Auto Repair Shop Permit Requirements in Denver, CO

1. EPA Small Quantity Generator (SQG) Registration

   Auto repair shops that generate used oil, antifreeze, or other hazardous waste must register with the EPA as a hazardous waste generator. Most auto shops qualify as Small Quantity Generators (SQG). Registration is administered through CDPHE in Colorado.

   Official government source

   Free (registration only; disposal costs vary)·2–4 weeks

   Free (registration only; disposal costs vary)

   2–4 weeks

2. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Colorado Motor Vehicle Repair — No State License Required

   Colorado does not require a separate state auto repair shop license for general mechanical repair. The Colorado Motor Vehicle Repair Act sets consumer protection standards (written estimates, authorization, warranty), but there is no pre-licensing requirement. Dealers selling vehicles need a Colorado dealer license, but repair-only shops do not.

   Official government source

   No fee·N/A

   No fee

   N/A

2. Colorado Sales Tax License

   Auto repair shops must obtain a Colorado Sales Tax License to collect sales tax on parts sold. Labor may be exempt depending on the type of service. Denver has its own city sales tax in addition to the state rate. Apply through the Colorado Department of Revenue.

   Official government source

   $16 (state license fee)·Immediate (online) to 1 week

   $16 (state license fee)

   Immediate (online) to 1 week

3. EPA Section 609 Certification (Automotive A/C)

   Technicians who service vehicle air conditioning systems must be EPA Section 609 certified. Required for individual technicians handling refrigerants.

   Official government source

   $20–$35 per technician·Exam at approved testing center; certificate immediate upon passing

   $20–$35 per technician

   Exam at approved testing center; certificate immediate upon passing

1. Denver Business License

   All businesses operating in Denver must obtain a Denver Business License from the Excise and Licenses Department. Auto repair shops require a general business license at minimum, and the Certificate of Occupancy must be in order. Contact Denver Excise and Licenses for the specific license class applicable to auto repair.

   Official government source

   $50–$500 (varies by business type and license class)·1–3 weeks

   $50–$500 (varies by business type and license class)

   1–3 weeks

2. Denver Building and Zoning Permit

   Auto repair shops must be located in appropriately zoned areas (industrial I-A, I-B, or commercial C-MX zones in Denver). A building permit is required for any improvements to the facility. Contact Denver Community Planning and Development for zoning verification and building permits.

   Official government source

   $200–$1,000 (varies by project scope)·2–6 weeks

   $200–$1,000 (varies by project scope)

   2–6 weeks

3. Denver Fire Department Inspection

   Auto repair shops storing and handling flammable liquids are subject to Denver Fire Department inspection. A certificate of occupancy requires fire safety compliance.

   Official government source

   Included in CO process·1–3 weeks

   Included in CO process

   1–3 weeks

4. Colorado CDPHE — Hazardous Waste and Used Oil Registration

   Denver auto repair shops generating used oil, antifreeze, solvents, and other hazardous materials must register with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). Paint booths require separate air permits through CDPHE.

   Official government source

   Free (registration); air permits vary ($100–$500)·2–6 weeks

   Free (registration); air permits vary ($100–$500)

   2–6 weeks

Official Sources

• Denver — Business Licensing
• Colorado Motor Vehicle Repair Act — AAA Colorado
• CDPHE — Hazardous Materials and Waste

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