Building Permits & Applications
Apply for building permits, septic permits, variances, and other land use applications online or by mail. All permit applications require applicable fees and supporting documentation as outlined in the application instructions.
Documents Under Review
The Planning & Zoning website and documents are currently under review. For the most current zoning documents and regulations, please contact the Planning & Zoning Office at 719-783-2669 or email Pzdirector@custercounty-co.gov.
How to Apply
Online Submission: Click the "Apply Online" button on each permit type below to access our online permitting system. Complete the application and upload the required documents.
Mail or In-Person: Download the PDF application, complete it, and mail to:
Planning & Zoning Office
PO BOX 150
Westcliffe, CO 81252
or deliver in person to the courthouse.
Required Documents: Each application type requires specific supporting documentation. Please review the application instructions carefully before submitting.
Building Permits
Permits required for construction of dwellings, accessory structures, and other building permits.
Dwelling Permit
Required for construction of new primary residences, manufactured homes, and modular homes. Includes site plan review and zoning compliance.
Accessory Structure
For sheds, garages, barns, and other accessory buildings. Also covers decks, porches, balconies, and enclosed or open structures.
Residential Other Permit
For additions, renovations, and other modifications to existing residential structures not covered by other permit types.
Tiny House / RV Permit
Special permit for tiny houses on foundations or recreational vehicles used as primary residences, subject to zoning regulations.
Septic System Permits
On-site wastewater treatment system (OWTS) permits required for all septic installations and modifications.
Septic Permit
Required for installation of new septic systems. Must comply with state and county OWTS regulations. For engineer-designed systems, use the standard septic permit form.
Septic Modification or Repair
For modifications, repairs, or upgrades to existing septic systems. Requires inspection and approval from Planning & Zoning office.
Chemical Toilet Variance for Construction Sites
For modifications, repairs, or upgrades to existing septic systems. Requires inspection and approval from Planning & Zoning office.
Variances
Request exceptions to zoning regulations for setbacks, heights, lot sizes, and other requirements.
Variance Applications
Apply for variances including: Overheight, Setback, Multi-Dwelling, Signs, Vacation to Create Undersized Lot, Lot Line Adjustment, Subdivision Waiver, and more.
Request for Vacation of Interior Lot Lines
Request to eliminate interior lot lines between adjacent parcels under common ownership to create a single larger parcel.
Request for Vacation & Replat
Request to vacate existing parcel lines and replat the property with new boundaries, subject to subdivision regulations.
Special Use & Other Permits
Permits for special land uses, events, and property addressing.
Special Use Permit
Required for uses that need special review, such as commercial operations in residential zones, kennels, event venues, and similar activities.
Special Use Modification
Modify an existing special use permit to change operational parameters, hours, or scope of the approved special use.
Special Event Permit
Required for gatherings, festivals, weddings, and other events on private property that
Notice of Home Occupation
Notification for operating a small business from your home. Must comply with home occupation regulations in the Zoning Resolution.
Short Term Rental Permit
Required for vacation rentals, Airbnb, VRBO, and similar short-term rental operations. Subject to specific regulations and neighbor notification.
Address Application
Request a new physical address for your property or modify an existing address. Required for new construction and some subdivisions.
Representative Authorization
Authorize a representative (contractor, engineer, surveyor, etc.) to act on your behalf for permit applications and interactions with Planning & Zoning.
Fee Schedule
View current fees for all permit types, variances, and applications.
Need Help?
Questions about permits or which application to use?
Phone:
719-783-2669
Email:
Pzdirector@custercounty-co.gov
Office Hours:
Monday — Thursday
8:00 AM — 5:00 PM
Related Resources
Contractor Lists
Licensed contractors for septic and soil work.