Before You Build in Greeley, CO: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)
Everything you need to know before starting a home improvement project
Building a fence, installing a pool, or adding a shed? Each project has its own set of local permits and rules in Greeley. This guide consolidates fence, pool, ADU, shed, fire pit, and landscaping regulations into one checklist so you know what to expect before you start.
Quick Permit Checklist
At-a-glance overview of permit categories in Greeley. Click any card for details.
Fences & Walls
3 rules on file
Swimming Pools
3 rules on file
ADUs & Granny Flats
2 rules on file
Sheds & Outbuildings
2 rules on file
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
2 rules on file
Landscaping & Tree Removal
3 rules on file
Fences & Walls
Few RestrictionsHeight limits, materials, permits, and shared fence rules.
Neighbor Fence Rules
Few RestrictionsGreeley does not require fence cost-sharing between neighbors. Colorado law provides for limited fence disputes through the Colorado Revised Statutes. Fences must be within the owner's property lines.
Permit Requirements
Few RestrictionsGreeley does not require building permits for standard fences up to 7 feet in height. Permits are only needed for fences exceeding 7 feet or in special circumstances.
Height Limits
Few RestrictionsGreeley allows fences up to 7 feet high without a permit. Front yard fences are typically limited to 4 feet. Fences over 7 feet require a building permit.
Swimming Pools
Heavy RestrictionsPool permits, safety fencing, and drainage requirements.
Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsGreeley requires all swimming pools to be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates per the adopted building code.
Safety Rules
Heavy RestrictionsGreeley requires swimming pools to meet safety standards including barriers, drain covers, and electrical safety. Pool construction requires building permits and inspections.
Above-Ground Pools
Some RestrictionsGreeley regulates above-ground pools similarly to in-ground pools. Pools deeper than 24 inches require barriers, permits, and must meet setback requirements.
ADUs & Granny Flats
Some RestrictionsAccessory dwelling unit rules and garage conversion permits.
ADU Rules
Some RestrictionsGreeley permits accessory dwelling units in certain residential zones. ADUs are subject to size limits, setback requirements, and may require owner occupancy of either the main home or ADU.
Garage Conversions
Some RestrictionsGreeley regulates garage conversions through building and zoning codes. Converting a garage to living space requires permits and must maintain minimum parking requirements.
Sheds & Outbuildings
Some RestrictionsShed permits, setback limits, and outbuilding size rules.
Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsGreeley regulates carports as accessory structures under Title 18 (and the newer Title 24) Development Code, plus the adopted residential building code in Title 22. Carports require a building permit, must meet zone-specific setbacks and height limits, and need a site plan showing distances to property lines.
Shed Rules
Some RestrictionsGreeley regulates sheds and accessory buildings under the Development Code. Small sheds under 120 square feet may be exempt from permits but must comply with setback requirements.
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
Heavy RestrictionsFire pit placement, outdoor burning restrictions, and permits.
Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsGreeley prohibits open burning within city limits. Burning of leaves, trash, and yard waste is not allowed. Recreational fires in approved containers may be permitted under specific conditions.
Fire Pit Rules
Some RestrictionsGreeley allows recreational fire pits in approved containers with proper setbacks from structures. Fire pits must be attended at all times and may be banned during fire danger conditions.
Landscaping & Tree Removal
Some RestrictionsTree removal permits, heritage tree protections, and water rules.
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Some RestrictionsGreeley regulates tree removal in public rights-of-way and during development. Private tree removal generally does not require a city permit for individual trees.
Water Restrictions
Some RestrictionsGreeley enforces a year-round odd/even address watering schedule with no watering 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; the Water and Sewer Board declared an adequate water year on April 15, 2026, so no drought stage is in effect for 2026.
Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsGreeley requires property owners to maintain trees on their property. Trees must not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or sight lines. The city maintains trees in the public right-of-way.
General Permit Tips
When do you typically need a permit?
Most cities require permits for structural work, including fences over a certain height, pools, ADUs, and sheds above a size threshold. Even projects that seem minor can trigger permit requirements, so it is always best to check first.
How to apply for a building permit
Visit your local building department or their website. Most jurisdictions accept online applications. You will typically need a site plan, project description, and may need contractor information. Processing times vary from same-day for simple projects to several weeks for larger builds.
Common permit violations to avoid
Building without a permit, exceeding approved dimensions, and ignoring setback requirements are the most common violations. Penalties can include fines, required removal of the structure, and complications when selling your home.
Looking for rules beyond permits? View all ordinances we track for Greeley.