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CD - Building & Inspections

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1. How do I obtain a building permit?

Visit the Electronic Permit Submittalt page. All permitting is currently online. Permit submittal checklists can be located here: Checklists. For questions, please email: permits@ci.wheatridge.co.us.

Permit Submittal Checklists

2. How do I request an inspection?

To schedule an inspection, send your request through our online Inspection Request Form. For the inspection AM/PM schedule, check here daily:  Today's AM/PM schedule

3. How long is my permit valid?

Every permit issued shall expire 365 days after issuance, regardless of activity.

4. What is a Certificate of Occupancy / Completion?

A Certificate of Occupancy / Completion signifies the completion of all of the project requirements, including completion of site improvements and public improvements. Occupancy prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy or a Certificate of Completion is a violation of the City of Wheat Ridge. Municipal Code

5. What codes does the City of Wheat Ridge enforce?

Building & Inspection Services has adopted and is currently enforcing the 2018 IBC, IRC IPC, IMC, IFGC, IECC, IFC; 2018 IPMC; 2023 NEC; ANSI 117.1-2009, 1997 Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings, and NFPA 99. Current adopted codes and amendments can be located here: Current Codes

Adopted Codes & Amendments

6. When do I need a permit?

A building permit is required for new construction, additions, or alterations. The need for a permit is reviewed on an individual basis, based on municipal and building code requirements. To find out if your project requires a permit review the Building Permits webpage and/or contact Building & Inspection Services at (303) 235-2855.

Trash enclosures, painted signs, wall signs, and certain permanent outdoor recreational equipment are all exempt from building permit but require a zoning permit.

Driveways do not require a building permit but usually require a right-of-way permit. Contact the Public Works Department to learn more.

7. What type of building permit is needed to cover different types of work?

Please complete the application related to your scope of work: Electronic Permit Applications; If you are not sure or do not see the scope of work listed, please email permits@ci.wheatridge.co.us.

Permit Application

8. How do I apply for a building permit?

A Permit Application with a detailed job description must be provided. Plans and specifications may be required based on the scope of work. For multiple units, more than one application may be required if the work is unit specific and/or individually owned. Visit the Permit Submittal Checklist page or contact Building & Inspection Services at (303) 235-2855, option 7 for specific information. Permit Submittal Checklist

9. How long will it take to get a permit?

We are working our normal business hours each day. Due to the amount of incoming applications, processing time can be up to 3 business days. Emails and applications are handled in the order they are received. All permit and contractor licensing applications are currently online. Please visit Building & Inspection Services  for more information.

10. What is the best way to submit over-the-counter building permits?

The Building Division shall accept applications for electronic permit issuance and shall process and issue such permits in accordance with the following procedures and requirements located here: http://www.ci.wheatridge.co.us/1651/Electronic-Permit-Submittal

Additional info...

11. Can homeowners submit their own drawings?

Dependent upon the scope of the project, yes, homeowners may submit their own drawings. Structural alterations and additions and larger projects may require that plans wet-stamped by a registered engineer licensed by the state be provided.

12. How much will a building permit cost?

Permit fees are determined by applying information from the Building Valuation Data Chart to the Building Permit Fee Schedule. Plan review and Use Tax fees may also apply. Building Valuation & Fees

13. How do I determine my valuation of work?

This information can be found in the Building Valuation Data Chart and is based on occupancy type and other projects specifics. The Building Division determines the final valuation.

14. What type of payment do you accept?

For information on how payments can be made, please visit: Payments

 

15. How do I check the status of my permit?

The city will notify the owner and/or contractor when the permit is ready for pick up.

16. What time are the inspectors in the office?

The inspectors are available between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. and again between 3:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., depending on the inspection load.

17. Does the city license contractors?

Yes, for requirements and the Contractor’s License Application, please visit: Contractor Licensing and Registration. For licensing requirements: License Classes and Fees. Licensing questions should be directed to contractors@ci.wheatridge.co.us.

18. Who is required to obtain a contractors license?

All contractors working in the City of Wheat Ridge. More information...

19. What are the city’s testing requirements for licensing?

The City of Wheat Ridge requires a passing score on the appropriate ICC examination program for all Class 1, 2, and 3 general contractor, mechanical, roofing, and homeowner licenses.

20. Does the city accept other cities’ licensing/testing?

The City of Wheat Ridge reciprocates with Denver, Aurora, Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak, Park County, Fort Collins and City of Boulder.

21. What are the City’s roofing requirements?

For asphalt shingles, the City of Wheat Ridge requires that all shingles be nailed with a minimum of six (6) nails per shingle. Ice and Water shield is required at eaves and shall extend a minimum of two (2) feet inside exterior walls. Drip edge is required at eaves. All other types of roofing shall comply with adopted codes and policies and manufacturers installation guidelines.

22. How can I obtain building records for a property address?

Building & Inspection Services maintains a digital archive of address files which includes records of applications, building permits, and other information pertinent to that address dating back to 1995. 

Here are the instructions for the online archive to locate permit copies and inspection results:

https://weblink.ci.wheatridge.co.us/weblink/welcome.aspx

For best results, use the path below:

Select Community Development (or CommDev) -> Building Division -> Address Files -> Select Street Name -> Select Addres

Any building records prior to 1995 are maintained on microfilm in the Community Development Department at the City Municipal Building. A public information request (PIR) is required to research those documents and information. Public Information Request Form

Public Information Request Form

23. Do I need a permit to install, widen, or modify a driveway?

A building permit is not required, BUT most driveways require a right-of-way permit which is issued by the Public Works Department.  Driveway connections to the street look different throughout the City--some driveways have curb and gutter, some connect to asphalt, and some have to consider road side ditches.  Driveways have both minimum and maximum widths and required separation from street intersections. Many of these design requirements are in Section 26-501.F.  

Contact the Public Works Department to learn more.