Bolthole Index

Clear Creek County, Colorado

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Clear Creek County, Colorado

46Index Score / 100
#43 of 64 in Colorado

Unincorporated Clear Creek County, Colorado requires a county building permit for a new home, issued by the Clear Creek County Building Department1. County Planning reviews those permits against county zoning2, while the Town of Georgetown issues its own building permits3 and Georgetown, Idaho Springs and Silver Plume set their own zoning456. County Environmental Health issues septic permits for the whole county, towns included7.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for a new residence in unincorporated Clear Creek County1
Building codes
County adopted the 2024 residential, building, plumbing and mechanical codes with amendments8
Zoning
County zoning applies in unincorporated areas; Georgetown, Idaho Springs and Silver Plume zone their own land. Setbacks depend on the district2910456
Septic (OWTS)
County permit and construction inspections required for an onsite system111213
Owner-builder
Owner may act as their own contractor; building permits, zoning and inspections still apply1415
Tiny home
Allowed conditionally; permanent dwellings must meet county and state requirements1617
RV living
Temporary camping only; longer stays require county approval18
Minimum home size
No county minimum floor area, but rooms and the dwelling must meet applicable codes19

Who to call

Building permits

Clear Creek County Building Department

Building permits, plan review and building inspections in unincorporated Clear Creek County

(303) 679-2446

bldg@clearcreekcounty.us

1111 Rose Street PO Box 2000 Georgetown, CO 80444

Zoning

Clear Creek County Planning Department

Zoning, land-use review, subdivisions and zoning enforcement

(303) 679-2436

planning@clearcreekcounty.us

1111 Rose Street P.O. Box 2000 Georgetown, CO 80444

Septic permits

Clear Creek County Environmental Health

New septic construction, repairs, septic use permits and water-quality questions

(303) 679-2428

EH@clearcreekcounty.us

1111 Rose Street PO Box 2000 Georgetown, CO 80444

Floodplain permits

Clear Creek County Site Development Department

Grading, excavation, driveway, retaining-wall and floodplain development permits

(303) 679-2436

sitedev@clearcreekcounty.us

1111 Rose Street P. O. Box 2000 Georgetown, CO 80444

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 16, 2026.

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Do you need a building permit in Clear Creek County, Colorado?

Yes. New residences, additions, alterations, demolitions, decks, detached structures and other structural work in unincorporated Clear Creek County require a county building permit; electrical permits and inspections are handled by the state201. Inside the Town of Georgetown, the town issues its own building permits and also requires a Certificate of Appropriateness from its Design Review Commission3. Clear Creek County adopted the 2024 International Residential, Building, Plumbing and Mechanical Codes, among others, with local amendments8. Required county inspections apply during permitted construction, and the state electrical inspector handles rough and final electrical inspections21. Driveway, defensible-space, septic and electrical approvals must all be final before the last building inspection and the Certificate of Occupancy22. A homeowner may be their own contractor, but that does not exempt the work from permits, zoning or inspections, and it must meet the 2015 or later IRC1415.

Who is the Clear Creek County building department, and how do you reach it?

The Clear Creek County Building Department handles building permits and inspections for unincorporated property; call (303) 679-2446 or email bldg@clearcreekcounty.us23. Planning administers zoning and subdivision rules; call (303) 679-2436 or email planning@clearcreekcounty.us24. Environmental Health handles septic construction, repairs and use permits at (303) 679-2428 or EH@clearcreekcounty.us25. Site Development handles grading, driveways and floodplain work at (303) 679-2436 or sitedev@clearcreekcounty.us26. The county uses a permitting platform, with payment due when an application is filed27. Building permit fees are calculated during processing from the size and scope of the proposed construction rather than one fixed price28. Site Development has its own permit-type fee schedule29.

Does Clear Creek County have zoning?

Yes. Clear Creek County Planning administers zoning in unincorporated Clear Creek County, and Planning staff check each building permit against permitted uses, building height and other zoning standards230. Inside city and town limits the municipality decides: the Town of Georgetown4, Idaho Springs5 and the Town of Silver Plume6 each adopt their own zoning rules, and septic permits still come from County Environmental Health7. For unincorporated land, use the county's zoning map and regulations, or ask Planning, to identify the parcel's district before designing a project3124. Setbacks depend on the zoning district, and Planned Developments carry their own setback requirements9. The Agricultural District requires at least 5 acres for a newly erected or structurally altered dwelling or other main building32. In the Mobile Home Park district, a home may occupy no more than one-third of its lot area, excluding sheds and other accessory structures33. A permitted accessory dwelling unit is recognized by county zoning, but that does not mean every parcel qualifies34. Clear Creek County has no minimum floor-area requirement for a single-family dwelling, although room dimensions and all other codes still apply19.

How do septic permits work in Clear Creek County?

Clear Creek County Environmental Health, not a town or city, regulates onsite wastewater treatment systems throughout the county, including incorporated areas, under county rules and statewide minimum requirements; the state approves certain tanks, distribution products and higher-level treatment systems11. A county permit must be issued before an onsite system is installed, repaired or upgraded; a major construction permit for two or more major components costs $1,023 and a minor permit for one component costs $60012. A property that can connect to a sanitation district may not need an onsite permit at all12. Environmental Health conducts required inspections during construction13. Outhouses are not an approved substitute for an occupied structure's wastewater system35. None of the mapped county soils are rated free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so test feasibility before fixing the house site36. A finaled driveway permit is required before the county can issue an onsite wastewater permit37.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Clear Creek County?

An RV or mobile tiny home is a temporary use, not a general path to year-round housing on vacant land in unincorporated Clear Creek County17. Private camping is allowed for up to 14 days per year without a permit, with an additional 30 days available through a Private Camping Permit; longer use requires a Special Use Permit and an approved sanitary facility must be available18. During construction, a mobile tiny home may serve as temporary quarters only with an issued single-family building permit on the same property and only when it directly supports the work17. Small dwelling units must meet state and local codes, including driveway, water-supply, septic, wind-load and snow-load requirements17. A permanent tiny dwelling is possible if it meets zoning, building, driveway, water and septic requirements; a mobile unit must lose its wheels and sit on a permanent foundation to be converted to a dwelling1617.

Building a home in Clear Creek County: the steps, in order

  1. In unincorporated land, ask Planning (inside Georgetown, Idaho Springs or Silver Plume, start with the town) to confirm the zoning district, allowed residential use, setbacks and height limits31910.
  1. Ask Site Development about driveway, grading and floodplain approvals. The driveway must be built to county standards before the foundation inspection can be called, and floodplain work falls under the county's grading and excavation permits3839.
  1. Arrange water and wastewater. A groundwater well requires a state permit, while onsite wastewater work requires a county permit and inspections401213.
  1. Submit plans through the county process for review by Building, Planning, Site Development and Environmental Health27.
  1. Complete the required building and electrical inspections21.
  1. Obtain every applicable final approval before the final building inspection and any required Certificate of Occupancy22.

What should you check before buying land in Clear Creek County?

Clear Creek County sits about 28 miles from the nearest city of 100,000 or more41. Access, slope and wastewater feasibility deserve attention before closing. Only 17.8% of Clear Creek County land has a slope of 15% or less, and 78% is wooded4243. Confirm that the parcel is a legal lot and that its zoning allows the intended use before relying on a seller's description4445. A new or modified driveway needs county approval, while direct access to a state highway requires a state access permit3746. Improvements in the regulatory floodplain require a county site-development permit47. Test wastewater feasibility early because mapped soils are severely limited for conventional drain fields countywide36. A residential rental for fewer than 30 consecutive days requires a county permit and has occupancy limits tied to bedrooms and the wastewater connection48.

Watch-outs

  • Do not assume a mining claim or steep mountain parcel is buildable; confirm legal subdivision, zoning, access and wastewater feasibility before closing44493712.
  • Clear Creek County's mapped soils rate 0% free of severe conventional drain-field limitations, so septic feasibility can change the design and cost of a project36.
  • An RV or mobile tiny home cannot simply become permanent housing on vacant land; camping time is limited and permanent conversion requires full dwelling approvals1817.
  • Short-term rentals in unincorporated Clear Creek County are capped: non-primary-resident permits are limited to 4.5% of residences, and a primary-residence seasonal license allows renting the entire home for no more than 120 days50.

Sources

  1. Permits, quoted and re-checked
  2. Permits, quoted and re-checked
  3. Town of Georgetown: Georgetown Municipal Code 15.44.010 Residential Code Amendments - Sections amended (Clear Creek County), quoted and re-checked
  4. Town of Georgetown: Georgetown Municipal Code 17.16.041 Historic Residential District (Clear Creek County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Idaho Springs: Idaho Springs Municipal Code Sec. 21-4 General application (Clear Creek County), quoted and re-checked
  6. Town of Silver Plume: Silver Plume Land Use Code Sec. 3.3 Business District (B) (Clear Creek County), quoted and re-checked
  7. Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  8. Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  9. clearcreekcounty.us, quoted and re-checked
  10. Permits, quoted and re-checked
  11. Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  12. Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  13. Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, quoted and re-checked
  14. clearcreekcounty.us, quoted and re-checked
  15. Contractor Licensing, quoted and re-checked
  16. clearcreekcounty.us, quoted and re-checked
  17. Tiny Homes, quoted and re-checked
  18. Clear Creek County Zoning Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  19. clearcreekcounty.us, quoted and re-checked
  20. Permits, quoted and re-checked
  21. Building Inspection Request/Cancellation Form, quoted and re-checked
  22. Building Inspection Request/Cancellation Form, quoted and re-checked
  23. Clear Creek County Building Department (clearcreekcounty.us)
  24. Clear Creek County Planning Department (clearcreekcounty.us)
  25. Clear Creek County Environmental Health (clearcreekcounty.us)
  26. Clear Creek County Site Development Department (clearcreekcounty.us)
  27. Permits, quoted and re-checked
  28. clearcreekcounty.us, quoted and re-checked
  29. Site Development Department Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  30. Planning, quoted and re-checked
  31. Zoning Map Series, quoted and re-checked
  32. clearcreekcounty.us, quoted and re-checked
  33. Clear Creek County Zoning Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  34. Short Term Rental Licenses, quoted and re-checked
  35. clearcreekcounty.us, quoted and re-checked
  36. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  37. Site Development, quoted and re-checked
  38. Site Development Department Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  39. Permits, quoted and re-checked
  40. Water Administration (Colorado statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  41. Straight-line distance from the county center to the nearest city of 100,000+ people: Bolthole Index county data
  42. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  43. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  44. Planning, quoted and re-checked
  45. Permits, quoted and re-checked
  46. Access Permits | Frequently Asked Questions (Colorado statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  47. Site Development, quoted and re-checked
  48. Planning, quoted and re-checked
  49. Permits, quoted and re-checked
  50. Short Term Rental Licenses, quoted and re-checked

Written October 16, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Clear Creek County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleClear Creek CountyGilpin CountySummit CountyJefferson CountyBoulder CountyBroomfield CountyDenver County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Env. Health Dept.County Community DevelopmentCounty Env. Health Dept.County Public HealthCounty Public HealthBroomfield Health Protection Div.Denver Dept. of Public Health & Env.

County locator

Clear Creek County in Colorado

46
County map
Clear Creek County highlighted among the Colorado counties · colored by Index score

How Clear Creek County scores

Seclusion37100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency32100% ev.
Admin Boringness4190% ev.
Durability40100% ev.
Property Autonomy75100% ev.
Carry Cost74100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$565kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$3,896Land / acre
26.7"Annual rain
12.2% of yrsSevere drought
0 / yr (+0)Mid-century 100°F days
14.3 daysMid-century dry spell
1.22" (+5.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.46×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,388Home insurance / yr
7.3% / yrInsurance growth
1.06%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
4,386,736People within 2 hr
49,092Radius comparison (15 mi)
23.2People / sq mi
69.2%Federal land
17.8%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
26 acWorkable land screen
78%Wooded land
36.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
37.7°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Clear Creek County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Town of Empire

Answers from the rulebook for Clear Creek County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Clear Creek County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    New residences and other listed building work in unincorporated Clear Creek County.

    • The county permits page lists new residences among building permits and separately identifies planning review of building permits.
    • Other permits or municipal requirements may apply.
    “building permit checklists [...] New single-family residence”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Structural work and listed building construction in unincorporated Clear Creek County.
      “Electrical Permits are issued by the State of Colorado. Any strucural work needs a permit from Clear Creek County.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    A property owner acting as the contractor for permitted work in unincorporated Clear Creek County.

    • The work must meet the applicable IRC code and other county requirements.
    • This does not establish an exemption from permits.
    “Yes, you can be your own contractor. All work must meet the 2015 or later IRC code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — A homeowner personally occupying or intending to occupy the residence and performing the work.
      “Property owners are allowed to act as the contractor for their own residence but if a subcontractor is hired for the plumbing or electrical installation, that subcontractor must hold a license from the State of Colorado.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building-code adoption for construction in unincorporated Clear Creek County.

    • The county states that the 2024 codes were adopted with amendments.
    • Other jurisdictions may have separate adoption ordinances.

    code year: 2024

    “Clear Creek County has adopted the 2024 International Residential Code, 2024 International Building Code, 2024 International Plumbing Code and 2024 International Mechanical Code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted — The county-adopted construction codes for unincorporated Clear Creek County.
      “The following codes have been adopted with amendments by the Clear Creek County Board of County Commissioners Resolution R-26-19.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Building work subject to the Clear Creek County Building Department inspection process.

    • The listed inspection stages are required by the International Residential Code and the County Building Department.
    • Footing, foundation, deck pier, and structural slab inspections may instead be performed by a Colorado State Licensed Engineer if the required Third Party Inspection Form is submitted.
    • Rough and final electrical inspections are performed by the State Electrical Inspector.
    “The following inspection stages are required by the International Residential Code and Clear Creek County Building Department:”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Projects for which the County Building Department issues a Certificate of Occupancy.

    • All final approvals for Driveway, Defensible Space, OWTS (Septic), Electric, and any other Commercial Development Department requirement must be obtained before the final building inspection and issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy.
    • The source does not establish that a Certificate of Occupancy is universally required for every completed permitted structure.
    “Must have all final approvals for Driveway, Defensible Space, OWTS (Septic), Electric and any other Commercial Development Department's requirement, prior to the final building inspection and issuance of Certificate of Occupancy.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy for applicable permitted construction in unincorporated Clear Creek County.
      “Must have all final approvals for Driveway, Defensible Space, OWTS (Septic), Electric and any other Commercial Development Department's requirement, prior to the final building inspection and issuance of Certificate of Occupancy.”
    • Required — Completed structures requiring a county certificate of occupancy or completion.
      “prior to the final building inspection and issuance of Certificate of Occupancy.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning regulation of buildings and land uses in unincorporated Clear Creek County.

    • The county permits page states that Planning Staff reviews building permits for conformance with permitted uses, building height, signage, animals, and other zoning standards.
    • Municipal zoning authority may apply inside incorporated municipalities.
    “Planning Staff reviews building permits to ensure conformance with standards set forth in the Zoning Regulations such as permitted uses, building height, signage, animals, and other standards.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present — County zoning regulations administered in unincorporated Clear Creek County.
      “The Planning Department administers a number of development regulations including the Subdivision Regulations, Zoning Regulations”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Building permits and land-use review in unincorporated Clear Creek County.

    • Planning Staff reviews building permits for conformance with the County Zoning Regulations, including permitted uses, building height, signage, animals, and other standards.
    • This claim does not establish zoning administration by the county inside incorporated municipalities.
    “Planning Staff reviews building permits to ensure conformance with standards set forth in the Zoning Regulations such as permitted uses, building height, signage, animals, and other standards.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present — County-administered zoning in unincorporated Clear Creek County; this does not aggregate municipal zoning ordinances.
      “Planning Staff reviews building permits to ensure conformance with standards set forth in the Zoning Regulations such as permitted uses, building height, signage, animals, and other standards.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    County zoning districts and maps for unincorporated Clear Creek County.

    • The county advises checking Planning Staff or ClearMap for current or updated zoning information.
    • The zoning map series includes township zoning maps approved one township at a time.
    “For more current or updated zoning information check with Planning Staff and/or on ClearMap interactive mapping application. View a County-wide zoning map (PDF). Township Zoning Maps:”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeNone (with conditions)

    Single-family dwellings in unincorporated Clear Creek County.

    • The County states there is no minimum square-footage requirement for single-family dwellings.
    • Certain rooms must meet code-required size and height requirements.
    • All state and local department codes and regulations still apply.
    “A small dwelling unit that meets County code and regulations for a Single Family Dwelling Clear Creek County has no minimum square footage requirements for single family dwellings. However, there are code requirements that obligate certain rooms to be of a certain size and height for safety reasons.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    A dwelling unit or other main building in the AG Agricultural District.

    • The minimum applies to a dwelling unit or other main building hereafter erected or structurally altered in the AG District.

    minimum area: >= 5 acres

    “For a dwelling unit or other main building hereafter erected or structurally altered, there shall be provided a minimum area of five (5) acres.”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Structures and uses governed by the applicable county zoning district or planned development.

    • Setbacks are based on the zoning district.
    • Planned Developments have specific setback requirements.
    • The county zoning page states that the online version is not the official version.
    “Setback requirements and uses are based on the zoning district; the County’s Zoning Resolution may be accessed online or by calling (303) 679-2436. Note: Planned Developments (PDs) have specific setback requirements.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Setbacks determined by the applicable Clear Creek County zoning district, including planned developments.
      “Setback requirements and uses are based on the zoning district; the County’s Zoning Resolution may be accessed online or by calling (303) 679-2436. Note: Planned Developments (PDs) have specific setback requirements.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Home area in the Mobile Home Park zoning district.

    • The cited standard excludes storage sheds and other accessory structures.

    maximum home area: <= one-third of lot area (excluding storage sheds or other accessory structures)

    “excluding storage sheds or other accessory structures. A home shall not occupy an area exceeding one-third (1/3) of its lot area.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Building-height standards under the applicable Clear Creek County zoning district.

    • Planning staff review building permits for conformance with zoning standards including building height.
    • The numeric standard depends on the applicable district or other applicable county regulation.
    “Planning Staff reviews building permits to ensure conformance with standards set forth in the Zoning Regulations such as permitted uses, building height, signage, animals, and other standards.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Private non-commercial camping on private property in unincorporated Clear Creek County.

    • Private camping is allowed for up to 14 days per year without a permit.
    • An additional 30 days per year is allowed with a Private Camping Permit.
    • For periods longer than 30 days, a Special Use Permit must be applied for.
    • An approved sanitary facility must be available throughout the permit period.
    • A new Private Camping Permit cannot be issued until 30 days after expiration of the previous year's permit.
    • Temporary living quarters are excluded from NR-PC, NR-R, and Buffer districts and must be removed before the Certificate of Occupancy or within 60 days after a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy, whichever comes first.

    permit-free private camping: 14 days per year · private camping with permit: 30 additional days per year

    “You may camp on your property for a period of up to two (2) weeks per year, and up to one (1) month per year with a Temporary Camping Permit.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Mobile tiny homes and small dwelling units in unincorporated Clear Creek County.

    • Mobile Tiny Homes and/or RVs are allowed only in a limited fashion in residential zoning districts as a temporary use.
    • Camping in a Mobile Tiny Home is allowed for up to 2 weeks in a 1-year period on vacant land without a permit, or up to 1 month in a 1-year period with a permit.
    • A Mobile Tiny Home may be used as temporary living quarters or a construction trailer only when an issued building permit for a single-family dwelling exists on the same property and the use directly facilitates construction.
    • Once the single-family dwelling is completed, the Mobile Tiny Home may only be stored on the property and may not be occupied.
    • A permanent dwelling conversion requires compliance with local permitting codes, removal of wheels, a permanent foundation, and a well and septic system or centralized water and sanitation.
    • Small dwelling units must meet state and local codes, including driveway, water-supply, septic, wind-load, and snow-load requirements.

    camping without permit: 2 weeks per 1 year (On vacant land.) · camping with permit: 1 month per 1 year (On vacant land.) · tiny-home size: <= 400 square feet or less (For the state-defined tiny-home category.)

    “Mobile Tiny Homes and/or RV’s are allowed in a limited fashion in residential zoning districts as a temporary use:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Tiny homes in Clear Creek County.
      “Yes. Tiny Homes are allowed in Clear Creek County. There are different types of tiny homes, and we have different regulations depending on what type on Tiny Home you are interested in.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Accessory dwelling units that qualify as permitted ADUs under Clear Creek County zoning regulations.

    • The county short-term-rental page refers to a permitted Accessory Dwelling Unit as defined in the county zoning regulations.
    • This evidence does not establish that every parcel qualifies for an ADU.
    “The license holder may live on a property with a permitted Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), as defined in the Clear Creek County Zoning Regulations and obtain a Primary Residence STR License for the permitted ADU, or vice-versa.”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    OWTS regulation throughout Clear Creek County, including incorporated areas.

    • The local public health agency regulates under county OWTS regulations.
    • Colorado Regulation 43 establishes minimum requirements and the state approves septic tanks, proprietary distribution products, and higher-level treatment systems.
    “regulated by the local public health agency”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County — Onsite wastewater treatment systems throughout Clear Creek County, including incorporated areas.
      “On-site wastewater treatment systems in Clear Creek County are regulated by the local public health agency per the Clear Creek County Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Regulations. These regulations are effective in all areas of Clear Creek County - including incorporated areas.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Constructing, altering, repairing, or upgrading an OWTS in Clear Creek County.

    • A major construction permit costs $1,023 for two or more major components.
    • A minor construction permit costs $600 for one major component.
    • A soils evaluation, application materials, payment, licensed design engineer, licensed installer, and finaled driveway permit are required as applicable.
    • If connection to a sanitation district is possible, an OWTS permit may not be needed.

    major construction permit: 1023 USD (2 or more major components) · minor construction permit: 600 USD (1 major component)

    “permit be issued by the local health department”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    OWTS construction inspections in Clear Creek County.

    • The permit and local regulations specify the inspections required for the installation.
    • Generally, open-hole, component, and final-grading inspections are required.
    “Inspections are required to be conducted by the Clear Creek County Environmental Health Department during the construction process. Your permit and the local regulations will specify what inspections are required in order to proceed with installation.”
  • Off-grid sanitationProhibited

    Outhouses and unapproved wastewater disposal for residences or other occupied structures in Clear Creek County.

    • Approved wastewater treatment systems remain required.
    • The county FAQ states that existing outhouses must be decommissioned under the county OWTS regulations.
    “Outhouses are not an approved form of wastewater disposal. Since the early 1970's outhouses have been outlawed and must be replaced with a permitted wastewater treatment system.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and land-division applications handled by Clear Creek County Planning.

    • The county page states that the online version is not the official version; the official version is available through the Planning Department.
    “The only official version is available through the Planning Department.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New or modified private roads and driveway access from a public or private road in unincorporated Clear Creek County.

    • A site-development permit is required for construction of private roads used to provide access from a public or private road.
    • Before a foundation inspection, the driveway must meet approved width, grade, and approach standards.
    • A finaled driveway permit is required before an OWTS permit may be issued.
    “The Site Development department reviews driveway and excavation plans, issues related permits, and monitors performance for driveway construction and construction on building sites.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Driveway access and rough-in for building-permit projects.
      “Before a foundation inspection can be called in for a building permit, the driveway must be constructed”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development and improvements in the regulatory floodplain in unincorporated Clear Creek County.

    • Site Development permits are required for improvements in the regulatory floodplain.
    • The County Engineer is the Floodplain Administrator.
    • FEMA FIRMs and county ClearMap SFHA boundaries are used for flood-hazard information.
    “Site Development Permits are required when an individual proposes to conduct earth work activity; construct roads which are to be on private property, and will be used to provide access from any public or private road; construct improvements in the regulatory floodplain; and/or to construct retaining walls.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Development work involving grading/excavation permits and floodplains.
      “Grading/Excavation Permits cover the following work: Floodplains”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rentals in unincorporated Clear Creek County.

    • Non-primary resident STR permits are capped at 4.5% of residences in a given year.
    • For 2026, the county states that 163 permits are available.
    • A primary-residence seasonal license limits renting the entire home to 120 days in a one-year license period.
    • Ordinance 19 replaced the prior STR regulations and STRs are monitored and enforced by the Review Authority.

    non-primary resident permit cap: 4.5 percent of residences (unincorporated county, any given year) · 2026 non-primary resident permits: 163 permits · primary-residence seasonal rental limit: <= 120 days per one-year license period (seasonal license)

    “No more than 4.5% of the total number of residences in unincorporated Clear Creek County, in any given year, may receive a 'Non-Primary' Resident STR Permit. With a total count of 3606 residential units, this means 163 Permits are available for issuance for the 2026 year.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Residential short-term rentals of fewer than 30 consecutive days in Clear Creek County.
      “you must obtain a Permit from the County.”
  • Permit feesPublished

    County site-development permits, including driveway, grading, and floodplain-related permits.

    • The fee schedule is for the Site Development Department.
    • The schedule states an effective date of December 17, 2024.
    • Fees vary by classification and may include inspection charges.

    single-family driveway permit: 1000 USD · combined driveway/grading and excavation permit: 1800 USD

    “SITE DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT FEE SCHEDULE Effective December 17, 2024”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Variable (with conditions) — County building permit fees for construction in unincorporated Clear Creek County.
      “The building permit fee is determined by the size and scope of the proposed construction and is calculated when the permit is being processed.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County development permitting and planning review.

    • Planning Staff reviews building permits for conformance with zoning standards.
    • The county uses a permitting platform and requires payment at application.
    “To apply for a permit, license, or Planning Process”

Colorado rules that apply here

  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Installation and resulting residential use of HUD-code manufactured homes and mobile homes in Colorado, subject to Colorado Division of Housing requirements and local zoning or building requirements.

    • HUD homes must be certified by the applicable State Administrative Agent for installation in Colorado; imported units are monitored by the State Administrative Agent of the state from which they are imported, rather than necessarily by Colorado's SAA.
    • A HUD home may be installed anywhere in Colorado only where local zoning allows it.
    • Local jurisdictions may require site mitigation to meet local wind and snow loads, but the mitigation cannot directly affect or change the construction of the home itself.
    • The Division of Housing regulates installation and installation inspections for HUD homes; mobile-home foundation and structural construction requirements are regulated by local jurisdictions with active building departments.
    • The state minimum HUD design criteria listed by the source are Wind Zone 1, Thermal Zone 3, and Middle Roof Load Zone (30 psf).

    wind zone: 1 zone · thermal zone: 3 zone · roof load zone: 30 psf (Middle Zone)

    “HUD homes [...] can be installed anywhere in Colorado as long as the local zoning allows for it.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Every new groundwater-diverting well in Colorado, including residential wells, subject to statutory exemptions and basin-specific rules.

    • The Division of Water Resources administers groundwater permitting and issues permits.
    • Applicants must complete the appropriate application and pay the associated fee.
    • Statutory exemptions and additional Denver Basin or Designated Basin rules may affect the requirement or permit conditions.
    • In many areas, a well may also require an augmentation plan if its priority is not sufficient to divert in priority.

    complete-application review time: <= 49 days (DWR states review of complete new and replacement applications may take up to 49 days)

    “Every new well in the state that diverts groundwater must have a well permit.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Residential or other occupied structures statewide that are not serviced by a sewage treatment works.

    • Colorado law conditions building and occupancy permitting on either service by a sewage treatment works or an approved OWTS process.
    • If the structure is not serviced by a sewage treatment works, the local public health agency must issue the OWTS permit before building construction or remodeling approval, and must complete a final inspection and approve the installation before occupancy approval.
    • This claim does not establish a universal statewide mandate to connect to a particular municipal water or sewer provider.
    “A permit to construct or remodel a building or structure that is not serviced by a sewage treatment works until the local public health agency has issued a permit for an on-site wastewater treatment system;”
  • Campground & park staysAllowed (with conditions)

    Temporary overnight camping, including parking a motor home or traveler, on land and water under the control of Colorado Parks and Wildlife, including state parks and state recreation areas.

    • The source addresses lands and waters under the control of the Division of Parks and Wildlife, not all public or private land statewide.
    • Camping includes parking a motor vehicle, motor home, or traveler for the apparent purpose of overnight occupancy.
    • A commission-issued permit may be required; the statute defines permits to include campground permits and electrical hookup permits.
    • The state may charge fees for required passes or permits for use of any state park or state recreation area where supervision, maintenance, or specified facilities warrant a fee.

    overnight occupancy: true (Camping definition includes the parking of a motor vehicle, motor home, or traveler for the apparent purpose of overnight occupancy.) · permit types: campground permits; electrical hookup permits

    “Develop state parks and state recreation areas suitable for such recreational activities as camping, [...] "Camping" means [...] the parking of a motor vehicle, motor home, or traveler”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Colorado counties adopting zoning plans for all or any part of unincorporated territory.

    • The county planning commission may make the zoning plan; in a county having a county planning commission, it must do so upon order by the board of county commissioners.
    • The zoning plan may regulate districts or zones, including building location, height, bulk, size, lot coverage, lot size, open spaces, population density, building and land uses, and access to sunlight for solar energy devices.
    • The plan may include regulations for uses on or along storm or floodwater runoff channels or basins only when the channel or basin has been designated and approved by the Colorado water conservation board, to lessen or avoid hazards from storm or floodwaters.
    • The statute applies to unincorporated territory and does not describe incorporated cities or towns as within this county zoning grant.
    “zoning all or any part of the unincorporated territory within such county”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Colorado counties adopting and enforcing building codes and requiring building permits in designated unincorporated areas.

    • A board of county commissioners may adopt a building code in all or part of the county, but the area must not be within the limits of an incorporated city or town.
    • Buildings or structures used solely to shelter agricultural implements, farm products, livestock, or poultry may be excepted from the building code and permit requirement.
    • Before adoption, the county planning commission may designate part or all of the county for the building code upon request from the board of county commissioners; the board must hold a public hearing and publish notice once weekly for four consecutive weeks.
    • After adoption of the building code, construction, reconstruction, alteration, or remodeling in the designated area requires a building permit, except for the agricultural-shelter exception.
    • The board must fix a reasonable schedule of building-permit fees; no permit fee may be charged unless a qualified inspector actually performs an inspection.
    • Plans must conform to the building code, and plans and specifications generally must bear the seal of a Colorado-licensed architect or engineer unless exempted by section 12-120-403.
    • Every county adopting or updating a building code must adopt and enforce an energy code meeting or exceeding one of the three most recent International Energy Conservation Code versions under section 30-28-211.
    • The 2025 amendment to section 30-28-204 is effective January 1, 2026 and adds accessibility requirements for substantially amended or updated county building codes, with an exception for compliant one- and two-family dwellings and townhomes.
    “A board of county commissioners is authorized to adopt ordinances and a building code”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Living in an RV — Residential or long-term RV occupancy on private land in unincorporated Clear Creek County.
  • Agricultural exemption — Agricultural exemptions from building, zoning, or land-use requirements in unincorporated Clear Creek County.

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Clear Creek County, Colorado

Is Clear Creek County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Clear Creek County scores 46/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: limited workable ground: 17.8% at 15% slope or less and 0% without a severe conventional-septic limitation and about 49,092 people within 15 miles.

Do you need a building permit in Clear Creek County, Colorado?

Clear Creek County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Clear Creek County Environmental Health Department. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Clear Creek County, Colorado?

Land in Clear Creek County runs about $3,896 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Clear Creek County?

Clear Creek County gets about 26.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 12.2% of years.

How remote is Clear Creek County?

A typical private-land location has about 49,092 people within 15 miles and 5,079,551 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Clear Creek compares in Colorado

Compare side-by-side →See all 64 Colorado counties ranked →