Permit Requirements: Boulder vs Longmont
How do permit requirements rules compare between Boulder, CO and Longmont, CO?
Boulder has fewer restrictions than Longmont.
Boulder, CO
Boulder County
Standard fences under 6 to 8 feet typically don’t require permits in Boulder. Taller and masonry fences may need building permits.
View full Boulder rules →Longmont, CO
Boulder County
Longmont requires a building permit for every fence project, including new fences, replacement of any amount of existing fence, swapping fence types (e.g., chain link to wood privacy), changing the location of a fence, and replacing deteriorated fencing with the same material at the same height. Permits are issued by Building Services at 385 Kimbark Street.
View full Longmont rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boulder | Longmont |
|---|---|---|
| Under 8 ft | Usually no permit | - |
| Over 8 ft | Permit required | - |
| Masonry | Permit likely required | - |
| HOA | Separate approval needed | - |
| Permit Required For | - | All new fences, replacement of any amount, material change, location change |
| Permit Exempt | - | Non-structural, non-property-line privacy screens (not staked into ground) |
| Application Documents | - | Permit form + ILC/plot plan with setbacks |
| Where to Apply | - | Development Services Center, 385 Kimbark St., or Citizen Access online portal |
| Inspection Required | - | Yes; final inspection (owner need not be present) |
| Online Portal | - | https://aca.ci.longmont.co.us/CitizenAccess/ |
| Contact | - | Building Inspection (303) 651-8332 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boulder FAQ
Do I need a fence permit?
Standard wood/vinyl fences under 8 feet typically don’t need permits. Taller or masonry fences usually do.
What about HOA?
HOA architectural approval is separate from city permits. You may need both.
Longmont FAQ
Do I need a permit to replace just one section of fence in Longmont?
Yes. Longmont Building Services requires a permit for replacement fences 'no matter the amount of fence being replaced,' even like-for-like replacement of deteriorated panels.
Do I need a permit for a patio privacy screen?
No, if it is not on a property line, is not structural, and is not staked into the ground (a free-standing screen around a patio is exempt).
How do I apply for a Longmont fence permit?
Submit a permit application and an Improvement Location Certificate (or detailed plot plan) showing setbacks and fence dimensions. Apply in person at 385 Kimbark Street or online via aca.ci.longmont.co.us/CitizenAccess/. Fees are calculated at issuance.
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