Bolthole Index

Teller County, Colorado

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

63Index Score / 100
#15 of 64 in Colorado

Unincorporated Teller County, Colorado requires building permits from the county Building Division and county zoning approval through Planning / Zoning.123 Septic permits come from Teller County Environmental Health; adequate legal access and any required access permit must be established before the county issues a building permit.456

At a glance

Building permit
Required in unincorporated Teller County1
Zoning
County zoning applies in unincorporated areas2
Septic
County Environmental Health provides OWTS permit applications and determines requirements4
RV living
Not a permanent dwelling; temporary housing during a home build requires a permit7
Accessory dwelling
One ADU or guest house is allowed by right, subject to county conditions8
Owner-builder
Allowed for an owner of record, subject to county limits9
Water well
A Colorado well permit is required for a new groundwater well, subject to exceptions10

Who to call

Building permits

Teller County Building Division

Building permits and inspections in unincorporated Teller County

719-687-3048

800 Research Drive, Suite 100-B Tamarac Business Center Woodland Park, CO 80863

Online permits →

Planning & zoning

Teller County Planning / Zoning Division

Land-use plans, zoning regulations and county floodplain materials

719-687-3048

800 Research Drive, Suite 100-B Tamarac Business Center Woodland Park, CO 80863

Septic permits

Teller County Environmental Health - Septic Services

Onsite wastewater treatment system permits and septic services

719-687-6416

11115 W Hwy 24 Unit 2C Divide, CO 80814

Roads & driveways

Teller County Department of Transportation

County road and right-of-way questions

719-687-8812

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 10, 2026.

Off-grid gear

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

Unincorporated Teller County requires building permits, with exemptions for qualifying accessory and agricultural buildings.111 The county adopts the 2021 International Residential Code with amendments.12 Most construction requires plan review, with listed reroofing, stucco, siding, glazing and woodstove exceptions.13 Starting work without a required permit triggers a compliance inspection, twice the ordinary permit fee and an additional compliance fee.14

In Cripple Creek, modular and manufactured homes require a city Community Development building permit; Victor also handles its own building permits.1516 Teller County Environmental Health remains the county contact for septic applications.45

All owners of record must sign a Homeowner Builder application; the county limits new dwellings to 1 per 24 months and 2 permits per 10 years.9 The second dwelling requires documented ownership and primary-residence occupancy of the prior dwelling for at least 12 months; without residency evidence, the wait is 60 months after the prior Certificate of Occupancy.9 Agricultural exemptions require solely agricultural use supporting the assessor classification, setback compliance and any applicable electrical, mechanical or plumbing permits.11

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

The Teller County Building Division is the permit and inspection office for unincorporated land.17 Its public counter is at 800 Research Drive, Suite 100-B, Tamarac Business Center, Woodland Park, CO 80863, and the main phone is 719-687-3048.17 County building inspectors take code questions during the morning window shown on the office page.17

Planning and zoning questions go to the Teller County Planning / Zoning Division at the same address and phone number.3 The division administers county land-use regulations and publishes floodplain application materials.3 Septic questions go to Environmental Health - Septic Services in Divide.5 The county publishes separate applications for a single-family dwelling, driveway, OWTS, floodplain development, right-of-way use and a Certificate of Occupancy.18

Does Teller County, Colorado have zoning?

Teller County zoning applies to unincorporated land, and a zoning violation blocks a county building permit.219 Planning / Zoning administers the county regulations and publishes the zoning map and district handouts.2021 Woodland Park and Victor set their own zoning, as does Green Mountain Falls, a town mainly in El Paso County that reaches into Teller County.222324 Teller County Environmental Health handles county septic applications separately.45

Rural Residential setbacks are 50 feet front, 25 feet side and 30 feet rear; R-1 and current R-1M setbacks are 25 feet front, 15 feet side and 30 feet rear.252627 A county deck review used different R-1M setbacks for a particular parcel, so have Planning / Zoning confirm the parcel’s buildable envelope.28 R-1 maximum height is 35 feet; RR allows 35 feet residential and 50 feet nonresidential.2930

New subdivision lots without both central water and sewer generally need 10 acres, subject to district exceptions.31 Parcel creation or reshaping requires Planning and Board approval, with the cited policy exempting actions creating parcels all over 35 acres.32

How do septic permits work in Teller County?

Teller County Public Health and Environment administers onsite wastewater treatment systems under updated Regulation 43, effective July 24, 2026.33 The septic office publishes an OWTS permit application, but requirements and exemptions vary by transaction and system circumstance; use the county's flowchart and forms or ask Environmental Health which path applies.45

Where a building lacks sewage-treatment service, Colorado requires local OWTS approval before building construction or remodeling approval.34 After permitted septic work is complete, a final inspection must occur before the system is used, and occupancy approval depends on local OWTS approval.35 Only 6.2% of mapped Teller County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so evaluate the soil and site before fixing the house layout.36

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Teller County?

Teller County does not allow an RV, camper, trailer, motor home, tent or similar unit as a permanent residence in unincorporated areas.7 Camping on vacant land needs no permit for up to 14 days; a longer stay requires one.37 On improved property, camping is limited to 14 days at a time and 30 days in any six-month period, with written owner permission for guests and approved wastewater disposal.37

Temporary housing during construction requires a Temporary Housing Permit, an active dwelling permit, approved utilities and setback compliance.7 One ADU or guest house, but not both, is allowed by right subject to county conditions.8 An ADU must share the primary dwelling's road entry and show legal water and adequate septic capacity where applicable.8 The R-1M district permits mobile homes as dwelling units.38 We could not confirm a distinct tiny-home occupancy rule or countywide minimum dwelling size; ask Planning / Zoning and the Building Division how the proposed unit is classified.

Building a home in Teller County: what are the steps?

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is in unincorporated Teller County or a municipality, because the county Building Division serves unincorporated property.17
  1. Ask Planning / Zoning to confirm the district, proposed use, dimensional standards and whether floodplain review applies.3940
  1. Establish adequate legal access and obtain any required access permit before the building permit can issue.6 For a new county-regulated driveway, submit the application and fee; the county inspects the site, a licensed right-of-way contractor obtains the permit before work, and a final inspection is required.41 Direct access from a house to a state highway requires a CDOT permit.42
  1. Establish water and wastewater; a site without sewer service needs local OWTS approval before building approval.34
  1. Submit the dwelling application and plans, complete required inspections, secure final septic approval and apply for a Certificate of Occupancy when required.18433544

What should you check before buying land in Teller County?

Before buying unincorporated Teller County land, confirm zoning, legal access and sewage-disposal compliance: unresolved violations or missing required access or sewage-disposal permits can block the building permit.14

A Teller County Floodplain Development Permit is required before development in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area, including clearing, fill and grading as well as construction.40 Other necessary local, state or federal permits must be obtained first, and floodplain occupancy or use requires an inspection and Certificate of Compliance.40 Ask Planning / Zoning about the proposed site before disturbing land.3

Only 6.2% of mapped county soils avoid severe conventional drain-field limitations, so assess septic feasibility before fixing the house layout.36 Terrain also constrains siting: 31.4% of county land has a slope of 15% or less.45 A new groundwater well requires a Colorado well permit, subject to exceptions.10 Published residential driveway-permit fees are $40 for access up to 150 feet and $50 for longer access; total project fees vary.46

Watch-outs

  • County building and zoning rules apply to unincorporated Teller County; establish jurisdiction before using county standards for a parcel.12
  • An RV or similar unit is not a permanent dwelling in unincorporated Teller County; temporary housing during construction needs a county permit and connected utilities.7
  • Floodplain development approval is required before clearing, filling, grading or building in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area in Teller County.40
  • Teller County’s current R-1M zoning chapter and a parcel-specific deck review give different setbacks; ask Planning / Zoning to resolve the applicable distances before designing the site.2728

Sources

  1. Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  2. Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  3. Teller County Planning / Zoning Division (tellercounty.gov)
  4. Transfer of Title for OWTS, quoted and re-checked
  5. Teller County Environmental Health - Septic Services (tellercounty.gov)
  6. Teller County Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  7. Teller County Land Use Regulations: Chapter 2 Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  8. Teller County Land Use Regulations: Chapter 2 Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  9. Teller County Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  10. Water Administration (Colorado statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. Teller County Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  12. Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  13. Help/FAQ - Teller County CDD Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  14. Teller County Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  15. Cripple Creek: Sec. 18-19-20. Permits required (Teller County), quoted and re-checked
  16. Victor: Victor Municipal Code § 18-1-30, Building Code—Amendments (Teller County), quoted and re-checked
  17. Teller County Building Division (tellercounty.gov)
  18. Building Permit Applications, quoted and re-checked
  19. Teller County Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  20. Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  21. Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  22. Woodland Park: Woodland Park Code § 18.09.090, Districts established—Table of permitted uses (Teller County), quoted and re-checked
  23. Victor: Victor Municipal Code § 16-5-20, Use regulations (Teller County), quoted and re-checked
  24. Town of Green Mountain Falls: Green Mountain Falls Municipal Code, Sec. 12-21—Zoning districts (Teller County), quoted and re-checked
  25. Teller County Land Use Regulations: Chapter 2 Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  26. Chapter 2: Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  27. Chapter 2: Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  28. CDD: Plan R17716 - Teller County CDD Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  29. Chapter 2: Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  30. Chapter 2: Zoning — dimensional standards, quoted and re-checked
  31. tellercounty.gov, quoted and re-checked
  32. Teller County Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  33. Septic Services, quoted and re-checked
  34. Title 25 - Public Health and Environment - Colorado Revised Statutes 2024 (Colorado statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  35. Title 25 - Public Health and Environment - Colorado Revised Statutes 2024 (Colorado statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  36. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  37. Teller County Land Use Regulations: Chapter 2 Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  38. Chapter 2: Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  39. Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  40. Teller County Floodplain Development Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  41. Driveway/Access Guidelines, quoted and re-checked
  42. Access Permits | Frequently Asked Questions (Colorado statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  43. Teller County Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  44. Building Permit Applications, quoted and re-checked
  45. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  46. Driveway/Access Guidelines, quoted and re-checked

Written October 10, 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, Teller County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleTeller CountyDouglas CountyJefferson CountyPark CountyEl Paso CountyFremont CountyDenver County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Public Health & Env.County Health Dept.County Public HealthCounty Env. Health Dept.County Public HealthCounty Building Dept.Denver Dept. of Public Health & Env.

County locator

Teller County in Colorado

63
County map
Teller County highlighted among the Colorado counties · colored by Index score

How Teller County scores

Seclusion62100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency46100% ev.
Admin Boringness4190% ev.
Durability49100% ev.
Property Autonomy75100% ev.
Carry Cost78100% 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 →

$485kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$2,307Land / acre
18.9"Annual rain
16.4% of yrsSevere drought
0 / yr (+0)Mid-century 100°F days
20.9 daysMid-century dry spell
1.15" (+4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.4×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,476Home insurance / yr
7% / yrInsurance growth
1.32%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
2,163People within 30 min
1,650,632People within 2 hr
15,457Radius comparison (15 mi)
44.2People / sq mi
44.5%Federal land
31.4%Land at 15% slope or less
6.2%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
21,785 acWorkable land screen
73.6%Wooded land
22.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
40.6°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Teller 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 Teller County

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

Teller County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Residential and commercial building activities and structures on land/property in unincorporated Teller County.

    • The Building Division issues permits and inspects property in unincorporated Teller County.
    • One-story conventional detached unheated accessory buildings used as tool or storage sheds, playhouses, or greenhouses are exempt when the building area does not exceed 200 square feet and overhang projections do not exceed 24 inches beyond the exterior wall.
    • Exempt accessory structures may not be used for habitable or sleeping rooms or contain upper storage areas greater than four feet in height; upper storage must be for light storage only.
    • The Building Department will not issue a permit where Planning identifies zoning or illegal-subdivision violations, except actions creating parcels that are all over 35 acres are exempt from that policy under Colorado Revised Statutes.
    • A permit will not issue without adequate legal access and any required access permit.
    • A permit will not issue where Environmental Health identifies sewage-disposal violations or a required sewage-disposal permit has not been obtained.
    • A permit will not issue for an existing building-code violation or where a required building permit has not been obtained.
    • Permit fee tables and valuation tables follow fee schedules adopted by the Teller County Board of Commissioners.
    • Incorporated Woodland Park, Cripple Creek, and Victor have their own building departments.

    exempt accessory-building area: <= 200 square feet (One-story conventional detached unheated accessory buildings only.) · overhang projection: <= 24 inches (Exempt accessory buildings only.) · upper storage height: <= 4 feet (Exempt accessory buildings; light storage only.)

    “The Teller County Building Division is responsible for regulating building activities to ensure that residential and commercial structures comply with applicable codes. The Building Division issues Permits and Inspects all land/property located within unincorporated Teller County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction of structures and residential dwellings subject to the Teller County Building Code in unincorporated Teller County.
      “Whenever any work for which a permit is required by this code has been commenced without first obtaining said permit”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    A record owner constructing a dwelling under the Teller County Homeowner Builder provisions.

    • All owners of record must sign the building-permit application.
    • Only one new dwelling may be constructed in any 24-month period.
    • Only two new-dwelling building permits may be issued in any 10-year period.
    • For the second dwelling, the prior dwelling must have been owned and occupied as the primary residence for at least 12 months, supported by a sworn affidavit and other documentation.
    • If primary residency is not evidenced, the second permit may be applied for only after 60 months from the prior Certificate of Occupancy date.
    • Subsequent permits involving a Homeowner Builder require the Homeowner Builder to establish that they are a contractor and comply with licensing requirements.
    • An owner using a licensed Teller County General Contractor to secure the permit is not a Homeowner Builder.

    new dwellings per 24 months: 1 dwelling · new-dwelling permits per 10 years: 2 permits · primary-residence occupancy for second dwelling: >= 12 months (otherwise 60 months after prior Certificate of Occupancy)

    “A Homeowner Builder(s) may secure a building permit to construct only one new dwelling, as defined herein, in any twenty-four (24) month period. Only two (2) new dwelling building permits may be issued to any Homeowner Builder(s) in any ten (10) year period. The second dwelling building permit may only be applied for after the date that is twenty-four (24) months after the Certificate of Occupancy date on the prior dwelling, where the prior dwelling has been owned and occupied by the Homeowner Builder(s) as his/her/their primary residence for at least twelve (12) months, as shown by the sworn affidavit of the Homeowner Builder(s) and such other information and/or documentation as is presented to or known by the Building Department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Homeowner Builders constructing dwellings under the Teller County Building Code.
      “A Homeowner Builder(s) may secure a building permit to construct only one new dwelling, as defined herein, in any twenty-four (24) month period. Only two (2) new dwelling building permits may be issued to any Homeowner Builder(s) in any ten (10) year period.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Residential and commercial construction in unincorporated Teller County.

    • The county lists the 2021 IBC, IRC, IPC, IMC, IFGC, IEBC, 2018 IECC, 2003 IFC, 2023 NEC, and 2023 TCBC with amendments.
    “TELLER COUNTY BUILDING CODES: 2021 IBC - 2021 IRC - 2021 IPC - 2021 IMC - 2021 IFGC - 2018 IECC - 2021 IEBC 2003 IFC -2017 ANSI A117.7 - 2023 NEC - 2023 TCBC W/AMENDMENTS”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Building work requiring a Teller County permit.

    • The permit fee includes a reasonable number of necessary inspections.
    • Re-inspection, after-hours, and compliance-inspection fees may apply.
    • Exempt agricultural buildings still require inspections for applicable electrical, mechanical, and plumbing installations.

    re-inspection fee: 100 USD · after-hours inspection: 100 USD per hour (2-hour minimum)

    “The permit fee includes a reasonable number of necessary inspections”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Building permits for projects requiring a certificate of occupancy in unincorporated Teller County.

    • The county has a Certificate of Occupancy application and issues certificates for qualifying permits; a permit may be finaled before a non-blocking inspection is completed.
    “The building permit can be finaled (and the Certificate of Occupancy issued) prior to completing a non-Blocking inspection, but that inspection should still be completed when possible.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County land-use and zoning regulation in unincorporated Teller County.

    • The county land-use regulations apply to unincorporated areas; incorporated municipalities may administer their own rules.
    “Chapter 2 - Zoning (PDF) (New changes as of April 24, 2025)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land-use zoning in unincorporated Teller County.
      “Provisions of these Regulations apply within the unincorporated territory of Teller County as now or hereafter fixed.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County-administered zoning requirements in unincorporated Teller County.

    • A building permit will not issue where the Planning Department identifies a zoning violation under the Teller County Land Use Regulations.
    “Provisions of these Regulations apply within the unincorporated territory of Teller County as now or hereafter fixed.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County-administered zoning for unincorporated areas.
      “For the purposes of these Regulations, Teller County is divided into land use zones as follows:”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Teller County zoning districts and zoning-map materials for unincorporated Teller County.

    • Chapter 2 was listed with changes as of April 24, 2025.
    • The county land-use page also links a zoning map and district-specific handouts.

    Chapter 2 revision date: 2025-04-24

    “Chapter 2 - Zoning (PDF) (New changes as of April 24, 2025)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County zoning districts and zoning maps for unincorporated Teller County.
      “Chapter 2 - Zoning (PDF) (New changes as of April 24, 2025)”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    New subdivision lots or parcels in county zone districts not served by both central water and central sewer.

    • The rule is subject to exceptions specified by the applicable zone district.

    minimum lot or parcel size: >= 10 acres (unless the regulations specify otherwise for the zone district)

    “Unless these Regulations specify otherwise for the zone district, when a proposed subdivision lot or parcel is not served by both central water and central sewer, the minimum size for the lot or parcel is 10 acres.”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Development in the Teller County Business Commercial (BC) zoning district, with different standards inside and outside legislatively adopted Growth Area boundaries.

    • Outside Growth Area boundaries: front 50 feet, side 15 feet, rear 35 feet.
    • Within Growth Area boundaries: front 25 feet, side none provided that Teller County Building Code requirements are met, rear 15 feet.
    • Structures must also be at least 100 feet from an existing residential zone district.
    • The Growth Area boundaries must be determined from legislatively adopted Teller County maps.

    outside growth area front setback: 50 feet · outside growth area side setback: 15 feet · outside growth area rear setback: 35 feet · within growth area front setback: 25 feet · within growth area side setback: none (provided that the requirements of the Teller County Building Code are met) · within growth area rear setback: 15 feet · distance from existing residential zone district: 100 feet (minimum distance of structures)

    “Outside the Growth Area boundaries depicted on legislatively adopted Teller County map(s): Front: 50 feet Side: 15 feet Rear: 35 feet Within the Growth Area boundaries depicted on legislatively adopted Teller County map(s): Front: 25 feet Side: None provided that the requirements of the Teller County Building Code are met Rear: 15 feet Minimum distance of structures from an existing residential zone district: 100 feet.”
    7 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — New subdivision lots and residential development in the unincorporated Teller County R-1 Residential One zoning district.
      “C. Dimensional Limitations 1. Minimum Setbacks: Front: 25 feet Rear: 30 feet Side: 15 feet”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential/mobile development in the unincorporated Teller County R-1M Residential/Mobile zoning district.
      “C. Dimensional Limitations. Dimensional limitations are those specified for the R-1 Zone District.”
    • Specified — Structures in Teller County's Rural Residential (RR) zoning district.
      “C. Dimensional Limitations 1. Minimum Setbacks: Front: 50 feet Side: 25 feet Rear: 30 feet”
    • Specified — Structures in Teller County's Residential One (R-1) zoning district.
      “C. Dimensional Limitations 1. Minimum Setbacks: Front: 25 feet Rear: 30 feet Side: 15 feet”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Development in the Residential One Mobile Home (R-1M) Zone District under Teller County Land Use Regulations.
      “R-1 [...] Front 25' Side 15' Rear 30' [...] R-1M Same as R-1”
    • Specified — R-1M Residential/Mobile Zone District in unincorporated Teller County, where the district's dimensional limitations incorporate those of the R-1 Zone District.
      “C. Dimensional Limitations. Dimensional limitations are those specified for the R-1 Zone District. [...] 1. Minimum Setbacks: Front: 25 feet Rear: 30 feet Side: 15 feet”
    • Specified — County zoning review for the residential deck permit at 451 Fern Road, identified in Plan R17716, on a 0.34-acre lot.
      “The R-1M setback requirements are: Front – 50 feet, Side – 25 feet, Rear – 30 feet.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Building height in Teller County zoning districts.

    • The cited R-1 maximum is 35 feet.
    • For stepped or terraced buildings, Chapter 2 provides additional grade-differential measurement rules, including the lesser of the applicable grade differential or 10 feet.

    R-1 maximum building height: 35 feet · stepped or terraced grade differential cap: <= 10 feet (or the applicable grade differential, whichever is less)

    “A stepped or terraced structure shall not exceed the maximum height of the underlying zone district plus either (a) the maximum grade differential to the lowest point of grade within five feet of the structure; or (b) 10 feet, whichever is less.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    RV, trailer, motor-home, and similar temporary housing in unincorporated Teller County.

    • Temporary housing requires a valid Temporary Housing Permit.
    • An approved water supply, sewage disposal system, and electrical service must be installed and connected.
    • An active permanent-dwelling building permit is required, with no more than 180 days between required inspections.
    • All zone-district setbacks must be met.
    • The unit must be vacated within 30 days after the permanent dwelling Certificate of Occupancy.
    • The regulations do not permit campers, trailers, lean-tos, tents, motor homes, recreational vehicles, or similar property as a permanent residence or allowable dwelling unit.

    vacation deadline: 30 days after Certificate of Occupancy · maximum inspection gap: <= 180 days

    “The property owner may live on his or her property during the construction of a permanent dwelling on the same property, with a valid Temporary Housing Permit.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping on vacant and improved property.

    • Camping on vacant property for up to 14 days does not require a camping permit.
    • Camping more than 14 days on vacant property requires a permit.
    • Camping on improved property is limited to up to 14 days and no more than 30 days during any six-month period.
    • Written property-owner permission is required for camping by persons other than the owner.
    • Wastewater must be handled through approved off-site disposal or a permitted and installed OWTS.

    vacant-property permit-free period: <= 14 days · improved-property camping limit: <= 14 days (no more than 30 days during any six-month period) · improved-property six-month limit: <= 30 days (during any six-month period)

    “A camping permit is not required for camping on vacant property for up to fourteen (14) days. [...] A camping permit is required for the following. a) Camping more than fourteen (14) days on vacant property. [...] Camping on improved property will be limited to up to fourteen (14) days, and no more than thirty (30) days during any six-month period.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Accessory Dwelling Units in Teller County zoning districts.

    • An ADU must use the same public-road or subdivision-road entry point as the primary dwelling.
    • At least two off-street parking spaces are required for each ADU in addition to the primary dwelling requirement.
    • Where the property uses a well and septic system, legal potable water and evidence of an adequately sized septic system are required.
    • An ADU may be used only for single-family occupancy, with or without a no-impact home business.
    • A-1 district acreage and creation-date restrictions apply; ADUs may not be separately conveyed.

    A-1 acreage threshold: >= 35 acres (additional ADU allowance depends on agricultural tax-assessment status and lot creation date)

    “One Accessory Dwelling Unit or Guest House, but not both, is permitted as a use-by-right regardless of the size of the lot, parcel, or tract.”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    Onsite wastewater treatment systems in Teller County.

    • The updated Regulation 43 becomes effective July 24, 2026.

    effective date: 2026-07-24

    “The update becomes effective July 24, 2026.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater treatment systems in Teller County.
      “As of June 9, 2026, the Teller County Board of County Commissioners, acting as the Teller County Board of Health, along with Teller County Public Health and Environment adopted the updated version of Regulation 43, governing onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) in Teller County.”
  • Septic permitLimited

    OWTS permit requirements and exemptions in Teller County.

    • Permit requirements vary by transaction and system circumstance; the county directs applicants to a flowchart and application forms to determine requirements and exemptions.
    “Septic Permit (OWTS) Application Form (PDF)”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Agricultural buildings meeting the Teller County Building Code exemption conditions.

    • The agricultural building must be used solely for the agricultural use supporting the assessor classification, not for residential purposes, and must meet applicable setbacks; applicable electrical, mechanical, or plumbing permits and inspections remain required.
    “Agricultural buildings that meet all the following: (a) are used solely for the agricultural uses that are the basis for the property being classified as agricultural land by the County Assessor, (b) are not used for residential purposes, such as storing household items, personal vehicles, etc., and (c) meet the setback requirements of the Land Use Regulations that would apply were a building permit required.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and parcel-creation activity subject to Teller County planning approval.

    • The building code defines an illegal subdivision as creating new parcels or changing the size or shape of an existing parcel without Planning Department and Board of County Commissioners approval.
    • Actions creating parcels all over 35 acres are exempted from that policy under Colorado Revised Statutes.

    large-parcel exemption threshold: > 35 acres (subject to the cited Colorado Revised Statutes provision)

    “An illegal subdivision of land shall be considered any action to create new parcels or change the size or shape of an existing parcel without the approval of the Planning Department and Board of County Commissioners. Actions creating parcels that are all over 35 acres are exempted from this policy as per Colorado Revised Statutes.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and land-division activity under Teller County Land Use Regulations.
      “Chapter 2 - Zoning (PDF) [...] Chapter 9 - Subdivision (PDF) [...] Chapter 10 - Planned Unit Development (PUD) (PDF)”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New driveway or access connections governed by the Teller County Department of Transportation.

    • The applicant must complete the application and pay the corresponding fee; the site is inspected, a permit is issued, a licensed right-of-way contractor obtains it before work, and final inspection is required.

    reinspection fee: 40 USD (if address is not posted or driveway is not flagged) · residential access width: 20 feet (generally limited, excluding radii)

    “The Inspector will inspect the site, determine requirements, and issue a permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction or placement of a structure or manufactured, factory-built, or mobile housing in unincorporated Teller County.
      “The Building Department shall not issue a building permit for construction of any type of structure, or placement of manufactured, factory built, or mobile housing, on a property that has not demonstrated adequate legal access as determined by the Teller County Transportation Department pursuant to the Roadway Design and Construction Standards or other applicable standards or requirements, and/or for which any required access permit has not be obtained.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas and designated floodplain zones in Teller County.

    • A Floodplain Development Permit is required before beginning any development in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area.
    • Development includes new construction, additions, clearing, fill, grading, mining, dredging, drilling, and similar activities.
    • No work may begin in zones A, A1-30, AE, AO, AH, or B until a permit is issued.
    • Other necessary local, state, or federal permits must be obtained first.
    • An inspection and Certificate of Compliance are required before occupancy or use.
    • The permit expires if work does not commence within six months of issuance.
    • In specified zones, the lowest floor including utilities must be at least one foot above base flood elevation; regulatory-floodway work requires a No-Rise Certificate.

    lowest floor elevation: >= 1 foot above base flood elevation (specified floodplain zones and structures) · permit commencement deadline: 6 months after issuance

    “If the property which you propose to develop is located within a “Special Flood Hazard Area” on a flood map issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), you MUST obtain a FDP prior to beginning the project.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Development requiring floodplain review or permitting in Teller County.
      “Floodplain Development Permit Application (PDF)”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Published Teller County driveway/access and building inspection-related fees.

    • Fees vary by permit type and project circumstances.
    • Building-code fees include re-inspection, after-hours, compliance-inspection, and permit-transfer charges.

    residential driveway/access permit up to 150 feet: 40 USD · residential driveway/access permit over 150 feet: 50 USD · commercial/industrial driveway/access permit: 60 USD · additional access: 20 USD

    “Residential Driveway/Access Permits: Up to 150 feet $40.00 Greater than 150 feet $50.00”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County building permit process in unincorporated Teller County.

    • Permits may be obtained by phone, online for eligible users and permit types, or in person; most construction projects require plan review, with listed reroof, stucco, siding, glazing, and woodstove exceptions.
    “Most construction projects (either new or remodel) require a plan review prior to issuing the permit (the exceptions are Reroof, Stucco, Siding, Glazing, Woodstove).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — County building, driveway, OWTS, floodplain, and Certificate of Occupancy applications.
      “Driveway Permit Application [...] Septic (OWTS) Permit Application [...] Floodplain Development Permit Application [...] Right-Of-Way Use Permit Application [...] Certificate of Occupancy Application [...] Single Family Dwelling (SFD) Permit Application”

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.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    OWTS construction, installation, alteration, or repair statewide before the system is placed in use, plus operating inspections when authorized under applicable rules.

    • A final inspection must occur after permitted work is completed and before the system is placed in use.
    • The local public health agency or its designated professional engineer determines compliance with the permit, statute, and applicable rules.
    • For a building not serviced by a sewage treatment works, an occupancy permit requires final OWTS inspection and local agency approval.
    “Final inspection of a system to be made by the local public health agency or its designated professional engineer after construction, installation, alteration, or repair work under a permit has been completed, but before the system is placed in use, to determine that the work has been performed in accordance with the permit and that the system is in compliance with this article and the rules adopted under this article;”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Sanitation for dwellings and occupied structures statewide that is provided without connection to a sewage treatment works.

    • The structure must have adequate facilities for sanitary disposal of sewage.
    • An OWTS may be used subject to applicable permit, inspection, construction, installation, alteration, and use requirements.
    • Construction of new cesspools is prohibited.
    • Septage removed during maintenance or cleaning must be disposed of at an approved site and in an approved manner.
    “No person shall construct or maintain any dwelling or other occupied structure that is not equipped with adequate facilities for the sanitary disposal of sewage.”
  • Well permitRequired

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in Teller County zoning districts.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage under county zoning districts.

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 Teller County, Colorado

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

Teller County scores 63/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop. Watch-outs: more administrative friction around building and land use.

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

Teller County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Teller County Public Health and Environment (Board of Health, Regulation 43). 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.

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Teller County is allowed on a temporary basis only: RV, trailer, motor-home, and similar temporary housing in unincorporated Teller County. Temporary housing requires a valid Temporary Housing Permit. An approved water supply, sewage disposal system, and electrical service must be installed and connected. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Teller County, Colorado?

Land in Teller County runs about $2,307 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Teller County?

Teller County gets about 18.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 16.4% of years.

How remote is Teller County?

A representative private-land location has about 2,163 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,650,632 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Teller compares in Colorado

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