Do I need a permit to build a deck in Centennial, CO?

Yes, in most cases you need a building permit to build a deck in Centennial. Any deck that is attached to the house or elevated more than 30 inches above grade requires a permit under the International Residential Code as adopted by Colorado. Your permit application must include a site plan showing the deck's location on your lot, its dimensions, and the distance from all property lines. Freestanding ground-level platforms under a certain size may be exempt, but the City of Centennial's Community Development Department recommends confirming exemption status before beginning any work. Submitting an accurate site plan upfront helps avoid delays during the review process.

What are the setback requirements for residential properties in Centennial?

Setback requirements in Centennial vary by zoning district. For standard single-family zones such as R-1 and R-2, typical setbacks are 20 to 30 feet for the front yard, 5 to 7.5 feet per side yard, and 20 to 25 feet for the rear yard. Accessory structures like sheds and detached garages are often permitted closer to side and rear property lines, with a common minimum of 5 feet. Corner lots and through-lots may have different requirements. Always verify your specific setbacks through the City of Centennial's zoning map or by contacting the Community Development Department at 13133 E. Arapahoe Road before finalizing your site plan.

How long does it take to get a building permit approved in Centennial, CO?

Plan review timelines in Centennial depend on the complexity of your project. Simple residential projects such as decks, sheds, fences, and small accessory structures typically receive a review decision within 10 to 15 business days when submitted through the city's electronic plan review portal. More complex projects, including room additions, ADUs, and structural work, can take 3 to 6 weeks. If your application is incomplete or your site plan has errors, the review clock resets when you resubmit corrections. Submitting a complete, accurate application the first time is the most effective way to avoid delays and get your permit faster.

What needs to be on a residential site plan in Centennial?

A residential site plan submitted to Centennial's Community Development Department must include the lot's overall dimensions, all existing structures on the property with their footprints, the proposed improvement drawn to scale, setback measurements from the proposed structure to all property lines, a north arrow, a written scale, and impervious surface calculations. For projects near floodplain areas, additional notations may be required. Construction drawings or floor plans are also needed for additions and ADUs. The site plan must be legible and accurately reflect existing conditions on the ground. Reviewers use the site plan to verify zoning compliance before issuing a permit.

Can I draw my own site plan in Centennial, or do I need a licensed surveyor?

For most standard residential projects in Centennial, such as decks, sheds, fences, and small additions, you are not required to hire a licensed surveyor or engineer to prepare your site plan. Homeowners and contractors can draw their own site plans as long as the document is accurate, drawn to scale, and includes all required information such as lot dimensions, setbacks, and impervious surface totals. However, if your project involves significant structural work, is located near a floodplain, or requires engineering calculations, a licensed professional may be necessary. Tools like Site Plan Creator can help non-engineers produce professional-quality, permit-ready site plans for Centennial submissions.

Do I need a permit to install a fence in Centennial, CO?

Fences over six feet in height require a building permit in Centennial. Front yard fences are generally limited to four feet in height. Even for fences that fall below the permit threshold, placement must comply with setback and visibility requirements, particularly near driveways and street corners where sight-line triangles apply. If your property is in a neighborhood governed by an HOA, you will also need HOA approval before installing a fence, regardless of whether a city permit is required. Always check both city regulations and your HOA's design guidelines before purchasing materials or breaking ground on a new fence project.

What are the rules for ADUs in Centennial, CO?

Centennial allows Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in most residential zoning districts, reflecting Colorado's broader push to expand housing options. An ADU can be attached to the primary home, detached, or created through a garage conversion. A full building permit is required, and the application must include a detailed site plan, floor plans, and compliance documentation specific to ADU regulations. ADUs must meet setback requirements, maximum size limits, and parking standards set by the city. Owner-occupancy requirements may also apply. Because ADU rules can be complex and are subject to updates, contacting the City of Centennial's Community Development Department directly is recommended before finalizing your design.

How much does a building permit cost in Centennial, CO?

Permit fees in Centennial are calculated based on the estimated valuation of your construction project. The city uses a fee schedule that scales with project cost, so a simple shed permit will cost significantly less than a room addition or ADU. In addition to the base permit fee, you may pay plan review fees, which are typically a percentage of the permit fee. For small projects, total permit costs often range from around $100 to $300. Larger projects can run into the thousands of dollars. The most accurate way to estimate your fees is to use the City of Centennial's permit fee calculator or contact the Community Development Department with your project details.

What happens if I build without a permit in Centennial?

Building without a required permit in Centennial can result in serious consequences. The city may issue a stop-work order requiring you to halt construction immediately. You may be required to obtain a retroactive permit, which often involves exposing completed work for inspection and paying double the standard permit fees. Unpermitted work can complicate the sale of your home, as buyers' lenders and inspectors frequently flag unpermitted structures. In some cases, the city may require you to remove or demolish work that cannot be brought into compliance. Colorado's adopted building codes give local authorities broad enforcement powers, so it is always safer and more cost-effective to pull the permit before starting work.

Does my property in Centennial fall in a FEMA floodplain?

Some areas of Centennial are located within FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas, particularly near Dry Creek, Piney Creek, and other drainage corridors in the southern Denver metro area. If your property is in or adjacent to a floodplain, you may need a separate floodplain development permit in addition to a standard building permit, and your site plan will need to include elevation data and drainage information. You can check your property's flood zone designation using the FEMA Flood Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov. The City of Centennial's Community Development Department can also help you determine whether floodplain regulations apply to your specific project.

Site Plan Requirements in Centennial, CO (Permit Guide)

By Site Plan Creator Team • June 7, 2026

Centennial, Colorado homeowners must submit accurate residential site plans for most construction projects, from decks and fences to ADUs and room additions. This guide covers Centennial's permit triggers, setback requirements, and the local plan review process so you can move forward with confidence.

Site plan requirements for residential properties in Centennial, Colorado

Residential Site Plans and Building Permits in Centennial, CO

Centennial is one of Colorado's newest and fastest-growing cities, incorporated in 2001 and situated in Arapahoe County just south of Denver. With a strong mix of established subdivisions, active HOAs, and ongoing infill development, the city places serious emphasis on accurate residential site plans for nearly every construction project that touches the exterior of your property. Whether you are adding a deck off the back of your home, converting a garage into an ADU, or simply installing a new driveway, the City of Centennial's Community Development Department will require a properly prepared site plan as part of your permit application. Getting that document right from the start saves you time, money, and the frustration of a rejected submittal.

What Is a Residential Site Plan and Why Does Centennial Require One?

A residential site plan is a scaled, bird's-eye drawing of your property that shows the lot boundaries, existing structures, proposed improvements, and key measurements such as setbacks from property lines. Centennial requires site plans because the city must verify that your proposed project complies with the Centennial Municipal Code and the applicable zoning district standards before issuing a permit. Reviewers use the site plan to confirm that structures do not encroach on required setbacks, that impervious surface limits are respected, and that drainage patterns are not adversely affected. Without a compliant site plan, your permit application cannot move forward.

Permit Triggers: What Projects Require a Permit in Centennial?

Centennial follows the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) as adopted by the State of Colorado, with local amendments. The following residential projects typically require a building permit and an accompanying site plan:

Decks and patios: Any deck attached to the house or elevated more than 30 inches above grade requires a permit. Ground-level patios under certain size thresholds may be exempt, but always confirm with the city.
Sheds and accessory structures: Sheds larger than 120 square feet generally require a permit. Smaller sheds may still require zoning approval depending on placement.
Swimming pools and hot tubs: In-ground pools always require a permit. Above-ground pools over 24 inches deep also require one.
Fences: Fences over six feet in height require a permit. Fences in front yards are typically limited to four feet.
Room additions: Any addition to living space requires a full building permit and detailed site plan.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Centennial allows ADUs in most residential zones, but they require a full permit package including a site plan, floor plans, and compliance with ADU-specific regulations.
Driveways: New driveways or significant expansions require a permit, and impervious surface calculations must be included on the site plan.
Retaining walls: Walls over four feet in height (measured from the bottom of the footing) require a permit and engineering review.

Zoning Considerations and Local Quirks in Centennial

Centennial has several locally specific factors that homeowners and contractors should be aware of before submitting a permit application.

HOA Overlap

A large percentage of Centennial's residential neighborhoods are governed by homeowners associations. HOA approval is separate from city permit approval, and many projects require both. Getting your city permit does not mean your HOA has approved the project. Always check with your HOA before beginning any exterior work.

Impervious Surface Limits

Centennial and Arapahoe County both pay close attention to impervious surface coverage, particularly in areas that drain into Cherry Creek and the South Platte River watershed. Adding a large patio, driveway expansion, or outbuilding can push your lot over allowable impervious surface percentages. Your site plan must show all existing and proposed hard surfaces so reviewers can calculate total coverage.

Floodplain Considerations

Portions of Centennial fall within FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas, particularly near Dry Creek and Piney Creek corridors. If your property is in or near a floodplain, additional documentation and a floodplain development permit may be required. You can check your property's flood zone status at the FEMA Flood Map Service Center.

Colorado Wildfire Interface

While Centennial's urban setting is less directly affected by wildfire than mountain communities, Colorado's statewide adoption of the International Wildland-Urban Interface Code means that certain material and construction standards may apply to projects near open space areas.

Typical Setback Requirements in Centennial

Setbacks in Centennial vary by zoning district, but the following ranges are typical for standard single-family residential (R-1 and R-2) zones:

Front yard setback: 20 to 30 feet from the front property line
Side yard setback: 5 to 7.5 feet per side
Rear yard setback: 20 to 25 feet from the rear property line
Accessory structures (sheds, detached garages): Often allowed closer to rear and side property lines, typically 5 feet minimum

Always verify the exact setbacks for your specific zoning district through the City of Centennial's Community Development Department or by reviewing the zoning map on the city's website. Setbacks for corner lots and through-lots often differ from standard interior lot requirements.

The Permit Submission Process in Centennial

Where to Submit

Centennial uses an online permitting portal for most residential permit applications. Applicants can submit plans, pay fees, and track review status through the city's electronic plan review system. In-person submissions are also accepted at the Community Development Department, located at Centennial Civic Center, 13133 E. Arapahoe Road, Centennial, CO 80112.

What to Include in Your Application

A typical residential permit submittal in Centennial includes:

Completed permit application form
Scaled site plan showing lot dimensions, all existing structures, proposed improvements, setback measurements, and north arrow
Construction drawings or floor plans (for additions, ADUs, and structural work)
Impervious surface calculations
Applicable fees (vary by project valuation)

Plan Review Timelines

For straightforward residential projects such as decks, sheds, and fences, Centennial typically completes plan review within 10 to 15 business days for over-the-counter or standard electronic submittals. More complex projects such as additions and ADUs may take 3 to 6 weeks. If your application is incomplete or has errors, the review clock resets after you resubmit corrections, which is why submitting an accurate, complete site plan the first time matters so much.

Common Reasons Applications Get Rejected in Centennial

Plan reviewers in Centennial most frequently send applications back for the following reasons:

Missing or inaccurate setback dimensions: The site plan does not clearly show the distance from the proposed structure to all property lines.
No scale or north arrow: Site plans must be drawn to a recognizable scale with a north arrow indicated.
Incomplete impervious surface calculations: Reviewers cannot assess drainage compliance without totals for all hard surfaces.
Incorrect zoning district assumptions: Applicants sometimes use setback requirements from the wrong zone. Always confirm your zoning designation first.
Missing survey or lot dimensions: If the lot dimensions are not shown or do not match county records, the application will be returned.
HOA approval not addressed: While the city does not enforce HOA rules, some projects require proof that HOA review has been initiated.

Get Your Centennial Site Plan Right the First Time

Preparing a compliant, accurate residential site plan does not have to be complicated. Site Plan Creator gives Centennial homeowners and contractors a fast, affordable way to generate professional-quality site plans that meet local permit requirements. With intuitive tools designed for non-engineers and a final output that building departments accept, you can stop worrying about rejection and start building. Visit Site Plan Creator today to get started on your Centennial permit application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to build a deck in Centennial, CO?: Yes, in most cases you need a building permit to build a deck in Centennial. Any deck that is attached to the house or elevated more than 30 inches above grade requires a permit under the International Residential Code as adopted by Colorado. Your permit application must include a site plan showing the deck's location on your lot, its dimensions, and the distance from all property lines. Freestanding ground-level platforms under a certain size may be exempt, but the City of Centennial's Community Development Department recommends confirming exemption status before beginning any work. Submitting an accurate site plan upfront helps avoid delays during the review process.
What are the setback requirements for residential properties in Centennial?: Setback requirements in Centennial vary by zoning district. For standard single-family zones such as R-1 and R-2, typical setbacks are 20 to 30 feet for the front yard, 5 to 7.5 feet per side yard, and 20 to 25 feet for the rear yard. Accessory structures like sheds and detached garages are often permitted closer to side and rear property lines, with a common minimum of 5 feet. Corner lots and through-lots may have different requirements. Always verify your specific setbacks through the City of Centennial's zoning map or by contacting the Community Development Department at 13133 E. Arapahoe Road before finalizing your site plan.
How long does it take to get a building permit approved in Centennial, CO?: Plan review timelines in Centennial depend on the complexity of your project. Simple residential projects such as decks, sheds, fences, and small accessory structures typically receive a review decision within 10 to 15 business days when submitted through the city's electronic plan review portal. More complex projects, including room additions, ADUs, and structural work, can take 3 to 6 weeks. If your application is incomplete or your site plan has errors, the review clock resets when you resubmit corrections. Submitting a complete, accurate application the first time is the most effective way to avoid delays and get your permit faster.
What needs to be on a residential site plan in Centennial?: A residential site plan submitted to Centennial's Community Development Department must include the lot's overall dimensions, all existing structures on the property with their footprints, the proposed improvement drawn to scale, setback measurements from the proposed structure to all property lines, a north arrow, a written scale, and impervious surface calculations. For projects near floodplain areas, additional notations may be required. Construction drawings or floor plans are also needed for additions and ADUs. The site plan must be legible and accurately reflect existing conditions on the ground. Reviewers use the site plan to verify zoning compliance before issuing a permit.
Can I draw my own site plan in Centennial, or do I need a licensed surveyor?: For most standard residential projects in Centennial, such as decks, sheds, fences, and small additions, you are not required to hire a licensed surveyor or engineer to prepare your site plan. Homeowners and contractors can draw their own site plans as long as the document is accurate, drawn to scale, and includes all required information such as lot dimensions, setbacks, and impervious surface totals. However, if your project involves significant structural work, is located near a floodplain, or requires engineering calculations, a licensed professional may be necessary. Tools like Site Plan Creator can help non-engineers produce professional-quality, permit-ready site plans for Centennial submissions.
Do I need a permit to install a fence in Centennial, CO?: Fences over six feet in height require a building permit in Centennial. Front yard fences are generally limited to four feet in height. Even for fences that fall below the permit threshold, placement must comply with setback and visibility requirements, particularly near driveways and street corners where sight-line triangles apply. If your property is in a neighborhood governed by an HOA, you will also need HOA approval before installing a fence, regardless of whether a city permit is required. Always check both city regulations and your HOA's design guidelines before purchasing materials or breaking ground on a new fence project.
What are the rules for ADUs in Centennial, CO?: Centennial allows Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in most residential zoning districts, reflecting Colorado's broader push to expand housing options. An ADU can be attached to the primary home, detached, or created through a garage conversion. A full building permit is required, and the application must include a detailed site plan, floor plans, and compliance documentation specific to ADU regulations. ADUs must meet setback requirements, maximum size limits, and parking standards set by the city. Owner-occupancy requirements may also apply. Because ADU rules can be complex and are subject to updates, contacting the City of Centennial's Community Development Department directly is recommended before finalizing your design.
How much does a building permit cost in Centennial, CO?: Permit fees in Centennial are calculated based on the estimated valuation of your construction project. The city uses a fee schedule that scales with project cost, so a simple shed permit will cost significantly less than a room addition or ADU. In addition to the base permit fee, you may pay plan review fees, which are typically a percentage of the permit fee. For small projects, total permit costs often range from around $100 to $300. Larger projects can run into the thousands of dollars. The most accurate way to estimate your fees is to use the City of Centennial's permit fee calculator or contact the Community Development Department with your project details.
What happens if I build without a permit in Centennial?: Building without a required permit in Centennial can result in serious consequences. The city may issue a stop-work order requiring you to halt construction immediately. You may be required to obtain a retroactive permit, which often involves exposing completed work for inspection and paying double the standard permit fees. Unpermitted work can complicate the sale of your home, as buyers' lenders and inspectors frequently flag unpermitted structures. In some cases, the city may require you to remove or demolish work that cannot be brought into compliance. Colorado's adopted building codes give local authorities broad enforcement powers, so it is always safer and more cost-effective to pull the permit before starting work.
Does my property in Centennial fall in a FEMA floodplain?: Some areas of Centennial are located within FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas, particularly near Dry Creek, Piney Creek, and other drainage corridors in the southern Denver metro area. If your property is in or adjacent to a floodplain, you may need a separate floodplain development permit in addition to a standard building permit, and your site plan will need to include elevation data and drainage information. You can check your property's flood zone designation using the FEMA Flood Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov. The City of Centennial's Community Development Department can also help you determine whether floodplain regulations apply to your specific project.

How to Create a Site Plan in Centennial

Confirm Your Zoning and Permit Requirements: Before drawing anything, look up your property's zoning designation using Centennial's online GIS map or contact the Community Development Department at 13133 E. Arapahoe Road. Knowing your zone tells you the exact setbacks, height limits, and impervious surface maximums that apply to your lot. Also confirm whether your project triggers a permit requirement or falls under an exemption. If your neighborhood has an HOA, contact them at this stage as well, since HOA approval is separate from city approval.
Prepare Your Residential Site Plan: Create a scaled site plan that shows your lot's dimensions, all existing structures, the proposed improvement, and setback distances from every property line. Include a north arrow, written scale, and impervious surface calculations covering all hard surfaces on the lot. For most standard residential projects in Centennial, you do not need a licensed surveyor. Tools like Site Plan Creator can help you produce an accurate, professional site plan that meets the city's submittal standards without requiring engineering expertise.
Gather Supporting Documents and Pay Fees: Assemble your completed permit application form, site plan, construction drawings or floor plans (required for additions and ADUs), and any supplemental documents such as floodplain information if your property is near a FEMA-designated area. Calculate your permit fees based on the project's estimated construction valuation using the city's fee schedule. Having all documents ready before you log into the portal prevents incomplete submittals that delay your review clock.
Submit Through Centennial's Online Portal: Centennial accepts electronic plan submittals through its online permitting portal, which allows you to upload documents, pay fees, and track review status from home. In-person submittals are also accepted at the Community Development Department. Once submitted, a plan reviewer will be assigned to your project. Simple projects like decks and sheds typically receive a decision within 10 to 15 business days. If corrections are needed, respond promptly to avoid additional delays.
Respond to Review Comments and Schedule Inspections: If the plan reviewer returns comments requesting corrections or additional information, update your site plan or documents and resubmit as quickly as possible. Once your permit is approved, post it visibly at the job site. Schedule all required inspections through the city's portal or by phone at the stages specified in your permit, such as footing, framing, and final inspections. Work must not be covered before the relevant inspection is completed and approved.