The Building Division enforces codes and regulations established by the 2021 International Building Codes and the 2018 International Energy Conservation Codes which govern the construction, alteration and maintenance of buildings and structures within the City of Centennial to protect residents and property.
Scroll down to the Building Codes tab for a complete list of Building Codes adopted by Centennial.
Permits, Licensing and Inspections
The Building Division handles permits and inspections for construction projects, approves contractor licenses and much more.
Do I need a building permit? You will need a building permit if your project involves constructing, enlarging, altering, repairing, moving, demolishing, or changing the occupancy of a building or structure. Additionally, a permit is required for any work on electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems. Additional information may be found in the 2021 International Residential Code R105.
Note: Permits and contractor licenses must be applied for online. If you need assistance, workstations are available in the City's Building Division office for your use. Please notify the Building Division via email of all online payments, revisions and new attachments.
Additional Information
Whether you’re looking to understand the permit process, need detailed checklists and guides, or want to stay updated with the current building codes, this section has essential information that guides you through your building journey. Dive in and explore our guides and resources below.
Permit Checklists and Building Guides
Take a look at the following guides and checklists for helpful project information:
Commercial Guides and Checklists
Residential Guides and Checklists
- Building Materials Use Tax Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
- Homeowners Agreement/Affidavit(PDF, 177KB)
- One and Two Family Residential Plans Checklist
- Options for Missed Mid-Roof Inspection
- Photo Submission Waiver Roofs(PDF, 237KB)
- Photovoltaic (Solar) Installation Guide(PDF, 1MB)
- Refund Request Form(PDF, 166KB)
- Residential Certificate of Occupancy (CO) & Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) Request Application(PDF, 252KB)
- Residential Patio Covers and Carports(PDF, 613KB)
- Residential Roof Repair/Reroof
- Single Family Basement Finish(PDF, 1MB)
- Single Family Residential Addition(PDF, 758KB)
- Single Family Residential Detached Garage(PDF, 607KB)
- Single Family Uncovered Decks and Porches(PDF, 581KB)
- Sub-Contractor List(PDF, 243KB)
- Virtual Inspection Guidelines(PDF, 273KB)
Current Building Codes
Current building codes adopted by the City of Centennial include:
Centennial Municipal Code ICC 2021 I-Codes
Notice: As of August 1, 2024, the City has adopted the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC). All permits submitted after this date must comply with the updated standards.
Tips for Hiring a Contractor
- Take your time!
- Get multiple estimates.
- Hire licensed contractors that are willing to obtain a permit.
- Check their insurance and bonding.
- Request references from 2-3 previous customers, ask for pictures of past work.
- Get everything in writing.
- Keep a job file.
- Understand your right to cancel.
- Do not pay upfront.
- Anticipate delays.
Tent and Temporary Structure Permits
Are you considering building a tent or other temporary structure? All tents and temporary structures built in Centennial must comply with applicable codes.
Requirements for Tents and Temporary Structures
- You must pull a building permit before building a temporary structure.
- South Metro Fire Rescue also requires a Temporary Structure Permit. South Metro Fire Rescue will dictate the design requirements.
- Temporary structures associated with a Temporary Use must have a Temporary Use Permit.
- Tents and temporary structures are only permitted for 180 days.
- Tents and temporary structures are not permitted to be occupied during snow events unless there is an approved plan to avoid the accumulation of snow. This may be accomplished by using approved tent heaters, and/or staff dedicated to brushing snow off the tent so there is no snow accumulation on the structure.
- Tents and temporary structures must be be heated while occupied.
Requirements for propane heaters
- If propane tent heaters are used, South Metro Fire Rescue will need to inspect.
- Propane tanks must be 10 feet from sidewalls or tents, secured in place and protected from tampering, and must be vented to the outside of the temporary structure in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Portable propane heaters (commonly called mushroom heaters) must be at least 5 feet from buildings and exit paths, and at least 10 feet from any combustible materials. This type of heater cannot be used under tents.
- They must be listed and have a shut-off feature if they are tipped over.
- The storage of propane tanks requires a permit from South Metro Fire Rescue.
- Propane tanks cannot be changed out while the area is open to the public. South Metro Fire Rescue regulates the storage quantity, location of storage, tamper protection and vehicle impact protection.
Requirements for portable electric space heaters
- They must be plugged directly into an electrical receptacle (no extension cords, power strips, etc.).
- They must be at least 3 feet away from combustible materials.
- They must be listed and have a shut-off feature if they are tipped over.
Apply for a Permit
Notice: As of August 1, 2024, the City has adopted the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC). All permits submitted after this date must comply with the updated standards.
Building Division Programs
There are multiple programs that assist Centennial residents. Centennial’s Home Improvement Program (HIP) helps qualifying homeowners make the most of their repair and remodel dollars with cash rebates. Learn more at the buttons below.