How Do I Get a Building Permit in Lake City, Colorado?

Hinsdale County's Building Department asks you to submit three forms: the Project Development Checklist, the Building Permit Application and the Use Tax Declaration. You can send them by mail, email, fax or in person at 311 North Henson St., then call the Building Official to continue.

Can I start before approval?

No. The county states that building cannot commence before permit approval by the Building Official and payment of fees.

Where do I pay?

Building permits for projects inside Lake City town limits are paid to the Town of Lake City. Use tax is always paid to Hinsdale County. Permits and use tax can be paid online.

Which codes apply?

The county has adopted the 2015 International Code Council building codes. Electrical and plumbing permits go through the State of Colorado, not the county.

What else might you need?

Septic systems need a separate permit (see my post on septic systems), and if the site may be in a floodplain, the county has a floodplain checklist and application. See my post on land and zoning.

Who do I contact?

The county lists the Building Department at 311 Henson St., phone 970-944-2225 ext. 104, email building@hinsdalecountycolorado.us, open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

What is the bottom line?

Start with the Building Department before you design or buy land to build on. They can tell you what a project will require.

Do I need a building permit in Hinsdale County?

The county requires one before building begins. Ask the Building Department for what applies to your project.

Who pays the permit fee inside town limits?

The Town of Lake City.

Is use tax separate?

Yes, it is always paid to Hinsdale County.

Which building codes does the county use?

The 2015 ICC codes.

Connect with a great real estate agent in Lake City, Kelsey Loftis with Crystal Peak Properties. Phone: (970) 784-6768 · Email: kelseyloftis@gmail.com · Website: crystalpeakproperties.com

Source: Hinsdale County, Building Department page (reviewed Nov. 1, 2026). Confirm current requirements with the department.