Fort Collins, Colorado Plumbing Local Permit Ordinances and Codes
Authority Having Jurisdiction
The City of Fort Collins Building Department is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for plumbing permit ordinances in Fort Collins, Colorado. They are responsible for reviewing building plans, issuing permits, and performing inspections to ensure construction meets city code requirements. You can contact them via email at [email protected] or by phone at 970-416-2740. Their physical address is 281 N. College Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80524.
Local Zoning and Fee Nuances
Plumbing work in Fort Collins requires a permit, with some exceptions for minor repairs like stopping leaks in drains or repairing/replacing sinks and faucets if no valves or pipes are rearranged. However, if a concealed pipe or trap needs replacement, it is considered new work and requires a permit.
The City of Fort Collins has adopted the 2024 International Plumbing Code (IPC) with local amendments. Fees for permits are structured with an application fee, a plan check fee (due at application), and a building permit fee (due upon issuance). For example, a typical permit might have a $100 total application fee, with $35 for the plan check and $65 for the building permit. Additionally, sales tax is calculated based on the total valuation of the project.
For new construction projects, fees are calculated based on occupancy type and square footage. These fees are split into a Plan Check Fee (35% of total) paid at application and a Building Permit Fee (65% of total) paid upon permit issuance. Transportation Capital Expansion Fees may also apply to new buildings or major changes to existing ones that increase traffic.
Work commencing before a permit is issued can incur additional penalties and a "work without a permit" fee.
Zoning permits are also a consideration. It is recommended to consult with a zoning inspector before applying for a zoning permit to ensure the correct form is chosen and submittal requirements are met.
Resources to Learn More
Because Fort Collins is located within Larimer County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
Colorado, Larimer County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Larimer County Plumbing Permit Requirements
Larimer County's Building Division is responsible for permits, plan review, inspections, and code enforcement for all unincorporated areas of the county. Most electrical and plumbing work requires a building permit before work can begin. It is advisable to contact the Building Division at 970-498-7700 if you are uncertain whether a permit is required for your specific project.
Larimer County has adopted the 2024 International Plumbing Code (IPC) with local amendments, effective January 1, 2026. The county also adopts the 2024 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC).
Permit Application Process
Permit applications can be submitted through Larimer County's online portal for certain permit types, including miscellaneous permits, utility permits, and solar permits. However, residential and commercial building permits must be submitted in hard copy. The online portal allows users to submit applications, add contractors, pay fees, download permits, schedule inspections, and track application status.
Types of Work Requiring a Permit
The following types of work, which may include plumbing-related tasks, require a permit from the Larimer County Building Department:
- Gas line and gas appliance installation/replacement
- Minor plumbing work
- Furnace installation/replacement
- Boiler installation/replacement
- Air conditioning installation/replacement
- Woodstove installation
- Fireplace insert installation
- Propane tank installation/replacement
- Water heater installation or replacement
- Most plumbing work
Specific Plumbing Requirements
- A ten-foot head of water test or five psi air test is required for drain-waste-vent piping.
- Underground plumbing and under-slab radon systems may have specific scheduling considerations for inspections.
- If a back-up generator is being installed, a separate miscellaneous gas piping permit may be required.
Resources to Learn More
The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Colorado:
Colorado Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
State-Level Plumbing Codes in Colorado
The State of Colorado establishes minimum standards for plumbing installations through the Colorado Plumbing Code. This code is primarily based on the 2021 editions of the International Plumbing Code (IPC), the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), and the plumbing provisions of the International Residential Code (IRC). The state adopts these model codes with specific state-level additions, revisions, and deletions, which are codified in the Code of Colorado Regulations (3 CCR 720-1).
Regulatory Authority
The primary agency responsible for setting and enforcing these standards is the Colorado State Plumbing Board, which operates under the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). The Board is responsible for licensing plumbers, registering apprentices and contractors, issuing permits for state-inspected areas, and conducting inspections to ensure compliance with the state-adopted codes. While the state sets these minimum standards, local jurisdictions may also adopt and enforce their own building codes, which can sometimes be more stringent than the state requirements.
Resources to Learn More