Building Code & Design Information

Building Codes

The City of Lafayette has adopted the 2021 I-code package and the 2023 NEC with an effective date of August 1, 2023.  All permit applications and accompanying documents submitted after 2pm on July 24th need to comply with the 2021 I-Codes (International Building, Residential, Fire, Existing Building, Energy Conservation, Mechanical, Fuel Gas, Plumbing, Swimming Pool and Spa, and Property Maintenance Codes) and the 2023 National Electrical Code.  All permit applications and accompanying documents submitted and accepted by the City between now and July 24th at 2pm are permitted to meet either the 2015 I-Codes and 2020 NEC or the 2021 I-Codes and the 2023 NEC.

2023 Lafayette Colorado Building Code

To learn more about updates and implementation, please visit our Lafayette Listens page.

The City of Lafayette has adopted the following model codes:

  • International Building Code 2021
  • International Energy Conservation Code 2021
  • International Fuel Gas Code 2021
  • International Mechanical Code 2021
  • International Plumbing Code 2021
  • International Residential Code 2021
  • National Electrical Code 2023
  • Roofing Code Handout/Checklist
  • Reroof Inspection Requirements
  • The City of Lafayette requires a permit for any roof work requiring one square or more of shingles. However, we will not specify whether or not an entire reroof is required.
  • 2021 International Residential Code and International Building Code 
  • Amendment: Class 4 Impact Resistant Shingles are required. Documentation or packaging of Class 4 IR Shingles is required for inspection along with the Inspection Record Card - effective March 15, 2021.
  • Drip edge/rake metal is required
  • Ice and water shield is required 
  • Asphalt roofs shall have no more than two layers
  • Shingles must comply with ASTM D7158 (Class G or H) or shingles must comply with D3161 Class F
  • Building Inspection Information/Checklist
  • Procedure for Contemporaneous Reviews of Electrical and Plumbing Licenses

Design Information

  • Frost depth: 36 inch frost depth
  • Snow load: 30 pounds / square foot roof and ground
  • Wind speed: 105 mph at 3 second gust, single family
    Risk Category 1 Vult = 120 mph
    Risk Category 2 Vult = 135 mph
    Risk Category 3, 4 Vult = 145 mph

Plan Sizes

  • Accessory dwelling unit plans: no larger than 24 inches by 36 inches
  • Commercial tenant finish plans: no larger than 24 inches by 36 inches
  • New single-family and multi-family plans: no larger than 24 inches by 36 inches
  • New commercial building plans: no larger than 24 inches by 36 inches
  • Residential remodel plans: no larger than 11 inches by 17 inches

Old Town Design Resources

Other Requirements / Resources