Before You Build in Lakewood, 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 Lakewood. 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 Lakewood. 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
Some RestrictionsHeight limits, materials, permits, and shared fence rules.
Height Limits
Some RestrictionsLakewood limits residential fence heights to 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards under the Zoning Ordinance.
Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsLakewood generally requires a permit for new fence construction to ensure compliance with height, setback, and material requirements.
Neighbor Fence Rules
Some RestrictionsLakewood follows Colorado property line rules. Fences must be on the owner's property. Shared fences require neighbor agreement.
Swimming Pools
Heavy RestrictionsPool permits, safety fencing, and drainage requirements.
Safety Rules
Heavy RestrictionsLakewood pools require safety features including compliant drain covers, depth markers, and GFCI-protected electrical systems.
Above-Ground Pools
Some RestrictionsAbove-ground pools in Lakewood must meet barrier requirements. Pools with 48-inch walls and lockable ladders may use walls as barriers.
Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsLakewood requires all swimming pools to be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates.
ADUs & Granny Flats
Some RestrictionsAccessory dwelling unit rules and garage conversion permits.
ADU Rules
Some RestrictionsLakewood allows Accessory Dwelling Units in certain residential zones. ADUs must meet size, setback, and design standards. A building permit is required.
Garage Conversions
Some RestrictionsLakewood allows garage conversions with a building permit. Converted space must meet residential standards and parking requirements must be addressed.
Sheds & Outbuildings
Some RestrictionsShed permits, setback limits, and outbuilding size rules.
Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsLakewood treats carports as detached accessory structures under the Lakewood Zoning Ordinance Article 5 (Sec. 17.5.5): rigid carports over 120 sq ft need a building permit, must sit behind the front edge of the primary residence, and must meet zone-specific setback and lot-coverage standards.
Shed Rules
Some RestrictionsLakewood allows sheds with setback requirements. Sheds over 200 square feet generally require a building permit.
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
Heavy RestrictionsFire pit placement, outdoor burning restrictions, and permits.
Fire Pit Rules
Some RestrictionsLakewood allows recreational fire pits with restrictions. Fire pits must be at least 15 feet from structures and attended at all times. All fires are banned during fire restriction periods.
Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsLakewood prohibits open burning within city limits. Burning trash, leaves, and yard debris is not permitted. Only contained recreational fires are allowed with restrictions.
Landscaping & Tree Removal
Some RestrictionsTree removal permits, heritage tree protections, and water rules.
Water Restrictions
Some RestrictionsLakewood follows Denver Water guidelines for outdoor watering. Watering restrictions may apply during drought, including day-of-week schedules.
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Some RestrictionsLakewood may require review for significant tree removal in certain planned development areas. Routine removal on residential property is generally allowed.
Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsLakewood property owners may trim trees on their property. Trees in the public right-of-way are managed by the city. Trimming near power lines requires coordination with Xcel Energy.
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.
Permit Guides for Nearby Cities
Looking for rules beyond permits? View all ordinances we track for Lakewood.