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Planning & Zoning - All Other FAQs

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1. Do I need a permit for...?

The answer is probably "yes." It may be a building permit for new structures or additions, a miscellaneous permit for a shed, a special use permit for a satellite dish, a driveway permit, a fence permit, a sign permit or a grading permit. Find information about when permits are needed on the Types of Permits page.

2. How can I register my HOA?

See our Stay Informed Guide (PDF). 

3. How do I define the front lot line?

Learn more about how to define the front lot line (PDF).

4. How do I demonstrate access to my property?

Learn more about demonstrating access to your property (PDF).

5. How do I determine building height?

Learn more about measuring building height (PDF).

6. How do I ensure that I am meeting lot area requirements?

Learn more about meeting lot area requirements (PDF).

7. How do I establish a legal nonconforming use?

Learn more about establishing a legal nonconforming use (PDF).

8. How do I look up a permit?

Try our Jeffco Permit Search or explore our interactive Active Permits map.

9. How do I measure property setbacks?

Learn more about measuring setbacks (PDF).

10. How do I obtain an address for my property in Unincorporated Jefferson County?

Learn more about obtaining an address (PDF) for your property in Unincorporated Jefferson County.  

11. How do I obtain an ISDS permit on my property?

Learn more about obtaining a Residential Individual Sewage Disposal System (ISDS) Permit (PDF).

12. How do I place a fence on a property?

Learn more about placing a fence on a property (PDF).

13. How do I place a sign on a property?

Learn more about placing a sign on a property (PDF).

14. I called for my building inspection and found an Improvement Location Certificate (ILC) is needed. Why?

You should have been given this information when you applied for a building permit. Find information about the certificate on our Permitting Information web page.

15. The Assessor’s information shows a certain use for my property, is this my zoning?

No, the Assessor’s Office information is the actual use on the property, which is different from zoning. Zoning is all of the uses that could be allowed on the property. The Assessor’s office goes to the site and determines how the property is currently being used, for example if they see a residence on the property, it is classified as residential. If there is nothing on the property it is classified as vacant. The zoning is a designation that is used primary by Planning & Zoning to determine what use could be on the property. For example, the vacant land, if it is zoned Commercial – One the owner may be able to obtain a permit to build an office building. If it is zoned Residential – One, then they may be able to obtain a permit to build a single family home.

To determine zoning, please see our What is My Zoning? page.

16. What are my setbacks?

Setbacks are the distance required from a property line to any structure. You need to know setbacks prior to submitting a site plan to the county (for a permit). 

1. Find your zoning via our interactive GIS map. 
2. Turn on the "Zoning Planned Development" layer.
3. Search for your address and click on your property.
4. Once you see your zoning, the setbacks can be found in the corresponding "District" section of the Jefferson County Zoning Resolution. 

Read more about measuring setbacks (PDF). Please contact Planning & Zoning staff to verify setbacks and any special plat restrictions for your property.

17. When will I (or my registered association) receive notification of a land development application?

The County sends notifications when a formal application is accepted and/or a public hearing is scheduled. These notifications are sent to property owners and registered associations within the boundaries described in the notification sections of the Zoning Resolution and Land Development Regulation. If you are not registered, please review the Stay Informed guide and send us your Association Registration form.

18. What should I know about Mountain Living?

Our Mountain Living Checklist highlights some unique conditions associated with mountain living. It is intended to help potential mountain residents make informed decisions before buying.

19. Where do I contact utility companies?

Utility Company Contacts (PDF)