Codes, exemptions & field inspections
This guide translates the available agency record into a preconstruction checklist for structural scope, minor work, and inspection release. The adopted code and the issuing official control when a field condition is disputed.
Regulatory framework
2024 IRC, 2024 IBC, 2024 IPC, 2024 IMC, 2024 IFGC, 2024 International Energy Compliance Code, 2024 ISPSC, 2024 IEBC, 2024 IFC, and 2025 Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code, adopted by Clear Creek County; local amendments and all adopted county requirements apply.
Inspection lane
Request building inspections at (303) 670-7534. For permits issued on or after Oct. 1, 2024, use the Clear Creek permitting platform account: My Profile > Permits > Inspections > Request an Inspection. Site-development rough-in and final inspection rules apply where grading, driveway, floodplain, or related work is involved; final site-development inspection is required before certificate of occupancy or completion.
Minor-work playbook
Zoning still applies to exempt work. Exemptions include one-story detached accessory sheds, playhouses, or similar structures up to 120 sq. ft.; fences up to 7 ft.; retaining walls up to 4 ft. unless supporting surcharge; certain on-grade water tanks up to 5,000 gallons; sidewalks; painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work; prefabricated pools under 24 in. deep; swings/playground equipment; certain wall-mounted window awnings; detached residential decks up to 200 sq. ft. and 30 in. above grade when not attached to the dwelling or serving a required exit; non-permanent pole/fabric coverings; and certain pre-manufactured detached storage containers. Setbacks and planning review can still apply.
Field rule
A permit exemption generally addresses one narrow construction trigger. It does not automatically waive zoning, land-use, floodplain, shoreline, fire, energy, electrical, utility, septic, or right-of-way requirements. Obtain written confirmation when the project involves a new structure, structural alteration, change in occupancy, or concealed work.
Inspection pipeline
Request with lead time
Request building inspections at (303) 670-7534. For permits issued on or after Oct. 1, 2024, use the Clear Creek permitting platform account: My Profile > Permits > Inspections > Request an Inspection. Site-development rough-in and final inspection rules apply where grading, driveway, floodplain, or related work is involved; final site-development inspection is required before certificate of occupancy or completion.
Preserve access
Do not cover framing, reinforcement, wiring, piping, damp-proofing, or life-safety work until the required inspection has been completed and documented.
Close the record
Retain the approved plans, inspection approvals, correction responses, and final certificate or occupancy release with the property file.
Contractor verification
Use the state licensing system to verify active registration, trade credentials, bond status, and liability coverage where available. Match the legal business name to the proposal and permit application.
Planning reference
A building permit is only one part of statutory compliance. Check the local zoning, ordinance, map, or land-use reference before finalizing setbacks, height, lot coverage, access, drainage, or accessory structure placement.
Open planning reference ↗Source trail
Use these direct agency or licensing links to confirm current instructions before you file, pay, or schedule work. External pages control if their information differs from this directory.
Project questions
Clear Creek County Planning and Building Services - Building Department is the identified county-level authority for this profile. Confirm that the property is in its service area before filing.
Begin with the online permit gateway listed in the application guide. If the portal does not recognize the address or project type, contact (303) 679-2446; building inspection requests: (303) 670-7534; code questions: (303) 679-2346.
N/A for general building review; Clear Creek site-development materials state an average 2-3 weeks for preliminary review and site-evaluation inspection where applicable.
Request building inspections at (303) 670-7534. For permits issued on or after Oct. 1, 2024, use the Clear Creek permitting platform account: My Profile > Permits > Inspections > Request an Inspection. Site-development rough-in and final inspection rules apply where grading, driveway, floodplain, or related work is involved; final site-development inspection is required before certificate of occupancy or completion.
2024 IRC, 2024 IBC, 2024 IPC, 2024 IMC, 2024 IFGC, 2024 International Energy Compliance Code, 2024 ISPSC, 2024 IEBC, 2024 IFC, and 2025 Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code, adopted by Clear Creek County; local amendments and all adopted county requirements apply. Zoning still applies to exempt work. Exemptions include one-story detached accessory sheds, playhouses, or similar structures up to 120 sq. ft.; fences up to 7 ft.; retaining walls up to 4 ft. unless supporting surcharge; certain on-grade water tanks up to 5,000 gallons; sidewalks; painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work; prefabricated pools under 24 in. deep; swings/playground equipment; certain wall-mounted window awnings; detached residential decks up to 200 sq. ft. and 30 in. above grade when not attached to the dwelling or serving a required exit; non-permanent pole/fabric coverings; and certain pre-manufactured detached storage containers. Setbacks and planning review can still apply.
Field sequencing matters
Code compliance is not only a plan-review exercise. Footings, reinforcement, framing, fireblocking, wiring, piping, insulation, weather protection, and life-safety systems each have points where the work must remain accessible. Build the inspection calendar into the trade schedule instead of treating it as a final administrative step.
When a project qualifies for a narrow minor-work exemption, keep a written explanation of why it qualifies and confirm that related zoning, utility, fire, energy, or environmental rules do not create a separate approval requirement.
Closeout file
Keep the approved plan set, inspection approvals, correction responses, contractor license verification, final certificate, and any occupancy release together. A clean record protects the owner, builder, lender, insurer, and future buyer.