Building Department
Does Columbine Valley have a building department?
The Town has its own Building Department to which applications for contractor licensure and building permits must be submitted prior to commencement of construction or remodeling. The Building Department is responsible for reviewing construction plans, issuing building permits and managing building inspections. Call 303-795-1434 to contact the building department coordinator or visit the website at http://columbinev.wpengine.com/building-department/.
Do I need a contractor license to work in Columbine Valley?
Yes. Contractor licenses can be applied for at Town Hall located at 2 Middlefield Road, Columbine Valley, CO, 80123, or online at www.columbinevalley.org/contractor-license.
Is there a contractor license fee?
The fee for General Contractors is $160 January 1 through June 30 and $80 July 1 to December 31. Plumbing, roofing, and mechanical licenses are $100 January 1 through June 30 and $50 July 1 through December 31. There is no fee for electricians.
Does Columbine Valley charge sales and use tax?
Columbine Valley charges 3.25% on half the total valuation of the project. This is collected when the permit is issued and is nonrefundable.
I am planning a remodel of my home. Why should I get a building permit?
This is a question many people may ask themselves when planning alterations to their home. A decision not to get a permit could be very costly. Some homeowners are finding when they try to sell or refinance their home, prospective buyers or lending institutions want proof that alterations are in compliance with local codes. Without a permit and inspection on record, there is no proof. The homeowner must then apply for a permit with no guarantee that the remodel will meet the codes, and they face the possibility that the remodel must be redone or removed. This is costly and frustrating and could cause delays in refinancing or a lost sale of their home.
Why does the Building Department require a signed contract from the homeowner?
The contract is used to determine the valuation of the project. Without a signed contract the permit will be valuated at by the miscellaneous project valuation schedule. Use the following link to access the valuation schedule: http://columbinev.wpengine.com/fee-schedule/
How are permit fees calculated?
Fees are calculated based on the Schedule of Valuations. This schedule can be found online at http://columbinev.wpengine.com/fee-schedule.
How long does it take to complete plan review?
Plans are reviewed on a first come, first served basis. Depending on the size and scope of the project, plan reviews can take from 2 days to 2 weeks. Contact Town Hall at 303-795-1434 for more information.
Can I work on my own home?
Any work done on your own home will be subject to all building codes and Town building permit and inspection procedures. You will need to apply for a building permit if required by the scope of the project.
Do I need to have a license to do work on my own home?
No. A homeowner *(who owns and occupies the house) may do any or all of the work (building, plumbing, mechanical, heating and air conditioning, and electrical). If you are not sure of your abilities to do any or all of the work, it is recommended that you hire a licensed professional.
Do my drawings need to be professionally done?
Drawing for house plans need to be professionally done. Some smaller projects do not require professional drawings. They must be clear and detailed enough to indicate what the project is and how it will be built.
What if I have made an alteration to my home without realizing I needed a permit and I want to correct the situation – will I be subject to a fine? Do I have to tear the whole project down and start over?
Penalties can be levied for those who refuse to comply with the law. The Building Department would rather see a building conform to the code than punish a homeowner. If a homeowner discovers that they did not obtain a permit when required, they do not necessarily have to tear the project down and start over. If the alteration can meet the applicable codes, they will be approved. Our inspectors won’t necessarily approve something they cannot see and may require small sections of wall or roof covering be removed to verify the construction meets the code. There can be no guarantee that some changes may need to be made, and some may not be easy to accomplish.
When is construction allowed?
Construction hours are 7am to 7pm Monday through Friday and 9am to 5pm Saturday. No construction is allowed on Sunday. Homeowners may work on their own home at any time.
What Building code does the Town follow?
The Town follows the 2015 Building Code and the 2014 Electrical Code. Beginning in May 2018, the building department will follow the 2018 code. Contact the building department at 303-795-1434 for more information.
Does Columbine Valley have their own inspectors?
The Town contracts with inspectors. Contact Town Hall at 303-795-1434 to schedule an inspection.
When are building inspections?
All inspections besides electrical will take place between 9:00am and 11:00am Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday or between 1:30pm and 3:00pm on Tuesday. Electrical inspections are between 3:30 and 5:00 Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Please call Town Hall at 303-795-1434 to set up an inspection.
Do I need a permit to replace a window?
A building permit is required at any time there is an addition, alteration, repair or conversion to the home. Examples would include reroofing, water heater replacement, remodeling a kitchen, finishing a basement, and decks. Permits are not required for painting, drain cleaning, new floor coverings, gutters, or cosmetic improvements. If you have any questions about whether or not a permit is needed, contact Town Hall at 303-795-1434. For more information call Town Hall at 303-795-1434.
Do I need a permit for landscaping?
Depending on the scope of the project, a permit may be required. Generally, if the project involves plumbing and electrical, a permit will be required. Contact Town Hall at 303-795-1434 with the scope of your project to determine if a permit is required.
Do I need a permit to replace a hot water heater, air conditioner, or furnace?
A building permit is required at any time there is an addition, alteration, repair or conversion to the home. Examples would include reroofing, water heater replacement, remodeling a kitchen, finishing a basement, and decks. Permits are not required for painting, drain cleaning, new floor coverings, gutters, or cosmetic improvements. If you have any questions about whether or not a permit is needed, contact Town Hall at 303-795-1434. For more information call Town Hall at 303-795-1434.
If I take out a permit to remodel a home built ten years ago, do I build to the code in effect when the home was originally built?
No. The new portion must meet the current codes unless the remodel creates a hazard for the existing building, such as overloading an existing beam.
Can I park a camper, motorhome, boat, or trailer in my driveway?
Trailers of any sort cannot be permanently stored in driveways. The exceptions to this are when stopped or parked in compliance with the direction of a police officer or official signs, for the purpose of visiting for less than 48 hours, for temporary loading or unloading not to exceed 18 hours, or when a permit has been acquired.
Can I leave my work trailer in the street?
Trailers cannot be left in the street without a permit. Contact Town Hall at 303-795-1434 for more information.
Can I put a dumpster on the street?
Yes, the HOA should be notified and cones placed around the dumpster.
Do I need to test for asbestos before demolition?
An asbestos test is required for all demolition projects. You will need to provide documentation of test results. If the asbestos test is positive, an asbestos abatement is required.
Do I need a permit to remodel my kitchen or bath?
Depending on the size and scope of the project, a permit may be necessary. Contact Town Hall at 303-795-1434 with the scope of your project to determine whether a permit is necessary.
Do I need a permit to remodel or build a deck?
Generally, it the deck is above ground you will need a permit. Contact Town Hall at 303-795-1434 for more information.
Can I put a sign out for my company?
No company signs are allowed in Columbine Valley.
Can you refer construction companies?
No. Contact your neighbors or friends for recommendations.
What kind of building records does the Town keep?
For older homes, the Town is likely to have only permits and inspection slips. The Town may have more documentation for newer homes.
What is the purpose of permits and codes?
The purpose behind building codes is to give reasonable assurance that a home is safe from structural failure, fire hazards from electrical and heating systems, electrical shock, and health risks. The permits provide a permanent record of the work performed and inspections conducted on the project.
Why should I use a licensed contractor?
For one thing, any contracted person doing work who is not currently registered with the State Construction Contractors Board is doing so illegally. Would you want this type of person working on your home? Another reason is the registration provides some protection to the homeowner from being charged for work and materials not provided or paying twice for them (material suppliers and subcontractors can place a lien on your home if they do not receive payment from your contractor).
There are also trade licenses for those persons doing plumbing and electrical work to provide some assurance that they have adequate knowledge and training in those fields.
Can I volunteer at Town Hall?
The Town accepts office volunteers and volunteers for special events. Contact Town Hall for more information at 303-795-1434.
Court
Where is the invoice number for my ticket?
On the top in bold letters. Visit this link for more information: http://columbinev.wpengine.com/decipher-ticket/
How do I Pay my Ticket?
Look at the blue summons for instructions regarding payment and points assessed to your driving record for traffic tickets. There is an “amount due” box near the center of the summons that will let you know if payment by mail or at the front counter at Town Hall is an option, or if you must appear in court.
You may pay by mail If there is a dollar amount written in the “amount” box by the officer (this is called a payable offense). If no amount is written in the “amount” box you may not pay by mail. The court date will be specified in the top third of the summons, and your appearance in court is mandatory on the date specified. To pay by mail: Sign and date your blue summons copy and mail it to Town Hall with a check or money order (made payable to Columbine Valley) for the amount written in the box. The signed blue summons must accompany payment. A reduction in points may be possible provided payment is received at least 24 hours prior to your court date. If you choose to, you can also bypass the payment by mail option and appear in court on the given date.
What happens at Municipal Court?
Municipal Court is held on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 5:30 pm. The court house is located at 2069 W. Littleton Blvd, Littleton, Colorado. At the court house, you will be asked to sign in, read & sign an advisement of rights & wait to be called by the Town attorney. All defendants are taken on a first come, first served basis. When you meet with the Town attorney, he will discuss any options that are available to you by way of a plea bargain. From there you will be directed to the court room where you will speak with the Judge who will then sign your plea bargain & set your fine. You will be required to pay your fine that night. If you are unable to pay the fine, speak with the clerk at the counter regarding your options for a Stay of Execution (SOE) where $50 is due and payable on the 10th of every month until your fine is paid in full. SHOULD YOU FIND THAT YOU ARE UNABLE TO MAKE MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF AT LEAST $50 PER MONTH, YOU MAY CONTACT THE MUNICIPAL COURT CLERK AND SCHEDULE A HEARING BEFORE THE COURT.
What happens if I do not pay a ticket I received?
If you fail to pay your ticket at least 24 hours prior to your court date, you will be expected to appear in court on the date on your ticket. If you fail to appear in court, a failure to appear will be issued and a letter will be sent to the address on the ticket with a new date to appear in court. An additional fine will often be assessed for your failure to appear. If you fail to appear in court on the new court date issued to you, a warrant or judgment will be issued against you.
How can I contest traffic or parking citations?
A person who receives a traffic or parking citation may contest it by contacting the Columbine Valley Municipal Court through the same procedures as a traffic citation.
I lost my traffic citation – What do I do?
If you lost your traffic citation, you need to contact the Columbine Valley Municipal Court at 303-795-1434.
I got stopped for driving without proof of insurance…now what?
If you have current insurance but didn’t have it with you or couldn’t find it when you were stopped by the Police Officer, then you need to submit proof of insurance to the Town and pay a $25.00 administrative fee. For more information, please contact the Columbine Valley Municipal Court at 303-795-1434. If you didn’t have insurance at the time of your stop you will need to appear in court at the day and time written on your summons.
Police
How do I sign up for a house watch?
You can sign up online: http://columbinev.wpengine.com/house-watch/
You can also sign up by calling Town Hall at 303-795-1434. If the office is closed, please leave a -message with the following information:
- Name
- Address
- Date of departure
- Date of return
- Phone number where you or a responsible party may be reached
- Do you have an alarm system or timers on lights
- Any additional information such as who may be checking on the house
How can I get a copy of a police report?
Contact the Arapahoe County Sherriff’s Office Record Division at 720-874-3875 and tell them you need a copy of a Columbine Valley Police Report. The Town does not maintain any records at Town Hall.
What are the curfew hours in the Town of Columbine Valley?
Except when accompanied by a parent, children under 17 years old and under: Sunday through Thursday curfew is ll:00 PM and Friday and Saturday is 12:00 midnight. Curfews end at 5:00 AM
Can I drive my golf cart on the street?
Yes. Licensed drivers sixteen years or age and older may operate a golf cart in Columbine Valley, subject to all state and local motor vehicle laws. Carts operated between sunset and sunrise must be equipped with at least operable headlights and two taillights.
Are there designated hours that a car cannot be parked on paved streets?
There is no overnight parking in the Town of Columbine Valley between the hours of 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. and there are signs posted at all entrances of the Town. If you must park on the street overnight, call the Town office for a permit. If you need a permit before or after the Town Hall hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM or on weekends, please call Arapahoe County Dispatch at 303-795-4711 and ask for a Columbine Valley Police Officer so that you may notify them that you will need to park overnight. Please be certain your guests are made aware of this ordinance.
My car was towed, where do the Columbine Valley Police take them?
Columbine Valley Police use Connolly’s Towing, 4350 S Federal Blvd, Sheridan CO 80110. Their phone is 303-777-4239.
Does the Columbine Valley Police Department fingerprint for ID’s?
No. Columbine Valley refers to the City of Englewood Police Department for this service. For more information, please call the Englewood PD at 303-762-2431 or visit them online at http://www.englewoodco.gov/inside-city-hall/city-departments/police-department/support-services/records
How do I make a commendation or a complaint about a police employee?
We want to know when we have done a good job—or not—for a customer. If we’ve done an exceptional job of delivering customer service, we want to let the employee concerned know it was appreciated. If we have disappointed someone, we need to know that also so that we can remedy the problem. Please call 303-795-1434 to let us know how we are doing.
Solicitors
Are solicitors allowed in Columbine Valley?
The Columbine Valley Municipal Code requires door to door Solicitors, Peddlers, or Hawkers to register with the Town before visiting any households within the town limits, and to carry their permit with them when soliciting.
How do I get added to the no visit list?
Call Town Hall at 303-795-1434 or send an e-mail with name and address to jdmccrumb@columbinevalley.org.
When are solicitor permits required?
Permits are required for all solicitors, and non-local peddler/hawkers. Peddlers representing businesses licensed in Columbine Valley and canvassers are not required to have a permit, although they are encouraged to obtain a permit at no fee.
What is the application process for solicitors?
Every person, be they a sole-proprietor or representative of a large corporation, who is required t-o have a permit must complete and submit an Application for Solicitor Permit. Each applicant must provide two 2” x 2” photographs representing their likeness and a current government issued ID.
What does a solicitor permit cost?
A one month permit costs $20.00; an annual permit is $50.00. All permits expire on December 31 of the issuance year. A $20.00 non-refundable processing fee is assessed at the time of application.
Does Columbine Valley perform background checks on solicitors?
The Town conducts background checks to verify information in the application.
How long does it take to get a solicitor permit?
The Town has five business days to process each complete application request. Applications are processed in the order in which they were received.
How long is the solicitor permit good for? Can I renew?
Permits are available for one month, or up to one year. All permits expire on December 31 of the year in which they are issued. Permits cannot be automatically renewed; a new application must be submitted each year.
What happens if a solicitor forgets their ID or permit?
If a solicitor does not have these documents, they cannot solicit in Columbine Valley. Failure to display these documents upon request could lead to a citation and fine up to $500 per occurrence.
How can I tell if a commercial solicitor is properly permitted?
Each permitted solicitor must display a Town-issued photo ID badge.
“No Soliciting” signs
If a residence has a sign posted near their entrance stating “No Solicitation or Handbills”, “No Trespassing” or similar language, no one can solicit or leave handbills anywhere on the property. The property is defined as the land and structures owned by the residence, i.e.: the house, lawn, driveway, automobiles, anything located at or attached to the property, including the post office box.
What hours can door-to-door solicitations take place?
Solicitation hours are 9:00 a.m. to sunset.
What is the “No Visit List”?
The “No Visit List” prevents solicitors from coming to your home. By signing up, your address will be maintained by the Town as a list of persons who restrict visits to their residential property by peddlers, solicitors, and canvassers. This “No Visit List” shall be a public document and available for public inspection and copying. A copy of the “No Visit List” shall be provided to each applicant for a solicitors permit. The permitee shall be prohibited from entering upon any private property where the current occupant has posted the property on the Town “No Visit List”.
Public Works
How do I get a garbage or recycle bin?
The Town has a contract with Republic Services to provide garbage and recycle bins to residents. Contact Town Hall to receive a garbage can or recycle bin. 303-795-1434
When is trash and recycling picked up?
Monday is the trash day for the Town. Holiday exceptions can be found in the Town Directory.
Can you get rid of a dead animal?
The Town can remove dead animals from public property such as streets or parks. The Town cannot remove dead animals from private property.
Can the Town remove a down tree branch or other obstruction?
The Town will remove any obstruction as long as it is on public property. Call Town Hall at 303-795-1434 to report an obstruction. Down tree branches on private property will be picked up by Republic Waste Services if properly placed by dumpsters. See http://site.republicservices.com/ corporate/residential/customerservice/faq.aspx for details.
Can the Town replace the gutter pan near my home?
In certain circumstances the Town can repair gutter pans. If a gutter pan issue is determined to be dangerous, the gutter pan can be scheduled for repair during the next paving project.
Can the Town fill in a pothole?
Yes, if the pothole is determined to be dangerous and large enough to fill in, the Town will repair it. Call Town Hall at 303-795-1434 to report any potholes.
Does the Town plow snow?
The Town plows snow based on the following guidelines. Snow operations will commence with snow reaching a depth of 1/2”. Crews plow based on established routes, with main roads and arterials being plowed first followed by residential streets. Snow will first be cleared with 8-foot lane in each direction. Crews plow again within 24 hours to clears snow gutter-pan to gutter-pan. Cul-de-sacs are generally the last to be cleared as they oftentimes require alternate equipment and/or a greater time commitment and priority must be given to clearing main roadways. Depending on weather conditions and snow depth, widening, ice removal and cleanup operations may take place several days after a snowstorm. The Town cannot guarantee snow will not pile up in driveways and does not plow driveways.
What happens when my street light goes out/is broken?
The Town contracts with Xcel energy to maintain street lights. Call Town Hall at 303-795-1434 to inform staff of any issues with street lights and the Town will report the issues to Xcel.
How often does street sweeping occur?
The Town contracts with Littleton for street sweeping. The Town tries to request street sweeping as often as possible from Littleton, but street sweeping is subject to Littleton street sweeper availability.
A storm water drain is full of debris. Will the Town unclog it?
Yes, the Town unclogs storm water drains. If you notice a storm water drain is clogged call Town Hall at 303-795-1434.
What material is used on the streets to remove ice?
The only material that is applied to the streets is Ice Slicer. It is a naturally occurring salt that is mined and shipped from Southern Utah. It is one of the materials that both Littleton and CDOT uses. More information can be found at www.iceslicer.com.
Where and when is Ice Slicer applied?
Ice Slicer is generally applied after it has stopped raining or snowing, and ice is present on the street surface. It is applied at all intersections, steep hills and sharp curves.
Is Ice Slicer safe for pets and lawns?
Yes, it comes from the same deposit as Real Salt, the #1 selling food grade sea salt that is sold in health food stores. It contains minerals and micro-nutrients that in small amounts will actually help vegetation grow better.