Homeowners Building Permits

The building permit process

Home improvement projects can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to the process. Castle Rock's building team is here to help you get started with the proper tools for success. Building permits ensure that your contractor, and the work they do, meets all the Town building and safety codes. Building permits protect you, your family and your property.

Participating in the Town's review process and obtaining a permit are requirements for most home projects. Discussing your plans with us before you begin your project can save time and money as you move forward. If you are unsure whether you are required to get a permit, our staff will be happy to guide you through the steps. Here are some common projects that require a permit:

  • Basement finishes
  • Decks
  • Detached sheds
  • Remodels
  • Hot tubs

Is my property within Town limits?

If you are unsure that your property is under Castle Rock jurisdiction, please visit Douglas County Maps and follow the steps below to check your address:

  1. Type your address in the search bar, and select the correct property
  2. Select "Assessment Details"
  3. Expand the Account Summary section
  4. Verify that the Town of Castle Rock is listed as the Building Permit Authority

If your property is listed in a jurisdiction other than the Town of Castle Rock, please reach out to the appropriate party. 

How do I apply for a permit?

To submit your application with the Town of Castle Rock,  you will need to set up a public account on our digital eTRAKiT Development Portal.  After you have completed the registration process choose “Apply / New Permit” and follow the prompts. If you need help during this process or email the Development Services Building Counter or call 720-733-3527 for assistance.

For more information on eTRAKiT, please refer to the eTRAKiT Development Portal Guide. 

What if I'm doing the work myself?

As a homeowner, you may obtain a permit only if you are performing the work on your primary residence. You must own the property and reside there. Rental properties are no exception.

If you obtain a permit to complete the work yourself, you are expected to know the pertinent codes and will be held responsible for your work.

Homeowner Affidavit
Homeowners who choose to do the work themselves must submit a Home-Owner Affidavit. Home-Owner Affidavits must be signed and verified in-person at the Building Counter located at Town Hall, 100 N. Wilcox St. If you choose to send your affidavit electronically, you must first have it notarized by a Public Notary. Please note: It is illegal for anyone to sign a Home-Owner Affidavit other than the homeowner doing the work. Contractors may not sign and submit affidavits on behalf of a homeowner. 

What if I'm hiring a contractor?

List the contractor(s) you will be hiring on your permit. Contractors are required to have a current contractor registration with the Town of Castle Rock before starting any work. You can search to verify contractor registrations in the eTRAKiT Development Portal.

What are my responsibilities when choosing a contractor?

Contractors must be licensed and registered with the Town of Castle Rock Building Division in order to obtain a permit. A contractor's license must be in good standing before they are granted a registration. You can search to verify registration or search for qualified candidates by using the eTRAKiT Development Portal.

Plumbers and electricians also have licensing requirements at the state level. Visit the state’s licensing page to verify if your plumber or electrician is in good standing with the State of Colorado. 

If you need help determining whether you need a permit for your upcoming project, our staff is happy to help. Please email the Development Services Building Counter with a description of your project. A staff member will let you know if you need a permit and walk you through the steps to obtaining one.

  1. The eTRAKiT Development Portal is not working. What should I do?
  2. Do I need a building permit for my home project?
  3. How do I find the status of my building permit application?
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Building permits are required by Town code and ensure the value of your investment is protected. Codes are established to keep you, your property and your loved ones in a safe living environment during and after construction is completed. 

A building permit provides you with third-party verification that you, or your contractor, meet the minimum code requirements for your project.