Denver’s City Planning and Development Director Stepping Down

In a surprising move, Denver’s head of Community Planning and Development, Manish Kumar, is stepping down after just over a year in the role. Appointed by Mayor Mike Johnston in February 2024, Kumar set out with a focused mission: reorganize the city’s planning department, launch the new Denver Permitting Office (DPO), and implement reforms to improve permitting efficiency. According to Kumar, that mission is “now complete.” During his tenure, the city opened the DPO, introduced an express permitting process, and significantly cut residential permit wait times by 30% compared to 2023. While Kumar’s exit is effective June 6, his impact has already reshaped how Denver manages growth and development.

What This Means for Home Remodels, Custom Homes, and ADUs in Denver:

For homeowners and builders alike, these changes bring long-awaited improvements. One of the most persistent challenges in Denver’s construction and development scene has been the slow permitting process, often delaying remodels, custom home builds, and accessory dwelling unit (ADU) projects. With the DPO now fully operational and early signs of faster processing times, homeowners planning remodels or additions can expect fewer roadblocks and more predictability.

Custom home building may benefit even more. Reduced permit delays help projects stay on schedule and within budget—both critical for clients investing in ground-up construction. Likewise, as Denver continues to promote housing affordability, ADUs are becoming a growing part of the city’s residential fabric. A more efficient permitting process may help homeowners act on those opportunities sooner.

While the search for a new CPD executive director begins, Kumar’s short but productive tenure has left behind a more responsive permitting framework. At Sustainable Design Build, we’ll continue tracking these developments and guide our clients through every step—so their projects keep moving forward, no matter who’s in charge at City Hall.

Sustainable Design Build’s Perspective on Denver Permit Times

At Sustainable Design Build (SDB), we’ve long recognized that permitting delays are one of the biggest challenges homeowners face when planning major construction projects—whether that’s a custom home, a full remodel, or a home addition. Over the years, our team has tracked average permitting times closely and has worked diligently to build buffer periods into timelines, communicate realistic expectations to clients, and keep projects on track despite shifting city workflows.

The recent improvements under Kumar’s leadership have been a welcome change, but we know from experience that real-world permitting timelines can still vary greatly depending on project complexity, zoning, and coordination between city departments. For example, even with recent gains, ADU and home addition permits in certain neighborhoods can still face extended reviews tied to historic districts, utility coordination, or land use exceptions.

Why Permit Reform Matters for Homeowners and Builders

Permit delays don’t just slow down construction—they impact design choices, financing, and client confidence. When residential permit timelines stretch from weeks into months, it creates uncertainty around schedules and often leads to increased costs. Kumar’s reforms have shown what’s possible when leadership prioritizes efficiency, and that’s why SDB remains hopeful that Denver continues to invest in faster, more transparent permitting practices.

For clients looking to build a custom home, remodel an aging house, or add square footage with a second-story addition or ADU, reduced permit times can make a meaningful difference in planning and execution. It allows our team to start projects sooner, avoid costly delays, and provide a smoother overall experience.

What Comes Next? SDB Will Be Watching Closely

Although Kumar is stepping down, the infrastructure he helped put in place—the Denver Permitting Office and a renewed focus on turnaround times—offers momentum the city can build on. But leadership transitions often come with risk, and Sustainable Design Build will continue monitoring any shifts in policy or performance as a new CPD director is appointed.

We’re committed to staying ahead of permitting trends and city process changes so we can continue delivering realistic timelines, adaptive planning, and honest communication to our clients. Whether it’s navigating updated submittal requirements or interpreting policy changes tied to housing affordability, we’ll be here—ready to guide you through the process, from concept to construction.

Planning a Project in Denver? Let’s Talk Early

If you’re considering a remodel, addition, ADU, or custom home project in Denver, the permitting process will play a key role in how and when your vision becomes reality. Reach out to Sustainable Design Build early in your planning so we can help you assess feasibility, align your goals with current permitting realities, and create a strategy that minimizes delays.

With changes continuing at City Hall, working with a team that understands Denver’s permit landscape—and knows how to navigate it—is more valuable than ever.