Permits - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Permits
Contractor Licensing
Permits
Reconcile Construction Use Tax?
For building permits issued on and after July 1, 2010 that have a final cost or contract price of $20,000 or more, project reconciliation must be completed with the city of Boulder Finance Department. These projects may be audited. The Project Cost Reconciliation Return forms and instructions are available at www.bouldercolorado.gov/constructionusetax. Please refer to the Forms and Handouts tabs on the left side of the Web page. Please direct any questions about use tax to the City of Boulder Finance Department at 303-441-3050.
What is a permit?
A permit is an official document, issued by the city, that authorizes the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, removal or demolition of any building or structure or any appurtenance attached to such building or structure.
Why do I need a permit?
In large part, permits are required so that the city can promote safe building, coordinated sound development, effective use of land and high quality site planning.
Do I need a contractor?
In general, City of Boulder licensed contractors are required for most work requiring a permit. There are cases where owners and occupants of structures regulated by the International Residential Code may work on their buildings within certain limitations.
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What documentation do I need?
The extent of proper documentation required for your project is dependent on the type of project, the scope of work involved, and land use regulations pertaining to your property.
What codes has Boulder adopted?
The 2006 International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Plumbing Code (IPC), International Fire Code (IFC), International Fuel & Gas Code (IFGC), 2005 National Electric Code (NEC) and 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) with local amendments. Other applicable codes may be the Land Use Regulations and the Design and Construction Standards.
Do I have to drop my permit application off in person?
It depends on what type of permit you're applying for. You may use our faxable SKIP-A-TRIP forms for some permit types, like electrical, roofing and mobile home permits, and you can apply for a mechanical permit online. However, the majority of permit applications must be brought to the P&DS Center and discussed by a project specialist with the applicant or applicant's representative.
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Do we accept credit cards for payment?
Yes, the city will accept up to $2,500 as payment by a credit card.
Where can I get a surveyor?
The city does not make recommendations for surveyors, architects, or contractors. You may wish to check the yellow pages for Colorado licensed surveyors, or search the Internet for professional land surveyors.
How much will my permit cost?
The cost of a permit is dependent on the type of permit, scope of work and many other variables. You may take a look at our Fee Estimator to get an idea of what it might cost you. If you have already turned in a permit application, you can check the status of it and fees due online.
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How long is my permit valid?
Three years except for single trade permits which are valid for one year.
How do I schedule an inspection?
Go to the Inspection Scheduling page for instructions.
How long does the review process take?
Go to the Permit Review Process page for information on review times.
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When / where do I drop off my permit?
Bring your permit applications to the Planning & Development Services Center at 1739 Broadway, third floor, Boulder, CO 80306.
What is an easement and do I need a permit?
Easements are areas of land under private ownership, which the other parties have a legal right to use for specific purposes. Easements frequently exist where public improvements such as utilities, drainage ways, emergency accesses, sidewalks and bike paths cross private property.
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In order to preserve their intended uses and to protect the improvements they contain, the city regulates construction in easements through contractor licensing and revocable permitting. Property owners are prohibited from locating structures in public easements and from otherwise obstructing access to or use of the easement. In special cases, a revocable permit can be approved to allow construction of a fence across an easement.
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Contractors installing utilities or other public infrastructure within an easement are subject to the same licensing and permitting requirements as would be applicable for work within a public right-of-way.
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Contractor Licensing
Is my Denver license valid in Boulder?
No. The City of Boulder does not have reciprocity with any other cities.
When applying or renewing your license, you are required to be certified under the 2006 or 2009 International Code Council (ICC). In order to obtain a license, applicants will need to receive certification from the ICC test. The City of Boulder is currently using the 2006 International Building Codes.
For testing information, you may visit the ICC website (click on Colorado). Upon passing the test, please return a copy of your ICC certificate test, along with your license renewal documents.
What licenses do I need?
If you are doing work that requires a licensed contractor, the type of license you need is generally governed by the applicable code. Check the Contractor Licensing page for more information on the different types of licenses.
City of Boulder Contractor License Application
How much does it cost to get a license?
See the 2013 Schedule of Fees booklet. These fees do not include the cost of any testing, insurance or other ancillary costs in establishing professional certification or state licensing.
How long does my license remain valid?
One year.
How can I renew my contractor license?
You may now renew your contractor license via email.
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Last Updated on Tuesday, 23 April 2013 08:00