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

Fence height limits in Manitou Springs are established in the Land Use and Development Code (LUDC, Title 18). The city's historic character and hilly terrain mean fence placement and height are reviewed with neighborhood compatibility in mind.

Building permits for fences in Manitou Springs are issued by PPRBD. Fences exceeding height limits or in historic overlay districts may require additional review. Standard residential fences meeting code may not require a permit.

Colorado Good Neighbor Fence Law (C.R.S. §35-46-112) applies in Manitou Springs. Both property owners sharing a boundary fence are equally responsible for maintenance costs. No city notification requirement for standard fence installations.

Above-ground pools in Manitou Springs require PPRBD permits and must meet ISPSC barrier requirements. Given the city's hilly terrain, site drainage and structural stability may require additional consideration.

Swimming pool barriers in Manitou Springs must comply with International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) requirements: minimum 48 inches, self-closing/self-latching gates. Permits through PPRBD required.

Pool installation in Manitou Springs requires PPRBD building, electrical, and gas permits. Given the city's water restrictions, pool filling should be done carefully. Inspections required before filling.

Manitou Springs must comply with Colorado HB 24-1152 (effective June 30, 2025) requiring ADUs on all single-family lots. The city's steep terrain, historic character, and STR regulations add complexity to ADU development.

Garage conversions to living space or ADUs in Manitou Springs require PPRBD building permits. Historic district design review may apply. Converted garage space cannot be used as an STR if designated as an ADU.

Carports in Manitou Springs are accessory structures regulated under Title 18 (Zoning) and require a two-step permit: a Property Improvement Permit (PIP) from the City of Manitou Springs first, then a building permit from the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD). Setbacks, height, and lot-coverage limits depend on the underlying residential zoning district; confirm the figures for your zone with city Planning before construction.

Accessory structures (sheds, workshops) in Manitou Springs require PPRBD permits if over 200 square feet. Given the city's steep terrain and historic character, accessory structure placement requires careful planning.

Manitou Springs has a tiered fire restriction system (Ordinance No. 1022, §6.34.050) with Stage 1 and Stage 2 (full ban) levels. Open burning of waste is always prohibited; recreational fires are allowed during Stage 0 but banned under active restrictions.

Fire pits in Manitou Springs are allowed during Stage 0 (no restrictions) and Stage 1 restrictions under Ordinance No. 1022, §6.34.050, provided they have proper screen covers and 15-foot clearance from structures. Banned under Stage 2 and Red Flag Warnings.

Manitou Springs passed a tree care and protection ordinance in 2022, demonstrating commitment to urban tree canopy preservation. Property owners must maintain trees that do not encroach into rights-of-way or pose hazards.

Manitou Springs operates its own municipal water system sourced from French Creek (Pikes Peak watershed). Permanent Water Wise rules limit outdoor watering to 3 days/week and prohibit overhead watering 10 AM–6 PM in irrigation season. Stage 1 restrictions add even/odd day schedules and 5–8 AM / 7–10 PM windows.

Manitou Springs' 2022 tree ordinance establishes care and protection standards that may restrict removal of significant trees on private property. Wildfire-risk defensible space needs must be balanced with tree protection goals.