Does my project require a permit?

This is not a complete list of all types of projects.  This is only to be used as a guide.

The Town of Erie Building Division will be happy to provide you with information related to your specific project. We encourage you to call with any questions you may have. You can reach the Building Division Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 303-926-2780.

Building permits are required for the following types of projects:

Exterior

  • Accessory structures over 120 sq.ft.
  • Air conditioning units/Evaporative (swamp) coolers
  • Attached & detached garages
  • Attached storage sheds
  • Decks with or without covers 
  • Fences
  • Gas lines & fire pits
  • Lawn sprinkler systems
  • Patio covers or enclosures
  • Patio covers, pergolas & carports
  • Pools, hot tubs & spas
  • Radon mitigation systems
  • Retaining walls over 4ft. from bottom of trench to top of wall
  • Roofing (more than 1 square aggregate)
  • Room additions
  • Solar panels (new and detach/re-attach for re-roof)

Interior

  • Basement finishes
  • Boiler installation or replacement
  • Demolition
  • Door replacement, addition, or modification
  • Electrical modifications (including car charging)
  • Electrical to gas conversion
  • Fireplaces (wood, pellet, or gas)
  • Foundation repair
  • Furnace/central air installations or replacements
  • Gas log & gas lines
  • Mechanical modifications
  • Plumbing modifications
  • Radon Mitigation System installation
  • Remodeling
  • Structural modifications
  • Water heater installations or replacements
  • Whole house fans
  • Window replacement, addition, or modification

Note: Some projects require a minimum setback from property line whether or not a building permit is required. Please contact the Planning Division for required subdivision setbacks and property easements. No part of any structure may project into an easement per Section 10.4.2A1.c of the Town of Erie Unified Development Code.

Building permits are not required for the following types of projects:

Outside:

  • Concrete on grade porches (without roofs)
  • Concrete sidewalks (private property)
  • Detached accessory structures 120 sq.ft. or less (not including patio covers) 
  • General landscaping
  • Minor fence repair (3 sections or less)
  • Minor roof repairs (1 square or less)
  • Painting
  • Portable wood burning appliances such as chimineas (check with other agencies for restrictions)
  • Siding

Inside:

  • Adding insulation
  • Cabinet & countertop replacement with no structural changes
  • Floor covering (carpet, linoleum, tile)
  • Light fixtures replacement (in same location)
  • Painting
  • Plumbing fixture replacement (in same location)
  • Wallpapering
Permit list