DID YOU KNOW…?  The Pikes Peak Building Department is one of the first stops for Owners considering a new project.  

All new plan submittals received on or after June 30, 2023 must be submitted under the 2023 Pikes Peak Regional Building Code. 

A HISTORY OF THE DEPARTMENT:

Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD) is responsible for the plan review, permitting, and inspection of all construction activity within the unincorporated areas of El Paso County, as well as the participating incorporated municipalities within the County. The Department was formed by an Intergovernmental Agreement between the City of Colorado Springs and El Paso County in 1966 to provide uniform service to their jurisdictions. The Department performs plan reviews, issues permits, and inspects construction work within the scope of the building, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and elevator codes, as well as enforces floodplain and enumeration regulations. Further, the Department licenses and registers contractors who perform work within the jurisdictions served.

The Department is self-funded by plan review, permit, and licensing fees. An independent auditor performs an annual cost analysis. Fee adjustments are proposed when the Regional Building Commission determines them to be necessary to maintain the Department’s operation(s).

FIVE THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE UNDERTAKING A PROJECT

1.    Do your homework before starting your project. The PPRBD’s website has a vast list of handouts for commercial projects and homeowners considering a remodel, a home addition, new garage, or sunroom.  Browse the Commercial or Residential Handouts that describe the requirements for a new project permit at the PPRBD website.  

2.    When looking to hire a contractor, plumber, or electrician, verify their active license and insurance at PPRBD’s contractor search  

3.    Some projects do NOT require a permit. If you’re unsure about your project’s status, find a list of projects where a permit is not required.  

4.    One of the most common questions asked is, “Why do I have to permit my project?”, and the easy answer is that it’s the law.  More importantly, it is for the safety and value of your property.  There are building code standards and inspection requirements to ensure contractors perform quality work.  When a property is transferred due to a sale, the permit activity is reviewed to confirm that property improvements were completed under a permit.  Try the Department’s Fee Calculator to get an estimate of the permit cost. 

5.    While undertaking a permitted project, Owners can track the progress of the project and inspection results by searching the property address or by entering the permit number. This is a great way to stay informed of the Inspectors comments and approvals.