-check 2026-07-17: ADU permits are still issued only to City-licensed contractors (Class I-B, II-B, or III-B) — the live ADU page (arvadaco.gov/338) states plainly 'ADU permits are only issued to Licensed Contractors with a type 1B, 2B or 3B license' with no self-permitting provision present anywhere on the page. The City's proposed homeowner/occupant self-permitting change (listed on arvadaco.gov/1461, still headed 'these changes are still under review') has NOT been adopted as of this verification date, despite the broader July 1, 2026 code-cycle implementation having taken effect for the code suite generally.
Verified 2026-07-17 · Source
Requirements
- Two ADU categories: Type A (detached from the principal dwelling, lockable and rentable) and Type B (located inside or attached to the single-family dwelling, occupants do not live as a single household with the principal dwelling, rented, typically with separate locked-off access)
- CONFIRMED LIVE 2026-07-17: ADU permits are issued ONLY to Licensed Contractors holding a Type 1B, 2B, or 3B license — homeowner self-permitting remains unavailable per the current arvadaco.gov/338 ADU page, despite being proposed as part of the 2026 code cycle; the proposal is still listed as 'under review' on arvadaco.gov/1461 and has not been confirmed adopted
- Water and sanitary sewer service for the ADU must connect to the primary dwelling's existing service lines — a separate utility service is not permitted
- Fire separation from the primary dwelling and a separate HVAC system are required for both ADU types
- HOA approval (if applicable) is required in addition to City permits and approvals — a City-issued permit does not override an HOA's own approval requirement
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (eTRAKiT)Login to Arvada Permits, enter required information, and upload PDF plans and related documents
- RequiredPlan SetFull construction drawings showing fire separation, HVAC system, and connection to the primary dwelling's utility services
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — valuation-based (same Table 18-1 as new construction) | Varies by valuation — see Residential Building Permit fee tiers (Table 18-1: $34 minimum up to $5,669.25 + $3.45/$1,000 over $1M) | An ADU is billed as new residential construction: the City's ADU page does not publish a separate ADU-specific fee line because ADUs are assessed on the same published, cited Table 18-1 valuation-based Building Permit Fee schedule as any other residential construction (arvadaco.gov/1263) — the valuation table itself is the grounded, published fee basis, using the higher of ICC Building Valuation Data (Table 18-2) or actual contract value |
| Use Tax | Assessed on the building valuation using the 58% materials / 42% labor split | Arvada Municipal Code § 98-84; same use-tax split applied to all building permits including ADUs |
Demolition Permit
VerifiedRequired for full or partial demolition of residential and commercial structures in Arvada. Processed as a flat-rate permit distinguishing minor interior demolition from major building demolition; asbestos/hazardous material compliance with Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) standards is required as part of the application.
Verified 2026-07-17 · Source
Requirements
- Demolition must comply with Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) standards; proof of compliance (e.g., asbestos inspection) is required with the application
- Utility disconnects should be verified/arranged as part of the demolition scope
- Apply via eTRAKiT (arvadapermits.org) or in person at City Hall
Required documents
- RequiredDemolition Permit Application (eTRAKiT)Online application through arvadapermits.org
- RequiredCDPHE Compliance DocumentationProof of compliance with Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment standards (e.g., asbestos inspection/abatement documentation) where applicable
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Demolition — Minor Interior | $67.00 | Table 18-5, Residential Flat-Rate Permit Fees |
| Residential Demolition — Major Building | $135.50 | Table 18-5 |
| Commercial Demolition — Minor Interior | $67.00 | Table 18-3, Miscellaneous Permits, Inspections and Other Fees |
| Commercial Demolition — Major Building | $136.00 | Table 18-3 |
Commercial Tenant Improvement / Tenant Finish Permit
VerifiedRequired for build-out, remodel, or change-of-use work inside an existing commercial space in Arvada, processed under the 'New Commercial Buildings, Commercial Additions & Multi-Family' permitting program. Some occupancy changes without construction may still require a permit or review to establish a proper Certificate of Occupancy.
Verified 2026-07-17 · Source
Requirements
- Commercial permits are issued only to Licensed Contractors — all subcontractors must be listed at application or the permit is placed on hold
- Plan sets are reviewed on a sliding scale based on sheet count: 1-100 sheets follows an 8-week (40 business day) total review cycle; 100+ sheets follows a 14-week (70 business day) cycle, each split across staff code-compliance review, customer corrections, and a second staff review round
- A Certificate of Occupancy is required before occupancy of tenant-finished space, and landscape inspections (where applicable) must be completed first
- If your project is still in the City's Development Process, the permit will not be approved until the Final Development Process is completed
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (eTRAKiT)Online application via arvadapermits.org; upload PDF plans and related documents
- RequiredPlan SetFull construction document set for the tenant space, including any MEP scope
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee | Variable — Table 18-1, based on job contract value or square footage | City of Arvada New Commercial Buildings, Commercial Additions & Multi-Family page |
| Plan Review Fee | 65% of the Building Permit Fee | City of Arvada New Commercial Buildings page |
| Use Tax | Variable — assessed using the 58% materials / 42% labor split of valuation | Arvada Municipal Code § 98-84 |
| Plumbing / Mechanical / Electrical Fees (if applicable to the scope) | Variable — Table 18-1 | Assessed separately if plumbing, mechanical, or electrical work is part of the tenant finish scope |
Deck / Covered Patio Permit
VerifiedRequired for construction of decks, attached shade structures, detached pergolas/gazebos/accessory structures, and outdoor kitchens/gas fireplaces in Arvada, processed via the 'Residential Exterior' permit type. CONFIRMED via live re-check 2026-07-17: the operational Residential Exterior page (arvadaco.gov/419) still states 'Detached pergolas, gazebos and accessory structures over 200 square feet' require a permit — the previously-anticipated drop to 120 sq ft under the 2024-code cycle has NOT been reflected on this live page even though July 1, 2026 has passed. Treat 200 sq ft as the current, operative threshold.
Verified 2026-07-17 · Source
Requirements
- Decks, attached shade structures, and outdoor kitchens/gas fireplaces require a Residential Exterior permit regardless of size
- Detached pergolas, gazebos, and other accessory structures require a permit only if they exceed 200 sq ft — CONFIRMED still the live-published threshold on arvadaco.gov/419 as of 2026-07-17, despite a proposed drop to 120 sq ft under the Arvada Wildfire Resiliency Code / 2024-cycle amendments (arvadaco.gov/1461) that has not been reflected on this operational page. That 1461 significant-changes page remains headed 'these changes are still under review' as of this verification date
- Window awnings supported by an exterior wall projecting no more than 54 inches and requiring no additional support fall under the Residential Exterior category
- Plan review is required — plans must be submitted showing the structure to scale with dimensions and relationship to existing structures/property lines
- A license is not required if the owner/occupant does the work themselves; a City-licensed contractor is required if any part is contracted out
- Re-siding or deck projects within an identified wildfire risk zone may trigger additional Arvada Wildfire Resiliency Code compliance; the City's 2026 Building Code updates page confirms (past tense, verified 2026-07-17) this code has been adopted, though the Residential Exterior operational page does not itself reference it
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (eTRAKiT — Residential Exterior)Online application via arvadapermits.org
- RequiredPlan SetDrawn to scale; engineered plans required only if structural changes are involved; Arvada's building guides may substitute for a full plan set on straightforward projects
- RequiredPlot PlanDimensions of the project and its relationship to existing structures and property lines
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — valuation-based (Table 18-1) | Per Table 18-1, based on the higher of contract value or Table 18-2 valuation | Decks and covered patios use the standard valuation-based table; Table 18-2 lists specific per-sq-ft valuation add-ons: Decks $24.43/sq ft, Deck with patio cover $30.73/sq ft, Carports $23.05/sq ft, Canopies $53.36/sq ft (Type VB) |
| Hot Tubs & Above-Ground Pools (flat-rate) | $50.00 plus Plan Review Fee and Use Tax | City of Arvada Residential Exterior page, per its explicit note; also listed at $55.00 flat rate on Table 18-5 — confirm current figure via the Fee Calculator, as the two published City sources show a $5 discrepancy |
| Use Tax | Assessed on the building valuation using the 58% materials / 42% labor split | Arvada Municipal Code § 98-84 |
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-17.
Fees, timelines, and adopted codes are researched from each jurisdiction's published records — see how we verify. Requirements change and vary by project, so always confirm the current details with the Arvada building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.