Lakewood, CO Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Exempt size
- ≤200 sq ft
- Exempt height
- ≤30 in. above grade
- Attachment
- must be freestanding
- Code base
- 2021 IRC, local amendment
Summary
Lakewood exempts small, low, freestanding decks from a building permit: 200 square feet or less, under 30 inches high, and not attached to the house. Bigger, higher, or attached decks need one.
Decks not over 200 square feet in area that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not structurally attached to the dwelling, do not serve the required exit door, and are not installed over a required emergency escape and rescue opening. Exemption from the permit requirements of this Code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this Code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.
4.Subsection R105.2.1 is replaced with the following: R105.2.1 Emergency repairs. Any unforeseen emergency or unsafe condition whereby the lack of immediate corrective action creates a substantial risk to life, property, health, or welfare, and such emergency or unsafe condition must be rectified immediately, the person performing the work shall apply for an appropriate permit the next business day. Failure to apply for and obtain such required permit may be cause for suspension or revocation of the contractor's registration and the permit fee may be doubled.
5.Subsection R105.2.3 is deleted.6.Subsection R105.5 is replaced with the following:
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Municipal Code: Supplement 14 | Zoning Ordinance: ?).
Full Breakdown
Lakewood's local amendment to IRC § R105.2 lists work exempt from permit; item 11 exempts one detached deck up to 200 square feet that sits no more than 30 inches above grade at any point, isn't structurally attached to the dwelling, doesn't serve a required exit door, and isn't built over a required emergency escape and rescue opening. A deck failing any of these tests, bigger footprint, more height, attachment to the house, or covering an egress window well, needs a building permit from the City before construction, per Lakewood Municipal Code § 14.09.040(A)(3).
Violations & Fines
Building without a required permit is enforceable under Lakewood Municipal Code § 14.09.070, incorporating the general penalty in § 1.16.020; each day of noncompliance is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a small deck in Lakewood, CO?
What about a deck attached to my house?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lakewood
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Building Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Jefferson County handle building permits.