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Denver, CO Building Safety: Plumbing Permits (2026)

Some Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Adopted code: 2024 International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Effective date: December 31, 2025 (2025 DBC)
Permitting agency: Dept. of Community Planning and Development
Max penalty: $999 fine and/or 300 days jail per offense

Summary

Denver adopts the 2024 International Plumbing Code as part of its 2025 Denver Building Code, and plumbing work requires a permit reviewed by Community Planning and Development.

(a) Denver building code. ...are hereby adopted as the 2025 Denver Building Code ("2025 DBC"): the International Building Code ("IBC"), International Fuel Gas Code ("IFGC"), International Mechanical Code ("IMC"), International Plumbing Code ("IPC"), International Existing Building Code ("IEBC"), and International Residential Code ("IRC"), all series 2024...

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 147 Update 3).

Full Breakdown

Plumbing work in Denver is governed by the International Plumbing Code (2024 series), which the city adopts by reference as part of the 2025 Denver Building Code effective December 31, 2025. Permit applications go through the Department of Community Planning and Development's web-based permitting portal; plumbing permit and plan review fees apply as set by the building official. Violating any provision of the adopted codes, or an order of a building official enforcing them, is unlawful under DRMC § 10-18.

Violations & Fines

Unlawful under DRMC § 10-18; absent a specific fine, the general penalty in § 1-13(b) applies: up to $999 per offense and up to 300 days in jail, with each day of continued violation a separate offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

What plumbing code does Denver use?

The 2024 International Plumbing Code, adopted by reference as part of the 2025 Denver Building Code under DRMC § 10-16(a).

Where do I apply for a Denver plumbing permit?

Through Community Planning and Development's web-based permitting portal; plan review and permit fees apply per DRMC § 10-16 and related fee provisions.

Sources & Official References

[1]Denver Revised Municipal Code § 10-16 (Municode)

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