The present disclosure features methods and systems for enforcing parametric constraints in a direct modeling interface in computer-aided design (CAD). A parametric geometry engine of a CAD application may compare an attempted edit to a feature in a direct modeling user interface of the CAD application to an existing constraint created in a parametric modeling user interface, and, in one embodiment, prevent the user from completing the edit. In other embodiments, the parametric geometry engine may present a dialog box to the user and allow them to reject the edit, override or delete the constraint, modify the constraint, or take other actions as appropriate. In still other embodiments, the parametric geometry engine may allow one user to edit the feature, but not another user. Thus, parametric constraints and permissions-based ownership of entities may be enforced in a direct modeling user interface.