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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for La Plata County
A building permit is required for all new structures, additions, remodels, and placement of manufactured or modular homes in unincorporated areas.
Note: No detailed exempt-work list was published on the reviewed county permit landing page.
- Authorization for driveway access
- Authorization for sewage disposal
- Authorization for domestic water supply
- Building code
- La Plata County Code Chapter 18 adopts the International Codes. The code adoption table references a current effective date of 8/1/2023 and Code Section 18-31, Adoption of the International Codes.
Source: La Plata County Community Development Department, Building Division ↗
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Start in the CityView portal and submit the building or planning permit request.
- 02 Provide authority for driveway access, sewage disposal, and domestic water supply.
- 03 County staff review the submission and inspect as construction progresses.
- 04 Inspections occur through the construction process, including footings, stem wall, nailing, framing, plumbing, mechanical, and energy compliance.
- 05 After a successful final inspection, the county issues a Certificate of Occupancy.
Source: La Plata County Community Development Department, Building Division ↗
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
Typical sequence: County workflow references inspections for footings, stem wall, nailing, framing, plumbing, mechanical, and energy compliance, ending with final inspection and Certificate of Occupancy.
Source: La Plata County Community Development Department, Building Division ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated La Plata County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated La Plata County, CO? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated La Plata County, CO? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with La Plata County Community Development Department, Building Division before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.