Frequently Asked Questions

Refer to the Building Permit Process Page to understand if a permit is required. Examples of common, smaller projects that require a permit are replacing windows or building a shed. Email builderoftheday@gmail.com when in doubt.

A permit is required to build a fence. Refer to the Fence Permit Checklist (PDF) on our Building Department Document and Resource Library for the required submission materials. No fence within the City of Aspen can be taller than 6’. If it is in front of a street-facing facade it shall be no taller than 42” (26.575.020.e.5.q). 

 Mechanical equipment on the ground is prohibited between any street and structure and must be double the minimum setback from any street adjacent lot line.  If it is within the setback, it can be no taller than 30" above grade and 48" below grade (26.575.020.e.5.n). Mechanical equipment must be screened if it is visible from the street or on a roof. If mechanical equipment is being placed on a roof, it must be no taller than 6', including any pad the equipment is placed on. For buildings other than single family residences or duplexes, it must also be set back a minimum of 15' from any street-facing facade (26.575.020.f.4.e). 

Signage includes text, logos, images, or window decals used for the purpose of advertising. Unless the proposed sign is one of the signs listed in 26.510.040, a permit is required. The amount of signage allotted for a business can have can be found within our sign code under 26.510.100 - Sign Allotment. Letters may not be over 12" in height, except for the first letter, which may be up to 18". Logos may not be greater than 18" in height or width.  

No. Blinking, neon, and neon-appearing signs are strictly prohibited.  A full list of prohibited signs can be found in 26.510.030 - Prohibited Signs. 

On November 14th, 2023, Aspen City Council passed updated outdoor lighting regulations. The Guide to Updated Lighting Code (PDF) summarizes the updates. Lighting zone designation can be found using the “Outdoor Lighting Code” layer on the Planning and Zoning map . Refer to Chapter 26.512 for applicable code. With a few exceptions, all outdoor lighting is subject to curfew between 10pm and 7am. Seasonal lighting should be limited from November 15th and March 1st and is still expected to still adhere to the curfew. All lighting in the City of Aspen must come into compliance with the Outdoor Lighting Code by December 15th, 2028. Reach out to comdevzoning@aspen.gov with any questions regarding the Outdoor Lighting Code. 

Vending is not allowed in public parks and City right-of-way pursuant to 15.04.350. Food trucks and stands may only operate on private property in certain zone districts. Email planneroftheday@gmail.com to inquire about whether the desired location allows food trucks or food stands.  To operate on private property, an Outdoor Food/Beverage Vending License is required. The requirements in the Land Use Code for an Outdoor Food/Beverage Vending License are found in 26.470.090.g.  A Retail Food License is required in addition to the Outdoor Food/Beverage Vending license; email foodsafety@aspen.gov to apply for a Retail Food License 

Tents and other temporary structures such as airlocks may be allowed for up to 14 days per year (including set up and take down). Prior to installation, you’ll need to obtain an approved Tent or Temporary Structure permit. A land use process is required prior to installation if a like tent is proposed for more than 14 days in a year. This process requires the submission of a land use application, a public hearing, and the final approval by Aspen’s City Council.  

Tip: Plan ahead for this! You should allocate several months to go through the land use process. Contact planneroftheday@gmail.com to get started. Please email builderoftheday@gmail.com to discuss your proposal before you submit a land use application to understand applicable building codes.  

Any rental property with a term length of less than 30 days needs to apply for a short-term rental permit through the Community Development Department website, per 26.530. For more information on our short-term rental program, please refer to our STR webpage.

All residential dwelling units in the city are permitted to operate a home business as long as the primary use is residential. Home occupation businesses can employ no more than one person who is not a resident, and the business cannot cause a nuisance outside of the building. Interested individuals must apply for a home occupation license and meet the requirements outlined in 26.575.090.