These are the current roofing codes for Douglas County and Highlands Ranch Colorado. The minimum sustained wind speed rating for asphalt shingles varies by elevation, specifically if the property is above 7000 feet.

Information Updated On

9/23/18

Building Department Phone

303-660-7497

Inspection Line

303-660-7497 option #1

Department Website

Informational Handout

Current Building Code

2012 IBC/IRC

Current Energy Code

2012 IECC

Requires a Building Permit

Yes

Other/Special Permits required

Sheathing

Roof System/Fire Rating required for Residential Dwellings

Class C

Roof System/Fire Rating required for Commercial Buildings

Class C

Roof System/Fire Rating required for Multi-Family

Class C

Special conditions

Class of roof system is dependent on type of construction

Minimum sustained wind speed rating for Asphalt Shingles

If over 7000 feet, sustained wind shall be 120 MPH

ASTM Standard for wind rating;

D 7158

Requires a manufacturer’s wind warranty

Per manufacturer 90/120

Requires wind nailing

Yes, if above 7000 ft

Inspectors carry ladders for the final

No, inspectors do not carry ladders

Requires final inspection

Yes

Requires mid-roof inspection

For batten roofing systems only

Maximum number of layers of flat roof material permitted

One unless approved by manufacturer

Require a sheathing/decking inspection

No

Requires solid sheeting (plywood/OSB) over spaced decking

Yes

Maximum gap size for sheeting

Any gap at all – asphalt shingles shall not be installed over spaced decking

Requires drip edge

Yes

Drip edge size minimum

4 x 2

Requires Rake/Gable metal edging

Yes

Enforces the use of Self Adhering Underlayment (i.e., Ice & Water)

No

Underlayment required for 4:12 and above

15# asphalt shingle

Type of valleys allowed

Open and closed

Valley Underlayment/Material required for closed valleys

Either – 90# or metal is also ok for asphalt shingle

Valley Underlayment/Material required for open valleys

Either – 90# is also ok

Kick-out required on Step Flashing

Yes

Minimum curb height requirement

Yes

Chimney crickets requirement

Any area 30” or more on a roof surface causing a water dam; ie. Skylights, swamp coolers.

Requires ridge cap

Yes

Requires ventilation to meet building codes

Yes

Requires blower door test when increasing ventilation to code

Yes

Requires Soffit eave/vents

Yes

Low Slope

1:12