Planning to sell a Kiowa home with a septic system? Before you list or accept an offer, Elbert County requires a Use Permit for the on-site wastewater treatment system. The process can feel technical, especially if records are older or the tank needs work. In this guide, you will learn exactly what the county requires, how long it takes, what inspectors look for, and how to keep your closing on track. Let’s dive in.
What a Use Permit means in Kiowa
Elbert County Public Health requires a Use Permit before the sale of a home served by a septic system. The county’s plain-language sheet for sellers states that the seller must obtain the permit and that a certified inspection is part of the process. Review the county’s guidance in the one-page resource, “Are you selling your home?” for the exact steps and timing.
- See the county’s seller sheet: Elbert County “Are you selling your home?”
Colorado sets statewide septic standards under Regulation 43, but local public health agencies implement the program for most homes. For Kiowa properties, follow Elbert County’s forms, inspector lists, and timelines. You can confirm the state framework on the CDPHE OWTS page and then rely on Elbert County’s local instructions on the OWTS program page.
Rules can vary by county, so do not assume neighboring policies apply. For example, Gilpin County publishes exemptions and validity language that differ, which is why Elbert County guidance should drive your plan in Kiowa. See Gilpin’s page only as an illustration of county differences: Gilpin County OWTS.
When to start and how long it takes
Start early. Plan 2 to 4 weeks from ordering the inspection to receiving the Use Permit, assuming the system is functioning and documentation is complete. The inspection often includes pumping, photos, and signed findings by a certified inspector.
If repairs are needed, add time for estimates and scheduling. Elbert County can issue a Provisional Use Permit so you can close while licensed repairs are completed. The county’s seller sheet explains how this works and specifies the repair timeline.
What inspectors check for a Use Permit
Elbert County’s inspection form details what certified inspectors must examine and photograph. Expect the report to address:
- Tank condition, size, type, pumping status, and pump receipt
- Tees or baffles, risers, and lid access condition
- Distribution boxes or valves, dosing equipment, alarms, and controls
- Effluent filters and any secondary treatment units, including O&M contracts if applicable
- Absorption area, observation ports, standing effluent, and surface conditions
- Building sewer condition and required setback distances
Inspectors must provide photos and a signed opinion on whether the system is functioning or needs repair. See the county’s checklist in the Use Permit Inspection Form.
Step-by-step: How to get your Use Permit
Gather records. Collect any past permits, record drawings, inspection reports, pumping receipts, and maintenance contracts. Elbert County may have records, but older systems may not be on file. Check the ECPH OWTS FAQ and be ready to hire licensed pros to document the system if records are missing.
Hire a certified inspector. Use Elbert County’s current lists on the OWTS program page. Ask if the inspector coordinates pumping or if you should schedule it. Keep the pump receipt for the report.
Prepare access. Make sure tank risers and lids are reachable and safe. Locate observation ports if present. The inspector will need photos of access points.
Complete the inspection and submit the report. The inspector provides the signed report and photos. Submit all required documents with the Use Permit application as directed by the county.
Pay the fee when notified. Per the county’s seller sheet, Elbert County will contact you to collect the Use Permit fee when the permit is ready. The sheet references a $100 payment at issuance and notes that fees may change. Confirm the current amount before you proceed.
If repairs are required, plan ahead. Obtain estimates from licensed Elbert County installers, confirm timeline, and keep all documentation for the county.
For a concise overview, see Elbert County’s seller guidance.
Provisional permits and repairs
If the inspection finds deficiencies, Elbert County can issue a Provisional Use Permit so you can close while repairs are completed. The county requires:
- Repairs by licensed installers only
- Repairs completed within 30 days
- Documentation submitted to the county so the provisional permit can be revised to a final Use Permit
Non-permitted repairs will prevent issuance of a Use Permit. These details are outlined in the seller sheet and reinforced in the Use Permit Inspection Form.
Missing records, lot size, and site history
Elbert County maintains septic records, but older or unpermitted systems may lack files. If records are missing, the county suggests hiring licensed professionals to locate and document the system. Review the ECPH OWTS FAQ for guidance.
The county notes planning-level minimum lot sizes for septic: 10 acres with a well and 5 acres without a well. Final siting and approvals depend on site conditions and current county rules.
Stay current on rule and fee updates
Colorado updated Regulation 43 effective June 15, 2025, and local agencies have up to 12 months to align local rules. During this period, fees or documentation requirements may change. Elbert County also noted proposed Use Permit fee changes that could take effect in November 2025 if approved. Check the CDPHE OWTS page for state context and Elbert County’s OWTS program page for the latest local updates.
Seller prep checklist
- Confirm you need a Use Permit and plan the inspection before listing or early in escrow
- Pull records and maintenance history; contact the county and gather what you have on file
- Hire a county-listed certified inspector and arrange tank pumping
- Ensure safe access to risers, lids, and observation ports
- Budget time and funds for potential repairs by licensed installers
- Monitor fee updates and procedural changes on the county OWTS page
Get local help that keeps you on track
You do not have to navigate septic permitting alone. From lining up the right inspector to timing the Use Permit with your list date, we coordinate the details so your Kiowa sale moves smoothly and closes on schedule. Connect with Liesja Antieri & Stephanie Roberson-Wyatt to align your septic steps with a strong, well-marketed listing plan.
FAQs
Do I need a Use Permit to sell a home in Kiowa?
- Yes. Elbert County requires a Use Permit for any home sale with an on-site wastewater system, and the seller must obtain it prior to the sale per the county’s seller guidance.
What does the Elbert County septic inspection include for a Use Permit?
- Inspectors document tank condition, pumping, components, alarms, absorption area, setbacks, and more with photos, then provide a signed opinion on system function per the county’s inspection form.
How long does the Use Permit process take in Kiowa?
- Plan for about 2 to 4 weeks from ordering the inspection to issuance if no repairs are needed; start early to avoid closing delays and allow more time if repairs are required.
How much is the Elbert County Use Permit fee in 2025?
- The county’s seller sheet references a $100 payment collected when the permit is ready, and it notes proposed fee changes that could take effect in November 2025; confirm the current fee with the county.
What happens if my septic system fails the inspection?
- The county can issue a Provisional Use Permit so you can close, but licensed installers must complete repairs within 30 days and submit documentation for the final Use Permit.
What if I cannot find my septic records in Elbert County?
- The county may not have files for older systems; you can hire licensed inspectors or installers to locate and document the system to support your Use Permit application.
