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You are viewing the permanent link for the record currently in effect, published 2026-07-03.

Loveland building permits

Verified

Loveland, Colorado — as published 2026-07-03.

Verified 2026-07-03 · Source

Codes adopted

Colorado has no statewide mandatory building code for municipalities; each home-rule or statutory city adopts and amends its own building code edition. Colorado's only statewide floor is an energy/greenhouse-gas standard: House Bill 22-1362 (2022), codified in relevant part at C.R.S. Title 24 and repealing portions of the prior C.R.S. 30-28-211 energy-code statute, directs the Colorado Energy Code Board to publish a Model Electric Ready and Solar Ready Code and a Model Low Energy and Carbon Code, which local governments (and certain state agencies) must adopt on their own timelines or otherwise demonstrate equivalent/greater stringency. Source: Colorado General Assembly, HB22-1362 (leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb22-1362); Colorado Energy Office Energy Code Board. Applicants should confirm the specific edition/amendments in effect for their city, since Colorado building codes vary by municipality.City of Loveland runs its own Building Division and adopts/amends its own code within the Unified Development Code (Title 18) and Municipal Code (Title 15) framework — it is NOT a DOLA/state-administered program. Effective July 1, 2026, the City Council-adopted amendments move Loveland to the 2024 International Building Code (IBC) and 2024 International Residential Code (IRC) family (referenced in the City's 'Building Code adopted changes (ICC 2024)' notice, approved on second reading June 2, 2026); prior to that date the currently effective editions are the 2021 IRC, 2021 IMC (Mechanical), and 2021 IFGC (Fuel Gas), per City of Loveland Residential HVAC/Gas Load Fast Track forms dated 5/27/2026. Source: City of Loveland Building Division homepage and Loveland Building Code Amendments page (lovgov.org/services/development-services/building-division; lovgov.org/services/development-services/building-division/loveland-building-code).Effective July 1, 2026, City of Loveland adopts the Colorado Model Low Energy and Carbon Code (combining the Colorado Model Electric Ready and Solar Ready Code with the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)) to satisfy the HB22-1362 statewide energy-code floor. Source: City of Loveland 'City Council approves building-related code changes' notice (lovgov.org/home/showpublisheddocument/63720/639162471002370000).Effective July 1, 2026, City of Loveland adopts Appendix BC (Accessory Dwelling Units) from the International Residential Code, with local amendments to align with the Unified Development Code, and now allows a property owner to act as general contractor on an ADU provided all subcontractors hold a valid City of Loveland contractor license. Source: City of Loveland code-changes notice.Effective July 1, 2026, City of Loveland adopts Appendix BE from the International Residential Code (Radon Control Methods) for all new commercial and residential buildings, with new rough-radon, final-radon, and radon-mitigation-certificate inspections. Source: City of Loveland code-changes notice.Building Valuation Data Table (square-foot construction costs by ICC occupancy group and construction type), effective March 15, 2026, is used by the City to calculate building-permit valuation; the City's fee schedule states 'Building permit fees are based on the current ICC Fees' via the ICC Building Valuation Data publication (iccsafe.org/products-and-services/i-codes/code-development-process/building-valuation-data/). Source: City of Loveland Building Valuation Data Table PDF (lovgov.org/home/showpublisheddocument/60277/639090010225200000) and 2026 Fee Schedule (lovgov.org/home/showpublisheddocument/60275/639089984528770000).

Permit types & fees

Residential Building Permit (New Construction)

Verified

Required for construction of new single-family homes, duplexes, and other one- and two-family dwellings in Loveland. Reviewed against the City of Loveland's adopted building code (2021 IRC family through June 30, 2026; 2024 IRC family and Colorado Model Low Energy and Carbon Code effective July 1, 2026) plus City Design Criteria. Submittals are processed electronically by emailing eplan-res@cityofloveland.org.

Verified 2026-07-03 · Source

Requirements

  • Building permit required for new single-family and two-family dwelling construction
  • Plans must comply with the City of Loveland's currently adopted IRC edition and Design Criteria (130 MPH 3-second-gust wind, Exposure C; 30 psf ground snow load per the current Building Code Amendments page, moving to 35 psf under the ASCE update effective July 1, 2026; 30-inch minimum frost depth)
  • Effective July 1, 2026, third-party energy inspections are required for all new residential buildings to verify what was submitted for review, and Appendix BE (Radon Control Methods) applies to all new residential buildings with rough-radon, final-radon, and radon-mitigation-certificate inspections
  • Effective July 1, 2026, the Colorado Model Low Energy and Carbon Code (Colorado Model Electric Ready and Solar Ready Code + 2024 IECC) applies, per the statewide HB22-1362 energy-code floor
  • Submittals are processed electronically; residential submittals go to eplan-res@cityofloveland.org, non-residential to eplan-building@cityofloveland.org
  • A valid City of Loveland Contractor's License is required for structural, mechanical, electrical, or plumbing work on rental homes, multi-family buildings, and non-residential buildings; an owner-occupant may self-perform work in their primary residence with a Homeowner Affidavit

Required documents

  • RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationSubmitted electronically by email to eplan-res@cityofloveland.org
  • RequiredConstruction DrawingsSite plan, foundation plan, floor plan, framing, elevations, and structural details consistent with the City's adopted IRC edition and Design Criteria
  • RequiredResidential Gas Load FormRequired for all new one- and two-family dwelling submittals involving gas piping; sized per IFGC Table 402.4(2) or IRC Table G2413.4(1)
  • OptionalHomeowner AffidavitRequired only if the owner is self-performing work as their own contractor in their primary residence

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit FeeBased on the current ICC Building Valuation Data (square-foot construction cost by occupancy group/construction type) applied to project square footage; e.g., R-3 (one- and two-family, Type VB) valuation is $175.92/sq ft effective March 15, 2026City of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule and Building Valuation Data Table; fee schedule states 'Building permit fees are based on the current ICC Fees,' referencing iccsafe.org/products-and-services/i-codes/code-development-process/building-valuation-data/
Residential Plan Review Fee65% of the Building Permit FeeCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
New Technology Fee — Permit Portion10% of the Building Permit FeeCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
New Technology Fee — Residential Plan Check Portion10% of the Residential Plan Check FeeCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Re-Inspection Fee (per inspection, penalty)$200.00City of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Inspections outside normal business hours$200.00 minimum (2-hour minimum), or total hourly City cost if greaterCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Additional Plan Review (changes/additions/revisions to approved plans)$150.00 per hour, 1-hour minimumCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Occupancy Permit (per building or shell), excludes single-family R-3$100.00, plus $50.00 for each additional non-residential improvementCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule

Residential Addition / Remodel / Alteration Permit

Verified

Required for additions, remodels, and structural alterations to existing one- and two-family dwellings in Loveland, including basement finishes, decks, garages, and interior remodels affecting structural or life-safety elements. Reviewed against the City's currently adopted IRC edition. Submit via email to eplan-res@cityofloveland.org.

Verified 2026-07-03 · Source

Requirements

  • Building permit required for additions, remodels, and alterations affecting structural, fire, or life-safety elements (examples explicitly listed by the City: building additions, decks, storage sheds over 200 sf, basement finish, interior remodel, HVAC, demolition, carports)
  • Deck and Porch, Detached Garage, Basement Finish, Patio Cover & Carport, and Patio Enclosure each have a dedicated City submittal checklist
  • A Request to Amend/Revise an active building permit is required whenever plans are altered from the original approved application
  • A site plan showing lot lines, setbacks, and existing/proposed structures is required
  • Smoke alarms must be installed per R314.2.2 for alterations/repairs/additions requiring a permit; carbon monoxide alarms required per Colorado HB1091 (C.R.S. 12-01-105) for single-family dwellings with fuel-fired appliances or an attached garage undergoing permitted alterations

Required documents

  • RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationEmailed to eplan-res@cityofloveland.org
  • OptionalDeck and Porch ChecklistCity of Loveland fill-in checklist for deck/porch submittals
  • OptionalDetached Garage ChecklistCity of Loveland checklist for detached garage construction plans
  • OptionalBasement Finish ChecklistCity of Loveland checklist for basement finish submittals
  • RequiredConstruction DrawingsSite plan and framing/structural details showing scope of work and connection to the existing structure

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit FeeBased on the current ICC Building Valuation Data applied to project valuation/square footage (same methodology as new construction)City of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Decks$45.00 per square foot valuation basis (Building Valuation Data Table, footnote h); permit fee calculated from that valuationCity of Loveland Building Valuation Data Table, footnote h: 'Decks = $45.00 per sq. ft.'
Residential Plan Review Fee65% of the Building Permit FeeCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule

Electrical Permit

Verified

Required for electrical installation, alteration, or repair work in Loveland. Loveland runs its own electric utility (Loveland Water and Power); service-equipment changes require an Electric Service Worksheet (ESW) signed by a Distribution Designer before an electrical permit can be issued. Apply via the Residential Electrical Fast Track Permit Application, emailed to eplan-buildingfasttrack@cityofloveland.org.

Verified 2026-07-03 · Source

Requirements

  • Electrical contractor must hold a valid City of Loveland contractor license prior to applying
  • Application must be signed by the contractor or an authorized signer listed on the contractor license
  • For any service equipment changes (amp change) or work on a service without a main disconnect, an Electric Service Worksheet (ESW) signed by a Distribution Designer is required before permit issuance, per the Loveland Water & Power 'Requirements for Electric Service' (RFES) sections 3.4 and 3.5
  • Application types: Service Upgrade (amp change), Service Alteration (no amp change), Electrical Work (behind main disconnect), or Mobile Home Hook-up

Required documents

  • RequiredResidential Electrical Fast Track Permit ApplicationEmailed to eplan-buildingfasttrack@cityofloveland.org
  • OptionalElectric Service Worksheet (ESW)Required for service upgrades/alterations or work on a service without a main disconnect; signed by a Loveland Water & Power Distribution Designer

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit Fee (valuation-based)Based on the current ICC Building Valuation Data applied to the stated project valuation on the Electrical Fast Track applicationCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule; the Electrical Fast Track application itself has a 'Valuation: $' field used to calculate the fee
Plumbing & Electrical LicensingNo ChargeCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule, Contractor Licensing section — plumbing and electrical trade licenses are listed at no charge, distinct from the Class A/B/C general contractor license fees

Plumbing Permit

Verified

Required for plumbing installation, alteration, or repair work in Loveland, submitted via the Residential Plumbing Fast Track Permit Application to eplan-buildingfasttrack@cityofloveland.org.

Verified 2026-07-03 · Source

Requirements

  • Plumbing contractor must hold a valid City of Loveland contractor license (or applicable trade license) prior to applying
  • Governed by the City's currently adopted plumbing provisions within the IRC/IMC/IFGC framework (2021 editions through June 30, 2026; 2024-family editions effective July 1, 2026)
  • Application must be signed by the contractor or an authorized signer listed on the contractor license

Required documents

  • RequiredResidential Plumbing Fast Track Permit ApplicationEmailed to eplan-buildingfasttrack@cityofloveland.org

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit Fee (valuation-based)Based on the current ICC Building Valuation Data applied to the stated project valuationCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Plumbing & Electrical LicensingNo ChargeCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule, Contractor Licensing section

Mechanical / HVAC Permit

Verified

Required for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and related mechanical installations in Loveland, governed by the City's currently adopted IMC and IFGC editions (2021 through June 30, 2026; 2024-family effective July 1, 2026). Submit via the Residential HVAC Fast Track Permit Application to eplan-buildingfasttrack@cityofloveland.org.

Verified 2026-07-03 · Source

Requirements

  • Mechanical contractor must hold a valid City of Loveland contractor license prior to applying
  • Application types include New A/C, A/C Upgrade/SEER, Furnace Upgrade/% Efficiency, and Heat Pump
  • A Residential Gas Load Form (with a drawing of the proposed gas piping system) is required for gas-fired appliance installations, sized per IFGC Table 402.4(2) or IRC Table G2413.4(1)
  • Smoke alarms required per R314.2.2 for alterations/additions requiring a permit (exception: installation/alteration/repair of plumbing or mechanical systems alone does not trigger this); carbon monoxide alarms required per Colorado HB1091 for dwellings with fuel-fired appliances or an attached garage
  • Effective for all gas-fired appliances with plastic venting, exhaust testing is required (5 psi for a minimum of 15 minutes, with installer certification)

Required documents

  • RequiredResidential HVAC Fast Track Permit ApplicationEmailed to eplan-buildingfasttrack@cityofloveland.org
  • OptionalResidential Gas Load FormIdentifies all gas-fired appliances, BTU loads, pipe sizing table used, and includes a drawing of the proposed gas line system
  • OptionalWater Heater/Boiler/Furnace Exhaust Test CertificationSubmitted as part of the mechanical/plumbing inspection to buildinginspectionletters@cityofloveland.org

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit Fee (valuation-based)Based on the current ICC Building Valuation Data applied to the stated project valuation on the HVAC Fast Track applicationCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule

Re-Roofing Permit

Verified

Required for residential and commercial re-roofing in Loveland, governed by the 2021 IRC roofing provisions per the City's Building Division Roofing Requirements, with a revised contractor-photo-based mid-roof verification process effective January 1, 2026.

Verified 2026-07-03 · Source

Requirements

  • Building permit required for any re-roofing; repairs under 100 sf are the only exemption from permitting
  • Repair thresholds: under 100 sf repair not required to match existing shingle class; up to 49% requires a permit with repair allowed and shingles matching existing (allowed classification); 50% or greater requires complete removal and replacement with Class 4 impact-resistance (UL 2218) shingles
  • Ice barrier required per R905.1.2; drip edge required at eaves and rakes per R905.2.8.5
  • Class A fire rating required within the Loveland Fire Rescue Authority Wildland Urban Interface area; Class C (UL 790) minimum elsewhere
  • Effective January 1, 2026: submit a re-roofing application with roof pitch(es) noted; take mid-roof installation photos in place of an in-person mid-roof inspection (contractor-performed, 10-12 images of required items); submit a roofing affidavit with all photos in one PDF to buildinginspectionletters@cityofloveland.org one day before the scheduled final inspection
  • Contractor must provide an OSHA-approved ladder set (no telescoping ladders) extending at least 3 ft past the roof plane and attached to the house, unless the structure is over 2 stories or the pitch exceeds 6:12 (inspector reviews from the ground in that case)

Required documents

  • RequiredRe-Roofing Permit ApplicationIncludes roof pitch(es) and work description; part of the Roofing Fast Track packet
  • RequiredRoofing Affidavit and Photo PDFMid-roof and final photos (10-12 images) combined with the signed roofing affidavit into one PDF, emailed to buildinginspectionletters@cityofloveland.org

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit Fee (valuation-based)Based on the current ICC Building Valuation Data applied to the stated project valuationCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Residential Roof Permit (up to 4 units)$200.00City of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule, Building section; 'all other roof permits use table' (i.e., valuation-based ICC table for larger/non-residential jobs)

Rooftop Solar Photovoltaic (PV) / DER Permit

Verified

Required for installation of rooftop solar photovoltaic and energy storage systems in Loveland. Because the City operates its own municipal electric utility (Loveland Water and Power), solar installers must first complete a Distributed Energy Resources (DER) interconnection request with Loveland Water and Power before applying for the building/electrical permit through the Building Division.

Verified 2026-07-03 · Source

Requirements

  • Step 1: File an interconnection request application and customer authorization form by email to der@cityofloveland.org prior to applying for the building permit
  • Step 2-3: Loveland Water and Power's Distributed Energy Resources (DER) Division performs a completeness review, then a technical review to check for special provisions/upgrades needed to connect to the distribution grid
  • Step 4: Upon approval, a Notice to Proceed letter is issued with instructions for the specific installation; multiple permits may be required depending on what the Notice to Proceed indicates
  • For any electric service equipment changes/upgrades, submit: the Notice to Proceed letter, a fully signed Electric Service Worksheet (ESW) from Loveland Water and Power's Distribution Design Division, and a completed Electrical Fast Track permit application, to eplan-buildingfasttrack@cityofloveland.org
  • Minimum contractor licenses required: current City of Loveland Class C or Class C Limited license (Class C requires ICC passed exam or reciprocal-jurisdiction license; Class C Limited requires a valid NABCEP license or reciprocal license), plus a current City of Loveland electrical license; commercial DER projects may require a Class A or B license depending on project scope
  • Design must meet all applicable conditions of Loveland Water and Power's Requirements for Electric Service (RFES) and the City of Loveland Building Division's current adopted building codes

Required documents

  • RequiredDER Interconnection Request ApplicationFiled by email to der@cityofloveland.org with a customer authorization form, prior to any building permit application
  • OptionalElectric Service Worksheet (ESW)Signed by a Loveland Water and Power Distribution Design engineer; required for service change/upgrade projects
  • RequiredElectrical Fast Track Permit ApplicationSubmitted after receiving the Notice to Proceed letter, to eplan-buildingfasttrack@cityofloveland.org

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit Fee (valuation-based)Based on the current ICC Building Valuation Data applied to the stated project valuationCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule; no dedicated solar fee waiver was found on the City's published fee schedule

Complete Structure Demolition Permit

Verified

Required for demolition of a complete structure within Loveland. Governed by the City's Complete Structure Demolition - Building Guide, coordinated with the Water Department for utility disconnections.

Verified 2026-07-03 · Source

Requirements

  • Provide 1 plot plan (electronic or 8.5x11in paper) showing the location of capped utilities (water, wastewater, fire line, electric, gas, etc.)
  • Must call Xcel Energy to have the gas meter pulled/inspected prior to demolition
  • Complete a Building Permit Application; residential submittals to eplan-res@cityofloveland.org, non-residential to eplan-building@cityofloveland.org
  • State asbestos report is required for demolition permits per the City's Permitting FAQ's list of projects requiring a building permit
  • Utility disconnections (demo water service, demo fire service, demo wastewater, demo pre-treatment, as applicable) must be completed and inspected by the Water Department prior to the Final Building inspection

Required documents

  • RequiredBuilding Permit Application (Demolition)Emailed to eplan-res@cityofloveland.org (residential) or eplan-building@cityofloveland.org (non-residential)
  • RequiredUtility Demo Plot Plan1 plot plan showing location of capped water, wastewater, fire line, electric, and gas utilities
  • RequiredState Asbestos ReportRequired per City of Loveland Permitting FAQ's list of projects requiring a building permit

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit Fee (valuation-based)Based on the current ICC Building Valuation Data applied to the stated project valuationCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule; no separate flat demolition fee or bond was found published by the City for Loveland (unlike some Colorado/Montana cities that impose a fixed demolition bond)

Fence and Retaining Wall Standards

Verified

Fences, walls, and retaining walls in Loveland are regulated by height, location, and engineering standards under the Unified Development Code (Title 18, Section 18.04.07.06 Fences and Walls and Section 18.04.07.11 Retaining Walls) rather than a standalone Building Division permit form; taller/engineered retaining walls require structural plans through the standard building permit process.

Verified 2026-07-03 · Source

Requirements

  • Fences/walls in front setbacks (between front property line and front facade): limited solid material max 4 ft; solid material max 3 ft
  • Fences/walls outside the front setback (flush with or behind the front facade): max 6 ft 3 in in all zones except Industrial (8 ft max behind the front facade)
  • Side/rear yard fences/walls: max 6 ft 3 in in all zones except Employment and Industrial zones (8 ft max); Director may approve up to 8 ft between adjacent residential/nonresidential uses with owner agreement, or as a noise barrier along an arterial street
  • Fences/walls adjacent to parks, common areas, open space, or environmentally sensitive areas: max 4 ft, limited solid material, unless the Director approves alternate fencing for safety/buffering
  • All fences/walls must be located on or within the owner's property boundary; specific setbacks apply near sidewalks (2 ft if over 4 ft tall, 18 in if under 4 ft tall) and trails (3 ft minimum from the back of the trail)
  • Chain-link/woven-wire fencing is prohibited in front yards absent Director approval for extraordinary safety circumstances; barbed wire, electrified fencing, and razor/concertina wire are prohibited or narrowly restricted
  • Retaining walls: individual walls max 8 ft tall (taller grade changes require terraced walls, each capped at 8 ft, terraces min. 5 ft wide and landscaped); walls over 3 ft must be finished in native rock or comparable masonry
  • Retaining wall engineering: a Colorado-registered Professional Engineer (Structural) must stamp designs for any wall 6 ft or taller at its highest point, or any wall 4 ft or taller where its height exceeds its distance from a right-of-way or common property line
  • Fencing within the Wildland Urban Interface Overlay Zone must comply with Appendix O risk-reduction requirements of the adopted Fire Code

Required documents

  • OptionalBuilding Permit Application (Retaining Wall)Required only for engineered retaining walls meeting the height/setback thresholds in UDC 18.04.07.11; routine fences under the UDC height limits do not require a separate Building Division permit form
  • OptionalEngineer-Stamped Structural DesignRequired for retaining walls 6 ft or taller at their highest point, or 4 ft or taller where height exceeds the distance to a right-of-way/property line; must be stamped by a Colorado-registered Professional Engineer specializing in Structural Engineering

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit Fee (valuation-based, engineered retaining walls only)Based on the current ICC Building Valuation Data applied to the stated project valuationCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule; no separate flat fence-permit fee was found published, consistent with fences generally being a zoning/UDC compliance matter rather than a Building Division permit

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Permit

Verified

Required for construction of a new detached Accessory Dwelling Unit in Loveland. Effective July 1, 2026, the City adopts IRC Appendix BC (ADUs) with local amendments and allows a property owner to act as general contractor if all subcontractors hold City licenses. Submit via email to eplan-res@cityofloveland.org.

Verified 2026-07-03 · Source

Requirements

  • The structure must have water and sewer permanently attached to the ADU, tied into the primary dwelling's services
  • The structure requires its own separate power meter
  • The structure requires its own separate address from the primary residence, assigned by the City of Loveland
  • The structure must be on a permanent foundation
  • The structure cannot be located near overhead power lines with less than 10 ft vertical / 5 ft horizontal clearance
  • Setbacks must be confirmed with the Planning Department for the specific property
  • Effective July 1, 2026: a property owner may be the general contractor on their own ADU, but must hire City-licensed subcontractors for each trade (the owner cannot self-perform trade work unless it is their primary residence, per the standard homeowner exemption)
  • Foundation and framing drawings must be sealed by a professional engineer
  • Energy code compliance requires an energy code inspection list and Manuals J, D, and S; the prescriptive path requires ResChecks; a qualified third party must perform all energy inspections

Required documents

  • RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationStandard City of Loveland Building Permit Application
  • OptionalArchitectural Review Committee LetterSigned and completed if required by the subdivision's HOA/ARC
  • RequiredSite Plan / Grading Plan1 plot plan (electronic or 8.5x11in) showing dimensions of the home, detached garage, proposed ADU footprint, lot dimensions/easements, and distances from each structure edge to each lot line
  • RequiredElectric Service Worksheet (ESW)Required from Loveland Water and Power for the meter and service power line
  • RequiredArchitectural PlansElevations (2 sides minimum), floor plan(s), building section, stair section, fire separation detail (Dwelling-Garage R302.6 or Two-Family Dwelling R302.3; crawlspace Fire Protection of Floors R302.13), and detail sections for decks/porches/retaining walls over 4 ft
  • RequiredFoundation and Framing DrawingsMust be sealed and signed by a professional engineer
  • RequiredEnergy Code Compliance FormsEnergy code inspection list, Manuals J/D/S; prescriptive path requires ResChecks; qualified third party performs all energy inspections
  • OptionalFoundation Setback and Elevation CertificationCompleted once construction begins; picked up on-site by Building Inspectors at the Footing/Foundation/UFER inspection
  • OptionalResidential Lot Stormwater Quality Permit ApplicationRequired for land-disturbance activities (grading, excavating, stockpiling, clearing, vegetation removal)
  • OptionalResidential Certification of Lot Grading and Structure ElevationCompleted during final inspection; picked up on-site at the Final Grade Cert inspection (or a Residential Alternate Certification may be submitted if required elevations cannot be met)

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit Fee (valuation-based)Based on the current ICC Building Valuation Data applied to project square footage (R-3 one/two-family Type VB valuation $175.92/sq ft effective March 15, 2026)City of Loveland Building Valuation Data Table and 2026 Fee Schedule
Residential Plan Review Fee65% of the Building Permit FeeCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule

EV Charger / EVSE Permit

Verified

Loveland has no standalone EV-charger permit form or fee line item. A residential or commercial Level 1/Level 2 EV charging circuit is ordinary electrical work processed through the same Residential Electrical Fast Track (Service Upgrade/Alteration or Electrical Work application types) as any other panel or circuit change, with the valuation-based Building Permit Fee from the City's 2026 Fee Schedule. Separately, as a Colorado municipality with a 2020 Census population over 10,000, Loveland is a jurisdiction covered by HB24-1173 (Electric Vehicle Charging System Permits), which sets a statutory 3-business-day decision turnaround for EV charging system permit applications, and the City's Unified Development Code was amended in the 2025-2026 cycle to add a distinct 'EV Charging Project' land-use category (Primary/Accessory) with streamlined administrative review for stand-alone or larger commercial charging installations under the State's EV Charging Model Land Use Code (EV MLUC).

Verified 2026-07-20 · Source

Requirements

  • Electrical contractor must hold a valid City of Loveland contractor license prior to applying, same as any other electrical permit
  • For a service equipment change/amp increase to support EV charging, an Electric Service Worksheet (ESW) signed by a Loveland Water and Power Distribution Designer is required before permit issuance (same rule that applies to any service upgrade)
  • Apply via the Residential Electrical Fast Track Permit Application (Service Upgrade, Service Alteration, or Electrical Work types) to eplan-buildingfasttrack@cityofloveland.org; no separate EV-specific application form was found
  • Under HB24-1173 (effective statewide August 7, 2024; compliance required of covered jurisdictions by December 31, 2025), the permitting agency must notify the applicant of approval, conditional approval, or denial within 3 business days of making its determination, and denials may be based only on non-compliance with published objective standards or health/safety
  • Stand-alone or primary-use EV charging stations (as opposed to an accessory charger at a home or business) are reviewed under the City's new UDC 'EV Charging Project' use category, which the Loveland Planning Commission and City Council considered through public hearings in fall 2025 (Planning Commission hearing October 27, 2025; City Council hearing scheduled November 18, 2025) to align local code with the State's EV MLUC and HB24-1173/HB24-1304
  • Effective February 2026 (Ordinance No. 6816, second reading February 17, 2026, adopting Loveland Municipal Code Chapter 15.50), new buildings must be designed per the Colorado Model Electric Ready and Solar Ready Code, which sets EV-charging-infrastructure-readiness requirements (e.g., raceway/panel capacity) for qualifying new construction — this affects what a future EV charger install will connect to, but is a new-construction requirement, not a fee for the charger permit itself

Required documents

  • RequiredResidential Electrical Fast Track Permit ApplicationSame form used for any electrical service/circuit work; emailed to eplan-buildingfasttrack@cityofloveland.org
  • OptionalElectric Service Worksheet (ESW)Required only if the EV charger installation requires a service equipment/amp change; signed by a Loveland Water and Power Distribution Designer

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit Fee (valuation-based)Based on the current ICC Building Valuation Data applied to the stated project valuation on the Electrical Fast Track applicationCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule; no EV-charger/EVSE-specific fee line item was found. Exhaustive re-chase 2026-07-20: the City's Fees page and its linked '2026 Fee Schedule' PDF (lovgov.org, document ID 60275) both return HTTP 403 to automated fetch (direct automated retrieval alike), and no Wayback Machine snapshot of that specific document ID exists (only a 2021 snapshot of an older Exhibit A fee-schedule document ID was found, too outdated to cite as current). The governing mechanism itself -- ICC Building Valuation Data applied per square foot/valuation, not a fixed per-project dollar table -- is confirmed via the City's own Electrical Fast Track application instructions, but a specific current per-tier dollar figure could not be independently pulled this review. Confirm exact current cost with Building Division, (970) 962-2505.

Commercial Building Permit (New Construction / Addition)

Verified

Required for new construction, additions, and new mezzanines in non-residential (commercial, industrial, institutional) and multi-unit dwelling buildings in Loveland, using the City's 'Non-Residential Building Permit Application - New Building/Addition' form. A Site Development Plan (reviewed by the Current Planning Division) and an associated Site Work Permit must be approved before the building permit can be submitted, unless the City's Development Review Team approves concurrent review. Partial build-outs of new core-and-shell buildings are not permitted — each tenant space requires a separate Tenant Finish permit. Submit electronically to eplan-building@cityofloveland.org.

Verified 2026-08-02 · Source

Requirements

  • Building permit required for new non-residential buildings, building additions, and new mezzanines (explicitly listed as 'Non-Residential' examples on the City's Permitting FAQ's page, distinct from the Residential examples list)
  • A Site Development Plan application must be submitted to and approved by the Current Planning Division, together with an associated Site Work Permit, before the building permit application can be submitted; concurrent site development plan and building permit review is possible only if approved by the City's Development Review Team
  • Partial build-outs of new core-and-shell buildings or additions are not permitted; a separate Tenant Finish/Interior Remodel permit is required for each tenant space. For new builds with more than one tenant space, a core-and-shell permit is required first, followed by SEPARATE tenant finish permits per tenant space
  • A complete application requires a set of Architectural/Structural/Engineered stamped drawings; drawings stamped 'Preliminary' or 'Not for Construction' are not accepted
  • Drawing set must include architectural plans, current + proposed floor plans, building elevations (HVAC equipment shown shaded), code analysis, a Design Criteria List (occupancy group, construction type, seismic design category, design loads, structural systems, square footage/allowable floor area, exits, fire sprinkler/alarm systems, height/stories, occupant load), evidence of energy code compliance, parking analysis for each proposed use, structural plans, foundation plans stamped by a licensed Colorado engineer, electrical plans and 1-line diagram, mechanical/HVAC plans with equipment schedules, and plumbing plans
  • For buildings proposing more than one tenant, an 11x17 detail showing tenant spaces is required
  • A Traffic Impact Study (TIS) is required for new construction/expansion/addition/change-of-use applications generating more than 200 daily trips or 20 peak-hour trips, or a change of use resulting in more than a 20% increase in traffic from the prior use; otherwise, a completed Transportation Worksheet (Attachment C) is submitted so City staff can determine if a TIS waiver is justified
  • A commercial Electric Service Worksheet (ESW) confirming whether the existing electric service is changing is required; if a new service is needed or the existing service is being upgraded, all items in Section 4.1 of the Requirements for Electric Service (RFES) must be provided with the permit application
  • Water-Resistive Barrier inspection applies to new commercial buildings (as well as additions and new residences) per the City's Building FAQs
  • Fire alarm, sprinkler, and hood suppression systems are permitted separately through the Loveland Fire Rescue Authority, not under the building permit itself
  • A valid City of Loveland Contractor's License is required for structural, mechanical, electrical, or plumbing work on non-residential buildings; the self-perform homeowner exemption does not apply
  • Contractors and project valuations do not need to be provided at initial submittal/check-in, but must be provided before the permit can be approved

Required documents

  • RequiredNon-Residential Building Permit Application - New Building/AdditionEmailed to eplan-building@cityofloveland.org; captures tenant/owner/contractor info, valuation, occupancy group, construction type, square footage by floor, and use category
  • RequiredNon-Residential and Multi-Unit Dwelling New Construction Building Permit Submittal ChecklistDepartment-by-department checklist (Building Permit Tech, Building Plans Reviewer, Electrical, Power, Electric Metering, Transportation, Fire, Planning, Addressing, W/WW Pre-treatment, Water Backflow, Stormwater, Site Work Permit Issuance, Water/Wastewater) with named City contacts
  • RequiredSite Development Plan ApplicationReviewed and approved by the Current Planning Division; required before building permit submittal for all new non-residential/multi-unit construction (concurrent review possible only with Development Review Team approval)
  • RequiredSite Work PermitIssued by the Planning Division; must be obtained before the building permit will be approved for new builds
  • OptionalWastewater Discharge Survey (Attachment A)Required for new Retail, Office, Mixed Use, Hotel/Motel, Educational, Religious, Recreational/Amusement, Hospital/Institutional, Industrial, Apt. Complex w/amenities, and Commercial projects on City water/sewer
  • RequiredElectrical Worksheet / Commercial Electric Service Worksheet (Attachment B)Confirms whether existing electric service is changing; required items from RFES Section 4.1 if a new/upgraded service is needed
  • OptionalTransportation Worksheet (Attachment C)Submitted when a Traffic Impact Study is not otherwise required, so City staff can evaluate a TIS waiver
  • OptionalCross-Connection/Backflow Prevention Questionnaire (Attachment D)Required if serviced by City water
  • OptionalFoundation Setback and Elevation CertificationCollected on-site at the Footing/Foundation/Setback inspection
  • OptionalFood Service Establishment ApplicationRequired if food will be prepared or served within the space
  • OptionalThird Party Inspectors Policy and Approval FormRequired only if the project will use third-party inspectors

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit FeeBased on the current ICC Building Valuation Data (square-foot construction cost by occupancy group/construction type) applied to project square footage; e.g., effective March 15, 2026, B (Business) Type VB is $213.27/sq ft and M (Mercantile) Type VB is $135.89/sq ft; for shell-only buildings, deduct 20 percent from the applicable valuation per the table's footnoteCity of Loveland Building Valuation Data Table (effective March 15, 2026) and 2026 Fee Schedule, which states 'Building permit fees are based on the current ICC Fees'
Commercial Plan Review Fee65% of the Building Permit FeeCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule, 'Commercial Plan Review Fee, percentage of Building Permit Fee'
New Technology Fee - Permit Portion10% of the Building Permit FeeCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
New Technology Fee - Commercial Plan Check Portion10% of the Commercial Plan Check FeeCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Site Work Permit (Planning Division)$126.00City of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule, Development Services/Planning section; required before the building permit is approved for new builds
Site Development Plan for Use by Right and Limited Use (Planning Division)$840.00City of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule, Development Services/Planning section
Re-Inspection Fee (per inspection, penalty)$200.00City of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Inspections outside normal business hours$200.00 minimum (2-hour minimum), or total hourly City cost if greaterCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Additional Plan Review (changes/additions/revisions to approved plans)$150.00 per hour, 1-hour minimumCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Review of Deferred Submittals (submitted after initial plan review)$100.00 per hour, per submittalCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Occupancy Permit (per building or 'shell'), excludes single-family R-3$100.00, plus $50.00 for each additional non-residential improvementCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Temporary, Partial, or Conditional Certificate of Occupancy / Certificate of Completion$1,000.00 for 30 days, unless otherwise approved by the Chief Building OfficialCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule

Tenant Improvement / Interior Remodel Permit (Tenant Finish)

Verified

Required for interior remodel/build-out of existing non-residential (commercial, industrial, institutional) tenant spaces in Loveland, using the City's 'Non-Residential Building Permit Application - Existing Building Interior Remodel/Tenant Finish' form. Distinct from, and required in addition to, a core-and-shell new-construction building permit — the City does not allow partial tenant build-outs under a new-building permit. Submit electronically to eplan-building@cityofloveland.org.

Verified 2026-08-02 · Source

Requirements

  • Building permit required for Interior Remodel/Tenant Finish, explicitly listed as a 'Non-Residential' project type requiring a building permit on the City's Permitting FAQ's page
  • A separate Tenant Finish permit is required for EACH tenant space in a building; a core-and-shell (new construction) permit cannot be used to build out any tenant space
  • For tenant finish/interior alteration projects, provide a layout showing the tenant space within the entire building, plus the maximum number of tenants (Addressing Division requirement)
  • Wastewater Discharge Survey required for tenant finishes on City water/sewer (the Non-Residential Checklist's use-category list is explicitly noted to include Tenant Finishes)
  • Cross-Connection/Backflow Prevention Questionnaire required if serviced by City water, for tenant finishes and interior alterations
  • Alcohol Beverage Manufacturing Survey Form required if alcohol will be produced within the tenant space
  • Food Service Establishment Application required if food will be prepared or served within the tenant space
  • Application captures tenant finish occupancy group(s), occupant load, per-floor/mezzanine finished and unfinished square footage, use category, drive-thru status, and number of units being finished
  • A valid City of Loveland Contractor's License is required for structural, mechanical, electrical, or plumbing work; the self-perform homeowner exemption does not apply to non-residential buildings
  • Water-Resistive Barrier inspection requirements applicable to commercial buildings under the City's Building FAQs apply where exterior envelope work is part of the tenant finish scope

Required documents

  • RequiredNon-Residential Building Permit Application - Existing Building Interior Remodel/Tenant FinishEmailed to eplan-building@cityofloveland.org; captures tenant/owner/contractor info, valuation, occupancy group, floor-by-floor square footage, use category, and work description
  • RequiredNon-Residential and Multi-Unit Dwelling New Construction Building Permit Submittal ChecklistSame department-by-department checklist used for new construction, applicable to tenant finish/interior remodel submittals per its Tenant Finish/Interior Remodel Forms section
  • OptionalWastewater Discharge Survey (Attachment A)Required for tenant finishes on City water/sewer
  • OptionalElectrical Worksheet (Attachment B)Confirms whether existing electric service/meter configuration is changing
  • OptionalTransportation Worksheet (Attachment C)Required if the change of use results in more than a 20% increase in traffic from the prior use, or to support a Traffic Impact Study waiver determination
  • OptionalCross-Connection/Backflow Prevention Questionnaire (Attachment D)Required if serviced by City water
  • OptionalAlcohol Beverage Manufacturing Survey FormRequired if alcohol will be produced within the tenant space
  • OptionalFood Service Establishment ApplicationRequired if food will be prepared or served within the tenant space
  • OptionalThird Party Inspectors Policy and Approval FormRequired only if the project will use third-party inspectors

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit FeeBased on the current ICC Building Valuation Data (square-foot construction cost by occupancy group/construction type) applied to the tenant finish square footage and valuationCity of Loveland Building Valuation Data Table (effective March 15, 2026) and 2026 Fee Schedule, which states 'Building permit fees are based on the current ICC Fees'
Commercial Plan Review Fee65% of the Building Permit FeeCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule, 'Commercial Plan Review Fee, percentage of Building Permit Fee'
New Technology Fee - Permit Portion10% of the Building Permit FeeCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
New Technology Fee - Commercial Plan Check Portion10% of the Commercial Plan Check FeeCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Re-Inspection Fee (per inspection, penalty)$200.00City of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Inspections outside normal business hours$200.00 minimum (2-hour minimum), or total hourly City cost if greaterCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Additional Plan Review (changes/additions/revisions to approved plans)$150.00 per hour, 1-hour minimumCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Occupancy Permit (per building or 'shell'), excludes single-family R-3; additional for each non-residential improvement$100.00, plus $50.00 for each additional non-residential improvementCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule
Temporary, Partial, or Conditional Certificate of Occupancy / Certificate of Completion$1,000.00 for 30 days, unless otherwise approved by the Chief Building OfficialCity of Loveland 2026 Fee Schedule

Sign Permit

The City of Loveland publishes a dedicated 'Sign Permit Application' checklist and application form (August 2024 version), submitted through the Development Services / Building Division. Specific fee amounts were not independently extracted during this review, though the City's fee structure was updated effective June 1, 2025 with a technology fee added to building permit applications (10% of the Building Permit Fee and 10% of the Plan Check Fee) and a 5% technology fee increase on land use applications.

Reviewed 2026-08-14 · Source

Requirements

  • Sign Permit Application and Checklist (August 2024 version) submitted through Development Services
  • The City's fee schedule was updated effective June 1, 2025, adding a technology fee to building-permit-track applications (10% of the Building Permit Fee and 10% of the Plan Check Fee)
  • Contact the Building Division ((970) 962-2505) to confirm current sign-permit requirements and fees

Required documents

  • RequiredSign Permit Application and ChecklistCity of Loveland form, August 2024 version

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Sign Permit FeeReferenced in the City's 'Exhibit A — Schedule of Rates, Charges and Fees' and Building Division Fees page; specific dollar amount not independently extracted during this review. A technology fee (10% of Building Permit Fee + 10% of Plan Check Fee) applies to building-permit-track applications as of June 1, 2025. Contact the Building Division ((970) 962-2505) for a current fee quote.

Fire Sprinkler / Fire Alarm System Permit

Verified

Fire protection for Loveland is provided by the Loveland Fire Rescue Authority (LFRA, Community Safety Division, 970-962-2537), which requires digital-only fire alarm and fire sprinkler permit submittals via a 'Fire Protection Permit Application' — paper drawings are not accepted. Fire alarm submittals require a valid LFRA contractor's license, completed application with correct address/valuation, digital shop drawings (min. 1/8" scale), a PE or NICET Level III/IV stamp on all drawings, full occupant notification, digital material cut sheets, voltage drop and battery calculations, a symbol list, riser diagram, and graphic map. LFRA is NOT currently accepting or approving VoIP communications systems. Fire sprinkler submittals require the same base documentation plus a State Suppression License, water supply information, hydraulic calculations, and a State of Colorado Registered Fire Suppression System Contractor number.

Verified 2026-08-14 · Source

Requirements

  • All submittals must be digital — 'Paper drawings are not accepted'
  • Fire Alarm Permits require: valid LFRA contractor's license; completed permit application with correct address and valuation; digital shop drawings (minimum 1/8" scale); PE or NICET Level III or IV stamp on all drawings; full occupant notification; digital material cut sheets; voltage drop calculations; battery calculations; symbol list; riser diagram; graphic map
  • LFRA is NOT currently accepting or approving VoIP communications systems for fire alarm monitoring
  • Fire Sprinkler Permits require: valid LFRA contractor's license; State Suppression License; completed permit application with correct address and valuation; digital shop drawings (minimum 1/8" scale); PE or NICET Level III or IV stamp on all drawings; water supply information; digital material cut sheets; hydraulic calculations; State of Colorado Registered Fire Suppression System Contractor number
  • Submitted via the 'Fire Protection Permit Application' form with all required attachments

Required documents

  • RequiredFire Protection Permit ApplicationLFRA's digital-submission form for fire alarm and fire sprinkler permits, with all required attachments (shop drawings, stamps, calculations, contractor license numbers)

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Fire Sprinkler/Alarm Plan Review & Permit FeePer LFRA's 2026 Consolidated Fee ScheduleConsult LFRA's '2026 Consolidated Fee Schedule (PDF)' or contact the Community Safety Division (970-962-2537) for specific fee estimates; exact dollar figures were not independently extracted from that document during this review.

Change of Use / Change of Occupancy

Verified

The City of Loveland distinguishes between a 'Change in Tenancy Permit' (used when a new tenant wants a Certificate of Occupancy issued in their name, with the intended use of the space remaining the same) and a full change-of-use permit (which may require plans or evaluations stamped by a Colorado-licensed architect or engineer, since the use itself is changing). No standalone change-of-use application distinct from the general Building Division process was independently retrieved as directly-quoted primary-source text during this review.

Verified 2026-08-14 · Source

Requirements

  • CONFIRMED distinction: a Change in Tenancy Permit applies when a new tenant wants a Certificate of Occupancy in their name but the intended use of the space stays the same; a full change-of-use permit applies when the use itself is changing
  • A change-of-use permit may require plans or evaluations stamped by a Colorado-licensed architect or engineer
  • Contact City of Loveland Development Services ((970) 962-2505, eplan-building@cityofloveland.org for non-residential / eplan-res@cityofloveland.org for residential) to confirm requirements for a specific project

Required documents

  • RequiredChange in Tenancy Permit or Change of Use Permit ApplicationContact Development Services to confirm which applies and the current application form
  • OptionalArchitect/Engineer-Stamped Plans or EvaluationRequired for a full change of use (not a same-use Change in Tenancy), stamped by a Colorado-licensed architect or engineer

Fee schedule

Fee typeAmountNotes
Building Permit / Change of Use FeeReferenced in the City's 'Exhibit A — Schedule of Rates, Charges and Fees'; specific change-of-use line-item amount not independently extracted during this review. A technology fee surcharge (10% of Building Permit Fee + 10% of Plan Check Fee) applies as of June 1, 2025. Contact the Building Division ((970) 962-2505) for a current quote.

Sources & verification

Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-03.

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 Loveland building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.

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Permalink: /colorado/larimer-county/loveland/as-of/2026-07-03/

Snapshot date: 2026-07-03

Commit: ad178cf

Reproducible from PermitBase’s version-controlled dataset, commit ad178cf.