Frequently Asked Questions

Sneller Drafting and Design has provided residential drafting in Loveland since 2003. The owner holds an associate's degree in architectural engineering and built residential homes and garages before focusing on drafting — so the drawings reflect what framing crews actually need on-site, not just what looks clean on paper.

Pricing depends on project scope, complexity, and how many revision rounds are needed. Small projects with a clear starting point move faster and cost less; additions and remodels involving existing structure take more time. Contact Sneller directly to discuss your scope and get a realistic number before committing.

Look for construction field experience alongside the drafting credential — someone who has framed walls or worked trades knows what's missing from a set when a crew shows up. Verify they're familiar with Larimer County permit office expectations, since a first-submission rejection delays your crew start date and costs real money.

A complete permit-ready set includes architectural dimensions, full floor plans, window and door schedules, exterior elevations, and a site plan with grading and setback information. Structural drawings from a licensed engineer are added to complete the package. The goal is matching exactly what Larimer County's building department expects so the application clears without redlines.

Cost varies with project size, whether structural engineering is needed, and how many revisions happen before the set is final. Engineering fees are separate and depend on the engineer selected — either yours or one the drafter recommends. Discussing scope upfront is the fastest way to get a realistic figure.

First-submission approval comes down to matching local code expectations precisely — correct setback calculations, complete schedules, and dimensions the plan checker can verify without calling for clarification. Over 20 years of drafting sets specifically for Larimer County review builds familiarity with what those reviewers flag most often.

Front Range lots carry specific setback requirements and zoning constraints that have to be calculated for your parcel, not approximated from a template. Designing around those rules during the planning phase — before anything is permitted — prevents code violations that force redesigns mid-project and delay permit approval.

Scope drives cost more than square footage alone — a straightforward rectangular floor plan on a flat lot costs less than an irregular lot requiring multiple setback calculations and design iterations. Revision rounds after the initial layout add time. Reaching out with lot dimensions and a room list allows for an honest scope conversation before work begins.

Ask directly whether the designer works with Larimer and Weld County zoning codes regularly and whether they calculate setbacks specific to your parcel during design — not at permit submission. Designers who catch code conflicts on paper save you from application rejections and the scheduling delays that follow a rejected first submission.

Lot shape, orientation, and existing utility easements all affect where walls can go and how setbacks are calculated. A drafter familiar with Loveland and Fort Collins residential lots flags those conflicts during the drawing phase, before concrete is poured, when fixing them costs nothing but time on paper rather than money in the field.

Drafting fees depend on the number of drawings required, project complexity, and revision cycles. A new single-family home requires more deliverables than a garage addition. Providing a room list, lot dimensions, and a clear starting concept reduces revision rounds and keeps costs predictable. Sneller can discuss scope at (970) 980-9580.

The service area covers Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Johnstown, and extends to Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Denver, and Aurora. Most drafting work is done remotely from drawings and site information you provide, so distance rarely affects turnaround the way it would for a contractor who needs to be physically on-site.