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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Arvada
Note: Arvada does not publish one consolidated exemption list on the main permit page. Small detached accessory structures under the city threshold are treated through the project-type pages; structures over 200 square feet require permit. Minor work should be confirmed directly with Building Services before proceeding because Arvada relies heavily on project-specific permit pages rather than one exemption handout.
- Completed permit application
- Plans and attachments as required by permit type
- Valuation
- Project-specific documentation such as engineering letters, soils reports, or system documentation where applicable
- Building code
- Arvada is operating under its current adopted building code set pending a 2026 update; the city directs applicants to its Building Code Adoption resources for the active code set.
- Permit validity
- Public permit pages reference expired permits but do not clearly publish a general expiration rule on the main permit page; verify at issuance or on the adopted code page.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-occupants may apply for residential permits on structures they occupy; commercial permits must be obtained by a licensed contractor.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors working in Arvada must hold the appropriate City of Arvada license; homeowners performing work on their own owner-occupied residence are not required to hold a contractor license.
Source: City of Arvada Building Services / Building Inspection Division ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Permits without plan review are typically issued within 1 business day of a complete submission; major projects like new single-family and commercial projects may take 4 to 6 weeks for first plan review.
- 01 Check the project-specific permit page and determine whether online submission is available.
- 02 Create a public account or contractor login at arvadapermits.org.
- 03 Submit the application online through eTRAKiT, or email/drop off paper materials if that permit type is not offered online.
- 04 Upload plans and attachments where required; permit valuation is reviewed against city valuation tables.
- 05 Respond to plan review comments in the permit site if review is required.
- 06 Pay permit, plan review, use tax, and any trade/inspection fees.
- 07 Once status is Issued, schedule inspections online or via the automated inspection line.
Typical processing time: Permits without plan review are typically issued within 1 business day of a complete submission; major projects like new single-family and commercial projects may take 4 to 6 weeks for first plan review.
Source: City of Arvada Building Services / Building Inspection Division ↗
Fee schedule
Effective 2026 administrative fee schedule
Fees may be paid online, in person, or by phone; city accepts cash, check, and major credit cards.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective 2026 administrative fee schedule) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- arvadapermits.org (online)
- 720-898-7630 (automated inspection line) (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- Schedule until 6 a.m. of desired inspection date
- Inspection hours
- Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Time windows
- Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Someone age 18 or older must be available during inspection; weather events may affect next-business-day completion.
Source: City of Arvada Building Services / Building Inspection Division ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Arvada permits
01 How much does a building permit cost in Arvada, CO? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Arvada, CO? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Arvada, CO? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Arvada, CO? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Arvada Building Services / Building Inspection Division before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.