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DENVER SERVICES

Painting in Denver

Licensed painting services for Denver and Denver County. Color and protection in every coat.

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Painting project — Denver metro

Color and protection in every coat

Local Service

Painting Services in Denver, Colorado

Autotelic provides professional painting services throughout Denver and the surrounding Denver County area. Interior and exterior painting with thorough prep, premium paints, and clean detail work on trim, ceilings, and cabinets. Whether you're in Denver (Colorado's capital city) or nearby communities, our team delivers quality workmanship backed by Colorado licensing and full insurance coverage.

Permits & Licensing

Permits in Denver

Building permits in Denver are issued by Community Planning and Development, and contractor licensing here is municipal — a Denver-licensed contractor pulls Denver permits. We handle permit applications and inspections as part of every project. Authority: City and County of Denver — Community Planning and Development.

Permit Thresholds

Denver permit thresholds

Code reference
Drywall patching or replacement of one sheet no larger than 4 ft by 8 ft.
Code/municipal-code references
Requirements are administered under the Denver Building and Fire Code (2025 edition, effective December 31, 2025, incorporating 2024 I-Codes with local amendments; prior editions referenced similar administrative provisions).
Code reference
Exemptions and permit triggers align with administrative sections (e.g., analogous to IBC/IRC Section 105 or city-specific Admin provisions such as those referenced in policy documents like ADMIN 131/138).Section 105
Code reference
Demolition has a specific reference (Denver Commercial Building Code Section 130.3 for exempted work).Section 130.3
There is a tiered schedule (e.g., $1–$500
$20 permit fee; higher tiers add per-$1,000 amounts with 50% plan review on many ranges); see the full table in the Development Fees policy for exact tiers.

Codes are amended regularly — verify current requirements with City and County of Denver — Community Planning and Development.

Energy Code

Denver energy code quick facts

Code reference
2021 IECC (with local Denver amendments) as adopted in the 2025 Denver Building and Fire Codes / Denver Energy Code (effective December 31, 2025); Denver Green Code (DGC) provisions may also apply to certain commercial/multifamily projects.
Code reference
Denver (Climate Zone 5B) follows the 2021 IECC base with amendments incorporated into the Denver Energy Code (DEC; residential provisions start around p.
Code reference
312 of the code document).
Code reference
The 2025 adoption explicitly incorporates the 2021 IECC for energy (distinct from the 2024 I-codes used for other building/fire provisions).
Code reference
Chapter 5 [RE] / [CE] addresses additions, alterations, repairs, and changes of occupancy to existing buildings.
Code reference
The DGC (2022, effective ~May 2023) is largely voluntary but includes mandatory elements for some larger buildings alongside Energize Denver performance standards (primarily for existing large buildings).
Code reference
Key prescriptive requirements relevant to remodels/additions (drawn from 2021 IECC Table R402.1.3 / equivalent, applicable via Chapter 5 for new envelope work unless otherwise exempted; Denver-specific checklist references confirm use of these tables or U-factor alternatives):
Ceiling/attic insulation
Minimum R-60 (Climate Zone 5).

Codes are amended regularly — verify current requirements with City and County of Denver — Community Planning and Development.

Zoning & Dimensional Standards

Setback & dimensional standards in Denver

Zone-district dimensional standards for Denver, quoted verbatim from the Denver Zoning Code. Knowing your lot's district — and its setbacks, height, and coverage limits — is where every feasibility conversation starts.

E-CC-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)0'
Side Street Setback (min)0'
Side Interior Setback (min)0'

Denver Zoning Code E-CC-3 setback standards (4.3, p.37) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-MS-2setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code E-MS-2 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-MS-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code E-MS-3 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-MS-5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code E-MS-5 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-MU-2.5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)7.5'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)45%
Zone Lot Area (min)6,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)50'
Height in Feet (max)30'/30'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/2.5
Bulk Plane10'/10'

Denver Zoning Code E-MU-2.5 setback standards (4.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-MX-2setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code E-MX-2 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-MX-2Asetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code E-MX-2A setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-MX-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code E-MX-3 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-MX-3Asetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code E-MX-3A setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-MX-Esetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)40% E-MS: 60%
Side Street Setback (min)25%

Denver Zoning Code E-MX-E setback standards (4.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-RH-2.5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)7.5'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)45%
Zone Lot Area (min)6,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)50'
Height in Feet (max)30'/30'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/2.5
Bulk Plane10'/10'

Denver Zoning Code E-RH-2.5 setback standards (4.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-RX-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code E-RX-3 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-RX-5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code E-RX-5 setback standards (4.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-SU-Asetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)12' 12' 20' 20' 20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)3' 5' 5' 7.5' 3' 3' min one side/ 10' min com- bined 5' 10'
Building Coverage (max)45%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code E-SU-A setback standards (4.3, p.21) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-SU-Bsetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)12' 12' 20' 20' 20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)3' 5' 5' 7.5' 3' 3' min one side/ 10' min com- bined 5' 10'
Zone Lot Area (min)4,500 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)35'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code E-SU-B setback standards (4.3, p.21) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-SU-Dsetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)45%
Zone Lot Area (min)6,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)50'
Height in Feet (max)30'/30'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/2.5
Bulk Plane10'/10'

Denver Zoning Code E-SU-D setback standards (4.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-SU-Gsetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)12' 12' 20' 20' 20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)3' 5' 5' 7.5' 3' 3' min one side/ 10' min com- bined 5' 10'
Building Coverage (max)45%
Zone Lot Area (min)9,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)62.5'
Height in Feet (max)30'/30'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/2.5
Bulk Plane10'/10'

Denver Zoning Code E-SU-G setback standards (4.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-TU-Bsetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Side Street Setback (min)3'
Side Interior Setback (min)3'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)12' 12' 20' 20' 20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)3' 5' 5' 7.5' 3' 3' min one side/ 10' min com- bined 5' 10'
Building Coverage (max)45%
Zone Lot Area (min)4,500 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)35'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code E-TU-B setback standards (4.3, p.21) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

E-TU-Csetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)3' min one side/ 10' min combined
Rear Setback where no alley (min)12' 12' 20' 20' 20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)3' 5' 5' 7.5' 3' 3' min one side/ 10' min com- bined 5' 10'
Building Coverage (max)45%
Zone Lot Area (min)5,500 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)50'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code E-TU-C setback standards (4.3, p.21) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

G-MS-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code G-MS-3 setback standards (6.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

G-MS-5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code G-MS-5 setback standards (6.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

G-MU-12setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)7.5'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)10'
Zone Lot Area (min)6,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)50'

Denver Zoning Code G-MU-12 setback standards (6.3, p.29) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

G-MU-20setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)7.5'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)10'
Zone Lot Area (min)6,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)50'

Denver Zoning Code G-MU-20 setback standards (6.3, p.29) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

G-MU-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)3' min one side/10' min combined
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)45%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'

Denver Zoning Code G-MU-3 setback standards (6.3, p.17) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

G-MU-5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)45%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'

Denver Zoning Code G-MU-5 setback standards (6.3, p.17) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

G-MU-8setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)7.5'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)40%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'

Denver Zoning Code G-MU-8 setback standards (6.3, p.17) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

G-MX-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code G-MX-3 setback standards (6.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

G-RH-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Side Street Setback (min)15'
Side Interior Setback (min)3'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)60%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'
Bulk Plane12'

Denver Zoning Code G-RH-3 setback standards (6.3, p.17) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

G-RO-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)3' min one side/10' min combined
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)45%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'

Denver Zoning Code G-RO-3 setback standards (6.3, p.17) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

G-RO-5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)45%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'

Denver Zoning Code G-RO-5 setback standards (6.3, p.17) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

G-RX-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code G-RX-3 setback standards (6.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

G-RX-5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code G-RX-5 setback standards (6.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-CC-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)0'
Side Street Setback (min)0'
Side Interior Setback (min)0'

Denver Zoning Code S-CC-3 setback standards (3.3, p.29) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-CC-5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)0'
Side Street Setback (min)0'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code S-CC-5 setback standards (3.3, p.33) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-MS-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)0'
Side Street Setback (min)0'
Side Interior Setback (min)0'

Denver Zoning Code S-MS-3 setback standards (3.3, p.29) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-MU-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)13.1.5.9 or 20' , whichever
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)50%
Zone Lot Area (min)4,500 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)37.5'
Height in Feet (max)32'/32'
Height in Stories (max)3/3

Denver Zoning Code S-MU-3 setback standards (3.3, p.21) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-MX-12setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20' 20'/25'
Side Interior Setback (min)35'/40'

Denver Zoning Code S-MX-12 setback standards (3.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-MX-12Asetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20' 20'/25'
Side Interior Setback (min)35'/40'

Denver Zoning Code S-MX-12A setback standards (3.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-MX-2setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)0'
Side Street Setback (min)0'
Side Interior Setback (min)0'

Denver Zoning Code S-MX-2 setback standards (3.3, p.29) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-MX-2Asetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)40% Residential Only Buildings: 30%
Side Street Setback (min)25%
Side Interior Setback (min)0'

Denver Zoning Code S-MX-2A setback standards (3.3, p.37) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-MX-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)0'
Side Street Setback (min)0'
Side Interior Setback (min)0'

Denver Zoning Code S-MX-3 setback standards (3.3, p.31) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-MX-3Asetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)15'

Denver Zoning Code S-MX-3A setback standards (3.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-MX-5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Side Interior Setback (min)35'/40'

Denver Zoning Code S-MX-5 setback standards (3.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-MX-5Asetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'
Side Interior Setback (min)35'/40'

Denver Zoning Code S-MX-5A setback standards (3.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-MX-8Asetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)20'

Denver Zoning Code S-MX-8A setback standards (3.3, p.39) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-RH-2.5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)50%
Zone Lot Area (min)4,500 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)37.5'
Height in Feet (max)30'/30'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/2.5
Bulk Plane10'/10'

Denver Zoning Code S-RH-2.5 setback standards (3.3, p.21) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-SU-Asetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Side Interior Setback (min)3' 5'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)50%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'
Height in Feet (max)30'/30'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/2.5
Bulk Plane10'/10'

Denver Zoning Code S-SU-A setback standards (3.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-SU-FAsetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10' 5'/15'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'/15'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)50%
Zone Lot Area (min)8,500 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)62.5'
Height in Feet (max)30'/30'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/2.5
Bulk Plane10'

Denver Zoning Code S-SU-FA setback standards (3.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

S-SU-Isetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Zone Lot Area (min)12,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)62.5'
Height in Feet (max)30'/30'
Height in Stories (max)3/3
Bulk Plane10'/10' 10'/10'

Denver Zoning Code S-SU-I setback standards (3.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-MS-2setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code U-MS-2 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-MS-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code U-MS-3 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-MS-5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code U-MS-5 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-MX-2setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code U-MX-2 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-MX-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code U-MX-3 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-RH-2.5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)10'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)40%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code U-RH-2.5 setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-RH-3Asetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)10'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)40%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code U-RH-3A setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-RX-3setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code U-RX-3 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-RX-5setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)7.5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'

Denver Zoning Code U-RX-5 setback standards (5.3, p.27) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-SU-Asetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)3'
Side Interior Setback (min)3'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)60%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code U-SU-A setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-SU-A2setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)3'
Side Interior Setback (min)3'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)60%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code U-SU-A2 setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-SU-Bsetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Zone Lot Area (min)4,500 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)35'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code U-SU-B setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-SU-B2setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)3'
Side Interior Setback (min)3'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)60%
Zone Lot Area (min)4,500 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)35'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code U-SU-B2 setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-SU-Csetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Interior Setback (min)3' min one 10' min combined
Zone Lot Area (min)5,500 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)50'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code U-SU-C setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-SU-C2setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)3'
Side Interior Setback (min)3' min one 10' min combined
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)60%
Zone Lot Area (min)5,500 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)50'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code U-SU-C2 setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-SU-Esetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)45%
Zone Lot Area (min)7,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)50'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code U-SU-E setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-SU-Hsetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)5'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)45%
Zone Lot Area (min)10,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)75'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)3/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code U-SU-H setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-TU-Bsetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)3'
Side Interior Setback (min)3'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)60%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code U-TU-B setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-TU-B2setback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)3'
Side Interior Setback (min)3'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)60%
Zone Lot Area (min)3,000 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)25'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code U-TU-B2 setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

U-TU-Csetback & dimensional standards
StandardRequirement
Primary Street Setback (min)10'
Side Street Setback (min)5'
Side Interior Setback (min)10'
Rear Setback where no alley (min)20'
Rear Setback where alley abuts (min)12'
Building Coverage (max)40%
Zone Lot Area (min)4,500 sf
Zone Lot Width (min)35'
Height in Feet (max)30'/17'
Height in Stories (max)2.5/1
Bulk Plane17'/10'

Denver Zoning Code U-TU-C setback standards (5.3, p.19) — effective 2010-06-25 · View the code

Verify current requirements with the jurisdiction — informational reference only. Standards vary by overlay, lot, and use; we confirm the exact rules for your property during feasibility.

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Painting Services for Denver Properties

Painting covers interior walls, ceilings, and trim as well as exterior siding, trim, and other finished surfaces. Typical work includes surface preparation (cleaning, sanding, repairing defects, and priming), coating application, and cleanup. Because painting is finish work rather than structural construction, it is commonly treated as non-permitted cosmetic work for many residential projects in Denver—while still needing careful prep, suitable materials, and clean execution. A municipally licensed Denver general contractor can coordinate the project, scope, sequencing, and any specialty trade support that may be needed alongside painting.

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Interior Painting

Interior painting usually focuses on walls, ceilings, doors, and trim. Quality results depend more on preparation than on the final coat alone: cleaning soiled surfaces, repairing cracks or nail pops, sanding rough areas, priming bare or repaired spots, protecting floors and fixtures, and applying even coats with clean cut lines. Sequencing matters—ceilings and walls are typically finished before detailed trim work. Buyers should look for even coverage without missed spots, drips, runs, or heavy brush and roller marks, plus careful protection of adjacent finishes.

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Exterior Painting in the Denver Metro Climate

Exterior painting in the Denver metro faces high-altitude UV exposure, temperature swings, hail, and freeze-thaw cycles. Coatings should be chosen for exterior exposure, fade resistance, and weather performance, and applied under conditions that allow proper curing—commonly when temperatures stay above about 40°F and moisture conditions are suitable. Exterior prep often includes washing, scraping or sanding failing paint, repairing damaged wood or substrate issues, priming bare areas, and protecting windows, hardscape, and landscaping. Painting must not compromise weather protection, joints, or other building-code-related performance of exterior walls.

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Permits, Codes, and Historic Properties

In the City and County of Denver, painting (interior and exterior) is generally exempt from building permits for single-family homes and duplexes. Denver Community Planning and Development lists painting among work that does not require a permit, along with similar finish items such as papering, tiling, and floor coverings. Suburban jurisdictions in the metro area commonly treat painting and similar finish work the same way. That said, painting must not alter fire-resistance ratings, penetrations, joints, or weather-protection requirements under the Denver Building and Fire Code suite. In many historic districts and landmark settings, ordinary painting—including color changes—is often treated as minor exterior work that does not trigger Landmark Preservation design review or a Certificate of Appropriateness, though property-specific rules should still be confirmed.

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Pre-1978 Homes, Lead-Safe Work, and Related Health Rules

Federal requirements apply separately from local building permits. For housing built before 1978, the EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule requires lead-safe certified firms and work practices when painted surfaces will be disturbed. That can include scraping, sanding, window and door work, and other activities that create dust from old coatings. Asbestos inspection or abatement may also become relevant when painting is combined with demolition or other disturbance of suspect materials, based on Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and EPA guidance. Buyers should ask how pre-1978 surfaces will be tested for, contained, and cleaned up when disturbance is part of the scope.

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Materials, Methods, and Scope Basics

There is no Denver-mandated painting product list for ordinary cosmetic work, so materials are selected for use case: interior washability and finish sheen, exterior UV and moisture resistance, primers matched to substrate, and coatings appropriate for wood, masonry, metal, or previously coated surfaces. Standard industry methods still apply—surface assessment, repair, priming where needed, manufacturer-recommended coats, and controlled application to avoid overspray and lap marks. Where exterior wall assemblies involve vapor control or approved finish materials, coatings should support—not undermine—those code-related functions. Scope documents should state rooms or elevations, surface repairs included, product types, number of coats, and what is excluded.

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What Buyers Should Evaluate

Before hiring, verify current Denver contractor licensing through Community Planning and Development resources and confirm who is coordinating the work. Review written scope, materials list, schedule assumptions, site protection, and cleanup expectations. Inspect preparation standards: cleaning, sanding, repairs, priming, and masking. For exteriors, confirm product suitability for sun and weather exposure. For pre-1978 homes, confirm EPA RRP lead-safe certification and containment practices when painted surfaces will be disturbed. After work, check for uniform finish, crisp edges, complete coverage, and no damage to floors, fixtures, glass, or landscaping. Prefer documented scope and references over vague verbal promises or cash-only arrangements.

FAQ

Common questions

Do I need a building permit to paint my Denver house?

For many single-family homes and duplexes in Denver, interior and exterior painting is exempt from building permits. Denver Community Planning and Development lists painting among work that typically does not require a permit. Always confirm for your specific property type and any related work beyond paint.

Who handles the painting permits and licensing?

Ordinary cosmetic painting often does not require a building permit in Denver, but contractor licensing still matters. A municipally licensed Denver general contractor coordinates the project and licensed specialty trades when additional regulated work is involved. Verify the contractor’s current Denver license through official CPD resources.

Does exterior paint color in a historic district need design review?

In many Denver historic districts and landmark contexts, painting—including color changes—is treated as minor exterior work that generally does not require Landmark Preservation design review or a Certificate of Appropriateness. Property-specific rules should still be checked before work begins.

What extra rules apply if my home was built before 1978?

If painted surfaces will be disturbed, the federal EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule requires lead-safe certified firms and work practices. Local permit exemptions do not remove those federal obligations. Ask how dust control, containment, and cleanup will be handled.

What should a painting scope include?

A useful scope identifies rooms or exterior elevations, surface repairs, priming, product types or performance needs, number of coats, protection and cleanup, access assumptions, and exclusions. Clear scope language makes it easier to compare proposals and inspect finished work.

How does Denver weather affect exterior painting?

High-altitude UV, temperature swings, hail, and freeze-thaw cycles make exterior surface prep and weather-resistant coatings especially important. Application is typically planned for conditions that allow proper curing, commonly above about 40°F and without problematic moisture.

Service Area

Serving Denver and Denver County

We serve Denver, CO and all surrounding Denver metro communities. Our team is based in Denver and operates throughout the Front Range, from Castle Rock to Longmont and everywhere in between. Contact us for a free estimate on your Denver project.

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