Denver Electrical Permit Guide for Homeowners

Electrical work is one of those home improvement tasks where you cannot skip steps, ignore the rules, or assume Denver will not notice. The city’s required permit system exists to protect your home, your electrical system, and your safety.

Whether you live in a single family home, a townhouse, or a property in a historic district, Denver wants to make sure any electrical work is safely completed and properly documented.

This permitting guide walks you through when you need a building permit, how the application process works, what information the city requires, and why letting a licensed electrician handle the permit application is often the smartest move.

The Electricians proudly serve Colorado, handle all applying for permits, and ensure your installation passes inspection the first time.

What Is a Denver Electrical Permit?

A Denver electrical permit is an official authorization issued by the City and County of Denver that allows electrical work to be performed safely and according to the National Electrical Code (NEC).

The permit ensures that:

• Work is completed by someone qualified
• The electrical system remains safe
• The installation passes inspection
• Your home remains compliant with Denver and Colorado regulations
• Insurance claims are not jeopardized by unpermitted work

Colorado is stricter than many states because unlicensed electrical work is a leading cause of home fires nationwide.

So if you are wondering whether the city is being nitpicky — they are, but for a very good reason.

Why Do You Need an Electrical Permit in Denver?

Here are the key reasons Denver requires electrical permits:

1. Safety First

Electricity does not forgive mistakes. Permits and inspections protect your home and family.

2. Code Compliance

All work must follow the NEC and Denver amendments — something that changes every few years.

3. Insurance Protection

Unpermitted work can result in denied claims. Insurance companies love to ask, “Was this permitted?”

4. Home Resale Value

Buyers often request proof of permitted work. Unpermitted wiring can derail a home sale.

5. Legal Protection

The permit holder is legally responsible for ensuring the work meets code.

Bottom line: a $50 to $100 permit can save you thousands in potential issues later.

What Electrical Work Requires a Permit in Denver?

This list is not exhaustive, but here are the most common projects that require a permit:

• Installing a new circuit
• Replacing or upgrading an electrical panel
• Adding outlets, switches, or lighting
• EV charger installation
• Running new wiring
• Hot tub, spa, or pool electrical work
• Basement or remodel wiring
• Installing a whole home generator
• Replacing a service mast
• Installing a smart electrical panel

Work That Does Not Usually Require a Permit

• Replacing a light bulb
• Swapping a faceplate
• Plugging in a lamp

If it connects directly to your home’s wiring, assume it needs a permit.

Who Can Pull an Electrical Permit in Denver?

Denver allows two parties to pull electrical permits:

1. Licensed Electrical Contractors

This is the best option. They handle the entire permit application and application process, coordinate inspections, and ensure work meets code. When a licensed electrician pulls the permit:

• They assume legal responsibility
• They ensure code compliance
• They coordinate inspections
• They shield you from liability

Most homeowners choose this option because it removes risk and stress.

2. Homeowners (Under Very Limited Conditions)

A homeowner can apply for a construction permit or building permit for their primary single family residence. Homeowners can pull their own permits only if:

• The home is their primary residence
• They personally complete all the work
• They accept full legal responsibility
• They are comfortable working with inspectors

You cannot pull a homeowner permit for:

• Rental properties
• Flips
• Secondary residences
• Work completed by someone else

If the inspector arrives and sees contractor work under a homeowner permit, the project can be shut down.

How to Apply for a Denver Electrical Permit

Denver’s process is handled through the e-permits portal, which allows you to submit the application online.

Here’s the step-by-step application process breakdown:

1. Create an e-permits account

You’ll need:

• Email
• Contact information
• Username and password
• Contractor license (if applicable)

2. Gather Required Information

Denver requires specific details, including:

• Job site address
• Square footage (if part of a remodel)
• Directions to the home
• Xcel Energy supplier information
• Cost of materials and labor
• Description of the electrical work

3. Choose Your Permit Type

Common options include:

• Quick Permit – for simple projects like outlets, switches, or minor wiring
• Building Log Permit – larger projects that require plan review
• Trade Permit – electrical-only work

For new construction or additions, Denver requires a Residential Construction Permit before applying for the electrical permit.

4. Submit Payment

Payment is made online at the time of application.

5. Receive the Permit

Most permits are issued quickly, especially Quick Permits. More complex projects may require plan review.

Permit Rules for State-Inspected Areas

Some projects fall under the Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations, not Denver. These include:

• Public schools
• State buildings
• State-inspected areas outside city jurisdiction

These applications follow a separate process with the state, not the city.

How Denver Electrical Inspections Work

Once your work is completed, Denver requires at least one inspection. Many projects require two:

1. Rough-In Inspection

Completed after the wiring is installed but before walls are closed.

2. Final Inspection

Completed once all devices, fixtures, and equipment are installed.

Inspectors verify:

• Code compliance
• Proper grounding
• Safe material usage
• Breaker sizing
• GFCI and AFCI protection
• Dedicated circuits where required

If the work does not pass, inspectors will leave notes and return for a re-inspection once corrections are made.

How Long Is a Denver Electrical Permit Valid?

Permits are valid for one year from the issue date.

If no inspections are performed during that year, the permit automatically expires and must be reissued.

Why You Should Let a Licensed Electrician Pull the Permit

While homeowners can apply for their own electrical permits, here’s why most choose not to:

1. The Permit Holder Is Legally Responsible

If the work fails inspection, the permit holder must fix it — even if they didn’t cause the issue.

2. Code Rules Are Complex

The NEC is updated every three years with hundreds of changes.

3. Inspectors Expect Professional Work

They will not “coach” homeowners through code issues.

4. Failed Inspections Delay Projects

Re-inspections can add days or weeks.

5. Incorrect DIY Work Can Become Expensive

Especially with EV chargers, panels, or remodel wiring.

Hiring The Electricians means the job is:

• Permitted
• Inspected
• Safe
• Code-compliant
• Guaranteed

That peace of mind is priceless.

Why Choose The Electricians for Permit-Required Work

The Electricians proudly serve the entire Denver metro area with licensed, insured, and highly trained professionals. We handle the entire permit process for you, ensuring:

• Faster approvals
• Zero paperwork on your end
• Flawless installations
• High-quality materials
• Code compliance
• Smooth inspections

We are known for our professionalism, integrity, and superior workmanship — and we are widely considered the best electricians in Colorado.

FAQs: Denver Electrical Permit Guide

Do small electrical projects need a permit?

If the project connects to your home’s wiring, yes. Even adding one outlet requires a permit.

How much does a Denver electrical permit cost?

Typical costs range from $50 to $100, depending on the project.

Can I perform electrical work without a permit?

Not legally. Unpermitted work can result in fines and failed home inspections.

Can homeowners pull their own permits?

Yes, for their primary residence — but they accept all liability and must perform the work themselves.

Do EV charger installations require a permit?

Absolutely. EV chargers require proper circuit sizing and safety checks.

How long does it take to get an electrical permit in Denver?

Quick Permits can be issued the same day. Larger projects may require a plan review.

Schedule a Free Estimate With The Electricians

Need electrical work done in Denver and want it permitted, inspected, and built to last?

Let Colorado’s most trusted electricians handle it for you.

Schedule your free estimate today.