Use Permits

Use Permits

The Use Permit program began with the adoption of the Clear Creek County Onsite Water Treatment Systems (OWTS) Regulations, which became effective on July 25, 2014. This program was put in place to ensure that prior to the sale of a property that is serviced by an OWTS, the system is inspected and deemed to be in good working condition and within its utilization parameters as allowed by its installation permit.

Some common questions regarding this type of permit:

Do I need to obtain a Use Permit?

Clear Creek County requires a homeowner to obtain a Use Permit prior to the close of the transaction if any of the following apply to your system:

  • If any component of your system has been utilized for more than 5 years;
  • If you are the owner of a limited occupancy dwelling; or
  • If you are the owner of a limited bedroom use dwelling

What do I need to apply for a Use Permit?

Use Permits must be obtained PRIOR to the closing of a covered transaction. As the process can be lengthy as a whole, Clear Creek County Environmental Health recommends starting the process when the home is first listed. The following is needs to be submitted in order to apply for Use Permit:

How long does it take for Clear Creek County to process my permit application?

Please allow 5 to 10 business days to process your Use Permit application. The review includes looking at previous permits, recorded documents, engineering submittals, the MLS listing/sales publication and the Transfer of Title Inspection Form. In certain situations, Clear Creek County Environmental Health may conduct an additional inspection. Out of fairness to all Clear Creek County patrons, we issue permits in the order they are applied for. Due to the required review time, Clear Creek County Environmental Health cannot 'rush' permits for issuance.

Why was my Use Permit denied?

As soon as it is determined that your permit cannot be issued, a member of our staff will contact the applicant via email or phone. The main reasons for denial include an exceeding the number of approved bedrooms, conflicting records, an expired pumping receipt or a failed transfer of title inspection. For more information on why your permit was denied please email Environmental Health or call 303-679-2428.

How do I change the status of my Use Permit from denied to approved?

In order to change the status of your permit, you will need to address deficiencies as indicated on your correspondence. A Use Permit will not be issued until the needed steps have been taken and proof has been given to the department that the system is now in compliance.

How long is my permit valid for?

Use Permits are valid for 12 months or until the date of the real estate closing. If the sale of the property does not occur within 12 months of issuance of the Use Permit. A Use Permit is not renewable.

I just purchased a home in Clear Creek and the previous owner did not obtain a Use Permit. What do I need to do?

If the property transferred title without an approved Use Permit, you as the new property owner will be required to obtain one within 30 days of the date of closing or you will receive a Notice of Violation and enforcement may begin. Any deficiencies or failures will be required to be brought into compliance if found during the Use Permit process.