Denver rental license requirements (plain-language overview)
This page is a simple, plain-language explanation of how Denver’s residential rental licensing rules generally work. It does not replace official guidance from the City and is not legal advice, but it can help you understand what to expect before you start.
Who usually needs a Denver rental license?
In general, a license is required when:
- You own a house, condo, townhome, ADU, or small multi-unit property located inside the City and County of Denver, and
- You rent that property (or part of it) to tenants under a lease agreement for residential use.
Some common examples that often require a license:
- A single-family home rented to a long-term tenant.
- A condo downtown or in a mid-rise building leased to a tenant.
- A house with an ADU where one or both are rented out.
- A duplex, triplex, or small multifamily property with rental tenants.
If you are unsure whether your property is inside Denver city limits, we can help you check that. The City of Denver has the final say on borderline cases.
Key parts of the licensing process
While details can change over time, the Denver residential rental license process generally has four main parts:
- Property eligibility. Confirming that the property is within Denver and used as a residential rental.
- Inspection. Scheduling and passing an inspection by a qualified inspector using the city’s checklist.
- Documentation. Collecting inspection reports and basic ownership or property information.
- Application and follow-up. Submitting everything through Denver’s portal and responding to questions from the city.
What the inspection typically looks at
The inspector uses a checklist based on city requirements. While each property is unique, common items include:
- Working heat and basic utilities.
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in required locations.
- Electrical outlets, lights, and panels appear safe and functional.
- Windows and doors that operate and lock properly.
- Safe, usable exits in case of an emergency.
If something doesn’t meet the standard, the inspector may note it as a correction. In many cases, you can fix items and have them rechecked.
Documents you can expect to gather
Typical documentation requested during the process may include:
- The inspection report and any certificates from your inspector.
- Basic ownership information and contact details.
- The property address and number of rental units at that address.
- Any supporting documents the city requests as they review the application.
How we fit into this process
Our role is to make this easier for owners by:
- Confirming that your property appears to fall under Denver’s rental license rules.
- Coordinating the inspection or working with an existing inspection that meets city standards.
- Organizing your documents in the format the city expects.
- Submitting the application through the Denver portal and handling follow-up questions from the city.
If you’d like us to handle the process for a specific property, you can request a quote on the main site or email [email protected].
This page is for general information only and is not legal advice or official guidance from the City of Denver.