Do I need a permit for shed or accessory structure in Unincorporated Arapahoe County?
It depends. Whether shed or accessory structure needs a permit in Unincorporated Arapahoe County comes down to the details of your project.
The IRC model baseline exempts one-story accessory structures at or under 200 square feet from a building permit, but because Colorado has no statewide code each city or county sets its own threshold, so confirm the local size limit before you build. A building-permit exemption does not waive zoning setbacks or HOA rules, and running power to the shed still requires a state electrical permit.
Documents you may need
- Permit applicationLikely required
- Site plan showing the structure and setbacks from property linesrequired
- Foundation/anchoring and structural details for larger shedsSometimes required
Possible inspections
- Setback/footing inspection where a foundation is required
- Final inspection
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a permit for shed or accessory structure in Unincorporated Arapahoe County?
- It depends. Whether shed or accessory structure needs a permit in Unincorporated Arapahoe County comes down to the details of your project. The IRC model baseline exempts one-story accessory structures at or under 200 square feet from a building permit, but because Colorado has no statewide code each city or county sets its own threshold, so confirm the local size limit before you build. A building-permit exemption does not waive zoning setbacks or HOA rules, and running power to the shed still requires a state electrical permit.
- Who issues the permit in Unincorporated Arapahoe County?
- The local building department for Unincorporated Arapahoe County handles permitting. This page lists its contact details and online portal. Your mailing city is not always the permitting authority, so confirm the jurisdiction before you apply.
- How do I find out the exact requirements for my project?
- Run the free PermitRoadmap check for your specific project and answers. It returns the likely permits, documents, inspections, and next steps, each linked to its official source.
PermitRoadmap is an independent informational service and is not affiliated with any city, county, state agency, or permitting authority. Results are informational and do not replace confirming requirements with the local permitting authority.