Before You Build in Englewood, CO: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

Englewood requires fences to be on the owner's property. Colorado has no shared-cost fence statute. The finished side should face neighboring property. Fences within easements are permitted but the city is not liable for damage during easement access.

Englewood regulates fences under Unified Development Code Section 16-6-6. Height limits vary by zone district and are specified in tables within the code. Electrically charged fences are prohibited in all zones. Fences must be at least 1 foot behind any public sidewalk.

Englewood requires a permit and Site Improvement Plan review for new fences and replacement fences changing height, materials, or location. Repairs replacing less than 25 feet of fencing or individual components do not need a permit.

Englewood requires building permits for pool construction reviewed under the 2021 International codes (IBC, IRC, ISPSC). Multiple inspections including electrical bonding, barrier fencing, and drain safety are required. Property owners bear premises liability for pool safety.

Above-ground pools in Englewood are subject to the same barrier and safety requirements as in-ground pools under the 2021 ISPSC. Pool walls may count as part of the 60-inch barrier. Ladders must be secured when not in use.

Englewood follows the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (effective for permits after July 31, 2023). Pool barriers must meet Colorado IRC standards: 60-inch minimum height, self-closing/latching gates, 4-inch max picket spacing. UDC §16-6-6 references pool-specific fence requirements.

Englewood must comply with Colorado HB 24-1152 (effective June 30, 2025) as a subject jurisdiction in the Denver metro. The state law requires allowing ADUs of 500-750 sq ft with administrative approval. Either a primary home or ADU may serve as a short-term rental. The city's UDC governs accessory structure standards.

Garage conversions for ADU creation are permitted under Colorado HB 24-1152. Conversions require building permits and must meet residential code standards. The state recommends not requiring replacement parking for garage-to-ADU conversions. Minimum 7'6" ceiling height applies.

Englewood treats carports as accessory structures regulated under Title 16 of the Unified Development Code. The combined maximum size for all garages and carports on a property is 1,000 square feet, and a building permit is required. Each property is allowed two minor accessory structures, none of which may be used for living quarters. Site Plan review under EMC 16-2-9 applies.

Englewood regulates accessory structures through the Unified Development Code. A Site Plan review and permit may be required for garages, carports, storage sheds, and decks per EMC 16-2-9. Small structures may be exempt from building permits but must meet zoning standards.

Open burning without a Fire Marshal permit is prohibited under Stage 1 restrictions in Englewood. Gas grills, propane fire pits, and indoor fireplaces remain permitted. Burning trash, debris, and yard waste is never allowed. Violations carry fines up to $1,000.

Propane and natural gas fire pits that do not produce sparks or embers are permitted in Englewood even during Stage 1 burn restrictions. Wood-burning fire pits are restricted during burn bans. All fire pits are prohibited during Stage 2 bans except gas/propane models.

Englewood's Utilities Department encourages voluntary three-day-per-week watering restrictions aligned with Denver Water guidelines. Water only before 10 AM and after 6 PM. Colorado SB24-005 bans nonfunctional turf on commercial/HOA properties. CRS §37-60-126 protects xeriscape from HOA bans.

Englewood does not have a citywide tree removal permit for private property. Property owners may generally remove trees on their own land. Trees in the public right-of-way require city authorization. HOA covenants may restrict removal.

Englewood property owners are responsible for maintaining trees on their property to prevent obstruction of sidewalks, streets, and sightlines. Trees in the public right-of-way are managed by the city.