Bolthole Index

Park County, Colorado

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Park County, Colorado

58Index Score / 100
#23 of 64 in Colorado

Unincorporated Park County, Colorado requires a building permit and staged inspections from the Park County Building Department, and it zones its land; the towns of Fairplay and Alma fall outside that department and set their own zoning12345. Park County Environmental Health issues septic permits, which must come before the building-permit application when a home has no sewer service67. Applications go through CloudPermit83.

At a glance

Building permit
Required; the county handles construction outside Fairplay and Alma, and starting early doubles the fee193
Zoning
Yes in unincorporated Park County; Fairplay and Alma zone their own land101145
Septic permit
Required before a building permit for a home without sewer service; county Environmental Health issues it612
RV and camping
Vacant residential and mining parcels allow limited camping, with permits required for longer stays13
Tiny home
Colorado approval and local zoning compliance are required for long-term residential use14
Minimum home size
No county minimum square-footage requirement is stated, but building-code and zoning rules still apply15
Owner-builder
Allowed, with resale and one-dwelling-per-four-years restrictions16
Accessory dwelling
An ADU is permitted on lots of two acres or larger; smaller-lot units are treated as guest houses17

Who to call

Building permits

Park County Building Department

Building permits and building inspections for Park County except the towns of Fairplay and Alma

719-836-4255

856 Castello Ave, P.O. Box 517, Fairplay, CO 80440

Online permits →

Zoning

Park County Planning and Zoning

Planning and zoning questions and development review

719-836-4292

856 Castello Ave, P.O Box 1598, Fairplay, CO 80440

Online permits →

Septic permits

Park County Environmental Health

Septic permits, site evaluation and septic inspections

719-836-4267

856 Castello Ave, P.O. Box 216, Fairplay, CO 80440

Online permits →

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

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Park County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Park County, Colorado?

Yes. Unincorporated Park County requires a building permit to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, remove, convert or demolish a building or structure18. The county has adopted the 2018 International Residential and Building Codes, among others, and the Building Department handles permits and inspections everywhere except the towns of Fairplay and Alma193. Detached one-story storage sheds up to 200 square feet, fences up to 6 feet and non-structural retaining walls up to 4 feet need no building permit, but they must still meet Park County land use regulations20. At least 50% of the permit fee is due when plans are submitted, and starting construction before the permit issues brings a double fee9. A development permit is valid for 1 year from issuance and may be voided if work lapses or inspections are skipped21. Owner-builders are allowed, but the dwelling cannot be offered for sale until its Certificate of Occupancy issues, and an owner-builder may build only one dwelling every four years22.

Who issues Park County building permits, and how do you reach them?

The Park County Building Department issues building permits and performs building inspections outside Fairplay and Alma3. The office is at 856 Castello Ave, P.O. Box 517, Fairplay, CO 80440, phone 719-836-42553. Owners and contractors submit applications and request inspections through CloudPermit, and incomplete applications are rejected83. Inspections must be scheduled no later than 5:00 p.m. the day before, and final inspection happens only after the state has approved electrical and plumbing23. Planning and Zoning handles land-use questions at 856 Castello Ave, P.O Box 1598, Fairplay, CO 80440, 719-836-429224. Environmental Health handles septic work and works with landowners on driveway permits from 856 Castello Ave, P.O. Box 216, Fairplay, CO 80440, 719-836-4267725. The county Building Department does not cover parcels inside Fairplay or Alma, so those parcels need the applicable town office3. We could not confirm who issues building permits or septic approvals inside either town, so ask the town and Environmental Health before you buy there.

Does Park County have zoning?

Yes. The unincorporated areas of Park County are divided into zone districts, each with its own use and development standards1011. Inside Fairplay and Alma, the towns administer their own zoning rather than the county45. The county rules below apply to unincorporated land. Park County states no minimum square-footage requirement for a residence, but residential building height is generally capped at 35 feet1526. In the Residential Zone District, principal and accessory structures have setbacks of 50 feet from watercourses, wetlands and state or federal highway rights-of-way; 30 feet from other road rights-of-way and side lot lines; and 20 feet from rear lot lines27. New residential lots have a slope-based minimum area: 5 acres when at least half the lot has a slope of 20% or less, 6 acres when more than half is at a 20% to 30% slope, and 8 acres when more than half exceeds a 30% slope28. Ask Planning and Zoning to identify the parcel's mapped district and applicable schedule before designing the site1124.

How do septic permits work in Park County?

Park County Environmental Health administers onsite wastewater treatment system permits and inspections, and the county code addendum places the regulations under Development Services2912. Septic permits for unincorporated land stay with the county. For a building with plumbing that lacks sewer service, obtain the septic permit before applying for the building permit6. Final inspection is required before backfilling, and occupancy approval for a building without sewer service waits for the local agency's final OWTS inspection and approval30. Only 4.9% of Park County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the site evaluation an early feasibility step and expect that many parcels may need a more involved design31. Off-grid does not mean sanitation-free: buildings used for sleeping must have sanitation facilities and running water, and a composting or incinerating toilet may handle toilet waste only when an OWTS treats the remaining wastewater3233. Where a municipality or special district provides public sewer, an OWTS permit is generally unavailable unless sewer connection is not feasible32.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on land in Park County?

On a vacant MR, R, R-20, R-35 or Mining M parcel without a permitted dwelling, an owner may camp for up to 14 cumulative days per calendar year without a permit; a permit can allow up to 30 consecutive days, subject to wastewater, setback, access and other conditions13. Park County campgrounds and RV parks cannot allow full-time or permanent residential occupation of a campsite, camper, trailer or RV, apart from one caretaker or operator dwelling34. Those rules do not establish permanent RV residence on every private parcel, so ask Planning and Zoning before treating an RV as a home1324. A tiny home intended for long-term living needs Colorado Division of Housing plan approval before construction, compliance with state standards and local zoning, and site-specific certification14. Park County has no minimum residential square footage, but that does not waive zoning, building permits or septic review153516. An ADU is permitted on a lot of at least 2 acres; on a smaller lot, Park County treats the unit as a guest house17.

How do you build a home in Park County, step by step?

  1. Ask Planning and Zoning to confirm the parcel's mapped district, allowed residential use, setbacks, minimum lot standard and any separate land-use approval11272824.
  1. Confirm legal access and the driveway location; Park County requires a driveway permit before construction, and Environmental Health works with landowners to obtain it; direct access to a state highway also requires a Colorado Department of Transportation access permit362537.
  1. If the property needs a well, obtain the Colorado Division of Water Resources permit before drilling38.
  1. For a home with plumbing and no sewer service, obtain the Park County septic permit before applying for the building permit67.
  1. Submit complete building plans and the application through CloudPermit, and pay at least half the building-permit fee at plan submittal98.
  1. Wait for permit issuance before starting, because beginning early doubles the fee, then request inspections through CloudPermit as construction advances93.
  1. Schedule staged building inspections, then close out the septic and driveway permits and get state electrical and plumbing approval so final inspection can happen2339.
  1. Do not move in until the Certificate of Occupancy issues; occupying a structure first is a code violation, and a home without sewer service also needs the final septic inspection before backfilling3930.

What should you check before buying land in Park County?

Start with jurisdiction and zoning: verify whether the parcel is outside Fairplay or Alma, then have Planning and Zoning confirm its mapped district, allowed use, setbacks and slope-based lot standard3112728. Treat septic feasibility as a purchase contingency because only 4.9% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field31. Check slope and clearing costs too: 33.3% of Park County land is at a slope of 15% or less, while 45.4% is wooded4041. Confirm legal access and whether the approach meets a county road, private road or state highway3637. A new groundwater well needs a state permit, so resolve water availability and permit conditions before assuming a well is viable38. Ask Planning and Zoning which flood review applies because the county's full floodplain-development rule could not be confirmed3524. If rental income matters, all Park County short-term rentals require a license and an online application with supporting property, septic, occupancy, parking, trash and snow-removal materials42. A parcel of 35 acres or larger can be created without county subdivision approval, but it remains subject to county zoning, setback, height, road and building-permit rules43.

Watch-outs

  • Starting construction before the building permit issues brings a double fee, and at least half the permit fee is due at plan submittal9.
  • Only 4.9% of Park County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so septic feasibility can decide whether a parcel works for a home31.
  • Vacant residential and mining parcels allow only limited camping, and Park County campgrounds and RV parks cannot provide permanent RV residence except for a caretaker or operator dwelling1334.
  • An owner-builder may build only one dwelling every four years after the Certificate of Occupancy and cannot offer it for sale before that certificate issues16.
  • Occupying a new structure before the Certificate of Occupancy issues is a code violation, and final inspection waits for state electrical and plumbing approval and for septic and driveway permits to be closed out39.
  • Like the counties around it in Colorado, Park County requires a county building permit1.

Sources

  1. Park County 2018 Building Code Resolution and Local Amendments (2026 county census)
  2. Building, quoted and re-checked
  3. Park County Building Department (parkcountyco.gov)
  4. Town of Fairplay: Fairplay Municipal Code Sec. 16-26-20 Definitions (Park County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Town of Alma: Alma Municipal Code Sec. 16-1-70 Application of regulations (Park County), quoted and re-checked
  6. parkcountyco.gov, quoted and re-checked
  7. Park County Environmental Health (parkcountyco.gov)
  8. Building, quoted and re-checked
  9. Park County Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  10. Park County Land Use Regulations, Article V, quoted and re-checked
  11. Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  12. Environmental Health, quoted and re-checked
  13. Article V – Zoning and Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  14. Consumers of Manufactured Homes and Tiny Homes - HUD (Colorado statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. Park County Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  16. Park County Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  17. Article V – Zoning and Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  18. Park County Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  19. Building FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  20. Park County Development Guide, quoted and re-checked
  21. Park County Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  22. Building FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  23. Park County Development Guide, quoted and re-checked
  24. Park County Planning and Zoning (parkcountyco.gov)
  25. Environmental Health, quoted and re-checked
  26. Park County Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  27. parkcountyco.gov, quoted and re-checked
  28. parkcountyco.gov, quoted and re-checked
  29. Environmental Health (2026 county census)
  30. Park County On-Site Wastewater Treatment System Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  31. 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
  32. Building FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  33. Building FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  34. parkcountyco.gov, quoted and re-checked
  35. Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  36. Development Guidelines, quoted and re-checked
  37. Access Permits | Frequently Asked Questions (Colorado statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  38. parkcountyco.gov, quoted and re-checked
  39. Park County Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  40. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  41. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  42. Short-Term Rentals, quoted and re-checked
  43. Article VI — Subdivision Regulations, 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, Park County requires a building permit for a home.

RulePark CountyLake CountyChaffee CountyTeller CountyJefferson CountySummit CountyClear Creek County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Env. Health Dept.County Public Health AgencyCounty Building Dept.County Public Health & Env.County Public HealthCounty Env. Health Dept.County Env. Health Dept.

County locator

Park County in Colorado

58
County map
Park County highlighted among the Colorado counties · colored by Index score

How Park County scores

Seclusion58100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency38100% ev.
Admin Boringness4190% ev.
Durability49100% ev.
Property Autonomy75100% ev.
Carry Cost77100% 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 →

$527kTypical home
0.3%Property tax
$2,330Land / acre
17.6"Annual rain
15.5% of yrsSevere drought
0 / yr (+0)Mid-century 100°F days
19 daysMid-century dry spell
0.95" (+4.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.4×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,334Home insurance / yr
6.2% / yrInsurance growth
1.41%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
4,761Radius comparison (15 mi)
8.3People / sq mi
51.3%Federal land
33.3%Land at 15% slope or less
4.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
67,006 acWorkable land screen
45.4%Wooded land
25.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
38.6°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Park 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.

Answers from the rulebook for Park County

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

Park County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, demolition, occupancy changes, and regulated mechanical work in county jurisdiction.

    • Certain listed minor work is exempt, including detached one-story storage sheds up to 200 square feet, fences up to 6 feet, certain nonstructural retaining walls, cosmetic work, and playground equipment.
    • Fairplay and Alma are exceptions to county building jurisdiction.
    “The following do not require a building permit but still must conform to land use regulations.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction projects administered by Park County Development Services.
      “WHEN IS A BUILDING PERMIT REQUIRED? A building permit is required to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, or demolish any building or structure in Park County.”
    • Required — Erecting, constructing, enlarging, altering, repairing, moving, improving, removing, converting, or demolishing a building or structure in the Park County area served by the County Building Department.
      “Any owner or owner's authorized agent who intends to construct [...] shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Home-owner builders in Park County.

    • The structure cannot be offered for sale until after the Certificate of Occupancy is issued.
    • A homeowner may build only one dwelling as owner/builder every four years after the Certificate of Occupancy is issued.

    owner-builder dwelling frequency: one dwelling every four years (after the Certificate of Occupancy is issued)

    “Yes, Park County does allow home-owner builders. However, the only stipulation is that the structure cannot be offered for sale until after the Certificate of Occupancy is issued. Home-owner builders can only build one dwelling as owner/builder every four years after the Certificate of Occupancy is issued.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Home-owner builders constructing a dwelling under Park County building jurisdiction.
      “Yes, Park County does allow home-owner builders. However, the only stipulation is that the structure cannot be offered for sale until after the Certificate of Occupancy is issued. Home-owner builders can only build one dwelling as owner/builder every four years after the Certificate of Occupancy is issued.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Park County Development Services building-code administration in the county area served by the County Building Department.

    • Park County's FAQ identifies adoption of the 2018 International Residential, Building, Mechanical, and Fuel Gas Codes.
    • The County addendum also addresses the 2018 International Energy Conservation, Fire, Property Maintenance, Swimming Pool and Spa, ICC Performance, Wildland Urban Interface, and Existing Building Codes.
    • Plumbing and electrical provisions are administered by the State of Colorado under the local amendments.
    • The County Building Department's stated geographic exceptions are the Town of Fairplay and the Town of Alma.
    “Park County has adopted the following 2018 International codes.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Park County building-code administration outside Fairplay and Alma.
      “Park County has adopted the following 2018 International codes. The 2018 International Residential Code. The 2018 International Building Code. The 2018 International Mechanical Code. The 2018 International Fuel Gas Code.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Building projects in the Park County area served by the County Building Department.

    • The County states that building projects must be inspected at various stages of construction.
    • Inspections must be scheduled no later than 5:00 p.m. the day before the requested inspection.
    • The County conducts inspections to verify general conformance with codes and plans; quality control remains the responsibility of the applicant, property owner, and general contractor.
    • Final inspection occurs only after the State has finally approved electrical and plumbing.
    • Certain fire protection districts may require additional review, fees, or sign-off before final inspection.
    • The County Building Department's stated geographic exceptions are the Town of Fairplay and the Town of Alma.

    inspection scheduling deadline: 5:00 p.m. the day before

    “Your building project is required to be inspected at various stages of construction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction projects under Park County building inspection jurisdiction.
      “Your building project is required to be inspected at various stages of construction.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    New structures in the Park County area served by the County Building Department.

    • New structures may not be used, occupied, or furnished in whole or in part before final inspection and issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy by a building official.
    • A final inspection is conducted only after the State has finally approved electrical and plumbing.
    • The septic system file must be finalized and closed with the Environmental Health Department, including required well and as-built documentation, to receive a Certificate of Occupancy.
    • The County Building Department's stated geographic exceptions are the Town of Fairplay and the Town of Alma.
    “New structures shall not be used, occupied, or furnished (in part or in whole) prior to final inspection and issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy by a building official.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Buildings subject to Park County final inspection and occupancy controls.
      “Occupancy of a structure prior to the issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy is a violation of Code.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning regulation in unincorporated Park County.

    • The source expressly limits the zoning division to the unincorporated area of Park County.
    • Zone districts regulate land-use compatibility, uniformity of character, and implementation of the Park County Strategic Master Plan.
    “The unincorporated area of Park County is divided into zone districts necessary to achieve compatibility of uses and uniformity of character within each zone district”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning and land-use regulation in unincorporated Park County.
      “Land use and development are governed by Park County Zoning Ordinances, Land Use Regulations, Subdivision Regulations, and Building Codes, as well as state and County Health Department Regulations.”
    • Present — Unincorporated Park County land-use zoning.
      “The unincorporated areas of Park County are divided into zone districts necessary to achieve land use compatibility and uniformity.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Park County zoning districts and associated use regulations.

    • The county publishes Article V as the current Zoning and Use Regulations and separately publishes the official land-use regulation articles.
    • District-specific uses, lot sizes, setbacks, and other standards must be checked in the applicable district and section.
    “Small Wind Energy Systems and Meteorological Towers are a permitted use in all zone districts if they are rated at 10 kW or less and have a Total Height of fifty feet or less.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeNone

    Residential structures in Park County planning and zoning guidance.

    • The FAQ directs applicants to IRC R304 for applicable building-code requirements.
    “There is no minimum square footage requirement, and the building height shall not exceed 35 feet.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    New lots in the Residential Zone District.

    • Minimum lot area is 5 acres where 50% or more of the lot has 20% slope or less, 6 acres where more than 50% is 20% to 30% slope, and 8 acres where more than 50% exceeds 30% slope.

    minimum lot area: 5 acres; 6 acres; 8 acres acres (Residential Zone District slope categories)

    “Lot Area >50% of Lot 20% Slope or Less >50% of Lot 20% to 30% Slope >50% of Lot Greater than 30% Slope N/A N/A N/A 5 Acres 6 Acres 8 Acres”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Principal and accessory structures in the Residential Zone District.

    • 50 feet from watercourses and wetlands.
    • 50 feet from state or federal highway rights-of-way.
    • 30 feet from other road rights-of-way and side lot lines.
    • 20 feet from the rear lot line.
    “Setbacks – Principal & Accessory Structures Any Side From Any Watercourse 50 Feet Any Side From Any Wetland 50 Feet Front: Adjacent to State/Federal Highway Rights of Way 50 Feet Front: Adjacent to Other Road Rights of Way 30 Feet Side Lot Line 30 Feet Rear Lot Line 20 Feet”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Building height in unincorporated Park County zones.

    • The FAQ states a 35-foot maximum for residential structures; Article V contains district-specific standards, including 35 feet in the Residential Zone District and 40 feet in the Mixed Use Zone District.

    residential zone maximum height: 35 feet · mixed use zone maximum height: 40 feet

    “TABLE 5-306a New Lot Development Standards – Rural Center Mixed Use Zone District Standards Maximum Minimum *Floor Area Per Unit – Principal Structure Residential N/A *Structure Height 40 Feet”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Full-time or permanent residential occupation of campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks.

    • One single-family dwelling for a caretaker or operator is excepted.
    • The prohibition applies to public or private campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks.
    “Other than one (1) Single Family Dwelling for a Caretaker or Operator, no Public or Private Campground or Recreational Vehicle Park shall permit full-time or permanent residential occupation of any campground, tent, camper, trailer, or recreational vehicle.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping on vacant residential MR, R, R-20, R-35 and Mining M parcels without a permitted dwelling.

    • Up to 14 cumulative days per calendar year are allowed without a permit.
    • A permit may allow up to 30 consecutive days.
    • No more than two camping units per lot are allowed.
    • Camping must comply with setbacks, permitted wastewater disposal, current licensing, removal when not under an active permit, legal access, and a posted address.
    • Applications must be submitted at least 14 days before camping.
    • One additional 30-day renewal may be granted when a permitted septic system is used.

    permit-free camping: <= 14 cumulative days per calendar year · permitted camping period: <= 30 consecutive days (one additional 30-day renewal may be granted if a permitted OWTS is used)

    “Property owners shall be permitted to camp on their own property for up to fourteen (14) cumulative days in a calendar year without a permit.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory dwelling units in permitted Park County zone districts.

    • An ADU is permitted on lots of two acres or larger.
    • ADUs on smaller lots are treated as Guest Houses.
    • The ADU must satisfy all applicable development requirements.

    minimum lot size: >= 2 acres (smaller-lot units are considered Guest Houses)

    “An ADU is permitted on lots of two acres or larger. ADUs on smaller lots shall be considered Guest Houses as that is defined in our regulations”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    On-site wastewater treatment systems administered through Park County Development Services and Environmental Health.

    • County regulations operate alongside applicable state and federal requirements.
    “A septic system permit must be obtained from the Department before applying for a building permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County — Park County Environmental Health and Development Services administration of septic permitting.
      “The provisions of the Park County On-Site Wastewater Treatment System Regulations shall be administered by the Park County Development Services.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New home construction requiring an on-site wastewater treatment system.

    • A septic system permit must be obtained before applying for a building permit.
    “A septic system permit must be obtained from the Department before applying for a building permit.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Final approval of OWTS installations and occupancy of buildings not served by sewage treatment works.

    • Final inspection is required before backfilling.
    • An occupancy permit may not issue until the local public health agency makes a final OWTS inspection.
    “An occupancy permit for the use of a building that is not serviced by a sewage treatment works until the local public health agency makes a final inspection of the OWTS, provided for in section 25-10-106 (1) (h), C.R.S. and the local public health agency approves the installation.”
  • Off-grid sanitationProhibited

    Buildings used for sleeping without sanitation facilities in Park County.

    • The county statement applies to buildings used for sleeping; it does not resolve every nonresidential or non-sleeping structure.
    “No. There is a minimum standard of living that states all buildings used for the purposes of sleeping must have electrical, plumbing, sanitation facilities, and running water.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Buildings used for sleeping in Park County.

    • The county states that sleeping buildings must have electrical, plumbing, sanitation facilities, and running water.
    • Specific utility service may be provided by wells, on-site wastewater systems, or other approved systems.
    “No. There is a minimum standard of living that states all buildings used for the purposes of sleeping must have electrical, plumbing, sanitation facilities, and running water.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and lot creation in Park County.

    • Lots of 35 acres or larger may be created without County subdivision approval, but remain subject to county use, zoning, setback, height, road, natural-area, and building-permit regulations.
    • Major subdivision review includes sketch plan, preliminary plan, and final plat stages.

    large-lot exemption threshold: >= 35 acres (exemption is from County subdivision approval only, not other county regulation)

    “Unless otherwise exempted by Section 6-101 of this Article, every Division of property within unincorporated areas of Park County requires prior County approval of a subdivision plat in accordance with these Land Use Regulations and this Article VI.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Property owners constructing driveways in Park County.

    • Applicants must identify the driveway location and apply before constructing it.
    • Owners are responsible for constructing and maintaining their driveways and parking areas.
    • Driveways must also satisfy applicable access, zoning, and development standards.
    “Park County requires that all property owners identify their driveway location and apply for a driveway permit from the Road and Bridge Department before constructing a driveway.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Development projects requiring Park County septic, driveway, and final building approvals.
      “Your septic and driveway permits need to be approved and closed out.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rentals in Park County.

    • All short-term rentals must be licensed.
    • An online STR permit application and payment are required.
    • Applications must include requested documents, septic documentation or recent transfer-of-title material, a certificate of occupancy, floor plans, parking, trash, and snow-removal plans.
    • The page states that the fee schedule became effective June 1, 2026, and the ordinance became effective July 19, 2026.
    “All short-term rentals must be licensed to operate in Park County. You must complete the online Application for an STR Permit and remit payment at time of application. We no longer accept paper applications.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Short-term rentals licensed by Park County.
      “All short-term rentals must be licensed to operate in Park County. You must complete the online Application for an STR Permit and remit payment at time of application.”
  • Permit feesPublished

    Park County building permit process.

    • At least 50% of the building permit fee is due upon plan submittal.
    • Beginning construction before permit issuance results in a double fee.
    • Estimated fees are available on the Building web page.

    minimum fee due at plan submittal: >= 50 percent of building permit fee

    “Permit Fees: A minimum of 50% of the building permit fee is due upon plan submittal. Estimated permit fees are available on the Building web page. Commencing construction prior to issuance of a building permit will subject you to a double fee.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Park County permit fee information.
      “Approximate building permit fees can be found on the Building page under Permit Applications and Fees.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County building and land-use permit applications.

    • The county uses the CloudPermit portal for applications and inspections.
    • Incomplete applications are rejected.
    • Building permits require prior compliance with county requirements, including septic approval before application for a building permit.
    “Property owners, residents, businesses and contractors can engage and collaborate with officials to submit permit applications and request inspections.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — Park County building permit application and inspection process.
      “Development permits are valid for 1 year from the date of permit issuance and may be voided if work lapses or inspections are not performed.”

Colorado rules that apply here

  • Tiny homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Colorado Division of Housing-regulated tiny homes intended for residential occupancy and long-term living.

    • Plans must be submitted to the Colorado Division of Housing for approval before construction of the units.
    • The unit must satisfy applicable Colorado-adopted codes and standards and local zoning requirements.
    • Tiny home units are certified for the specific site where installed; relocation to another Colorado site requires the applicable design criteria, and design differences require revisions.

    foundation types: permanent or temporary

    “Tiny homes are approved for long term living”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Drilling a water well serving property in Park County.
      “Before drilling a water well, property owners must first obtain a well permit from the Colorado Division of Water Resources in Denver at (303) 866-3587.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in floodplain areas subject to Colorado floodplain-management requirements, and state-owned land in counties or municipalities that do not participate in the National Flood Insurance Program.

    • Local floodplain regulations must equal or exceed FEMA National Flood Insurance Program minimum design and construction criteria.
    • Local floodplain regulations must comply with Colorado Water Conservation Board rules and regulations for regulatory floodplains.
    • The state program applies to development on state-owned land in counties and municipalities that do not participate in the National Flood Insurance Program.
    “Local government floodplain management regulations for development in floodplain areas must equal or exceed the federal emergency management agency's national flood insurance program's (national flood insurance program) minimum design and construction criteria and must comply with the Colorado water conservation board's (CWCB) rules and regulations for regulatory floodplains in Colorado.”
  • 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.

  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage limits in unincorporated Park County.
  • Agricultural exemption — Agricultural or ranching exemptions from Park County building and land-use requirements.

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 Park County, Colorado

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

Park County scores 58/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop. Watch-outs: thin water margin (17.6″/yr rainfall) and more administrative friction around building and land use.

Do you need a building permit in Park County, Colorado?

Park County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Park 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 Park County, Colorado?

Land in Park County runs about $2,330 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Park County?

Park County gets about 17.6" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 15.5% of years.

How remote is Park County?

A typical private-land location has about 4,761 people within 15 miles and 3,950,297 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Park compares in Colorado

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