HVAC Contractor Permit Requirements in Denver, CO

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hvac contractor in Denver, Denver County, Colorado.

Updated 2026-03-15 4 stops $600–$2,000 est. 8–14 weeks to obtain all licenses
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

2 stops

  1. EPA Section 608 Technician Certification

    Federal law requires all HVAC technicians who purchase or handle refrigerants to be certified under EPA Section 608 of the Clean Air Act. Certification is available in Type I (small appliances), Type II (high-pressure), Type III (low-pressure), and Universal categories. Certification is obtained through an EPA-approved testing organization such as ESCO Institute or NATE.

    Official government source

    $20–$60 (exam fee)1–2 weeks (exam scheduling)

  2. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Colorado

1 stop

  1. Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies — HVAC Contractor License

    Colorado requires HVAC contractors to hold a state license from the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). Applicants must pass a state exam and carry liability insurance. Local jurisdictions (including Denver) may have additional licensing requirements.

    $175 application fee + $75 exam fee6–10 weeks

City of Denver / Denver County

1 stop

  1. City and County of Denver — Mechanical Permit

    Denver requires a mechanical permit for HVAC installation and replacement projects. Permits are issued by Denver Community Planning and Development. Contractors must be registered with Denver.

    Official government source

    $100–$500 per project2–4 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $600–$2,000 · 8–14 weeks to obtain all licenses

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Official Sources

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