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What sort of work do I need a permit for?
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All new construction, additions, alterations of existing buildings, demolition of existing buildings, and awnings attached to commercial buildings. See Building Permit Exemptions for work that does not require a permit.
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What is the cost of permits?
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Who may obtain a building permit?
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Fort Collins Licensed Contractors:
A contractor with a current Fort Collins license may obtain a building permit for any project that is within the scope of the contractor's license. A General Contractor will normally obtain a permit that will cover the electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work as well, eliminating the need for these subcontractors to obtain separate permits. However, fire alarms, fire sprinklers, and fuel storage tanks require separate permits from Poudre Fire Authority.
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Owner/Occupants:
Homeowners wishing to build their own homes may do so, provided the Home Owner-Builder Authorization form, available from the Building and Zoning office, is completed. A home owner is limited to building one new home per year, which also must be the owner's principal residence. A home owner may obtain permits and perform any work themselves on the owner's existing principal residence. A property owner or an owner's agent who is not a contractor may obtain permits and perform the work on the owner's property, provided it does not involve any significant modifications to structural members, nor involve the electrical, plumbing or mechanical systems except for fixture replacement or emergency repairs. When there is work involved in these areas, the owner must provide to us the names of licensed subcontractors doing the work. Tenants or owners of commercial buildings may also obtain building permits and perform the work themselves provided it does not involve any significant modifications to structural members, nor involve the electrical, plumbing or mechanical systems. In addition, a tenant must provide to this office, authorization from the owner of the building to obtain such permit and perform their own work.
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What if I have a problem with my Contractor?
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If the contractor is licensed with the City of Fort Collins, you may write a complaint letter that will be placed in the Contractor's file, which is public record. Also you can file a complaint against the Contractor with the Better Business Bureau.
If the Contractor is not licensed, the City of Fort Collins is unable to help you, as the City requires that ALL contractors be licensed. It is important to verify that the Contractor is licensed before any contracts are signed, or any work begun. (Contact the City Building Department to verify licensing). In this situation, you as the home owner are responsible for all work that was done. You still may file a complaint with the BBB.
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How many copies of plans do I need?
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Two sets of plans: Basically two site plans, two structural drawings, and two engineered foundations. Please see Submittal Requirements for more detailed information
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Why do I need a permit for a gas log installation, furnace or water heater replacement?
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Gas burning appliances create carbon monoxide as a by-product of combustion. Old appliance venting systems may have a defect that is to be corrected now at the installation of the new appliance. Many new appliances require combustion air which may not have been present under the old installation. The mechanical code as adopted by the City requires permits for replacement of appliances. Besides, $15 for a City inspection is cheap insurance.
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Do I need a permit to build a shed?
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If the detached accessory building is used for playhouses, lawn and garden equipment, tool storage, and similar uses, provided such buildings do not exceed 120 square feet nor eight feet in height at the highest point and do not house flammable liquids in quantities exceeding 20 gallons per building and are constructed entirely of noncombustible materials when located less than three feet to an adjoining property line do not require a building permit.
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If I'm only finishing one bedroom and one bathroom in my basement for now, can I do this work now and then finish the rest of the basement next year on the same permit?
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If the original permit included the full basement, and the permit remains active, yes, you can work on parts of the remodel later, if the permit was for bath and bedroom only, then no, you would need to update the existing permit or obtain a new permit for the additional work. The Building Code as adopted by the City requires permits for additions and remodels.
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How long is a permit valid?
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Every permit issued is valid for 180 days from the date of issuance OR from the the date of the last inspection. If work has not commenced within this time, the permit becomes null and void unless a one time extension is granted. Plan reviews also expire 180 days after the original date of submittal if a permit is not issued. A one time 180 day extension may be approved under certain circumstances beyond the applicant's control.
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What will happen if I do work without a permit?
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Construction started without a permit is subject to a special investigation fee and a municipal court fine.
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How many layers of roofing are allowed for residential?
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On a factory built "truss" roof system, 3 layers of asphalt or fiberglass roof coverings are allowed. On older "stick-built" roof systems, 2 layers of asphalt or fiberglass are allowed. A possible third layer would be allowed with an independent engineer's approval.
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What is the wind and snow load for the City of Fort Collins?
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Wind load is 100 mph exposure C. Snow load is 30 lbs/square foot (roof and ground).
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