A Development Construction Permit (DCP) is an important step that helps move a project from planning to actual construction. It makes sure everyone involved knows the project’s plans, goals, and timeline. The permit also gives people a chance to go over the required construction rules, any other permits needed, and what needs to be done when the project is finished.

Who needs it?

The DCP is required before starting any improvements for a development that has gone through a Larimer County Planning Process. It is required for both public and private infrastructure projects, such as:

•    land divisions (like conservation developments, planned land divisions, subdivisions)    
•    site plans (like commercial and industrial developments)    
•    public projects (like schools, government buildings, and recreational areas)

Important: A Development Construction Permit (DCP) is for land improvements like grading, drainage, roads, and utilities. It does not cover building structures. To build the buildings, you need a separate Building Permit from the Larimer County Building Department.

When is it Issued?

The Larimer County Engineering Department will issue a Development Construction Permit after all the following steps have occurred:

•    The development has completed both the technical review process and the required land use application review and approval process.

•    The Engineering Department has signed the construction plans.

•    The Development Agreement or Drainage Agreement has been signed, and any required collateral has been provided.

•    The Developer has gotten the required State Stormwater Permit, Floodplain Development Permit, and permits for access, utilities, or any other work in the right-of-way (ROW).

•    The Developer has met all the preconstruction Conditions of Approval listed in the Project’s Findings and Resolution or Site Plan approval documents.

In addition to the steps mentioned above, a Development Construction Coordination Meeting must be held before a Development Construction Permit can be issued. The meeting is scheduled by the County Engineering Staff and usually takes place in the County Engineering offices. The following people are typically required to attend this meeting:

•    Developer and/or Project Manager    
•    Professional Engineer certifying the site and storm drainage improvements    
•    Professional Engineer performing and certifying the quality control materials testing    
•    General Contractor and key Sub-Contractor(s)

To get started on your application, please email Larimer County Engineering’s Development Review Team.

Development Construction Permit Fees    
 

Inspection and Certification

Work under the Development Construction Permit (DCP) must begin within 60 days of receiving the permit, and all work must be finished by the date listed on the DCP.

During construction, the project will be inspected by both the applicant's hired professional engineers and the County Engineering inspector. The applicant's engineering team is responsible for reviewing, inspecting, and certifying all aspects of the work, including material testing results. All test reports, inspection notes, and related documents should be sent to the County during construction.

If Larimer County Inspection Staff are needed, the Inspection and Notification Matrix must be followed.

Once all construction work is finished and the developer has completed all other requirements, the project enters a 2-year warranty period. During this time, the developer must take care of any repairs, maintenance, or replacements needed.

At the end of the 2-year warranty period, the County will reinspect the project improvements and create a punch list if any deficiencies are found. The developer is responsible for correcting any issues. Once all deficiencies are resolved, the development construction permit will be closed.

Other Related Permits:

•    Floodplain Development Permit 
•    Access Permit 
•    ROW Construction or Utility Permit 
•    Land Disturbance Permit (Coming Soon) 
•    Building Permit