This is PermitBase’s published record for Montrose as of 2026-08-17. It has since been superseded — see the current record. A historical record reflects what PermitBase had verified at that time; it may not capture a real-world change the jurisdiction had made but PermitBase had not yet verified, and it includes any errors we later corrected. Snapshots are never edited retroactively.
Montrose building permits
VerifiedMontrose, Colorado — as published 2026-08-17.
Verified 2026-08-17 · Source
Codes adopted
Permit types & fees
Residential Building Permit (New Construction)
VerifiedRequired for new single-family homes and other new residential construction within Montrose city limits, per the City's Residential Construction in the City of Montrose packet. Reviewed under the 2018 IRC/IBC as locally adopted (Section 4-1-1, City of Montrose Municipal Code). Issued by City of Montrose Building Services; electrical work is inspected separately by the State of Colorado Electrical Board, not the City.
Verified 2026-08-17 · Source
Requirements
- All documents submitted electronically in PDF format to buildingservices@ci.montrose.co.us; paper submittals are not accepted
- Construction documents must include: completed and signed building permit application; site-specific stamped engineered foundation plan (engineer must be registered in Colorado, plan must bear stamp and signature); floor framing; complete dimensioned floor plan; window and door schedule; roof framing (obtainable from truss company); cross section from bottom of footers through roof peak; minimum of two elevation views; plot plan showing lot dimensions and distances from property lines to structures
- Sewer-Water Connection Permit is generated by City staff; contact Building Department at 970-240-1407 to request water meter/E-1 pump installation (site must be ready, backflow preventer required)
- Stormwater permitting for disturbance over 1/2 acre (per the application form) or over 1 acre (per the CDPHE-based stormwater trigger) must be submitted directly to City Engineering (Steve Taylor, staylor@cityofmontrose.org, 970-240-1497) and to CDPHE via CEOS
- Construction may not begin until the Building Permit is issued; starting before issuance triggers an investigation fee (amount not published in a currently-retrievable City document)
- Written approval required from the building official before any changes are made to construction not shown on submitted plans
- Structures with a door opening greater than 6 feet wide are considered vehicle-capable and require a hard-surfaced driveway; one driveway per lot, minimum 12 feet wide
- Electrical work is inspected exclusively by the State of Colorado Electrical Board (DORA), not the City (phone: (855) 454-0065)
Required documents
- RequiredResidential Building Permit ApplicationCompleted, signed application emailed as PDF to buildingservices@ci.montrose.co.us
- RequiredSite-Specific Stamped Engineered Foundation PlanMust be stamped and signed by a Colorado-registered engineer
- RequiredFull Construction Drawing SetFloor framing, dimensioned floor plan, window/door schedule, roof framing, cross section, minimum two elevation views, plot plan
- OptionalStormwater Management Plan (SWMP) and CDPHE permit proofRequired only if the project disturbs land over the applicable acreage threshold; submitted to stormwater@ci.montrose.co.us and CDPHE's CEOS system
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (valuation-based) | $1.00-$500.00: $23.50 | $501.00-$2,000.00: $23.50 for the first $500 plus $3.05 per additional $100 or fraction, to and including $2,000 | $2,001.00-$25,000.00: $69.25 for the first $2,000 plus $14.00 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $25,000 | $25,001.00-$50,000.00: $391.75 for the first $25,000 plus $10.10 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $50,000 | $50,001.00-$100,000.00: $643.75 for the first $50,000 plus $7.00 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $100,000 | $100,001.00-$500,000.00: $993.75 for the first $100,000 plus $5.60 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $500,000 | $500,001.00-$1,000,000.00: $3,233.75 for the first $500,000 plus $4.75 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $1,000,000 | $1,000,000.00 and up: $5,608.75 for the first $1,000,000 plus $3.65 per additional $1,000 or fraction | City of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. Show full citationHideCity of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. 3-1-1(H) "Building Code Fees". The Editor's note states: "Printed herein is the Fee Schedule of the City, Res. No. 2025-18, as adopted by the City Council on Nov. 4, 2025." Code current through Ordinance No. 2716, enacted 2026-06-16 (Supp. No. 13). Read on library.municode.com 2026-08-17. Plan review is charged separately by the same schedule: 65 percent of the building permit fee for commercial, 50 percent for residential. CORRECTED 2026-08-17. This fee previously read that the City's codified Sec. 3-1-1 Fee Schedule could not be resolved / was not published in any retrievable City document. Sec. 3-1-1 is codified in TWO places on Municode — Code of Ordinances Appendix B and the Regulations Manual Chapter 3-1 — and both were readable throughout. Only automated retrieval was blocked; the Municode code is a JavaScript-rendered SPA that returns a shell to curl. |
| Investigation Fee | Equal to the building permit fee | City of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. Show full citationHideCity of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. 3-1-1(H) "Building Code Fees". The Editor's note states: "Printed herein is the Fee Schedule of the City, Res. No. 2025-18, as adopted by the City Council on Nov. 4, 2025." Code current through Ordinance No. 2716, enacted 2026-06-16 (Supp. No. 13). Read on library.municode.com 2026-08-17. The schedule lists "Investigation Fees: Work without a permit — Equal to building permit fee". CORRECTED 2026-08-17. This fee previously read that the City's codified Sec. 3-1-1 Fee Schedule could not be resolved / was not published in any retrievable City document. Sec. 3-1-1 is codified in TWO places on Municode — Code of Ordinances Appendix B and the Regulations Manual Chapter 3-1 — and both were readable throughout. Only automated retrieval was blocked; the Municode code is a JavaScript-rendered SPA that returns a shell to curl. Note the previous entry called this "not published as a specific dollar figure", which was true but missed the point: it is not a dollar figure at all, it is a formula, and the formula IS published. |
Residential Addition / Remodel / Accessory Structure Permit
VerifiedRequired for additions, remodels, and accessory-use structures (garages, sheds, and similar) on existing residential properties in Montrose, per the City's Accessory Use Structure Construction and Residential Construction packets. Reviewed under the 2018 IRC as locally adopted.
Verified 2026-08-17 · Source
Requirements
- Site-Specific Stamped Engineered Foundation required for accessory structures 500 square feet and larger (engineer must be Colorado-registered, plan must bear stamp and wet signature)
- Construction documents: floor framing; complete dimensioned floor plan with window and door schedule; roof framing; cross section from bottom of footers through roof peak; two elevation views; plot plan showing lot dimensions and distances from property lines to structures
- Completed Application for Building Permit required in addition to the construction-document package
- Accessory buildings with a water closet are assessed unit charges for water and sewer; a Public-Works-certified contractor must install any E-1 pumps
- Structures with a door opening greater than 6 feet wide are considered vehicle-capable and require a hard-surfaced driveway; one driveway per lot, minimum 12 feet wide
- Call 811 or (800) 922-1987 for utility line locates before building over a natural gas service lateral
- Investigation fee imposed if construction commences before the permit is issued (amount not published)
Required documents
- RequiredResidential/Accessory Building Permit ApplicationCompleted, signed application emailed as PDF to buildingservices@ci.montrose.co.us
- OptionalSite-Specific Stamped Engineered Foundation PlanRequired for accessory structures 500 sq ft or larger
- RequiredPlot PlanLot dimensions and distances from property lines to all structures
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (valuation-based) | $1.00-$500.00: $23.50 | $501.00-$2,000.00: $23.50 for the first $500 plus $3.05 per additional $100 or fraction, to and including $2,000 | $2,001.00-$25,000.00: $69.25 for the first $2,000 plus $14.00 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $25,000 | $25,001.00-$50,000.00: $391.75 for the first $25,000 plus $10.10 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $50,000 | $50,001.00-$100,000.00: $643.75 for the first $50,000 plus $7.00 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $100,000 | $100,001.00-$500,000.00: $993.75 for the first $100,000 plus $5.60 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $500,000 | $500,001.00-$1,000,000.00: $3,233.75 for the first $500,000 plus $4.75 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $1,000,000 | $1,000,000.00 and up: $5,608.75 for the first $1,000,000 plus $3.65 per additional $1,000 or fraction | City of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. Show full citationHideCity of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. 3-1-1(H) "Building Code Fees". The Editor's note states: "Printed herein is the Fee Schedule of the City, Res. No. 2025-18, as adopted by the City Council on Nov. 4, 2025." Code current through Ordinance No. 2716, enacted 2026-06-16 (Supp. No. 13). Read on library.municode.com 2026-08-17. Plan review is charged separately by the same schedule: 65 percent of the building permit fee for commercial, 50 percent for residential. CORRECTED 2026-08-17. This fee previously read that the City's codified Sec. 3-1-1 Fee Schedule could not be resolved / was not published in any retrievable City document. Sec. 3-1-1 is codified in TWO places on Municode — Code of Ordinances Appendix B and the Regulations Manual Chapter 3-1 — and both were readable throughout. Only automated retrieval was blocked; the Municode code is a JavaScript-rendered SPA that returns a shell to curl. |
Plumbing / Gas Permit
VerifiedRequired for plumbing and gas-line installation, alteration, or repair in Montrose. Governed by the City's 2018 International Uniform/Plumbing Code (IPC) and 2018 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) as locally adopted. Typically bundled into the Residential or Commercial Building Permit application (both forms include a 'Project Includes: Plumbing / Gas' checkbox); plumbing contractors must hold a City of Montrose plumbing license in addition to a State of Colorado plumber's license.
Verified 2026-08-17 · Source
Requirements
- Plumbing contractors must be licensed through City of Montrose Building Services per Municipal Code Section 4-1-4(B); license requires an application, proof of a valid Colorado state plumber's license, and payment of the annual license fee (set by City Council resolution; specific amount not located in a currently-live City document)
- Licenses expire December 31 each year and must be renewed annually; all contractor licensing is processed through Cloudpermit
- Plumbing permits will not be issued to anyone without an active current-year registration license; contractors must notify the City of status changes or cancellations
- City inspectors may perform contemporaneous review of plumbing licensure and licensee-to-apprentice ratios during job-site inspections, particularly for large commercial or multi-family projects
- Plumbing contractors are not required to be present for all inspections unless requested by a plumbing inspector
- Gas line work requires piping to be complete and air-tested to 20 psi for not less than two hours, tested through the gas meter yoke, before inspection
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (with Plumbing/Gas box checked)Plumbing and gas scope is captured on the same Residential or Commercial Building Permit Application form via a 'Project Includes: Plumbing / Gas' checkbox, rather than a standalone plumbing-only application form
- RequiredCity of Montrose Plumbing/Gasfitter LicenseRequired registration under Municipal Code Section 4-1-4(B), separate from the State of Colorado plumber's license, processed via Cloudpermit
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing/Gasfitter Annual License Fee | Set by City Council resolution and referred to in the City Regulations Manual; specific dollar amount not located in a currently-live City-hosted document this review | Checked the Building Services page directly; it names the fee's governing mechanism (Council resolution + Regulations Manual) but does not itself state the figure |
| Plumbing/Gas Permit Fee | $50.00 | City of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. Show full citationHideCity of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. 3-1-1(H) "Building Code Fees". The Editor's note states: "Printed herein is the Fee Schedule of the City, Res. No. 2025-18, as adopted by the City Council on Nov. 4, 2025." Code current through Ordinance No. 2716, enacted 2026-06-16 (Supp. No. 13). Read on library.municode.com 2026-08-17. Listed as "Plumbing Permit Fee $50.00". The same subsection prices Gas, Mechanical, Solar, Re-Roof and Demolition permits at $50.00 each. CORRECTED 2026-08-17. This fee previously read that the City's codified Sec. 3-1-1 Fee Schedule could not be resolved / was not published in any retrievable City document. Sec. 3-1-1 is codified in TWO places on Municode — Code of Ordinances Appendix B and the Regulations Manual Chapter 3-1 — and both were readable throughout. Only automated retrieval was blocked; the Municode code is a JavaScript-rendered SPA that returns a shell to curl. |
Mechanical / HVAC Permit
VerifiedRequired for heating, cooling, and mechanical-system installation, alteration, or repair in Montrose. Governed by the City's 2018 International Uniform/Mechanical Code (IMC) as locally adopted. Bundled into the Residential or Commercial Building Permit Application rather than issued as a standalone mechanical-only permit form.
Verified 2026-08-17 · Source
Requirements
- Mechanical/ductwork scope is included as part of the Residential or Commercial Building Permit Application; no standalone mechanical-only application form was found on the City's Licenses & Permits index
- Mechanical ductwork must be installed prior to the framing inspection, per the Residential and Commercial Construction packets
- Insulation must be exposed for inspection prior to wallboard installation
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationMechanical/HVAC scope is captured within the same Residential or Commercial Building Permit Application rather than a separate form
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Permit Fee | $50.00 | City of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. Show full citationHideCity of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. 3-1-1(H) "Building Code Fees". The Editor's note states: "Printed herein is the Fee Schedule of the City, Res. No. 2025-18, as adopted by the City Council on Nov. 4, 2025." Code current through Ordinance No. 2716, enacted 2026-06-16 (Supp. No. 13). Read on library.municode.com 2026-08-17. Listed as "Mechanical Permit Fee $50.00". CORRECTED 2026-08-17. This fee previously read that the City's codified Sec. 3-1-1 Fee Schedule could not be resolved / was not published in any retrievable City document. Sec. 3-1-1 is codified in TWO places on Municode — Code of Ordinances Appendix B and the Regulations Manual Chapter 3-1 — and both were readable throughout. Only automated retrieval was blocked; the Municode code is a JavaScript-rendered SPA that returns a shell to curl. |
Roofing Permit (Reroofing)
VerifiedRequired for reroofing work in Montrose, with a flat $50 permit fee. Small repairs below a specific size threshold do not require a permit, per the City's Reroofing Permit Application.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Repairs that are less than 100-200 square feet, or less than 10% of the roof's size, may not require a permit, per the City's Reroofing Permit Application
- Inspection of shingles required prior to permit issuance when covering an existing roofing layer
- Safe access to the roof must be provided for inspection; the City does not accept photographs in lieu of an on-site inspection
Required documents
- RequiredReroofing Permit ApplicationCompleted, signed application emailed as PDF to buildingservices@ci.montrose.co.us
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reroofing Permit Fee | $50.00 flat | Per the City's Reroofing Permit Application, due at time of permit issuance |
Solar PV Permit
VerifiedRequired for solar panel system installations in Montrose, with a flat $50 permit fee. Electrical interconnection work is separately permitted through the State of Colorado, not the City.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Engineer analysis and approval required for structural installation
- Roof plan clearly identifying system components, layout, and code-required access pathways required at submittal
- Site plan with setback dimensions from property lines required for ground-mounted systems
- A SEPARATE electrical permit must be acquired through the State of Colorado (Division of Professions and Occupations: Electrical and Plumbing Permits) — not included in the City's solar permit
Required documents
- RequiredSolar Permit ApplicationCompleted, signed application emailed as PDF to buildingservices@ci.montrose.co.us
- RequiredEngineer Analysis and ApprovalStructural installation analysis for the mounting system
- RequiredRoof PlanSystem components, layout, and code-required access pathways
- OptionalSite PlanSetback dimensions from property lines, required for ground-mounted systems
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Solar Permit Fee | $50.00 flat | Per the City's Solar Permit Application, due at time of permit issuance |
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Permit
VerifiedMontrose has no separate City electrical permit process at all — as documented on this file's Solar PV Permit entry, electrical work (including any new circuit or panel/service upgrade) is permitted through the State of Colorado, Division of Professions and Occupations (Electrical and Plumbing Permits), not the City of Montrose. A residential EV charger circuit therefore follows that same state electrical-permit path. Separately, for commercial/non-residential EV charging stations, City of Montrose staff stated at an October 20, 2025 City Council work session that the City's existing zoning code — which treats EV charging stations as a standalone use in most commercial districts and an accessory use in all non-residential districts, reviewed through the streamlined Minor Site Development Review process (no public hearing) — already satisfies Colorado HB24-1173's EV-charging-permit mandate for municipalities of Montrose's population (over the 10,000 threshold), so staff recommended against adopting the state's model EV charging code or new ordinance language.
Verified 2026-07-20 · Source
Requirements
- Residential: a new circuit, outlet, or panel/service upgrade to serve an EV charger requires a State of Colorado electrical permit (Division of Professions and Occupations), not a City of Montrose permit — same routing as the electrical scope of a solar PV installation in this jurisdiction
- Commercial/non-residential: EV charging stations are a standalone permitted use in most commercial zoning districts and an accessory use in all non-residential districts, reviewed via the City's Minor Site Development Review process (administrative, no public hearing)
- Montrose (population over 10,000) is subject to Colorado HB24-1173, which required covered municipalities to adopt or confirm a streamlined EV-charging permit process by December 31, 2025; City staff's position (per the Oct. 20, 2025 Council work session) is that Montrose's existing Minor Site Development Review process already meets that requirement without a new ordinance
Required documents
- RequiredState of Colorado Electrical PermitFiled with the State (not the City) for the EV charger circuit/service-upgrade scope
- OptionalMinor Site Development Review Application (commercial/non-residential EV charging stations only)City of Montrose administrative review application for a standalone or accessory EV charging station use
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| State of Colorado Electrical Permit fee — 'All other electrical fees' (valuation-based, applies to an EV charger circuit retrofit) | Not more than $2,000 valuation: $115.00 (state base figure, effective April 1, 2016); $2,001 and above: $115 plus $5.75 per $1,000 (or fraction) of total valuation, plus $115 | State of Colorado Electrical Permit Fees schedule (base figures effective April 1, 2016, per C.R.S. Show full citationHideState of Colorado Electrical Permit Fees schedule (base figures effective April 1, 2016, per C.R.S. § 12-23-117), issued directly by the State of Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations rather than the City of Montrose, since Montrose has no separate City electrical permit process. The State Board updates this schedule periodically and its own current page (dpo.colorado.gov/Electrical/PermitsandInspections) publishes no static dollar table (fees are calculated through the online DORA permitting system at time of purchase), so this 2016 base schedule remains the most recent citable published figure — confirm current-year amounts directly with DORA before relying on this for a live application. |
Demolition Permit
VerifiedRequired for structure demolition in Montrose, with a flat $50 permit fee. Applicants must obtain prior approval from utility providers and apply for a state demolition permit before demolition.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Applicant must notify and receive prior approval from: Delta Montrose Electric Association (DMEA); Black Hills Energy or the applicable propane provider; water and sewer utility providers
- Applicant must apply for a state demolition permit at least 10 days prior to demolition
- For lead and asbestos permitting, contact the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) at 1-800-886-7689 or colorado.gov/cdphe/asbestos, per the Commercial Building Permit packet
Required documents
- RequiredDemolition Permit ApplicationCompleted, signed application emailed as PDF to buildingservices@ci.montrose.co.us
- RequiredUtility provider prior-approval documentationFrom DMEA, Black Hills Energy/propane provider, and water/sewer utility
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Demolition Permit Fee | $50.00 flat | Per the City's Demolition Permit Application, due at time of permit issuance |
Fence Permit
VerifiedRequired prior to installation of any fence in Montrose, with a flat $10 permit fee. Height limits and setback requirements vary by zoning district, per Municipal Code Section 4-4-21.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- No fence may be installed until a fence permit is approved, per Municipal Code Section 4-4-21(A)(1)
- Residential districts: fences/free-standing walls may not exceed 4 feet in height within the required front yard setback, or 6 feet elsewhere; an 8-foot fence is allowed in backyards if it does not impede visibility
- Commercial and industrial districts: fences/walls may not exceed 4 feet within the front yard setback, or 8 feet elsewhere; an additional 2 feet is allowed for barbed wire meeting specified requirements
- No fence, wall, hedge, or planting may obstruct the view of abutting streets or intersections for motorists/pedestrians
- Electrically charged fences are allowed only where made inaccessible to persons unaware the fence is electrified
- Barbed wire is allowed in industrial/commercial districts only at a minimum 8 feet above ground; not allowed elsewhere unless necessary to confine lawfully-kept livestock
- Temporary construction-site security fences are exempt from standard height requirements
- Chain-link/open-wire fencing around sports facilities (tennis courts, ball fields, backstops, batting cages, golf courses) is exempt from standard height requirements
- Zone-specific front/corner setbacks apply: R-1B/R-2/R-5/R-6: 25 ft front / 20 ft corner; R-3/R-3A/R-4/OR/B-2: 15 ft / 15 ft; B-2A/B-3/B-4/I-1/I-2: 25 ft / 25 ft; MHR: 5 ft / 10 ft; Mobile Home Parks: 12 ft / 12 ft
- Call 811 for a utility locate before digging, per C.R.S. Title 9
- An Improvement Location Certificate (ILC) from a professional surveyor may be required if fence location is in question
Required documents
- RequiredFence Permit ApplicationSubmitted digitally to buildingservices@cityofmontrose.org
- RequiredSite PlanShowing proposed fence location(s), property lines, building location, applicable setbacks, and proposed height/materials
- OptionalPhotosOptional, if helpful in describing the location
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fence Permit Fee | $10.00 | Collected at time of permit issuance (check, cash, or credit card), per the City's Fence Permit Application; the application itself notes the fee 'will be set pursuant to the city regulation manual,' with $10 as the currently stated collection amount on the form |
Commercial Building Permit
Required for new commercial construction, commercial remodels, additions, tenant finishes, and changes of use within Montrose city limits, per the City's New Commercial Construction packet and Commercial Building Permit Application. Reviewed under the 2018 IBC as locally adopted (Section 4-1-1, City of Montrose Municipal Code). Issued by City of Montrose Building Services; a single Commercial Building Permit Application covers all five project types via a 'Type of Project (Check Only One)' checkbox — New Construction, Remodel, Addition, Tenant Finish, or Change of Use — so tenant improvement work is not a separately-issued permit type in this jurisdiction. Electrical work is permitted and inspected by the State of Colorado (DORA), not the City.
Reviewed 2026-08-17 · Source
Requirements
- All documents submitted electronically in PDF format to buildingservices@ci.montrose.co.us; paper submittals are no longer accepted
- A SEPARATE submittal is required to the Fire Department — call 970-249-9181 for requirements; a Fire Department review and approval letter is required before the building permit will be issued
- Architect stamp and signature required on each sheet if the building's occupant load exceeds ten (10)
- Construction documents must include: completed building permit application form; plot plan showing accurate distances from property lines to building wall line including all easements on the lot; site-specific stamped engineered foundation (engineer registered in Colorado, plan with stamp and wet signature); complete dimensioned floor plan with window and door schedule; floor framing; wall framing including fire-resistance-rated designs; roof framing; cross section from bottom of footers through roof peak; two (2) elevation views; other details as required
- Completed City of Montrose Wastewater Questionnaire required — all commercial and industrial users must have one on file at the Wastewater Treatment Plant under the federally mandated Industrial Pretreatment Program (Pretreatment Coordinator: 970-240-1451; return within 10 business days)
- Before permit issuance: Fire Department review and approval letter, Planning Services review for site development (plan approval and signed Declaration of Covenants), and a signed Water-Sewer Connection Permit must all be in place
- Application form captures: type of project (check only one: New Construction / Remodel / Addition / Tenant Finish / Change of Use), plumbing/gas scope checkboxes, site improvement (parking, landscaping, lighting), whether the property disturbs land over one-half acre, floodplain status, and sprinkler-system status
- Construction may not begin before the permit is issued; starting early triggers an investigation fee (amount not published)
- Written approval required from the Building Official before any changes are made in construction not shown on the plans submitted
- Electrical permit is obtained through the State of Colorado, not the City — permit information at 855-451-9792 or colorado.gov/dora/dpo per the commercial packet
- For demolition components, contact CDPHE at 1-800-886-7689 regarding lead and asbestos permits
- No checks will be accepted with any waiver language for endorsement, per the application form
Required documents
- RequiredCommercial Building Permit ApplicationCompleted, signed application emailed as PDF to buildingservices@ci.montrose.co.us; the same form covers New Construction, Remodel, Addition, Tenant Finish, and Change of Use via a check-only-one project-type box
- RequiredFull Construction Drawing SetPlot plan with property-line distances and easements, engineered foundation plan (Colorado-registered engineer, stamp and wet signature), dimensioned floor plan with window/door schedule, floor framing, wall framing with fire-resistance-rated designs, roof framing, cross section, two elevation views; architect stamp and signature on each sheet if occupant load exceeds 10
- RequiredWastewater QuestionnaireRequired of all commercial and industrial users under the City's EPA-delegated Industrial Pretreatment Program; reviewed by the Wastewater Treatment Plant, which may schedule a facility inspection
- RequiredFire Department SubmittalSeparate submittal to the Fire Department (970-249-9181); the Fire Department's review and approval letter is a precondition of permit issuance
- RequiredSigned Water-Sewer Connection PermitGenerated by City staff once the application is underway; must be signed before the building permit is issued
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (valuation-based) | $1.00-$500.00: $23.50 | $501.00-$2,000.00: $23.50 for the first $500 plus $3.05 per additional $100 or fraction, to and including $2,000 | $2,001.00-$25,000.00: $69.25 for the first $2,000 plus $14.00 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $25,000 | $25,001.00-$50,000.00: $391.75 for the first $25,000 plus $10.10 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $50,000 | $50,001.00-$100,000.00: $643.75 for the first $50,000 plus $7.00 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $100,000 | $100,001.00-$500,000.00: $993.75 for the first $100,000 plus $5.60 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $500,000 | $500,001.00-$1,000,000.00: $3,233.75 for the first $500,000 plus $4.75 per additional $1,000 or fraction, to and including $1,000,000 | $1,000,000.00 and up: $5,608.75 for the first $1,000,000 plus $3.65 per additional $1,000 or fraction | City of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. Show full citationHideCity of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. 3-1-1(H) "Building Code Fees". The Editor's note states: "Printed herein is the Fee Schedule of the City, Res. No. 2025-18, as adopted by the City Council on Nov. 4, 2025." Code current through Ordinance No. 2716, enacted 2026-06-16 (Supp. No. 13). Read on library.municode.com 2026-08-17. Plan review is charged separately by the same schedule: 65 percent of the building permit fee for commercial, 50 percent for residential. CORRECTED 2026-08-17. This fee previously read that the City's codified Sec. 3-1-1 Fee Schedule could not be resolved / was not published in any retrievable City document. Sec. 3-1-1 is codified in TWO places on Municode — Code of Ordinances Appendix B and the Regulations Manual Chapter 3-1 — and both were readable throughout. Only automated retrieval was blocked; the Municode code is a JavaScript-rendered SPA that returns a shell to curl. |
| Investigation Fee | Equal to the building permit fee | City of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. Show full citationHideCity of Montrose Code of Ordinances, Appendix B — FEE SCHEDULE, Sec. 3-1-1(H) "Building Code Fees". The Editor's note states: "Printed herein is the Fee Schedule of the City, Res. No. 2025-18, as adopted by the City Council on Nov. 4, 2025." Code current through Ordinance No. 2716, enacted 2026-06-16 (Supp. No. 13). Read on library.municode.com 2026-08-17. The schedule lists "Investigation Fees: Work without a permit — Equal to building permit fee". CORRECTED 2026-08-17. This fee previously read that the City's codified Sec. 3-1-1 Fee Schedule could not be resolved / was not published in any retrievable City document. Sec. 3-1-1 is codified in TWO places on Municode — Code of Ordinances Appendix B and the Regulations Manual Chapter 3-1 — and both were readable throughout. Only automated retrieval was blocked; the Municode code is a JavaScript-rendered SPA that returns a shell to curl. Note the previous entry called this "not published as a specific dollar figure", which was true but missed the point: it is not a dollar figure at all, it is a formula, and the formula IS published. |
Sign Permit
VerifiedThe City of Montrose publishes a dedicated Sign Permits page (Planning Services) requiring permits for most signage, with specific exemptions for small temporary signs. A temporary sign (banner) up to 64 square feet, with only one displayed at a time, does not require a permit. Special Event Signs (balloons, streamers, pennants, flags, human-held/human-powered signs) are valid for events of 96 hours or less, limited to 12 permits per calendar year per organization (which may be issued consecutively), on-premise only, and restricted to non-residential zoning districts. Off-premise signs along state highways require a CDOT permit before City approval.
Verified 2026-08-14 · Source
Requirements
- Permits are required for most signage in Montrose; submit the Sign Permit Application to Planning Services
- EXEMPT: a temporary sign/banner up to 64 square feet, with only one displayed at any one time
- Special Event Signs: valid for events of 96 hours or less; organizations may obtain up to 12 permits per calendar year (may be issued consecutively); permitted types are balloons, streamers, pennants, flags, and human-held/human-powered signs; all signs must be located on-premise; banners and special event signage are allowed ONLY in non-residential zoning districts
- Balloons for special events must be smaller than a 3x3x3 cube; all other animated signs not otherwise listed are prohibited for special events
- Off-premise signs along state highways require a Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) permit before City approval
Required documents
- RequiredSign Permit ApplicationCity of Montrose Planning Services form
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sign Permit Fee | Not published as a numeric figure on the City's Sign Permits page as of the last verification. Contact Planning Services (970-240-1407) for a current fee quote. |
Fire Sprinkler / Fire Alarm System Permit
VerifiedFire protection for Montrose is provided by the Montrose Fire Protection District (MFPD, prevention@montrosefire.org), a special district separate from City government. All new installations or modifications to an existing fire suppression system in commercial, residential, or dwelling units require a permit, governed by the 2019 edition of NFPA 13 and the 2016 editions of NFPA 13R and 13D; flow data used for hydraulic design must be less than one year old, with a minimum 10% reduction required from Static and Residual pressure prior to design (20% where Static pressure is 120 psi or more). Fire alarm system installations/modifications in commercial buildings also require a permit, governed by the 2016 edition of NFPA 72, with system design requiring a NICET Level III or PE stamp and confirmation that a NICET Level II or above technician will perform all programming and be on-site for final inspection.
Verified 2026-08-17 · Source
Requirements
- All new installations or modifications to an existing fire suppression system in commercial, residential, or dwelling units require a permit, governed by NFPA 13 (2019 ed.), NFPA 13R (2016 ed.), and NFPA 13D (2016 ed.)
- Flow data used for hydraulic design must be less than one year old
- A minimum 10% reduction from Static and Residual pressure is required prior to design; where Static pressure is 120 psi or more, a 20% reduction is required instead
- Contractors/installers must hold all registrations/certifications required by the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control
- All new installations or modifications to an existing fire alarm system in a COMMERCIAL building require a permit, governed by NFPA 72 (2016 ed.)
- Fire alarm system design requires a NICET Level III or PE stamp; the applicant must confirm a NICET Level II or above technician will perform all programming and be on-site for final inspection
- Plans and all required submittals sent to prevention@montrosefire.org
Required documents
- RequiredFire Sprinkler/Alarm System Plans and SubmittalsEmailed to prevention@montrosefire.org
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Sprinkler/Alarm Plan Review & Permit Fee | Per Montrose Fire Protection District's 2026 Fee Schedule | MFPD's Permits and Applications page references a '2026-Fee-Schedule.pdf'; specific dollar amounts were not independently extracted from that document during this review. Contact MFPD (prevention@montrosefire.org) for a current fee quote. |
Change of Use / Change of Occupancy
VerifiedNo standalone City of Montrose 'Change of Use' or 'Change of Occupancy' permit application distinct from the general Building Services permitting process was independently confirmed against directly-quoted primary-source text during this review. Montrose County (the surrounding, administratively distinct jurisdiction) has separately addressed change-of-occupancy permitting requirements in its own resolutions, but this does not govern property within Montrose city limits.
Verified 2026-08-14 · Source
Requirements
- No standalone change-of-use or change-of-occupancy application distinct from the general Building Services permitting process was independently confirmed during this review
- Note: Montrose County (surrounding, administratively distinct from the City) has its own change-of-occupancy resolution language — do not apply county procedures to a City of Montrose property
- Contact City of Montrose Building Services (970-252-4707, buildingservices@ci.montrose.co.us) to confirm requirements for a specific change-of-use project
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (Change of Use)Contact Building Services to confirm current requirements
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (if construction accompanies the change) | Contact Building Services (970-252-4707) for a current fee quote |
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-08-17.
Fee schedules
Applications & forms
Checklists & handouts
Department & other records
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 Montrose building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.