Mechanical / HVAC Permit in Arvada, Colorado
Required for furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, boiler, and other HVAC equipment installation or replacement in Arvada, processed under the 'Residential Mechanical & Plumbing' permit category. Requirements currently follow the 2018 IRC and 2018 IECC (2024 IMC/IFGC and Colorado Model Low Energy Carbon Code effective July 1, 2026).
Verified 2026-06-30 · Source
When you need this permit
- 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
- Req
Mechanical 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
- Req
Floor Plan / Site Plan
Simple, clearly labeled sketch showing equipment location — stamped drawings not required for typical replacements
- Req
Manufacturer Equipment Specifications
Spec sheets, performance data, and model numbers including efficiency ratings (SEER, HSPF, AFUE, EF per IECC R403)
- Opt
Manual J Load Calculation
ACCA-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 |
Review timeline
0–1 business days
Arvada’s published plan-review target
Inspection process
- 1
Rough Mechanical
Equipment and ductwork installation before walls closed
- 2
Final Mechanical
Equipment operational, combustion air and venting verified; a Final Electrical inspection is also required if electrical work beyond disconnect/reconnect was performed
Tips
- Most like-for-like furnace, A/C, and water heater swaps in Arvada are inexpensive flat-rate permits ($55) that don't require a full plan review — but if the new unit's BTU rating differs by 5% or more from the old one, it's treated as a modification requiring Manual J/D/S documentation.
- If an inspector finds unpermitted electrical work during a mechanical inspection (beyond a simple disconnect/reconnect), the inspection will fail and a double fee applies — make sure all electrical scope tied to the HVAC work is listed on the permit.
- Boiler installations over 200,000 BTU require BOTH a City of Arvada permit and a separate State of Colorado permit/inspection.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does a furnace replacement permit cost in Arvada?
- A standard like-for-like furnace replacement is a $55.00 flat-rate permit (Table 18-5), plus use tax. If the replacement changes BTU output by 5% or more, it is treated as a modification requiring Manual J documentation, and Table 18-1 valuation-based fees may apply instead.
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-06-30.
- City of Arvada — Building Safety Division — official building department
- City of Arvada — Residential Mechanical & Plumbing
- City of Arvada — Building Fee Schedule (Table 18-5)
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.
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