If you’re getting ready to repair or replace a roof in Denver, there’s more to consider than just shingles and style. Every roofing project in the city—no matter how seemingly straightforward—must adhere to a strict set of Denver, Colorado roofing codes. These regulations are in place to keep homes protected against the state’s harsh weather conditions and to ensure that all roofs meet modern standards for safety, energy efficiency, and long-term performance.
Whether you’re a homeowner dealing with hail damage, a contractor working on a remodel, or someone planning a full roof replacement, understanding the city and county’s requirements can save you time, money, and stress.
Understanding Denver, Colorado’s Roofing Code Framework
Denver’s climate can be brutal on roofing systems. Between sudden hailstorms, high winds, heavy snow, and intense sun exposure, your roof takes a beating. Denver, Colorado roofing codes (and building codes) are designed with all that in mind. They cover what materials are allowed to be used as well as how those materials are installed, when permits are required, what kind of inspections must happen, and even how your roof contributes to energy conservation. Following these rules isn’t optional, and being out of compliance can lead to denied permits, fines, or even having to tear off and redo the work.
Permits and Project Scope
Denver clarified roofing permit rules in April 2024. Homeowners replacing roofing on structures under 25,000 sq ft must pull a permit if they’re working on more than 10% of the roof or at least two roofing squares (200 sq ft), whichever is smaller. For larger buildings, that threshold drops to 5% due to Green Building rules, with no quick permits on those bigger roofs.
The rule also confirms that tasks like painting or applying a roof coating typically don’t need a permit. But any new holes in the roofing—such as for a skylight, vent, or solar panel—do trigger permit requirements.
Inspection Schedule
Modern roofing jobs in Denver must be checked at least twice. First, inspectors look after the underlayment or ice barriers go down. Then they return to inspect the finished roof—nailing, flashing, sealants, all of it.
Underlayment and Ice Barriers
Denver is in an “Ice Barrier Required” zone, which means you must install a self-adhering waterproof membrane along eaves, valleys, and around roof penetrations. In many areas, it must run at least 24 inches inside the outside wall. This protects against ice dams and snow melt backing up under shingles.
Layers and Shingle Quality
Denver requires all old roofing layers to be stripped off if there are two or more. That prevents heavy weight and poor nailing conditions under new shingles.
Only Class A fire-rated asphalt shingles are allowed. These must meet ASTM standards and be rated for Denver wind zones—up to 140 mph in some parts.
Flashing, Drip Edges, and Ventilation
While Denver’s most recent roofing codes guide didn’t detail flashing rules, it follows the IRC, which requires corrosion-resistant valley flashing at least 24 inches wide. Drip edges must be installed under underlayment at eaves and over it at rakes, and attics must have balanced intake and exhaust vents. Proper venting prevents moisture build-up and helps control ice dams.
City of Denver Roofing Codes in Action
Since April 2024, Denver, Colorado roofing codes have required permits for larger repair jobs. As work begins, homeowners must apply through e-permits, and inspections are scheduled under code numbers 205 (mid-job) and 201 (final).
Roofs on buildings over 25,000 sq ft fall under the Green Building Ordinance. That means they either need a “cool roof” with a Solar Reflectance Index of at least 78, be vegetative, incorporate solar panels, enroll in an energy-reduction program, or sign up for third-party green certification.
Anticipating 2025 Code Changes
Denver is adopting its new building and fire code based on the 2024 I‑Codes during Spring 2025. Then, starting in summer 2025, contractors and homeowners will have about six months to choose whether to build under 2022 or 2025 rules,
These changes aim to align Denver more closely with national standards, simplify amendments, and make energy requirements consistent—even as permits continue under the 2021 Energy Conservation Code framework.
How Does Mile Hi Roofing Differ from Other Roofing Companies? Do They Really Know Denver, Colorado Roofing Codes Inside and Out?
At Mile Hi Roofing, we follow Denver’s roofing codes to a T so our customers never have to worry about breaking any codes, or, more importantly, having a roof that can’t withstand Colorado’s weather.
We Keep Tabs on Every Code Change
Our team always stays up to date with all official code changes. More than that, we take the time to understand how those updates affect materials, installation methods, inspection schedules, and even the paperwork homeowners are required to submit before a project can begin.
We Know How Denver’s Permitting Process Works
When you work with us, you’re getting a partner who knows exactly how Denver’s permitting process works—how to navigate the online system, what documentation is needed, and which details inspectors are paying attention to. That means your roofing project won’t get held up by unnecessary delays, incomplete forms, or last-minute Denver, Colorado roofing codes corrections. We’ve built strong relationships with local inspectors, and we know what to expect at every stage of a job, from the first mid-roof check to final sign-off.
We Pay Attention to the Materials We Use
We also know how important materials are when it comes to code compliance. From fire-rated asphalt shingles to wind-tested installation methods and properly applied ice barriers, we use the right products the right way. We don’t cut corners, and we won’t recommend anything that doesn’t meet or exceed the standards outlined in Denver’s roofing regulations. Our crew is trained to install everything according to code, whether we’re adding attic ventilation to meet current airflow requirements or applying flashing and underlayment that protect against Denver’s freeze-thaw cycles and heavy storms.
We Take Compliance Seriously
Compliance exists for a reason. It helps ensure that your roof is properly protecting your home, honoring your investment, and building something that lasts. When you trust your roofing project to Mile Hi Roofing, you can feel confident knowing that every part of the job—from permits to cleanup—has been handled by a team that knows this city, knows the codes, and knows how to deliver quality work that holds up over time.
Final Thoughts on Denver, Colorado Roofing Codes
Denver’s roofing codes may confuse homeowners, but you and your contractor don’t have to go it alone. Permits, underlayment, ice barriers, proper layering, flashings, ventilation, ignition-resistant materials, and upcoming energy and fire code changes all play a role, and as (if we do say so ourselves) the best roofing company in Denver, we know how to make it all happen.
From pulling your permit to finishing under a final inspection, Mile Hi Roofing brings local expertise and reliable workmanship to every roof we work on. We adhere to every new rule in mind, so your roof performs well, protects your investment, and keeps you code-compliant.
For a Denver roofing partner who knows the Front Range like the back of their hand, please reach out. We’re here to support every detail—from paperwork to shingles.
