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1. What can I build on my property?

This is actually a zoning question, in most cases vacant land must remain vacant until a principal permitted use is established. The Planning Department can be reached at 303-679-2430.

2. Can I build a cabin with no power, water or heat?

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 2015 International Residential Code.

3. How small or large a residence can I build?

The Code has minimum requirements for residences, which include minimum room sizes and dimensions. The requirements can be found in Chapter 3 of the 2015 International Residential Code.

4. Do I need a permit for a remodel, basement finish, deck repair or replacement, storage shed, re-roof, furnace, boiler or water heater replacement, wood or gas stove, wood or gas fireplace, pellet stov

Depending on the extent of the remodel and the size of the shed, a permit may be required. For any of the other improvements or installations, a permit is required. Please contact the Building Department at 303-679-2343 for further information

5. What work does not require a permit?

Please look under the section for Building Codes and then work exempt. This is for residential only. Work Exempt from Permit

6. Does the building permit cover all of the construction?

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.

7. How long is my building permit good for?

The permits for new construction, additions and remodels are good for 2 years. The mechanical, re-roof, re-siding and residential repair permits are issued for a term of 6 months.

8. How much will my building permit cost?

The building permit fee is determined by the size and scope of the proposed construction and is calculated when the permit is being processed. Please contact the Plans Examiner at 303-679-2343 if you need an estimate of this fee.

9. What do I need to have completed for a Certificate of Occupancy?

The construction must be complete and all other associated permits such as the driveway, defensible space, septic permits and the electrical permit must also be finaled.

10. Are contractors required to get a Clear Creek County license?

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.

11. What are the code requirements for my re-roof?

Chapter 9 of the 2009 International Residential Code or Chapter 15 of the 2015 International Building Code. Both codes were amended to require 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;

12. Can I, as the property owner, act as the contractor?

Property owners are allowed to act as the contractor for their own residence but if a subcontractor is hired for the plumbing or electrical installation, that subcontractor must hold a license from the State of Colorado.

13. What is my snow load?

The snow load varies depending on the elevation of the property and can be researched on ClearMap, the County online mapping service at: Clear Map

14. What is my wind load?

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