Bolthole Index

Routt County, Colorado

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Routt County, Colorado

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Unincorporated Routt County, Colorado requires building permits through the Routt County Regional Building Department and applies adopted building codes12. County Planning administers zoning and subdivision rules for unincorporated land34. Routt County Environmental Health issues onsite wastewater permits56.

At a glance

Building permit
Required; the county has adopted building codes for unincorporated areas12
Zoning
Yes; every unincorporated parcel falls in one of 14 zone districts3
Septic
County Environmental Health permit required; valid for one year57
Owner-builder
Allowed for a primary residence with the county form and legal agreement8
Tiny home
Allowed on a permanent foundation, subject to county permits, access, wastewater and water rules9
RV camping
Allowed by right up to 60 days only in the Agriculture/Forestry district; longer stays need a Minor Use Permit1011
Secondary dwelling
Allowed only in certain situations under county standards12
Lot standards
Minimum lot area, setbacks and height limits vary by zone district131415

Who to call

Building permits

Routt County Regional Building Department

Building application review and inspections for unincorporated Routt County and municipal service arrangements; Steamboat Springs projects use the city portal

(970) 870-5566

Routt County Courthouse Annex, 136 6th St. Suite 201, Steamboat Springs, CO

Planning & zoning

Routt County Planning Department

Zoning and land-use review for unincorporated Routt County, including secondary dwelling unit regulations

Septic permits

Routt County Environmental Health Department

Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS/septic) permits, construction approval, and inspections for unincorporated Routt County

970-870-5409

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 24, 2026.

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

Yes. Building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, demolition, solar, sign, swimming-pool, spa and hot-tub permits for residential and commercial work in unincorporated Routt County go to the Routt County Regional Building Department1. The adopted code set, effective January 1, 2024, includes the 2021 ICC series, portions of the 2021 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code, and Colorado's Model Electric Ready and Solar Ready Code216. Limited exemptions include qualifying detached accessory structures no larger than 120 square feet, fences no higher than 6 feet, and qualifying unattached decks no larger than 200 square feet and no more than 30 inches above grade1. An exempt building project may still need another department's approval, and agricultural exemptions were not confirmed, so ask the Regional Building Department before starting work1.

Who is the Routt County building department, and how do you reach them?

The Routt County Regional Building Department is at the Routt County Courthouse Annex, 136 6th St. Suite 201, Steamboat Springs, CO; call (970) 870-556617. The Regional Building Department also reviews building applications for Steamboat Springs and Yampa under municipal service arrangements1819. Steamboat Springs uses the city portal; unincorporated Routt County uses the county portal17. Septic permitting inside Steamboat Springs remains with Routt County Environmental Health20. County applicants must create a CityView account and submit plans electronically; paper plan drawings are not accepted21. Inspection requests are not accepted by voicemail17. A qualifying owner-builder must complete the property-owner form and legal agreement8. We could not confirm a complete building-inspection schedule or general certificate-of-occupancy rule; ask the Regional Building Department which final approvals your project needs.

Does Routt County have zoning?

The Routt County Unified Development Code governs unincorporated land, where every parcel falls in one of 14 zone districts, each with its own permitted uses, minimum lot area, setbacks and height limit2223. The code also controls subdivision and creation of new lots24. Inside Steamboat Springs, Hayden, Oak Creek and Yampa, municipal zoning applies instead25262728. Examples of district minimums: 3,000 square feet per dwelling unit in HDR, 10,000 in LDR, 0.5 acres in MR, and 5 acres in MRE (2.5 acres with both central sewer and central water)29. Height limits include 40 feet in MR and 25 feet in MHR30. Manufactured homes in MHR face a 1-acre minimum overall lot area, 10-foot property-line setbacks and a 50-foot setback from the edge of pavement on public roads3132. Each unit in a duplex must contain at least 25% of the duplex's total square footage, and duplexes must connect to central water and sewer33. Secondary dwellings are allowed only in certain situations, with separate restrictions on lots of 70 acres or more and exemptions for certain units built before June 199534. Subdivision covenants can further restrict a parcel even though Routt County does not enforce them3. Ask the Planning Department to confirm the parcel's district and proposed dwelling before designing.

How do septic permits work in Routt County?

Routt County Environmental Health issues permits for construction, use and repair of onsite wastewater treatment systems in unincorporated Routt County5. An OWTS permit is valid for one year from issuance, and excavation cannot begin before Environmental Health issues it76. The process covers zoning criteria, a site-and-soil evaluation, system design, application review, a possible county site inspection and permit issuance3536. The county's goal is to complete review, any site inspection and approval notice within 14 working days after receiving a complete application, although access, weather, season and unforeseen conditions can extend that timeline36. The fee schedule lists $1,500 for new or major-repair OWTS permits and $800 for minor repairs, while septic guidance lists $750 for minor repairs; confirm the current repair fee with Environmental Health3738. Only about 0.7% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make septic feasibility a purchase contingency39. Environmental Health's direct line is 970-870-540940.

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

In the Agriculture/Forestry zone district, private non-commercial camping in an RV, motor home, trailer or other temporary accommodation is allowed by right for up to 60 days without county approval11. A stay longer than 60 days but no more than 180 days requires a Minor Use Permit and review of greywater and blackwater handling11. These permissions do not automatically apply to every parcel11. A tiny home on a permanent foundation can be reviewed under the county's adopted Appendix Q, but it must also meet county access, wastewater and building-permit requirements and state water provisions9. A tiny home built on a trailer is treated as camping9. The Agriculture/Forestry district permits onsite wastewater systems and wells, subject to Environmental Health requirements, while other districts may require central systems or connection when service is available4142.

How do you build a home in Routt County?

  1. Ask the Planning Department to identify the parcel's zone district and confirm the proposed use, lot area, setbacks, height, access and utility requirements4344453046.
  1. If the property needs an onsite wastewater system, complete the site-and-soil evaluation and design, then obtain the Environmental Health permit before excavation636.
  1. Resolve water with the appropriate provider or the Colorado Division of Water Resources; every new groundwater-diverting well in Colorado requires a state well permit, subject to statutory exemptions and basin-specific rules47.
  1. Resolve access: a driveway entering a county road or a privately maintained road in a public right-of-way needs a Road & Bridge permit, and longer driveways or heavier grading can trigger added approvals48.
  1. Create a CityView account and submit the building application and electronic plans through the county portal for unincorporated Routt County2117. A qualifying owner-builder must also complete the county's property-owner form and legal agreement8.

What should you check before buying land in Routt County?

Start with the zoning map: every unincorporated parcel is assigned to one of 14 districts, and the district controls uses and dimensional standards49. Confirm that an existing parcel is buildable before assuming it can be divided, because subdivision and creation of new lots are regulated by the Unified Development Code4. Check whether the district permits onsite water and wastewater or requires central service and a connection when available4142. Only about 0.7% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make septic feasibility a purchase contingency and contact Environmental Health early3940. A driveway onto a county road or a privately maintained road in a public right-of-way requires a county permit48.

Watch-outs

  • Steamboat Springs building applications use the city portal even though the Regional Building Department provides building services; unincorporated Routt County applications use the county portal1817.
  • Routt County's owner-builder path requires the property-owner application and legal agreement, and eligibility depends on ownership, primary-home and other conditions stated in that agreement8.
  • The Routt County private-camping allowance applies in the Agriculture/Forestry zone district: stays up to 60 days are allowed by right, while stays longer than 60 days and no more than 180 days require a Minor Use Permit and wastewater review11.

Sources

  1. Unincorporated Routt County Permitting Process, quoted and re-checked
  2. Building Code & Policies, quoted and re-checked
  3. Planning | Routt County, CO - Official Website, quoted and re-checked
  4. Planning, quoted and re-checked
  5. Septic Permitting Information, quoted and re-checked
  6. Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Permit Process, quoted and re-checked
  7. Septic Permitting Information, quoted and re-checked
  8. Property Owner Permit Application and Agreement Form, quoted and re-checked
  9. Tiny Homes, quoted and re-checked
  10. Tiny Homes, quoted and re-checked
  11. Tiny Homes, quoted and re-checked
  12. co.routt.co.us, quoted and re-checked
  13. Planning, quoted and re-checked
  14. co.routt.co.us, quoted and re-checked
  15. Routt County Unified Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  16. Building Code & Policies, quoted and re-checked
  17. Routt County Regional Building Department (co.routt.co.us)
  18. Steamboat Springs: City of Steamboat Springs Building Permit Application Process (Routt County), quoted and re-checked
  19. Town of Yampa: Town of Yampa Building Permit Process — Routt County (Routt County), quoted and re-checked
  20. Steamboat Springs: City of Steamboat Springs Building Permit Application Process (Routt County), quoted and re-checked
  21. How To Apply For A Permit, quoted and re-checked
  22. Planning, quoted and re-checked
  23. Planning, quoted and re-checked
  24. Planning, quoted and re-checked
  25. Steamboat Springs: Community Development Code | Steamboat Springs, CO (Routt County), quoted and re-checked
  26. Town of Hayden: Planning & Zoning | Hayden, CO (Routt County), quoted and re-checked
  27. Town of Oak Creek: Oak Creek Code § 17.11.07, Performance District Seven (Routt County), quoted and re-checked
  28. Town of Yampa: Town of Yampa Title 6 Land Development Code (Routt County), quoted and re-checked
  29. Routt County Unified Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  30. Routt County Unified Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  31. co.routt.co.us, quoted and re-checked
  32. Routt County Unified Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  33. Routt County Unified Development Code, V5, quoted and re-checked
  34. co.routt.co.us, quoted and re-checked
  35. Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Permit Process, quoted and re-checked
  36. Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Permit Process, quoted and re-checked
  37. Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  38. Septic Permitting Information, quoted and re-checked
  39. 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
  40. Routt County Environmental Health Department (co.routt.co.us)
  41. co.routt.co.us, quoted and re-checked
  42. Routt County Unified Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  43. Forms and Permitting Portal, quoted and re-checked
  44. Routt County Unified Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  45. Routt County Unified Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  46. co.routt.co.us, quoted and re-checked
  47. Water Administration (Colorado statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  48. When is a Road & Bridge Permit Required?, quoted and re-checked
  49. Planning, quoted and re-checked

Written October 24, 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, Routt County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleRoutt CountyJackson CountyGrand CountyGarfield CountyEagle CountyMoffat CountyRio Blanco County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Dept. of Env. HealthCounty Env. HealthCounty Building & Sanitation Div.County Public HealthCounty Env. HealthCraig/Moffat Regional Building Dept.County OWTS

County locator

Routt County in Colorado

69
County map
Routt County highlighted among the Colorado counties · colored by Index score

How Routt County scores

Seclusion77100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency50100% ev.
Admin Boringness46100% ev.
Durability51100% ev.
Property Autonomy75100% ev.
Carry Cost71100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$1145kTypical home
0.3%Property tax
$4,101Land / acre
25.5"Annual rain
20.6% of yrsSevere drought
0.1 / yr (+0.1)Mid-century 100°F days
16 daysMid-century dry spell
1.12" (+4.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.31×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,091Home insurance / yr
7% / yrInsurance growth
0.9%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
6,034Radius comparison (15 mi)
10.6People / sq mi
44.4%Federal land
42.2%Land at 15% slope or less
0.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
9,139 acWorkable land screen
63.8%Wooded land
25.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
40.1°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Routt 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 Routt County

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

Routt County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, demolition, solar, sign, swimming pool, spa, and hot tub permits for residential and commercial buildings and structures in unincorporated Routt County.

    • The listed permits shall be submitted to the Routt County Regional Building Department for review.
    • Building-permit exemptions may still require approval from other departments or local government associations or departments; applicants are directed to check with the local planning department.
    • A one-story detached residential accessory structure used as a tool or storage shed, playhouse, similar use, or unattached trellis/pergola is exempt only when it does not exceed 120 square feet, has a plate height of 10 feet, contains no water, sanitary, or gas connections, and has only electrical lights or outlets with no permanent service panel.
    • Fences not over 6 feet high are exempt.
    • Retaining walls not over 4 feet high measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall are exempt unless supporting a surcharge.
    • Water tanks supported directly on grade are exempt when capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons and height-to-diameter-or-width ratio does not exceed 2:1.
    • Sidewalks and driveways are exempt.
    • Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work are exempt.
    • Prefabricated swimming pools less than 24 inches deep are exempt.
    • Swings and other playground equipment are exempt.
    • Window awnings supported by an exterior wall are exempt when they project no more than 54 inches and require no additional support.
    • Decks are exempt only when they do not exceed 200 square feet, are no more than 30 inches above grade, are not attached to a dwelling, and do not serve the required exit door.
    • Certain minor substrate-removal, deck-board replacement, electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing work is exempt subject to the specific conditions in the official exemption document; permits remain required where the stated trade exemptions are not met.
    “All Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Demolition, Solar, Sign, Swimming, Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Permits shall be submitted [...] work being performed without permits when required”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Owner-performed work on primary residential dwellings, secondary dwellings, and accessory buildings under the IRC.

    • Owner must be listed in the Routt County Assessor database.
    • Property must be the owner's primary home under tax laws and cannot be owned by a corporation.
    • Owner may not act as a general contractor or compensate others for labor, except excavation, grading, and specified concrete work.
    • New construction requires at least $1,000,000 general commercial liability insurance and/or builders-risk coverage.
    • The agreement limits new-dwelling or secondary-dwelling homeowner permits to one within any 36-month period.

    minimum insurance coverage: 1000000 USD (General Commercial Liability Insurance Certificate and/or Builders Risk Policy)

    “Property owners may be the Permit Applicant on Building Permits and perform their own work on their property on all Single Family Dwellings, Secondary Dwellings, and Accessory Buildings on the property and are exempt from taking a Contractor Exam if they meet the following conditions listed below.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Routt County Building Department code adoption, including unincorporated county jurisdiction.

    • The county adopted the listed 2021 ICC codes, portions of the 2021 IWUIC, and the Colorado Model State Electric and Solar Ready Code.
    • The source states the adoption was effective January 1, 2024.

    effective date: 2024-01-01

    “Adoption of the 2021 Building Codes Effective January 1st, 2024”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Routt County building-code administration, including the unincorporated county jurisdiction.
      “The Routt County Building Department has completed the adoption of the following new Codes; 2021 ICC Series for the IBC, IRC, IECC, IEBC, IFGC, IPC, IMC, and IPMC, then also portions of the 2021 IWUIC and the Colorado Model State Electric and Solar Ready Code.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Routt County unincorporated building-code administration.
      “The Routt County Building Department has completed the adoption of the following new Codes; 2021 ICC Series for the IBC, IRC, IECC, IEBC, IFGC, IPC, IMC, and IPMC, then also portions of the 2021 IWUIC and the Colorado Model State Electric and Solar Ready Code.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Use, development, and subdivision of land in unincorporated Routt County.

    • The cited county UDC applies to unincorporated Routt County, not incorporated municipalities.
    “The Routt County Unified Development Code regulates the use, development, and subdivision of land within unincorporated Routt County”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land-use and zoning regulation in unincorporated Routt County.
      “The Routt County Unified Development Code regulates the use, development, and subdivision of land within unincorporated Routt County, and is an important tool for the implementation of Master Plan goals and policies. Planning staff maintains, updates, and administers this code.”
    • Present — Zoning and land-use regulation in unincorporated Routt County.
      “The Routt County Unified Development Code regulates the use, development, and subdivision of land within unincorporated Routt County, and is an important tool for the implementation of Master Plan goals and policies.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land use, development, and subdivision in unincorporated Routt County; the county UDC does not establish a countywide rule for incorporated municipalities.

    • The Routt County Unified Development Code is administered by county planning staff.
    • All land within unincorporated Routt County falls within one of 14 zone districts.
    • Each district has permitted uses and uses allowed by permit when approved by the planning director, Planning Commission, or Board of County Commissioners.
    • Each district has development restrictions including minimum lot area and frontage, minimum setbacks from property lines, and maximum structure height.
    • Other restrictions may apply, including waterbody setbacks, floodplain standards, and skyline height restrictions.
    • Subdivision covenants may further restrict property, but those restrictions are not monitored or enforced by Routt County.

    zone districts: 14 districts · UDC effective date: 2024-12-10

    “The Routt County Unified Development Code regulates the use, development, and subdivision of land within unincorporated Routt County, and is an important tool for the implementation of Master Plan goals and policies. Planning staff maintains, updates, and administers this code.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Zoning districts and maps in unincorporated Routt County.

    • The county states that all unincorporated land falls within one of 14 zone districts.
    • Zoning maps identify the zoning for a parcel by parcel identification number or owner name.
    • Each district has permitted uses and uses allowed by permit.

    number of unincorporated zone districts: 14 districts

    “All land within unincorporated Routt County falls within one of 14 zone districts. Each district has a list of permitted uses and uses that are allowed by permit when approved by the planning director, Planning Commission, or Board of County Commissioners.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Zoning districts and parcel zoning information in unincorporated Routt County.
      “All land within unincorporated Routt County falls within one of 14 zone districts. Each district has a list of permitted uses and uses that are allowed by permit when approved by the planning director, Planning Commission, or Board of County Commissioners.”
    • Published — Zoning districts and district standards in unincorporated Routt County.
      “All land within unincorporated Routt County falls within one of 14 zone districts. Each district has a list of permitted uses and uses that are allowed by permit when approved by the planning director, Planning Commission, or Board of County Commissioners.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Each dwelling unit in a two-family dwelling or duplex in unincorporated Routt County.

    • Each unit must contain at least 25% of the square footage of the entire duplex structure.
    • The duplex must comply with Section 3.11 Building and Dwelling Unit Size and Section 3.12 Dwelling Unit Occupancy.
    • All duplexes must be connected to a central water system and central sewer system.
    • The separate requirement that each half differ by at least two design elements applies to new side-by-side duplex buildings; the 25% minimum applies to each unit in the Duplex and is not limited by that wording to new side-by-side duplex buildings.
    • The UDC states that Version 5 is effective July 28, 2026.

    minimum share of entire duplex structure per unit: >= 25 percent

    “6. Each unit in the Duplex shall contain a minimum of 25% of the square footage of the entire duplex structure.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Lots in Routt County UDC zone districts.

    • Requirements vary by district.
    • Examples include HDR 3,000 square feet per dwelling unit, LDR 10,000 square feet per dwelling unit, MR 0.5 acres per dwelling unit, and MRE 5 acres or 2.5 acres with both CSCS and central water.

    HDR minimum gross lot area: 3000 square feet per dwelling unit · LDR minimum gross lot area: 10000 square feet per dwelling unit · MR minimum gross lot area: 0.5 acres per dwelling unit · MRE minimum gross lot area: 5 acres; 2.5 acres with both CSCS and Central Water System

    “Minimum Gross Lot Area 0.5 acres per Dwelling Unit”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Minimum lot area and frontage standards in unincorporated Routt County zone districts.
      “All land within unincorporated Routt County falls within one of 14 zone districts. Each district has a list of permitted uses and uses that are allowed by permit when approved by the planning director, Planning Commission, or Board of County Commissioners. Each district also has development restrictions such as minimum lot area and frontage, minimum setbacks from property lines, and maximum structure height.”
    • Specified — Minimum lot area in Routt County UDC districts.
      “Minimum Gross Lot Area 3,000 square feet/Dwelling unit”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Property-line and road setbacks in Routt County UDC zone districts.

    • Setbacks vary by district and use.
    • Examples include MR 15 feet, MRE 50 feet, and MHR property-line setbacks of 10 feet on all sides plus a 50-foot public-road setback.

    MR property-line setback: 15 feet · MRE property-line setback: 50 feet · MHR public-road setback: 50 feet from edge of pavement

    “Property Line Setbacks 10 feet (all sides) Public Road Setbacks 50 feet from edge of pavement”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Minimum setbacks from property lines in unincorporated Routt County zone districts.
      “Each district also has development restrictions such as minimum lot area and frontage, minimum setbacks from property lines, and maximum structure height. In addition to zone district standards, there may be other restrictions that apply to your property, such as waterbody setbacks, floodplain standards, and skyline height restrictions.”
    • Specified — Property-line and road setbacks in Routt County UDC districts.
      “Minimum Property Line Setbacks Front 15 feet; 7.5 feet for porches Side 5 feet Rear 10 feet”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Maximum building heights in Routt County UDC zone districts.

    • Height limits vary by district and use; examples include 40 feet in MR and 25 feet in MHR.

    MR maximum height: 40 feet · MHR maximum height: 25 feet

    “Minimum Property Line Setbacks 15 feet Maximum Height 40 feet Maximum Residential House Size 7,500 square feet”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Maximum structure height in unincorporated Routt County zone districts.
      “Each district also has development restrictions such as minimum lot area and frontage, minimum setbacks from property lines, and maximum structure height. In addition to zone district standards, there may be other restrictions that apply to your property, such as waterbody setbacks, floodplain standards, and skyline height restrictions.”
    • Specified — Maximum structure height in Routt County UDC districts.
      “Maximum Height 40 feet Maximum Residential House Size 7,500 square feet”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Private non-commercial occupancy by recreation vehicles, motor homes, or trailers in the Agriculture/Forestry zone district.

    • Private non-commercial camping is limited to up to 60 days.
    • Camping is only allowed in the Agriculture/Forestry zone district.
    • Private non-commercial camping is a use by right and requires no county approval.
    • Occupancy exceeding 60 days is treated as extended camping and requires a Minor Use Permit, with wastewater handling review.

    maximum private non-commercial camping period: <= 60 days (extended camping may continue more than 60 days but not more than 180 days with a Minor Use Permit)

    “The use of temporary living accommodations such as tents, tepees, yurts, and recreation vehicles such as motor homes or trailers for up to 60 days.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Private non-commercial and extended private non-commercial camping in the Agriculture/Forestry zone district.

    • Camping is only allowed in the Agriculture/Forestry zone district.
    • Private non-commercial camping is allowed by right for up to 60 days without county approval.
    • Extended private non-commercial camping is more than 60 days but not more than 180 days and requires a Minor Use Permit to ensure greywater and blackwater are handled properly.

    private non-commercial camping period: up to 60 days (extended camping is more than 60 days but not more than 180 days with a Minor Use Permit)

    “Camping is only allowed in the Agriculture/Forestry zone district. Camping, Private Non-Commercial is a use by right and does not require any approvals from the County. Camping, Extended, Private Non-Commercial requires a Minor Use Permit to ensure that wastewater (grey and black) is handled properly.”
  • Tiny homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Tiny homes constructed on a permanent foundation in unincorporated Routt County.

    • Appendix Q review requires a permanent foundation.
    • Tiny homes must comply with Planning Department access requirements, Environmental Health wastewater requirements, Building Department permit requirements, and Division of Water Resources water provisions.
    • A tiny home constructed on a trailer is treated as camping and is subject to camping rules.
    “With the recent adoption of Appendix Q of the International Building Code, Routt County now has a building code that allows for the construction of tiny homes. To be reviewed under Appendix Q, these tiny homes must be built on a permanent foundation.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured homes in the county MHR zone district.

    • The MHR district has specific lot, setback, height, home-size, sewer, and water standards.

    minimum overall lot area: 1 acre · maximum height: 25 feet · maximum residential house size: 2000 square feet

    “Minimum Overall Lot Area 1 acre Setbacks Property Line Setbacks 10 feet (all sides) Public Road Setbacks 50 feet from edge of pavement”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Secondary dwelling units in unincorporated Routt County.

    • Secondary dwelling units are permitted only in certain situations and are subject to specific standards.
    • Separate restrictions apply on lots that are 70 acres or larger.
    • Certain exemptions apply for secondary dwelling units constructed prior to June 1995.

    large-lot threshold: >= 70 acres (separate restrictions apply) · prior-construction date: 1995-06 (certain exemptions apply to units constructed prior to June 1995)

    “Secondary dwelling units are permitted in certain situations and are subject to specific standards. Please reference the Secondary Dwelling Unit guide for an overview of those standards. Separate restrictions apply on lots that are 70 acres or larger. Certain exemptions apply for secondary dwelling units constructed prior to June 1995.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Secondary dwelling units in unincorporated Routt County.
      “Secondary dwelling units are permitted in certain situations and are subject to specific standards. Separate restrictions apply on lots that are 70 acres or larger. Certain exemptions apply for secondary dwelling units constructed prior to June 1995.”
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Secondary dwelling units in unincorporated Routt County.
      “Secondary dwelling units are permitted in certain situations and are subject to specific standards.”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    On-site wastewater treatment systems in Routt County.

    • Routt County Environmental Health issues OWTS permits and administers county OWTS requirements.
    • The county has adopted State Regulation 43 with local options.
    “The Environmental Health Department issues permits for the construction, use and repair of on-site wastewater treatment systems.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • County (with conditions) — On-site wastewater treatment systems administered by Routt County Environmental Health.
      “The Environmental Health Department issues permits”
    • County — On-site wastewater treatment systems in unincorporated Routt County.
      “The Environmental Health Department issues permits for the construction, use and repair of on-site wastewater treatment systems.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of an OWTS in Routt County.

    • No excavation may begin before issuance of a septic/OWTS permit by Routt County Environmental Health.
    • A new or existing unpermitted OWTS permit fee is $1,500 and includes application and design review.
    • The permit process includes zoning criteria, site and soil evaluation, system design, application review, possible site inspection, and final issuance.

    new or existing unpermitted OWTS permit fee: 1500 USD (includes application and design review)

    “No excavation for the installation of an Onsite Wastewater Treatment System shall be started without a septic/OWTS permit issued by the Routt County Department of Environmental Health (RCDEH).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, use, and repair of onsite wastewater treatment systems in Routt County.
      “Permits are valid for one year from date of issuance”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    OWTS permitting and construction review in Routt County.

    • RCDEH staff may conduct a site inspection before issuing a construction permit.
    • The inspection may verify site conditions, design concurrence, suitability, proposed structures, driveways, streams, soil treatment area, septic tank, and well location.
    • The official process states a goal of completing application review, site inspection, and approval notification within 14 working days after a complete application, subject to access, weather, seasons, or unforeseen circumstances.

    target review period: 14 working days (goal; subject to access, weather, seasons, or unforeseen circumstances)

    “RCDEH staff may conduct a site inspection of the property before issuing a construction permit.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    On-site wastewater treatment and on-site water systems where permitted by the applicable UDC zone district.

    • OWTS permits and county environmental-health requirements still apply.
    • The AF district expressly permits OWTS and on-site wells; other districts may require central systems.
    “Sewer Collection • OWTS permitted •CSCS permitted Water System On-site wells and central systems permitted”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Residential development in Routt County UDC zone districts, including MR, MRE, MHR, C, I, SOR, and SMR districts.

    • Requirements vary by zone district.
    • The MR district permits OWTS and central sewer collection, requires central water subject to stated grandfathering, and requires connection when available.
    • Other districts may require central water or sewer systems and connection when available.
    “Sewer • CSCS required • Connection to system required if available Water System Central water system required Connection to system required if available”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Utility connections in UDC zone districts, including residential districts.
      “Connection to a central sewer collection system (CSCS) shall be required for certain development, as specifically outlined in each Zone District.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and creation of buildable lots in unincorporated Routt County.

    • The UDC regulates subdivision of land within unincorporated Routt County.
    • Creation of new buildable lots is permitted only in specified tiers or subdivisions depending on zone district.
    “The Routt County Unified Development Code regulates the use, development, and subdivision of land within unincorporated Routt County, and is an important tool for the implementation of Master Plan goals and policies.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and development of land in unincorporated Routt County.
      “The Routt County Unified Development Code regulates the use, development, and subdivision of land within unincorporated Routt County, and is an important tool for the implementation of Master Plan goals and policies. Planning staff maintains, updates, and administers this code.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and land division in unincorporated Routt County.
      “The Routt County Unified Development Code regulates the use, development, and subdivision of land within unincorporated Routt County, and is an important tool for the implementation of Master Plan goals and policies.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Driveways accessing county roads or privately maintained roads in public right-of-way.

    • If disturbance exceeds 300 cubic yards or the driveway is within the waterbody setback, a Grading and Excavating permit is also required.
    • Driveways longer than 100 feet require fire department approval.
    • A county driveway permit is not required for access to a state highway; a CDOT access permit is required instead.
    • A county driveway permit is not required for private roads with no public right-of-way; the applicant must contact the governing entity.

    disturbance threshold: > 300 cubic yards (Grading and Excavating permit also required) · driveway length: > 100 feet (fire department approval required)

    “A Road & Bridge Driveway/access permit is required for: Installation of a driveway that accesses a County Road or privately maintained roads in public ROW.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Published Routt County fee schedule, including OWTS permits.

    • The published schedule lists $1,500 for new and major-repair OWTS permits and $800 for minor-repair OWTS permits.

    new OWTS permit fee: 1500 USD · major repair OWTS permit fee: 1500 USD · minor repair OWTS permit fee: 800 USD

    “New Onsite Wastewater Treatment (OWTS) Permit | $1,500.00 Major Repair OWTS Permit | $1,500.00 Minor Repair OWTS Permit | $800.00”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Published Routt County permit fees, including onsite wastewater permits.
      “New Onsite Wastewater Treatment (OWTS) Permit | $1,500.00 Major Repair OWTS Permit | $1,500.00 Minor Repair OWTS Permit | $800.00”
    • Published (with conditions) — Routt County OWTS permit fees.
      “The Routt County Department of Environmental Health (RCDEH) received approval from the Routt County Board of Health to increase permit application fees for Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) from $750.00 for a minor repair permit and $1500.00 for a new permit. A fee of $1500.00 would also be charged for a major repair requiring a design from a Colorado Certified Professional Engineer.”
  • Permit processPartial

    OWTS permitting process in Routt County.

    • The process requires zoning-criteria review, site and soil evaluation, system design, application submission, staff review, possible site inspection, and permit issuance.
    • A complete application is targeted for review, inspection, and approval notification within 14 working days, subject to access, weather, seasons, or unforeseen circumstances.
    • The guide states that it is guidance and does not supersede Routt County OWTS Regulations.

    target review period: 14 working days (goal; subject to access, weather, seasons, or unforeseen circumstances)

    “It is the goal that the application review, site inspection and notification of approval will be within 14 working days after receiving a complete application but due to access, weather, seasons or unforeseen circumstances that is not”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Building permit applications and plan submittals for unincorporated Routt County.
      “Routt County Regional Building Department uses CityView Permitting software for all permit applications and plan submittals. Applicants must create an account in CityView to submit online permit applications.”

Colorado rules that apply here

  • InspectionsRequired

    All reviewed Colorado State Buildings Program construction projects subject to state building-code compliance review.

    • The policy states that all reviewed construction projects are inspected for building-code compliance.
    • Required inspections are identified on the Building Inspection Record and may include building, special, fire, plumbing, electrical, boiler, elevator, and health-department inspections as applicable.
    • Local fire districts and other state authorities may have separate inspection responsibilities.
    • The policy applies to state buildings and state projects, not uniformly to every private project in Colorado.
    “All reviewed construction projects shall be inspected for building code compliance.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rentals statewide, defined in the cited official source as lodging-unit rentals for fewer than 30 days.

    • There is no statewide STR regulatory scheme.
    • Boards of county commissioners may license and regulate STR owners or agencies and set license fees, terms, issuance, and revocation procedures.
    • Home-rule municipalities and private contracts or homeowners' association covenants may impose additional restrictions.

    maximum rental duration for STR definition: < 30 days

    “There are no statewide regulations regarding STRs. As established through House Bill 20-1093, state law allows for boards of county commissioners (BOCCs) to license and regulate an owner or owner’s agency and to fix the fees, terms, and manner for issuing and revoking licenses.”
  • 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.

  • Certificate of occupancy — Certificates of occupancy for buildings in unincorporated Routt County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage standards in unincorporated Routt County.
  • Agricultural exemption — Agricultural exemptions from Routt County land-use or building 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 Routt County, Colorado

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

Routt County scores 69/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: sparse surroundings — about 6,034 people within 15 miles and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop.

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

Routt County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Routt County Department of Environmental Health. 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 Routt County, Colorado?

Land in Routt County runs about $4,101 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Routt County?

Routt County gets about 25.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 20.6% of years.

How remote is Routt County?

A typical private-land location has about 6,034 people within 15 miles and 3,641,033 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Routt compares in Colorado

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