NOTICE: In order to be consistent in both process and fees for all new and replaced windows and doors,
Egress Windows have been relocated to this page: Commercial and Residential Alterations
Exterior and Miscellaneous Permits#
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Yes, building permit is required unless specifically exempt
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Can I do the work myself?
- Homeowners may perform work on their primary primary residence only, if it is a single family detached home.
- Commercial building owners may perform work on their buildings if the total amount of work is less than $2,000 and does not include any structural.
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Can I hire someone?
- All contractors and subcontractors hired to perform work must be licensed with the City of Fort Collins for the type work being done. This is verified prior to permit issuance. To confirm that your contractor/subcontractor are licensed and up to date contact: contractor_licensing@fcgov.com
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Can I do the work myself?
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Description Contact Development Review A development review process may be required prior to submitting for a building permit for:
- New buildings
- Additions
- Change of use to land
- Change of use to buildings
Website:
www.fcgov.com/developmentreview
Email:
drcoord@fcgov.com
Phone: 970-221-6689
Poudre Fire Authority (PFA) PFA is a multi -jurisdictional Fire Department. Separate and additional online submittals are required for most commercial and multi-family projects.
1. A submittal will be required for fire code review for all new construction and most commercial tenant finish projects.
2. A separate and additional submittal will be required for any fire systems installations or alterations i.e. sprinkler, fire alarm, hood and duct, etc.
3. When required, City of Fort Collins Building permits will not be issued without PFA issued permits and/or approvals and sign-off.
Website:
www.poudre-fire.org/online-services/contractors-plan-reviews-and-permits
Phone: 970-416-2892
Larimer County Health Department Larimer County Health Department is a multi-jurisdictional Health Department. Separate and additional submittals are required for:
- Food or drink service, preparation, handling, or processing (Bars, Breweries, Distilleries, Restaurants, Commercial Commissary Kitchens, Food Manufacturing/Packaging, Grocery Stores)
- Daycare
- Schools
- Healthcare Facilities
- Public recreational facilities (Pools)
- Institutions (Nursing home, Assisted Living, Rehab Centers, Hospitals)
- Individual sewage disposal systems (septic and potable water wells).
When required, City of Fort Collins Building permits will not be issued without LCHD approval.
Website:
Email:
EH@larimer.org
Phone: 970-498-6775
Zoning Change of use or exterior modifications (including: facade, parking, landscaping, signage, or other changes visible to the public) may require a permit Website:
Email:
zoning@fcgov.com
Phone: 970-416-2745
Floodplain Is your building located in a flood plain?
Buildings and alterations to buildings located in with a floodplain have specific requirements and limitations.
Website:
www.fcgov.com/utilities/what-we-do/stormwater/flooding/floodplain-maps-documents
Email:
Phone: 970-416-2632Historic Preservation Is your building historically designated? Or, need a commercial/multi-family permit for a building over 50 years old?
Exterior alterations (including siding and windows) on historically-designated property and commercial/multi-family permits require review by Historic Preservation Services. Check out the incentives available for projects in Fort Collins. Not sure if replacing materials is cheaper than repairing what you have? Check out the cost calculator tool.
Website:
www.fcgov.com/historicpreservation
Email:
preservation@fcgov.com
Phone: 970-224-6078
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Get info guides and checklists, permit applications, and resources specific to your project type using the table below:
Plans should be submitted in PDF format only. Each PDF needs to be named correctly.
Other Resources:
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I've successfully submitted my permit, what happens next?
- The design, plans and documents you submitted will be checked before the permit is issued and construction begins.
*****No work can begin until the applicant has received a copy of the building permit and approved plans. (Reviewers add red-lines and conditional comments to the plans that you will need for construction).********
Why Review? Reviews address code at the design phase which reduces costly re-construction and failed inspections by reviewing for compliance prior to construction.
Who Reviews? The project is reviewed by many City Departments for compliance with building codes, land use code, zoning, historic, flood plain, and other project specific requirements.
I received an e-mail that a "Resubmittal is Requested," does that mean I have to submit for a new permit or start from the beginning?
No, your permit has not been denied. This just means that:
- A reviewer may need additional information, clarification, or has questions about your project.
- Or a specific drawing, critical detail, page or form may be missing from the submittal.
- Or plans do not comply with codes/requirements and need to be revised to show compliance.
How do I resubmit my plans/documents?
Follow the resubmittal instructions in the email you received. New documents should be named v2 (v=version #=round of review).
How long will it take to process a resubmittal?
Resubmittals have priority and are typically assigned a two week max turn around after submitted for building code items. You may contact the reviewer directly for questions about their timeline.
![screen shot of citizen access showing how to view the project workflow and see status and comments from different departments]()
Permit Status
- Use the Citizen Portal
- Under the Building category, select 'Search permits' (see photo above)
- Enter the address, permit number or stock plan number (i.e. B180xxxx or SP0xxxx), scroll down to click on 'Search'
- Select the permit/project from the list.
- Click 'Record Info' for drop down list of options (top left corner)
- Select 'Workflow Tasks'
- No icon = task has not been activated/routed yet (not complete)
- Hourglass = not completed, in process, or additional items are needed from the applicant.
- Green check mark = completed task
- Click the grey triangle/arrow next to each task to view holds/comments from each reviewer.
Building and Zoning Review Times
This chart provides target review dates for Zoning (Land Use Code Compliance review) and Building Code review. For most permit types Zoning (Land Use Code Compliance) will activate and open up the workflow of the permit and start the review time for building and all departments.
- Target dates are subject to change due to workload.
- Times are given in calendar days.
Project Type
Zoning Review Time
Building Code Review Time
- Egress Windows
0
5
- Awning
- Carport
- Deck
- Fence
- Patio Cover
- Pergola
- Retaining Wall
- Shade Sail
- Swimming Pool Residential
- Sales Trailer
5
9
- Residential Solar
7
14
- Flagpole Commercial
- Solar Commercial
- Swimming Pool (commercial)
- Wireless Telecommunication Antenna
7
21
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After the submittal is accepted, an email will be sent to the applicant per the building permit application for payment of the plan check fee and permit activation.
All remaining fees will be paid at time of permit issuance. See below for payment methods and transaction fees.
Payment Method Permit Fee Range Transaction Fee Debit / Credit Card (no amount limit)
$0.00 $2,500
2.00% + $0.25 flat fee
$2,500.01 and above
2.75%
eCheck ($150,000 limit)
Any amount up to $150,000
$0.50 flat fee
Check (drop checks in the blue drop box on the Northwest side of the building - 281 N. College Ave. Box is checked several times each business day)
Any amount
Free
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Work can start when the applicant has received a copy of the building permit and approved plans. Reviewers add red-lines and conditional comments to the plans that you will need for construction.
How to create an account on Citizen Access
- Homeowners: You will receive an e-mail with instructions to link your address to your Citizen Access account.
- Contractors: How to link your City of Fort Collins License to your account
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The type and quantity of inspections are project specific.
- Example: A new patio cover may have electrical, or may not. If a patio cover does have electrical, then a rough electric and final electric inspection would be needed for that project.
Learn about inspection types and how to schedule them here:
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What to submit#
1. Download the approved, or the most current document set from citizen access that needs to be revised.
2. Only revise document sets that are being altered/changed.
3. Retain red-line comments/mark-ups that were added by City of Fort Collins if present.
4. Replace, add, or delete sheets where needed in the set.
- Replaced and added sheets cannot have working comments from the applicant/design team (new sheets must be flattened)
5. Cloud/bubble/delta and/or clearly indicated what is changing on the new pages.
6. Rename the plan set with the next version number. (view citizen access to see what the next version needs to be. If most current set is v2, then submit as v3).
- Name each document correctly: Instructions
- Example: Plans - 1234 Example Street - v3
- Example: Mech Docs - 1234 Example Street - v3
- Example: Site Plan - 1234 Example Street - v3
7. Fill out the Revision Form. Re-name the form:
- Letter - The Project Address – v1 (example: Letter - 1234 Example Street - v1)
9. E-mail revision form and revised documents to buildingservices@fcgov.com
10. A $50-200 fee will be assessed by plan review based on the revision and project type.
Cloud/Bubble changes on plans#
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Cost of applicant initiated revisions (post building plan review) Revision size
Description
Cost
Small
Minor layout revisions (less than 25% of the floor area is affected)Change in window type/size
Minor Structural revisions (changing a beam size, connections etc. where 25% or less of the structural design is changing)
Solar revisions (wiring/connection changes, panel layout, full solar redesign (adding battery backup interface, automatic transfer switch).
$50
Medium
Significant residential layout changes (more than 25% of the floor area is affected)
Change of Energy Path (for new construction or additions)
Significant structural revisions (more than 25% of the structural design is changing)
Changes to the Mechanical Design (for new construction or additions)
$100
Large
Significant commercial layout changes (more than 25% of the floor area is affected)
Commercial Change of occupancy or different tenant
Increased Commercial project square footage
Change in a new building or addition size or orientation (only when initiated by the applicant).
$200
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1. Check the permit status: www.fcgov.com/CitizenAccess
- Search Permits / Record Info / workflow tasks / click on the small '+' to expand/view individual hold comments.
2. Plan time to send in final documents (some departments have a long lead times).
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Project Closeout Guide
- contact list
- lead times
- Building docs:
3. All inspections must be passed.
4. All departments/tasks must be signed off.
5. Most projects will receive a Letter of Completion or Certificate of Occupancy which can be downloaded from Citizen Access when the project is fully completed.
6. Uncompleted permits will expire. Expired permits become an open violation on the property.
Permit submittal requirements by project type#
Type a project name/description into the search box to find submittal information. Search Here:#
| Project | Requirements | Fees | Submit |
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Awning
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Building Permit Flat Fee: $50 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below |
E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Carport Permits area required if any of the following conditions exist:
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Construction Waste Management Plan Residential: Pre-Built Structures or Kits may require a letter/details stamped by a Colorado Licensed Structural Engineer to evaluate structure for local high wind and snow loads. Commercial: Plans must be designed and stamped by a Colorado Licensed Structural Engineer. |
Building Permit Fee: $110 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below |
E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Deck / Stairs / Ramp /Landing (includes concrete steps/landing/ramps). Permits area required if any of the following conditions exist:
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Residential: Deck Guide/Form (fill out form with submittal)
Commercial:
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Building Permit Fee: $110 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below |
E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Flag Poles |
Building Permit Fee: $65 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below |
E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Fence (Residential or Commercial)
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Submit the following:
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Building Permit Fee: $100 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below |
E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Patio Cover (or Porch Cover) Permits area required if any of the following conditions exist:
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Residential: Pre-Built Structures or Kits may require a letter/details stamped by a Colorado Licensed Structural Engineer to evaluate structure for local high wind and snow loads. Commercial: Plans must be designed and stamped by a Colorado Licensed Structural Engineer. Additionally, Submit manufacturer's specs for specialty products such shade sail cloth and plastics when used. |
Building Permit Fee: $110 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below |
E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Pergola (or Trellis) Permits area required if any of the following conditions exist:
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Residential: Pre-Built Structures or Kits may require a letter/details stamped by a Colorado Licensed Structural Engineer to evaluate structure for local high wind and snow loads. Commercial: Plans must be designed and stamped by a Colorado Licensed Structural Engineer. |
Building Permit Fee: $110 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below |
E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Retaining Wall |
Must be designed and stamped by an Colorado Licensed Structural Engineer. |
Building Permit Fee: $100 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below |
E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Sales Trailer
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No permit is required for temporary construction trailers. For Public access commercial trailers submit the following:
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Building Permit Fee: $85 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below |
E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
| Shade Sail |
Shade Sail Requirements (Updated 8/24/2023)
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Building Permit Fee: $110 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below |
E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Solar PV (New Installation)
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Building Permit Fee: $85 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below |
E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com Submittal and Naming Instructions
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Solar PV - Energy Storage System (ESS) only |
Master Electrician or Homeowner Affidavit Location and spacing shall comply with 2021 IRC R328 and CBO interpretation. Separately submit the Utilities Interconnect and Rebate application An additional, separate permit is required by Poudre Fire Authority when exceeding the following ratings:
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Building Permit Fee: $65 Sales tax: Use calculator below
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E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Solar PV (New installation) Commercial and Multi-family |
Submit the following:
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Building Permit Fee: $155 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below
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E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Solar PV re-installation (commercial and residential) Reinstallation of existing panels in the same location. Replacement of identical panels in the same location with no change to system. (for new equipment or system expansion see: New Installs above).
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Building Permit Fee: $65 Sales tax: Use calculator below |
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Swim Spa, Pool, Ponds, hot tubs that are custom or in-ground (Residential)
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Building Permit Fee: $110 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below |
E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs, Ponds (Commercial)
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Building Permit Fee: $220 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below
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E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Wireless Telecommunication Antenna
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Owner Authorization or leasing agreement between the the wireless company and the building owner. |
Building Permit Fee: $65 (broken out below)
Sales tax: Use calculator below
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E-mail submittal to buildingservices@fcgov.com |
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Can't Find What You are Looking For? |
Residential and Commercial Alterations
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