Colorado Springs Permit Services Made Easy

The Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD) has adopted the 2023 Regional Building Code (RBC). This code was submitted to each jurisdiction for approval and has now been formally adopted by PPRBD. The 2023 RBC implements the 2021 International Codes and Conveyance codes by reference.

• Building - 2021 IBC
• Building Residential - 2021 IRC
• Mechanical - 2021 IMC
• Fuel Gas - 2021 IFGC
• Plumbing - 2021 IPC
• Electrical - 2020 NEC
• Energy Code - 2021 IECC
• Elevator Code - 2019 ASME A17.1
• Swimming Pools - 2021 ISPSC

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Here are the types of projects that do not require permits in the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD):

1. Painting: Interior and exterior painting of your house does not typically require a permit.
2. Flooring and Carpeting: Installing or replacing flooring materials (such as carpet) does not need a permit.
3. Cabinets and Countertops: Replacing kitchen cabinets and countertops falls under minor improvements that usually do not require permits.
4. Window and Door Replacement: If you’re replacing windows or doors without altering the structural integrity, a building permit may not be necessary. Although, Design Review Enterprise (DRE) may need to ensure zoning requirements are being met.
5. Detached Accessory Structures Under 200 Sq. Ft.: Constructing small detached structures (such as sheds or small garages) that are less than 200 square feet usually does not require a permit. Although, Design Review Enterprise (DRE) may need to ensure zoning requirements are being met.
6. Fences Less Than 7 Feet in Height: Installing a fence that is less than 7 feet tall typically does not need a building permit. Although, Design Review Enterprise (DRE) may need to ensure zoning requirements are being met.
7. Minor Cosmetic Repairs: Minor plumbing and heating repairs, as well as other cosmetic improvements, often do not require permits

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In addition to new construction of commercial or residential square footage, here are some examples of other project types that require permits:

1. Air Conditioning System: If you’re installing or replacing an air conditioning system, you’ll need a permit.
2. Basement Finish: Any work related to finishing or renovating a basement requires a permit.
3. Boiler Installation or Replacement: Whether it’s a new boiler or a replacement, permits are necessary.
4. Decks (Including Composite Materials): Constructing or replacing decks, especially those using composite materials, falls under permit requirements.
5. Detached Accessory Structures: If you’re building a garage, gazebo, greenhouse, or any other detached structure over 200 square feet, a permit is essential.
6. Electrical Work: Any electrical modifications, installations, or repairs need proper permitting.
7. Lawn Sprinkler Backflow Device: Installing or replacing a lawn sprinkler backflow device requires a permit.
8. Water Heater Replacement: When replacing a water heater, obtain the necessary permit.
9. Boiler Installation or Replacement: Whether it’s a new boiler or a replacement, permits are necessary.
10. Furnace Installation or Replacement: Installing or replacing a furnace also falls within the permit requirements.
11. Air Conditioning System: If you’re installing or replacing an air conditioning system, you’ll need a permit.
12. Fireplace or Stove (Gas or Solid Fuel): Permits are essential for installing or replacing gas or solid fuel fireplaces or stoves.
13. Roofing: Roof repairs, replacements, or installations require proper permitting.
14. Retaining Walls Over 4 Feet in Height: Constructing retaining walls taller than 4 feet necessitates a permit.

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