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Pop-Top Addition in Centennial
Licensed pop-top addition services for Centennial and Arapahoe County. Go up, not out — add a full second story.
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Go up, not out — add a full second story
EVERY PROJECT STARTS WITH DESIGN
Local Service
Pop-Top Addition Services in Centennial, Colorado
Autotelic provides professional pop-top addition services throughout Centennial and the surrounding Arapahoe County area. Pop-top second-story additions across the Denver metro — add bedrooms, bathrooms, and living space without expanding your footprint. Structural engineering included. Whether you're in Centennial (south Denver metro) or nearby communities, our team delivers quality workmanship backed by Colorado licensing and full insurance coverage.
Permits & Licensing
Permits in Centennial
Centennial building permits, inspections, and contractor license approvals are handled by the city's Building Division. Permits and contractor licenses must be applied for online through the city's Self-Service Portal, and we handle that process as part of every project. Authority: City of Centennial — Building Division.
Permit Thresholds
Centennial permit thresholds
- Code reference
- In Centennial, Colorado, building permits for residential remodel work are governed by the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) Section R105 (adopted via Centennial Municipal Code Chapter 18 – Building Regulations, per Ordinance 2023-O-06 and related adoptions of the 2021 I-Codes).Section R105
- Code reference
- Typically exempt work (aligning with IRC R105.2 exemptions, with local application) includes:
- Code reference
- One-story detached accessory structures (e.g., sheds) ≤200 sq ft.
- Code reference
- Fences ≤7 ft high; retaining walls ≤4 ft high (measured from bottom of footing).
- Code reference
- Prefabricated swimming pools <24 inches deep.
- Code reference
- Window awnings projecting ≤54 inches.
- Code reference
- Decks ≤200 sq ft, ≤30 inches above grade, and not attached to the dwelling.
- Use tax (not collapsed into a single rate)
- City of Centennial Use Tax of 2.5% applied to the actual cost of materials, plus Arapahoe County Use Tax of 0.25% applied to the actual cost of materials.
Codes are amended regularly — verify current requirements with City of Centennial — Building Division.
Zoning & ADU
Centennial zoning & ADU quick facts
- Code reference
- Centennial, Colorado (Arapahoe County) Land Development Code (LDC, Chapter 12 of the Municipal Code) governs zoning. New districts were adopted in 2024; the city’s zoning descriptions page notes that details should be verified in the current LDC (Municode).
- Code reference
- The most commonly referenced single-family residential districts for established neighborhoods are the Neighborhood Conservation (NC) subdistricts (NC5, NC6, NC9, NC12, NC18); newer or redevelopment areas use Suburban Residential (RS), Auto-Urban Residential (RA), and Urban Residential (RU).
- Code reference
- Residential development standards in RS/RA/RU/AG/NI generally reference LDC Division 3-4 (Residential Neighborhood Development Standards) and Division 3-5 (Housing Palette); non-residential summaries on the city site are not directly applicable to single-family additions/ADUs/garages.
- ADU permitting (LDC § 12-3-603(H) and related sections)
- Yes, permitted as an accessory use in AG, RS, RA, RU, NC (all subdistricts), and NI districts (plus limited commercial districts on single-family lots only).§ 12-3-603
- ADU max size (LDC § 12-3-603(H))
- ≤ 50% of the principal dwelling’s footprint (exterior wall polygon on the ground), or the full existing attic or basement area (including internal stairwell) without any expansion of those spaces.§ 12-3-603
- ADU height (LDC § 12-3-204 and § 12-3-603(H))
- Attached/interior: same as the primary dwelling in the district.§ 12-3-204
- Detached
- 17 ft maximum.
- ADU setbacks (LDC § 12-3-301 and Table 12-3-301)
- Same minimum setbacks as principal structures in the underlying district (no reduction allowed).§ 12-3-301
Codes are amended regularly — verify current requirements with City of Centennial — Building Division.
Energy Code
Centennial energy code quick facts
- Code reference
- Centennial, Colorado, has adopted the 2018 IECC (with the 2021 I-Codes package) as its energy code, with no mention of Denver-specific overlays such as the Denver Green Code or Energize Denver.
- Code reference
- This is enforced by the City’s Building Division under Ordinance No. 2023-O-06 (adopting the referenced codes by reference, effective as part of the 2021/2023 code update package).Ordinance No. 2023-O-06
- Code reference
- Centennial is in Climate Zone 5B.
- Code reference
- The code applies to alterations, additions, and remodels per IECC Chapter 5 (existing buildings), with the prescriptive requirements of Chapter 4 (or equivalent U-factor/UA paths) generally applying to new or modified portions of the thermal envelope.
- Code reference
- Key prescriptive requirements relevant to remodels/additions (drawn from 2018 IECC Table R402.1.2 and related sections for CZ 5; these are the base code values with no local amendments identified that alter them):
- Ceiling/attic insulation
- Minimum R-49 (or equivalent U-factor ≤ 0.026).
- Adopting reference
- 2018 IECC R402.1.2 (Table R402.1.2).
- Wood-frame wall insulation
- R-20 cavity or R-13 cavity + R-5 continuous insulation (or equivalent U-factor ≤ 0.060).
Codes are amended regularly — verify current requirements with City of Centennial — Building Division.
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What a Pop-Top Addition Is
A pop-top addition removes the existing roof of a single-story home and builds a new full or partial second story above it. Livable square footage increases while the original footprint stays the same. In the Denver metro, this approach is common in established neighborhoods where side yards, rear yards, and lot coverage leave little room to expand outward. The work is a major structural renovation. It typically includes roof demolition, foundation and wall reinforcement, new second-floor framing, a new roof, staircase construction, utility extensions, and interior and exterior finishes that connect the new level to the original house.
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Typical Scope of Work
Most Denver pop-tops move through these phases: 1. Demolition and temporary weatherproofing after roof and related ceiling or attic removal. 2. Structural evaluation and reinforcement of the existing foundation and load-bearing walls so they can carry the added story. Work may include extended footings, new piers and beams, or, less often, more extensive foundation replacement. A structural engineer designs this work. 3. New second-floor framing with dimensional lumber and engineered members such as I-joists and LVLs. 4. Enclosure with subfloor, walls, windows, doors, and a new roof system, with continuous weather protection. 5. HVAC, electrical, and plumbing extensions or upgrades to serve the new level and meet current codes. Existing HVAC equipment and electrical panels often need replacement or capacity upgrades. 6. Interior finishes (insulation, drywall, flooring, trim, paint) and exterior finishes chosen to match or complement the original architecture. 7. A new staircase linking the first and second floors. Design and permitting commonly take about 3 to 6 months. Active construction often runs about 5 to 7 months. Homeowners frequently need to leave the house during framing, which can last roughly 2 to 8 weeks.
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Denver Permits, Zoning, and Codes
In Denver, pop-top additions are major residential projects reviewed by the City and County of Denver Community Planning and Development (CPD). Related permits and reviews commonly include building, zoning, electrical, plumbing, mechanical/HVAC, and demolition when significant tear-off is required. Properties in historic districts or with landmark status may also need Landmark Preservation Commission review, which can add design constraints and timeline. Zoning controls height, setbacks, and bulk plane. Many single-family zones allow roughly 30–35 feet of height, while some are limited to about 25 feet. Side and rear setbacks and the bulk-plane envelope can force the second story to step back even when the first floor already sits at a lot line. Historic overlays in neighborhoods such as Wash Park, Country Club, and parts of Capitol Hill can add roughly 4–10 weeks for design review. As of mid-2025, Denver’s adopted codes include the 2024 IRC/IBC family for building, mechanical, plumbing, fuel gas, and fire, with the 2021 IECC still used for energy compliance, plus local amendments. Plan review for major residential projects can be lengthy; recent timing for this class of work has been cited around many months, so early zoning verification and complete architectural and structural drawings matter. A municipally licensed Denver general contractor coordinates the project and the licensed specialty trades who pull and perform electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work under the approved plans and inspections.
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Materials, Structure, and Systems
Second-story walls are commonly framed with 2x4 or 2x6 lumber. Floors and roofs often use engineered lumber for longer spans and tighter deflection control. Foundation reinforcement on older Denver homes may include extended concrete footings, new piers and beams, or helical piers where conditions require them. Exterior materials are usually selected to align with the existing house and neighborhood character—brick, stucco, wood, or fiber-cement siding, plus a new roof in asphalt, metal, or another system suited to the design. Energy-code insulation, efficient windows and doors, and a right-sized HVAC system are central because the home’s conditioned volume increases substantially. Utility rough-ins must be integrated with the existing systems rather than treated as a simple add-on.
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What Buyers and Homeowners Should Evaluate
Before starting a pop-top—or buying a home that already has one—review structural documentation, closed permits, and zoning compliance for height, setbacks, and bulk plane. Confirm that foundation capacity was engineered for the second story and that framing, weather barrier, roofing, and finishes integrate cleanly with the original structure. Ask how HVAC capacity, ductwork, electrical service, and plumbing were addressed for the added load. Unpermitted or incomplete work creates inspection, insurance, and resale risk. Expect full-house disruption for a multi-month build, with relocation during open framing. Budget contingency is important because foundation conditions are often not fully known until the structure is opened; a meaningful share of projects need more reinforcement than first assumed. Choose a team with specific Denver pop-top experience, structural-engineer collaboration, and a clear process for design, CPD permitting, inspections, and change management. Neighborhood value ceilings still matter: more square footage helps only when the finished home fits local demand and scale.
FAQ
Common questions
How long does a Denver pop-top addition take?
Design and permitting often take about 3 to 6 months. Construction commonly runs about 5 to 7 months after permits, depending on scope, inspections, historic review, and weather. Framing is usually the most disruptive stretch and may require temporary relocation for several weeks.
Do I have to change the foundation to add a second story?
Often yes, at least in part. Many single-story foundations and walls were not designed for a full second story. A structural engineer evaluates capacity and specifies reinforcement such as extended footings, piers and beams, or other support. Some older homes need more extensive work once conditions are fully visible.
What zoning limits affect a pop-top in Denver?
Height limits, side and rear setbacks, and bulk-plane rules are the main constraints. Even when the first floor is legal, the second story may need to step in or change roof form to stay inside the allowed envelope. Historic districts can add exterior design review on top of standard zoning.
Who handles the trade permits and licensing on a pop-top?
A municipally licensed Denver general contractor coordinates the overall building permit process and project. Licensed specialty trades handle electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work and the related trade permits and inspections under current Denver codes.
Will we need a new HVAC system?
In most cases the existing system is not sized for the added second-story load. Plan on evaluation and, frequently, replacement or major upgrade of equipment and ductwork so both levels heat and cool evenly and meet code.
Can we stay in the house during construction?
Some early and late phases may allow limited occupancy, but the open-roof and framing period is generally not livable. Many households relocate for roughly 2 to 8 weeks during that window, and overall disruption can extend across the full multi-month build.
Service Area
Serving Centennial and Arapahoe County
We serve Centennial, 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 Centennial project.
How It Runs
01
Survey
02
Design
03
Build
04
Verify
DESIGN SERVICES
Discovery & Site Analysis
Needs + preference programming, site survey, as-built documentation, feasibility.
We walk, measure, and photograph your property — existing conditions, utilities, structure, and constraints. You get the as-built documentation and feasibility read that every later decision rests on.
Learn more →Concept Design & Space Planning
Schematic design, floor plan studies, layout options.
Your scope becomes schematic floor plans you can compare side by side — circulation, daylight, adjacencies, and what each option does to the budget. Layout decisions happen on paper, where changes are cheap.
Learn more →Architectural Design & 3D Renderings
Design development, materials + finishes, photorealistic visualization.
The chosen concept resolves into materials, finishes, fixtures, and lighting — with the automation layer drawn in. Photorealistic renderings let you walk the space and adjust before anything is priced.
Learn more →Construction Documents & Permitting
Full CD sets, structural + MEP engineering coordination, permit-ready drawings.
Approved designs become coordinated architectural, structural, and MEP sheets — the set your jurisdiction permits from and trades build from. We submit, track, and answer review comments.
Learn more →CONSTRUCTION
New Construction & Custom Homes
Ground-up homes and light commercial, dirt to keys.
Ground-up residential and light commercial builds — foundations through finishes, including modular and steel construction. One accountable builder from dirt to keys.
Learn more →Remodels & Additions
Kitchens, baths, basements, pop-tops, whole-home.
Kitchens, baths, basements, pop-tops, and whole-home renovations that respect the house you already have. We handle structure, permits, and the dust.
Learn more →Commercial Tenant Finish & Build-Outs
Shells to working spaces — retail, office, restaurant, school.
Raw shells become working spaces — showrooms, offices, restaurants, schools. Dealer-spec finishes, code compliance, and opening dates held.
Learn more →ADUs & Modular Construction
Backyard cottages, garage conversions, factory-built homes.
Backyard cottages, garage conversions, and factory-built homes — zoning, design, permits, and set. Denver’s ADU rules are a specialty, not a surprise.
Learn more →Outdoor Living & Patio Structures
Decks, pergolas, and dining patios built for Colorado weather.
Decks, pergolas, and dining patios engineered for Colorado sun, snow, and hail — structure, shade, and drainage done right the first time.
Learn more →TECHNOLOGY
Smart Home Automation
Lighting, shades, climate, audio, security — one interface.
Whole-home control of lighting, shades, climate, audio, and security from a single interface — Crestron, Lutron, Savant, and Control4 designed in, not bolted on.
Learn more →A/V Systems
Theaters, distributed audio, video walls, commercial sound.
Theaters, distributed audio, video walls, and commercial sound — designed, installed, and tuned by the same team for over 20 years.
Learn more →Control Systems
Custom programming — scenes and schedules that fit the space.
Every subsystem brought into one elegant interface — custom programming for homes and venues, with scenes and schedules that match how the space is actually used.
Learn more →Networking & Edge Compute
Enterprise Wi-Fi, structured cabling, racks, on-prem compute.
Enterprise-grade Wi-Fi, structured cabling, racks, and on-premise compute — the backbone that makes everything else reliable, including our own Barbot platform.
Learn more →Solar & Energy Storage
Solar arrays, Tesla Powerwall, EV charging — certified install.
Solar arrays, Tesla Powerwall, and EV charging designed and installed by a Tesla Energy Certified team — roof, electrical, and app in one scope.
Learn more →TRUSTED TO BUILD FOR
- Punch Bowl SocialFirst four locations
- Spectrum RetirementSenior living communities
- Denver HighlandsFirst modular custom home
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