Arapahoe County covers the southeastern Denver metro area, including Centennial, Aurora, Englewood, Littleton, and many unincorporated communities. Most Arapahoe County residents live within an incorporated city or town, which handles their own permits. Unincorporated areas use the county's Development Services Division.
The shed threshold in unincorporated Arapahoe County is 200 sq ft, consistent with most Colorado county norms. All decks attached to the house require a permit. Fences generally don't require a permit, though setback and height limits apply. Colorado's 36-inch frost line means footing requirements for all structures are more demanding than in warmer states.
Arapahoe County Development Services is at 6924 S. Lima Street, Centennial, CO 80112. Phone: (720) 874-6750. Online portal: arapahoegov.com. Permit fees are based on project value — shed permits $60–$150, deck permits $100–$250. Review takes 5–10 business days for residential projects.
What Requires a Permit
Frequently Asked Questions
- A 12×20 shed is 240 square feet, which exceeds Arapahoe County's 200 sq ft threshold. A building permit is required in unincorporated Arapahoe County. If you're inside Centennial, Aurora, Englewood, or another city, contact that city's building department. Centennial uses the county's system — so Centennial residents do use the county portal.
- Centennial is the primary city in Arapahoe County that uses the county's Development Services for building permits, as Centennial contracts with the county for building services. Most other incorporated municipalities — Aurora, Englewood, Littleton — have their own building departments. If you're unsure, use the Arapahoe County property search at arapahoegov.com to confirm your jurisdiction.