Frequently Asked Questions

On January 3rd, 2025 Clear Creek County adopted a four-day work week. General County office hours are 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday-Thursday. The Sheriff's Office, E.M.S., Public Health, and Transit will continue to operate as usual. Please check specific departments for the most precise information about hours.

P.O. Box 2000, Georgetown, CO 80444

Physical Address:

• Clear Creek County
• 405 Argentine Street
• Georgetown, CO 80444
• 303-679-2300

You can see elected officials for Clear Creek County here: https://www.clearcreekcounty.us/197/Your-Elected-Officials

A sales tax license is not required by the County – this is obtained from the State of Colorado Department of Revenue because the Department of Revenue administers and collects Clear Creek County tax. All sales tax and lodging tax collected is remitted to the State and then distributed by the State to the County. To obtain a sales tax license with the State of Colorado or for specific questions about sales tax, visit the Colorado Department of Revenue, www.revenue.state.co.us ,or call 303-238-7378. SALES TAX RATES Clear Creek County Sales Tax rate will increase from 1.65 to 2.65 percent effective January 1, 2022 on taxable sales in Clear Creek County. In addition, there is a County Lodging Tax rate of 2 percent. Colorado State sales tax rate is 2.9 percent. [§39-26-106 C.R.S.] Contact the City of Idaho Springs, 303-567-4421, Town of Georgetown, 303-569-2555, the Town of Empire, 303-569-2978, or the Town of Silver Plume, 303-569-2363, for tax rates within their jurisdictions. To find out whether a local government has a sales tax, what the rate is, and whether it is home rule, request "Colorado Sales/Use Tax Rates" (DRP 1002). This publication is updated each January and July and is located on the State Web site at www.taxcolorado.com

County holiday closures are available on the County Closure schedule, available by clicking here.  To look at specific dates, select your preferred range under "Search calendar by:"

Clear Creek County has an extensive collection of current and historic aerial photos dating back to 1938. This collection is available online via our Historic Clear Creek interactive map. Once the map is open you will see a multitude of colored stars. Each star represents the center of a single historic photo from a certain time period. To view a photo, right click on a colored star and select "What's Here". The photo information will be displayed in the results pane on the left hand side of the page. Click on the "View Photo" link to see the image for that year.

Clear Creek County has an interactive mapping application called “ClearMap” to search and view properties within its boundaries. To open ClearMap, click the link below. To search for a property, choose your search method by clicking on the "I want to.." button in the top left hand corner of the map area and select your preferred search method.

Yes, the Mapping Department can create custom maps. Our fees are based on an hourly rate of $60/hour, with a one hour minimum charge. If you are interested please come in and see us or submit an online request form here

To view or download GIS data please visit our Open Data site.

Yes, you can pay your taxes by following this link: Pay Taxes Online

The County maintains a variety of historical records, including property records (deeds, mortgages, plats), vital records (birth, death, marriage certificates - though these are often with the Clerk and Recorder or State Vital Records), court records, government meeting minutes, photographs, maps, and other documents related to the history and administration of the county. Genealogical information can often be found within these record types.

Many public records held by the Clerk and Recorder or the Assessor are available for viewing and copying during their business hours in the basement of the County Courthouse and members of the public may make an appointment appointment to conduct records research. Please email Public Information Officer, Megan Hiler-Wilson at mhiler@clearcreekcounty.us to schedule a visit and confirm the materials you wish to access are prepared for your arrival.

Property records are primarily handled by the Clear Creek County Assessor’s Office or the Clerk and Recorder. Both have an online search portal for records from August 30, 1983, forward. For records prior to that date, you will likely need to visit their office in person.

Links:

•    Property Records Information: https://www.clearcreekcounty.us/163/Property-Records-Information

•    Online Search for Recorded Documents: https://erecording.co.clear-creek.co.us:8443/clearcreekrecorder/web/

Zoning information is handled by the Clear Creek County Planning Department. You can find zoning maps online through ClearMap or contact the Planning Department directly.

Link:  https://gis.clearcreekcounty.us/vertigisstudio/web/?app=180e3e74515e4712a9c4cea0ccd3f2fb&workflow=0e504e4a-b955-4048-bb8b-d4241b7eadf9&workflowParams={"preset":"zoning"}

You can visit Clear Creek County’s Assessor Property Records Search here: https://assessor.co.clear-creek.co.us/eagleassessor/web/

Or find property owner information on ClearMap here:  https://gis.clearcreekcounty.us/vertigisstudio/web/?app=180e3e74515e4712a9c4cea0ccd3f2fb

The State Vital Records office maintains all birth and death records for the county, and these records are believed to be fully indexed. Please note that a significant portion of the county's birth records are "delayed" certificates, processed through the courts because official birth and death records weren't consistently required until the early 20th century. While the county previously held local copies, these have been transferred to Jefferson County Vital Records. However, the State Vital Records is the primary and most comprehensive source, and Jefferson County would likely direct inquiries there as well.

•    State Vital Records: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/vitalrecords

•    Jefferson County Records Search: https://www.jeffco.us/1027/Records-Search

Marriage licenses are issued and recorded by the Clear Creek County Clerk and Recorder's Office.

Link: https://clearcreekcounty.us/DocumentCenter/View/12144/MARRIAGE-LICENSE-INFORMATION_04-21-2021?bidId=#:~:text=A%20marriage%20license%20can%20be,%3B%20303%2D679%2D2339.

Court records are typically held by the Clear Creek County Combined Courts.

Link: Clear Creek County | Colorado Judicial Branch: https://www.coloradojudicial.gov/courts/trial-courts/clear-creek-county

Naturalization, county court, district court, and probate records up to approximately 1950 have been transferred to the Colorado State Archives. While they offer online search capabilities, it can be challenging to use. It is recommended to call the State Archives to arrange an appointment for in-person research.

•    Colorado State Archives: https://archives.colorado.gov/collections/legal-records

•    Colorado Archives Search: https://archives.colorado.gov/archives-search

Board of County Commissioner meeting agendas and video recordings of the Clear Creek County Commissioners or for other Clear Creek County Boards and Commissions can be found here: https://www.clearcreekcounty.us/1374/Board-Commission-Meetings

Clear Creek County is committed to providing equitable access to our services to everyone. Our ongoing accessibility goals align with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) version 2.1, level AA criteria. These agendas include links to information provided by a third party over which we cannot guarantee accessibility. If the format of any material on this agenda interferes with your ability to access information, please contact Public Information Officer Megan Hiler-Wilson at 970-409-2784.

If you are looking for another board's materials, please reach out to the chair of that board.

County Building Department (303) 679-2343

County Zoning Enforcement (303) 679-2382

County Department of Human Services (303) 679-2365

County Sheriff's Office: For emergencies, call 9-1-1. For non-emergencies, call 303-980-7300. 

This is a Planning & Zoning question, in most cases vacant land must remain vacant until a principal permitted use is established. See below for details.

1. Use this link to open a new tab with instructions on how to find your Zoning of the parcel in question
2. Find the Zoning Regulations that match your Zoning 
               Hint: MR-1 and R-1 are Residential, M-1 is Mining. You can build ONE Single Family Residence on parcels with these zoning designations
3. Read through the applicable Zoning Regulations to understand what we allow to be built, setbacks, and use information for Clear Creek County.
 

The Planning Department can be reached at 303-679-2436 if you have questions after you've read through your Zoning Regulations on your own.
There is a process to 're-zone' your parcel if the current zoning designation does not meet your needs. Please call us to discuss if this is an option for your parcel.

All dwellings must meet the minimum code requirements, which include light, heat, ventilation, kitchen, bath facilities, etc. 

These requirements can be found in Chapter 3 of the 2021 International Residential Code.

The Code has minimum requirements for residences, which include minimum room sizes and dimensions. The requirements can be found in Chapter 3 of the 2021 International Residential Code.

Please click here for a list of Work Exempt from a Permit.

The building permits issued by Clear Creek County will include all of the plumbing, mechanical and framing for the construction described in the permit but does not include the electrical work, which is regulated, permitted and inspected by the State Electrical Department, www.dora.state.co.us/electrical or 303-894-2300.

Chapter 9 of the 2021 International Building Code requires Class A rated roofing material or Class A rated assembly for roofing such as wood shakes or shingles, rolled roofing, membrane roofing, etc. that are not Class A rated materials. 

Other requirements are: Complete tear off is required; Drip edge on eave and rake; Ice barrier from eave to minimum 24” up from exterior wall line; Venting must be added where insufficient and when applicable; Mid-roof inspection is required.

The snow load varies depending on the elevation of the property  and this can be researched on ClearMap, the County online mapping service.

Once on ClearMap, follow these 5-steps to find your Snow Load:

1. Click the blue 'I Want To' and type in your address or parcel number or owner name.
2. On the lower left part of the map area, click on "Show Layer Presets",  and choose "Snow Loads"  
3. On the map, right-click on the parcel
4. Select "Identify Features'
5. On the left side, Click Snow Load

ClearMap - Snow Load

Clear Creek County has 2 wind zones and this can be researched on ClearMap, the County online mapping service.

Once on ClearMap, follow these 5-steps to find your Wind Load:

1. Click the blue 'I Want To' and type in your address or parcel number or owner name.
2. On the lower left part of the map area, click on "Show Layer Presets",  and choose "Wind Speeds"
3. On the map, right-click on the parcel
4. Select "Identify Features'
5. On the side, Click Wind Speed

ClearMap - Wind Speed

Clear Creek County has multiple zones and this can be researched on ClearMap, the County online mapping service.

Once on ClearMap, follow these 5-steps to find your Zoning:

1. Click the blue 'I Want To' and type in your address or parcel number or owner name.
2. On the lower left part of the map area, click on "Show Layer Presets", and choose "Zoning Designations"
3. On the map, right-click on the parcel
4. Select "Identify Features'
5. On the side, Click Zoning

For your Zoning Regulations, click the Zoning Regulations link below your zoning and select your section for a list of uses.

ClearMap - Zoning

Clear Creek County does not require a county license for general contractors. Property owners are encouraged to get references and check with agencies such as the Better Business Bureau for background on any contractor they are considering hiring. 

The State requires all Plumbing and Electrical Contractors be licensed through the State.

Find out what your land is zoned for first, to determine what kind of house you are allowed to build, if any. You can call 303-679-2436 to find this out, or use our GIS ClearMap and use the Zoning Layer.  

Once you've established you are able to build a residence in your zoning, hire an engineer to construct Grading, Excavation, and Erosion Control plans for your parcel (we do not make recommendations for engineers). 

Then, submit your plans,  and application documents to the Site Development Department.  

Contact Excel Energy for electric if needed, and the State of Colorado to obtain a Well Permit if needed. 

You will also need a Leach Field if you are not in an area with sanitation (which very few areas are). Contact Environmental Health for information on septic permits if needed.

Clear Creek County does not require a county license for general contractors. Property owners are encouraged to get references and check with agencies such as the Better Business Bureau for background on any contractor they are considering hiring. The State requires all Plumbing and Electrical Contractors be licensed through the State.

Yes, you can be your own contractor. You still must meet all the same requirements outlined in the checklist.  All decks must meet the 2015 or later IRC code. All structural construction plans MUST be wet stamped, regardless of who is performing the work.  

Yes, as long as the ILC has all requirement components of a site plan, outlined in the checklist, we will accept an ILC.

Yes, we will need a complete application to process a permit

Yes, if the roof is not currently recognized as a deck by the building permit obtained to build the residence, then you will need a permit to turn it into a rooftop deck/entertaining area.

You can look up any previous or active permits for your property here. 

First, you need to determine if you would like to keep the deck or demolish it. If you want to keep the deck, simply submit an application with any documentation you can find on the deck plans and an engineer's letter for the deck and we will work with you on next steps to legalize it. You will need a current Site Plan with the existing deck to be submitted if you plan to legalize. This process will require you pay the permit fee and proceed through the permit process for new decks.

Yes, you will need a county official to inspect the deck to finalize the permit. Your deck is not legal until you've passed your inspection. You will receive specific instructions when you are issued your permit with how to schedule these inspections, what inspections are needed, and our inspection process.

Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work do not require a permit. 

Electrical Permits are issued by the State of Colorado. Any strucural work needs a permit from Clear Creek County.

If your property is part of a previously platted subdivision or division, there will be a plat on file with the Clerk and Recorders Office at (303) 679-2339 . These plats may be viewed by the public during business hours and will show the location of the surveyor’s pins which mark the property boundaries. Property owners may also look for these pins on their property to determine existing property boundaries. If not previously recorded plats exist and no pins can be found, property owners may choose to have their property surveyed by a Professional Land Surveyor.

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Please submit our Report A Concern Form here.

Possibly, see Section 1008 of the Zoning Regulations.

Section 1008.1 Junk of the Zoning Regulations states No owner, agent, or occupant of any property shall be allowed to accumulate junk, including any incomplete, extensively damaged, or unlicensed vehicles, within view from adjacent private property or public rights-of-way. The property owner can be fined or can receive jail time depending on the offense. How do I file a complaint?

Yes. Tiny Homes are allowed in Clear Creek County. There are different types of tiny homes, and we have different regulations depending on what type on Tiny Home you are interested in. Please click here to go to our webpage dedicated to Tiny Homes.

Clear Creek County does not currently determine buildability of a lot.  Vacant land must remain vacant until the property has a principal permitted use established.

Various departments within the Community Development Division can help you determine the buildability of a lot by guiding you through the permit process to accomplish your intended principal permitted use. 

First, be sure you have the physical address of the property or the legal description or parcel number or Assessor’s “R” number. The name of the current owner could also facilitate your research. 

The Planning Department planning@clearcreekcounty.us can assist you in determining if the zoning is appropriate for your proposed use. 

The next question you will want to explore is the legal and physical access to the property. Our Site Development Department sitedev@clearcreekcounty.us can assist you in this determination, but you may need to engage a title insurance company for a definitive answer. Site Development personnel can also help you analyze site characteristics that will influence the ease or difficulty of developing the site. 

One more aspect to explore is how you will provide water and sanitation on the site. Our Environmental Health Department eh@clearcreekcounty.us can assist you with analyzing this issue.

Another aspect to explore is how you will provide water on the site. The Colorado Division of Water Resources can assist you with analyzing well permitting or can be reached at 303-866-3581.

The Commissioners have set in place a hierarchy of departments to assist you with your question more quickly and efficiently than waiting for a time on the agenda. Should you not reach resolution with our Directors and fellow Elected Officials, you can Contact Beth Luther (303)679-2312 to schedule with either the County Administrator or the Board of Commissioners. Division Directors: 

• Land Use (building, planning, zoning, environmental health): Frederick Rollenhagen- frollenhagen@clearcreekcounty.us  
• Public Works (road & bridge, noxious weeds): Karl Schell- kschell@clearcreekcounty.us 
• Special Projects (water, county lands for sale, reservoirs): Lisa Leben - lleben@clearcreekcounty.us 
• Finance (Budgets and Human Resources): Maria Ostrom - mostrom@clearcreekcounty.us 
• Health & Human Services (Social Services): Sarah Cassano - sarah.cassano@state.co.us 
• Public Health/Environmental Health: Dr. Timothy Ryan - timryan@clearcreekcounty.us 
• Information Technology: Damon Pugh - dpugh@clearcreekcounty.us 
• Mapping/GIS: Matt Taylor - mtaylor@clearcreekcounty.us 
• County Archivist: Alexis Ehrgott, aehrgott@clearcreekcounty.us 
• County Clerk & Recorder (motor vehicle tags, elections, voter registration): Brenda Corbett - bcorbett@clearcreekcounty.us 
• County Treasurer & Public Trustee (payment of property taxes, foreclosures, tax lien sales): Carol Lee clee@clearcreekcounty.us  
• County Assessor (property values, property value protests, abatements): Donna Gee - dgee@clearcreekcounty.us 
• County Sheriff (public safety, law enforcement): John Stein - jstein@clearcreeksheriff.us
• Public Information/Communications: Megan Hiler - mhiler@clearcreekcounty.us 
• Operations/County Commissioner questions: Beth Luther - bluther@clearcreekcounty.us
• Administration/County Manager: Brian Bosshardt - bbosshardt@clearcreekcounty.us 
• County Attorney: Peter Lichtman - plichtman@clearcreekcounty.us 

You can see past meetings and meeting recordings here: https://www.clearcreekcounty.us/1374/Board-Commission-Meetings

Board of County Commissioners meeting minutes and recordings of the meetings are written/recorded for "Action" items on the agenda only. Most of the minutes are located online on the County Commissioners' webpage here: http://www.clearcreekcounty.us/Archive.aspx?AMID=38. 

Minutes take some time to complete, as the Board requires copious minutes. You can contact Clear Creek County's Operations Director, Beth Luther at 303-679-2312 or bluther@clearcreekcounty.us if you do not see what you are looking for.

Easy if you click the link below it will open a copy in a new window.

Due to staffing, the Transfer Station was open Fridays and Saturdays from 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM throughout most of 2024.

We’re pleased to announce the return to extended hours for the Transfer Station! Starting February, the Transfer Station will be open Wednesday-Saturday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. We hope this will provide added convenience and more flexibility for you to access our services.

 As part of our Clear Creek County's efforts to maintain a sustainable and effective Transfer Station and Recycling Center, we find it necessary to adjust our pricing structure. This change is essential to help cover the rising costs of operations,  along with the increase in wages at the Transfer Station to attract and retain staff in order to open the center back up to four days a week.  This is also all as we face broader budget constraints across the County.  We understand that any price increase can be challenging, and we appreciate your understanding and continued business.

Our goal is to ensure that we can continue providing a valuable resource for the community, while balancing the financial needs of the County.

Despite the revenue increase from the fee adjustment, the Transfer Station is projected to require $100,000 in general fund subsidization to cover operating expenses. This does not include the $200,000 needed for capital equipment replacement in 2025, which will also come from the County’s general fund.

While the Transfer Station is not profitable, we believe it remains a necessary and well-utilized service for the Clear Creek County community.

Yes, hard plastic labeled with #1, #2 or #5 can be recycled and are in demand to be turned into new products. 

#1 plastic: polyethylene terephthalate
#2 plastic: high-density polyethylene
#5 plastic: polypropylene

Plastic foam, straws, utensils and flexible plastics such as grocery bags and bubble wrap do not belong in the recycling bin.

Yes, we are a PaintCare drop off location, accepting Latex based paints, Oil based paints and stains for a $2.00 per gallon container handling fee.

Slash is any wood product removed from trees or bushes to do fire mitigation around your home and property. Please view our fee schedule for pricing. Remember all loads must be covered.

No, we are unable to offer compost at this time.

Yes, large loads are accepted up to six (6) yards. Household (kitchen trash) and rubble must be separated. Remember all loads must be covered regardless of content or will be charged double the applicable fee.

Under the tab" I Want to . . .", click on "Jobs in Clear Creek County" - click on the "Proceed to Site".

Apply for the position. The Recruiter will email you with the additional documents required for their positions. Without those documents being properly filled out and sent in, you will not be considered for the position.

No. You can only apply to job postings that are open currently.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP

If you are concerned about frozen water or sewer pipes, contact the Environmental Health Department at (303) 679-2420 or EH@clearcreekcounty.us. 

If you suspect a disease outbreak please contact:

Crystal Brandt, RN
(303) 670-7545
cbrandt@clearcreekcounty.us 

or

Charlotte Hampson
(303) 679-2420
champson@clearcreekcounty.us 

If you have been bitten by a domestic animal (cat, dog, rodent) you should contact the Clear Creek County Animal Control Unit (303) 679-2398. Immediately wash the wound with warm soapy water and seek medical attention. 

Please submit a Clear Creek County Animal Bite Form so that the appropriate staff may follow-up with you.

During public health emergencies, local authorities rely heavily on volunteer support to emergency efforts. If you are interested in receiving more information on volunteer opportunities, please contact:

Donna Kline
(303) 679-2364
dkline@clearcreekcounty.us 

Please call us locally at 303-670-7518 for specific information.

Please call our Public Health Information Line at 303-670-7518 for information on vaccination pricing. No child will be turned away for failure to pay for a vaccine.

Vaccines offered to adults may vary based on availability.  Please visit our vaccines/immunizations pager by clicking here for more information. 

You can also call our Public Health Information Line at 303-670-7518 and a nurse will get back to you.

You can also make an appointment to get vaccinated here: https://www.clearcreekcounty.us/1480/Make-an-appointment

We offer free pregnancy testing, assistance, and enrollment in other programs such as: Women, Infant and Children (WIC), Nurse Family Partnership, referrals to medical providers, and more.

For information on these programs please contact:

Donna Prenter, RD, RN, WIC Coordinator 
970-409-6907
dprentner@clearcreekcounty.us

Our staff can assist with information on local and regional health providers depending on your specific needs.
Clear Creek County has a local health care provider in Idaho Springs.

CommonSpirit Primary Care Idaho Springs
1969 Miner Street (1st Floor), Idaho Springs, Colorado
(303) 649-3690

A good place to start is at the Public Health Nurses Office in the Health and Wellness Center in Idaho Springs. A variety of programs are available. Programs for Women’s Infants and Children (WIC) offer assistance with nutritional food vouchers and education for feeding all members of the family. Assistance with breast feeding and breast pump loaners for WIC clients also is available. Growth and development monitoring of your child also is available. 

For more information, contact:

Donna Prenter, RD, RN, WIC Coordinator 
970-409-6907
dprentner@clearcreekcounty.us

You should first call your doctor or primary care provider if you suspect you have become ill from eating at a public establishment. 

To file a complaint against a restaurant or food establishment that is licensed in Clear Creek County, please contact:

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Local Assistance Program 
(303) 692-3645 *press 1 at the menu
CDPHE_laponduty@state.co.us 

You can also visit out Environmental Health webpage by clicking here.

We don’t investigate bedbug infestations because they’re considered a nuisance and not a health problem. 

For information on how to mitigate bed bugs in your home, please contact:

Clear Creek County Environmental Health
(303) 679-2428
EH@clearcreekcounty.us

Clear Creek County Public Health now offers free HIV, Hep. C, and other STI testing at the Clear Creek County Health and Wellness Center (1969 Miner Street, 2nd Floor, Idaho Springs).

You can make an appointment here: https://www.clearcreekcounty.us/1480/Make-an-appointment

Call the Public Health Information Line at 303-670-7518 and leave a message if you have any questions.

Jefferson County Mental Health (JCMH) currently offers counselling and crisis services available at the Idaho Springs Resource Center. To make an appointment to see a specialist please call (303) 670-7550.

For more information on Mental Heath resources in the county, click here.

If you or someone you know is having a mental health emergency,  call 911 and Clear Creek County's Health Assistance Team (CCHAT) can help. 

CCHAT non-emergency/non-urgent phone: (720) 560-9919

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment - https://cdphe.colorado.gov/apens-and-air-permits

Clear Creek Fire Authority

Visit their website at https://www.evergreenfirerescue.com/divisions/fire_prevention/burn_permits-zzzz.php

While many trails in Clear Creek County are maintained by the Clear Creek County Trails Crew and supplemental volunteers, these trails have a variety of property owners and land managers, some public some private. Federal, City and State agencies such as the USFS (US Forest Service), Town of Georgetown, City of Idaho Springs, Colorado State Land Board and the Clear Creek County Open Space Commission, along with nongovernmental organizations such as the HDPLC (Historic District Public Lands Commission), MALT (Mountain Area Land Trust), etc. are ultimately responsible for decisions regarding overall trail management for their trails. 

Feedback regarding conditions or recommendations regarding any trails in Clear Creek County can be submitted via email to trails@clearcreekcounty.us.

There are more than 100 miles of motorized and non-motorized trails in Clear Creek County. Some trails are well-marked, mapped and regularly maintained, while others are not promoted and more primitive in nature. Please be aware of the type of trail and recommended use prior to embarking on your journey.

Click here to see trail maps in Clear Creek County.

All “multi-use” trails designated as "non-motorized” are open to hiking, biking, equestrian and other nonmotorized uses unless otherwise marked. Please note that mechanized devices (including Bicycles) are NOT allowed in any federally designated “Wilderness Areas”, details at https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/wilderness. Refer to specific trail descriptions for the recommended use of each trail, as these indicate the TMO (Trail Management Objective) for that trail. Caution is advised if you plan to utilize the trail for other than recommended uses. All Forest Service roads in Clear Creek County are open to non-motorized use. 

OHV and Jeep Trails – OHVs (UTV, dirt bike, side-by-side, etc.) with a valid Colorado OHV registration / permit as described here are allowed on most, but not all, Forest Service roads in Clear Creek County – check the motor vehicle use map (MVUM) for details. Most campground roads do NOT allow OHV use. Street legal vehicles with current license tags are allowed on ALL Forest Service and County roads within Clear Creek County, although use of high-clearance 4WD vehicles is recommended in many cases. Vehicles that are not street legal (including all OHV type vehicles) or that do not have current license tags are NOT allowed on any County roads at this time.

 Class 1 (pedal assist) e-bikes are allowed on Clear Creek County Trails, but are NOT currently allowed on USFS Trails (including those within the County). Class 1 e-bikes are defined as: The electric drive system on the e-bike can only be activated through a pedaling action (no throttle) and are limited to a motor powered speed of 20 mph (32 kph) with motor wattage of 750 watts or less.  Due to the low speed of operation and required pedaling action, Class 1 e-bikes have the same trail impacts, and thus benefit from, the same rights and access privileges as non-assist bicycles and are able to be used on streets, bike lanes, multi-use bike paths and off-road trails (unless otherwise noted). Class 2 & 3 e-bikes and any other motorized devices are prohibited from use on Clear Creek County non motorized trails.

75% of all public land in Clear Creek County is publicly-owned, with much of that owned and managed by the US Forest Service or Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Dogs on leash are allowed on most trails in Clear Creek County unless otherwise marked. Dogs are NOT allowed off leash on any trails or public land within the County. Increased problems with off-leash dogs and owners who don’t clean up after their pets have recently resulted in increased enforcement and fines. Off-leash dogs are problematic for wildlife and other trail users. Please be courteous - leash your dog and please clean up after them.

Forest Service roads and trails are open 24-hrs. Most County trails are open from dawn until dusk unless otherwise posted. 

Parking is allowed in designated parking areas and completely off the side of roads in pullouts. Parking is NOT allowed on the sides of any roads in Clear Creek County where the vehicle is not completely off the road.  Vehicles partially on the roadway (including paved or dirt roads) present safety hazards for Emergency Personnel and other vehicles traveling along the roadway. Illegally parked vehicles may be ticketed or towed per County regulations. 

Alcohol is allowed, intoxicated trail users (motorized and non-motorized) are not.  Please clean up after yourself and leave no trace.

The Trails Team offers updates periodically. Click here to see alerts and updates on trails in Clear Creek County.

 Clear Creek is a small county of less than 10,000 people that experiences millions of tourists coming to enjoy hundreds of miles of renown trails and trailheads.  We also work to maintain historical sites that preserve history for many others in the future to enjoy. Your money will help our mission to fund these efforts and support the hardworking Trails Team.

If you would like to contribute to these efforts, please follow the directions below and utilize the link below to access our donation portal. All funds go directly to the Clear Creek County Trails Team and will be used for the labor and equipment required to preserve our delicate natural resources while providing exceptional access to some amazing places! These efforts help to provide access to exceptional recreationally opportunities close to Denver.

Click here for information on how to get involved.

Property zoning maps may be viewed on line on ClearMap; or, please send an email to planning@clearcreekcounty.us or by calling (303) 679-2436. When searching you should have an address, parcel number or tax schedule number. The last name of the property owner for the property in question to verify zone district.

A property's zoning district determines its setback requirements and permitted uses.

Property zoning maps may be viewed on line on ClearMap; or, please send an email to planning@clearcreekcounty.us or by calling (303) 679-2436. When searching you should have an address, parcel number or tax schedule number. The last name of the property owner for the property in questions to verify zone district. Once you find your designation of the subject property, you can then find setback information under the appropriately designated zoning district. Zoning Regulations can be online on the Zoning website.

Please contact the Clear Creek Planning Department for more information on subdivision rules.

(303) 679-2436
planning@clearcreekcounty.us 

Clear Creek County does not enforce private covenants. Covenants are typically administered and enforced by Homeowners Associations. Please contact the Home or Property Owners Association to find out if covenants exist in your neighborhood.  It should be noted that some neighborhoods do not have Home or Property Owner Associations.

Hiring a professional surveyor is the best way to accurately locate your property boundaries.  The surveyor can stake out your property boundaries or locate the corners of the property for you.  Additionally, for more general information regarding your property boundaries you can refer to the subdivision plat of your property if one exists. If your property is part of a platted subdivision, there should be a plat on file with the Clerk and Recorders Office.  Please call (303)679-2340 or visit the Clerk & Recorder web page. These plats may be viewed by the public during regular business hours and will show the location of the surveyor’s monuments on the plat which mark the property boundaries. It should be noted that some properties have not been surveyed and therefore, no survey information would be on file.

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

Permits are available on the County’s Camping Web Page;  or contact the Planning Department at (303) 679-2436.

No, vacant land in Clear Creek County must remain vacant until a principal permitted use is established or a special use is obtained. The storage of one (1) unoccupied recreational vehicle is allowed as an accessory use to an existing legal Permitted Principal Use such as a residence.

Outhouses are not an approved form of wastewater disposal. Since the early 1970's outhouses have been outlawed and must be replaced with a permitted wastewater treatment system. Even if your residence does not have running water, because it is was built prior to permitting requirements (prior to 1960), you are still required to upgrade your wastewater treatment system to something that is approved. Outhouses that are existing must be decommissioned per the requirements in the Clear Creek County OWTS Regulations.


 To know what would be approved please contact the Environmental Health Department at (303) 679-2420 or EH@clearcreekcounty.us.

Mobile homes are permitted only in Mobile Home zoning districts.  Please contact the Planning Department to locate these zoning districts.

Non-commercial keeping of pets is allowed in all zoning districts.  Pets shall be contained and controlled.  If there is a pet problem, please contact Animal Control. Large animals and livestock are allowed under special circumstances and the number of which are controlled by zoning.  Large animals such as horses, mules, cattle, and buffalo are allowed on parcels of land over 3-acres in size.  And then, only one (1) animal per acre in density is allowed.  Manure must be managed in order to prevent unsanitary conditions and excessive breeding of flies.  Please see the Zoning Regulations on Animals in Section 1008.

Yes. Tiny Homes are allowed in Clear Creek County. There are different types of tiny homes, and we have different regulations depending on what type on Tiny Home you are interested in. Please click here to go to our webpage dedicated to Tiny Homes. Tiny homes are still required to meet all Zoning, Building, Driveway and Environmental Health requirements. 

Yes a permit is required if your property is outside of town/city limits. 

Email support@lodgingrevs.com and provide them with your property information so they can create an account for your property. 

After activation of your account, follow the steps in the permit portal to apply and obtain a short term rental permit.  For more information, go to the STR webpage. An annual permit is $250 and requires a house inspection by the County’s Building Official as a final step.  An inspection fee is required and the inspection will be scheduled only after a complete application has been accepted.

A septic system, or Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS), is a type of wastewater treatment system that is individual to a home or property. Theses systems are paid for and maintained entirely by the property that is utilizing the system.  All septic systems are required to be permitted in Clear Creek County and must meet criteria that protect water quality. If you are purchasing a home that has an existing OWTS, there needs to be an approved Use Permit issued prior to the close of the sale.  You can find more information on OWTS and Use Permits on the Environmental Health web pages.

A Use Permit is required to be issued by the Environmental Health Department prior to the transfer of property where the property is serviced by an onsite wastewater treatment system (OWTS).  To obtain a Use Permit the property must receive a third party inspection ensuring the system is functioning as designed, the MLS or publication must not exceed the number of bedrooms permitted through the OWTS, and any applicable forms and fees must be remitted. 

For more information on the Use Permit process, or specific criteria for approval or exemptions, visit the Use Permit web page.

Septic systems are designed based on the number of bedrooms in your home. Per State and Local regulations, there is a set gallons of wastewater per day that you are permitted to discharge that is calculated using occupancy of bedrooms. When you add unpermitted bedrooms to your residence you are no longer compliance with your septic permit, and could cause your septic system to fail and result in a costly repair or full replacement.

For more information on bedrooms and how many bedrooms your residence, or a residence you are interested in is permitted to have, please contact (303) 679-2428 or EH@clearcreekcounty.us. 

Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) that utilize higher level treatment are typically required to do so because of setback reductions to wells or watercourses, to shrink the size of system footprint, or because it is a requirement of an property owners association. Higher level treatment systems may not be changed or removed unless they receive permitted approval to do so. Systems that utilize higher level treatment must maintain an operation and maintenance contract for the life of the system and an Operating Permit for the life of the system. 

For more information on Operating Permits and higher level treatment systems you can visit the Operating Permit web page or contact EH@clearcreekcounty.us.

Yes, we will need a complete application to process a permit

Yes. You will need to apply for an Interior Remodel Permit regardless of if you are making structural changes or not. This page is only for replacements.

Re-roof, Re-siding, & Window/door permits can generally be processed within 3 business days.

Permit price varies depending on the amount of inspections required (which varies by project type), and the amount of work being done. Re-roof permit prices are based on square footage of roof being replaced and type of roofing material being used. Prices are generated after applications have been processed. 

We accept all major credit cards, cash, and checks written to Clear Creek County with an address written in the memo. We will call you when your permit is ready to collect your payment preference and can process credit cards over the phone immediately. Credit card transactions are subject to a $.75 plus 2.5% transaction fee. We do not hold credit card numbers and do not accept numbers provided via email.

Yes, you can be your own contractor. All work must meet the 2015 or later IRC code. We do not supply copies of this code.

You can look up any previous or active permits for your property here. 

Yes, you will need a county official to inspect the work to finalize the permit. Your work is not legal until you've passed your inspection. You will receive specific instructions when you are issued your permit with how to schedule these inspections, what inspections are needed, and our inspection process.

Due to health safety concerns, we prefer if you refrain from coming in person. We are available via Zoom and phone for additional questions and can gladly USPS mail you physical copies of documents if you don't have a printer. If you absolutely need to come in person, we accept walk-ins from 8am-4pm Monday - Friday, but prefer you make an appointment with us first so we can ensure your time in the building will be uninterrupted.

Contact the Site Development Department to apply for your Excavation Permit.

To find out what your property is zoned as, please reference our county GIS, ClearMap. If you are not able to use the GIS, call the Permit Coordinator or Planning Dept. at the numbers on the side of this page. 

Site Development will issue you a temporary address when you receive your excavation permit. Until then, you will want to use your parcel number to reference your property.

Yes, as long as the ILC has all requirement components of a site plan, outlined in the checklist, we will accept an ILC.

Applications receive 15 days for initial review. After your review fees have been paid, it may take 2 weeks or longer to be reviewed by all departments. Once the application is deemed “complete”, you will receive a phone call to pay the review fees. Then, the file will be released to all Community Development Departments for reviews. When all of the departments have approved the submittal, the Building Plans Examiner will reach out for permit payment and the permit will be issued. You can check the status of your permit at any time using your address here. 

Review fees are $200 as of January 2022. The price of the permit itself it variable by project and will be calculated by the Building Plans Examiner at the end of the review process.

Permit Applications expire 6 months after initial submittal. If you have not successfully supplied all required documentation for a complete submittal within 6 months of applying, your application will be withdrawn. We do not keep withdrawn applications, plans, or supporting documents. If you submitted physical plans, you will have the opportunity to take them back.

The County and all county buildings are open to the public from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Residents can also always visit Clear Creek County’s website for an array of services offered online. 

Research shows productivity and employee morale increased in workplaces that switched to a four-day work week. Many other local governments such as Jefferson County, Boulder County,  the City of Westminster, etc. have also made the switch, along with Clear Creek School District RE-1 this year. In addition, like many, Clear Creek County is working to be more appealing in the market for job seekers. It is the hope that the schedule shift, and most recently, the increase in pay (approved during the Sept. 13th, 2022 BoCC Meeting), will draw more people to the County–all while still meeting the needs of residents. 

The trial period for the new hours took place from January 3rd, 2023 to May 12th, 2023.  After that, the County and the Board of County Commissioners reconvened to discuss if this would be a permanent change that the County would adopt moving forward.  This was then decided that the four-day work week would remain until further notice.

The list of offices and departments that operate on the 4-day work week schedule.

• Assessor’s Office 
• Board of County Commissioners 
• Clerk & Recorder's Office: Elections, Motor Vehicle (in-person/walk-in), and Recording Divisions 
• Human Resources
• Strategic & Community Planning 
• County Manager’s Office 
• County Attorney’s Office 
• Treasurer and Public Trustee 
• Mapping/GIS
• Public and Environmental Health

Not all County offices will be impacted by the switch to a four-day business week. The Sheriff's Office, Emergency Medical Services, Public Works, and Transit, will continue to operate as usual. 

A 4-day workweek survey was distributed to employees in July with 86% in favor of the change in service hours. The survey also identified 89% of workers believe it to be a benefit they desire and would enjoy and the overwhelming majority opted for Fridays off.

Many services can be found online on www.clearcreekcounty.us. In addition, many Secretary of State services through the State of Colorado can be found on their website: https://www.sos.state.co.us.

Colorado SNAP households have been getting an extra amount of benefits every month since March 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. These extra benefits are called “Emergency Allotments or Max Allotments” and most households have been getting this on top of their regular SNAP benefits. These Emergency Allotments were authorized by Congress, but they are temporary, and will be ending in March 2023.

SNAP Emergency or Max Allotment is ending with the benefit month of February 2023 due to recent congressional action. Colorado was approved to issue additional SNAP benefits due to the State and Federal emergency declarations that were in place during the pandemic. There is nothing the state or counties can do to extend the emergency allotment benefits once they have ended.

A final Emergency Allotment will be issued in February 2023. You will see a reduction in your monthly SNAP benefits beginning March 2023. This may have a significant impact on families.

Yes, you will continue to receive your regular SNAP benefits as long as you remain eligible for this program. Your benefit amounts are based on a number of factors, including, household size, income, and your specific circumstances.

February 2023 will be the last month households will receive max allotment/emergency allotments. Beginning in March 2023 SNAP households will see a reduction in monthly SNAP benefits.

CDHS and County offices cannot continue the additional benefits once maximum allotments have ended in March 2023, even if you appeal the action to end the additional benefits. You are able to appeal if you believe the base benefit calculation is incorrect. 

You should receive a notice any time your benefit changes to inform you of your current benefit level. You can access your notices via the Colorado PEAK website and the MyCOBenefits app. 

Starting January 2, 2025, Clear Creek County will adopt a 32-hour workweek for administrative, planning, and other non-emergency walk-in services. Until further notice, all county buildings (except the Transfer Station and the Animal Shelter) will be open to the public:

Monday through Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

The county will still be closed on Fridays.

Clear Creek County has faced years of severe revenue challenges, including declining sales tax and property tax revenues. Despite extensive efforts to manage these challenges over the years, the County has had to make difficult decisions as it strives for financial sustainability

Unfortunately, four valued employees were let go as part of this adjustment. We deeply appreciate their hard work, dedication, and the positive impact they’ve had on our organization and community. This decision was not made lightly, and is not a reflection of their job performance. Affected staff will be paid through the end of the year in addition to being offered a severance package. In addition to this, four unfilled positions were eliminated.

No. Emergency services will continue to operate without changes to their availability or service level.

Yes! Many services are available through the Clear Creek County website. Residents are encouraged to explore online options for convenience.

The County is exploring strategies to enhance revenues and improve financial efficiency while maintaining critical services. These adjustments are part of a broader plan to ensure fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability.

Over the years, the County has worked to reduce staff through attrition and streamline non-essential services to ensure fiscal responsibility while maintaining critical operations. Since 2015, the County has made significant progress, reducing its workforce from 228 full time equivalents (FTEs) to 193 as of today. These measures reflect the County’s ongoing commitment to financial sustainability and effective governance in service to the community.

While this decision impacts service delivery, it does not result in a salary reduction for employees. Instead, the adjustment reflects a decision to forego a planned increase in compensation, ensuring employees maintain their current earnings despite the reduction in hours. This approach aims to balance fiscal responsibility with fairness to our dedicated staff.

It is important to clarify that while the reduction in hours helps manage operational costs, it does not translate to significant immediate savings for the county. Rather, it represents a strategy to defer an anticipated budgetary increase while maintaining stability in staffing and services. We acknowledge the complexity of this decision and remain committed to transparent communication with our community.

The county's current budget challenges highlight the pressing need to explore sustainable, long-term solutions. As we move forward, the county recognizes the critical importance of finding new funding streams and innovative solutions. This will ensure the county can continue delivering the high-quality services our residents deserve while addressing financial constraints responsibly.

For additional details and ongoing updates,  please visit the Clear Creek County Finance webpage here. You can also watch past Board of County Commissioners meetings here. Residents are encouraged to contact us directly during business hours for specific inquiries. You can also visit our public information webpage here.

Our core values at Clear Creek County weren't decided in isolation. They were born from a collaborative effort, most notably during an all-employee meeting last year. We engaged in open discussions, seeking input from our team members on what truly mattered. A powerful theme emerged: the importance of inclusion. As a result, we proudly added 'Inclusion' to our values, ensuring that everyone feels respected, supported, and valued.

These values now guide our work and interactions, and are defined as follows:

• Communication: The transparent and respectful exchange of ideas, striving for an environment of innovation and mutual trust for all.
• Improvement: Continuously striving to enhance the organization and self.
• Integrity: The quality of being consistently honest, accountable, and equitable in our commitment to doing what is right.
• Relationships: Fostering positive connections with people through empathy and respect.
• Inclusion: A culture that embraces diversity and belonging, where everyone feels respected, supported, and valued.

Budget reductions were based on statutory requirements, funding sources, and operational impact. Positions funded by grants were less likely to be affected, while positions funded by the general fund were evaluated for necessity and sustainability. The decision to reduce some staff’s work hours to 32 per week was made to avoid a more significant number of layoffs while ensuring that employees retained benefits in lieu of providing compensation adjustments to match market rates where funding is not currently available. Many other less desirable options were discussed, but ultimately, this decision seemed to have the most benefit with the least disruption.

To mitigate financial hardship, the County artificially inflated the hourly rates of all non-exempt staff who transitioned from 40 hours to 32 hours per week. This adjustment ensures that employees’ take-home pay remains consistent despite the reduction in hours. Due to this decision, employees are NOT permitted to work more than 32 hours per week without prior approval from their supervisor. Unauthorized overtime is subject to disciplinary action to ensure compliance with wage and hour laws and to maintain budgetary controls.

The 32-hour workweek was implemented as a budget-saving measure. While there is no set timeline for returning to a 40-hour schedule, the situation will be reassessed as financial conditions evolve

Human Resources will complete another Compensation Analysis. When we can financially support this strategy, we will reevaluate pay ranges and move staff to a 40-hour workweek while paying market rates.

We understand that these changes have been difficult, and we sincerely appreciate the dedication of our employees. We continue to invest in our Employee Appreciation Program to show our gratitude. Once a quarter at our all-staff meetings and during our annual holiday luncheon, we conduct a drawing to give away an extra PTO day to a lucky winner. Employees can nominate a colleague year-round for their hard work and contributions. The nomination link can be found here. Links are also included in HR email signatures, on the County website under "Employee Help Links" on the bottom of each page, and QR codes are posted around the office for easy access. We encourage everyone to participate and recognize the great work done across the County.

Please fill out this online survey here.

The Dumont, Empire, Georgetown, Idaho Springs, Silver Plume, Saint Mary’s Glacier, and York Gulch fire departments agreed to consolidate their efforts under a single organizational structure in 1998. The authority assumed responsibility for providing fire protection on January 1, 1999, and has provided coordinated fire protection services to the community for the last 25 years. 

Clear Creek Fire Authority (CCFA) is a consolidated fire protection and emergency service agency serving the municipalities of Empire, Georgetown, Idaho Springs, and Silver Plume and the unincorporated lands of Clear Creek County,  Colorado,  previously represented by the Clear Creek County Emergency Services General Improvement District (ESGID).

The authority was formed under an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) among the Clear Creek County Emergency Services General Improvement District (ESGID) and the each of the municipalities (IGA Parties). CCFA is considered a separate legal entity from the IGA Parties.

The ESGID is a general improvement district formed pursuant to C.R.S. § 30-20-501, et seq.  

General Improvement Districts are formed to, among other things, support capital projects and other expenses of providing fire protection and other emergency services in unincorporated parts of a county. The ESGID is a separate legal entity from Clear Creek County, except that the Clear Creek County Board of County Commissioners also serves as the Board of Directors for the ESGID. The ESGID assesses its own mill levy and provides the funds collected to the CCFA for the services relating to fire protection.

The Clear Creek Fire Authority is primarily funded through a 4.569 mill levy collected by the ESGID in the county's unincorporated areas. Each municipality within the authority provides funds equal to 9 mills to CCFA. The authority also has limited revenue from contract services and grants. The ESGID mill levy was set in 1989 when volunteers entirely staffed the county’s fire service. This mill rate has not been changed since its inception. 

For example, a residential property owner with a $500,000 assessed valuation would pay the following amounts:

• 4.569 mills would be $154,55 (current assessed rate for the ESGID)
• 9.0 mills would be $304.43 (current assessed rate for Silver Plume residents)
• 11.459 mills would be $383.87 (current assessed rate for residents of Evergreen Fire Rescue district boundaries)

The Empire, Georgetown, and Idaho Springs municipalities do not have a fire-specific mill levy and contribute from their general fund at the 9.0 mill level.

A mill levy is a tax rate applied to a property's assessed value. The mill levies, which is sometimes referred to simply as a ‘levy,’ is multiplied by the assessed value of a property to determine the amount of taxes due. 

Click here to learn more: https://dpt.colorado.gov/understanding-property-taxes-in-colorado

The only alternative funding source beyond increasing the ESGID mill levy would be a separate public safety tax passed by voters in an election. Both funding options will require voter approval.

The revenue from ESGID has steadily declined over the last ten years due to Henderson Mine's reduced property value evaluation. During this same period, the annual call response demands have increased by 55 percent. The district’s projected Fiscal Year 2025 operating deficit is $624,000.  Revenues dropped below annual operating expenses beginning in 2021. The authority has used portions of its $5.5 million cash reserves to address yearly budget shortfalls while adjusting its staffing model to meet the community's needs.  In short, without new revenues, the authority’s reserve will be exhausted by 2029. Depleting the authority’s reserve will force significant reductions in all aspects of service delivery.

Several factors cause the authority’s funding shortfall:

• The operating costs associated with apparatus maintenance, fuel,  and personal protective equipment have steadily increased over the previous five years. The annual response demand has increased by 25 percent yearly during this period.
•  Transition to paid firefighters: Since 2021, the authority has begun adding paid firefighters as volunteer staffing has become less viable for the agency's staffing needs.
•  Wildfire risk: The increasing risk has required CCFA to bring on additional equipment and hire a seasonal mitigation crew to help reduce wildfire fuels.

CCFA faces several significant challenges impacting current and future operations and finances. Without additional revenue the authority will not be able to maintain its current service levels. The following challenges will require additional funding:

• Declining or stagnant participation by in county volunteer fire personnel has necessitated volunteer shift staffing, which is provided using out-of-county volunteer firefighters. These firefighters receive a $70 shift stipend, resulting in an annual operational expense of $126,000.  For perspective,  CCFA is projected to cover 1,800 shifts per year. There is a need for a total $255,000 to cover the authority's goal of 3,650 shifts per year.
• Additional career staffing and increased personnel costs are needed to ensure appropriate minimal incident response.
• Apparatus and equipment repair and purchase costs continue to rise dramatically.
• Fire stations that need repairs and upgrades to keep staff safe and to control annual operating costs.
• CCFA must develop sufficient capital reserves to replace the aging Idaho Springs fire station. The station consists of a small brick gas station with two block-wall additions in the 1960s and 1970s. It is undersized for current apparatus and does not have any health and safety systems to reduce firefighter cancer risk.

  
  

One of the authority's most impactful issues is its ongoing staffing model. Currently, the authority is staffed with a mix of paid, full-time, and volunteer firefighters.

CCFA daily staffing levels are as follows:

• Station 4 in Georgetown: 24/7 with a career Lieutenant and firefighter
• Station 2 in Idaho Springs: 24/7 with a minimum of a career Lieutenant and firefighter. Two shift firefighters provide additional staffing for a total daily staffing level of four (shift staffing depends on volunteer availability)
• Station 1 in Dumont: has one career Captain, 7:00 AM -5:00 PM, seven days a week. There are two shift firefighter positions on the engine, and one shift officer position on the chase truck (shift staffing depends on volunteer availability)

The staffing goal is to have nine personnel 24/7 staffing four apparatus out of three stations. To reach this goal, the shift firefighters need to work 3,650 shifts per year. The department currently is projected to cover 1,800 shifts per year.

CCFA staff includes 16 career staff: two fire chiefs, two captains, six lieutenants, and six career firefighters. The authority also relies on one volunteer captain, three lieutenants, and 30 volunteer firefighters. Most volunteer firefighters live outside of the county and provide staffing through duty shifts. The authority also employs a three-person seasonal wildfire crew during the summer. CCFA started a paid-shift program in 2010 to maintain appropriate staffing levels due to a lack of volunteers available to serve the authority.  County resident volunteer numbers have dropped significantly over the previous 10 years due to increasing costs of living, lack of housing, retirements, and other factors in the area.

The bottom line is that the CCFA needs to be more competitive with its pay to keep staff; otherwise, this will continue to be an issue.

CCFA provides emergency services to the Empire, Georgetown, Idaho Springs, and Silver Plume municipalities,  along with most of Clear Creek County's unincorporated areas within the Emergency Services General Improvement District (ESGID) boundaries.

CCFA provides a high level of service to more than 6,000 residents and businesses across the authority’s 348-square-mile service area. This includes service along the Interstate 70 (I-70) corridor,  US-6 Clear Creek Canyon and Loveland Pass, US-40 on Floyd Hill,  Berthoud Pass, and Arapahoe National Forest and river areas. 

The authority answered 1,460 emergency calls in 2023 and 1,800 calls in 2024. Of those calls, CCFA responded with a minimum crew of two within eight minutes, 33 percent of the time in 2023, and 50 percent of the time in 2024.

Data shows that almost 29 percent of emergency service calls in Clear Creek County are due to accidents or incidents on I-70, US-40, and US-6. About 48,000 vehicles pass through the Floyd Hill section of I-70 and 38,000 Eisenhower Tunnel daily.  In addition to I-70, 8,000 vehicles travel over Berthoud Pass,  along with 2,000 vehicles over Loveland Pass daily, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). This creates a significant strain on local emergency responders.

It is also important to note that Evergreen Fire/Rescue serves 48 square miles in the southeast portion of the county.

In 2023, the ESGID,  Clear Creek County, and its municipalities began working together to address CCFA’s funding. That work included hiring MissionCIT,  an independent consulting firm, to conduct an organizational assessment of CCFA.  You can read that assessment here.

In response to this report, throughout 2024, the ESGID, the county,  and each of the municipalities met bi-weekly to discuss how to approach these issues. This was a complicated task, and after many meetings, it was determined that the problem likely would not be solved without additional revenue being asked from the voters via a possible public safety tax. Stakeholders are evaluating whether a public safety sales tax, property tax increase, or combination of both is the best way forward.

In late 2024, a survey was sent to all county residents to solicit feedback about the next steps. This outreach, in addition to social media, frequent meetings, and other collaborations, will help partners figure out the next steps.

Currently, the ESGID,  Clear Creek County, Idaho Springs, Georgetown, Empire, and Silver Plume stakeholders and public safety responders are working on a plan for public outreach and continued stakeholder meetings throughout 2025. More to come!

Clear Creek Fire Authority website: https://www.clearcreekfire.com/ 

Past meetings on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrUgY0w234Ze0ZbMO1sV1keHPOI2V2g_V 

 MissionCIT Report: https://irp.cdn- website.com/28bcbb3b/files/uploaded/missioncit %20final.pdf

 2024 Survey: https://www.ccfaupdate.com/

2025 Survey: