RURAL REALITIES, A GUIDE TO LIFE IN TELLER COUNTY
This booklet is published by Teller County in
hopes that it will assist new or prospective residents and old ones too! 
Now we offer most of it to you on the internet.
It is long so keep scrolling until you find a heading that interests you.
Better yet, read it all the way through!

City Life

   Teller County's three incorporated cities offer services and amenities such as public water and sewer systems, police patrol, retail and professional services. If you choose to live within a city, you will pay city and county property taxes in order to fund services provided by both entities.

    Incorporated in 1892, Cripple Creek is the County seat and is home to the Teller County Courthouse which was built in 1904. The City is a National Historic Landmark District and has building regulations intended to preserve historic structures.
    Many of the old brick buildings in town are original and date to the reconstruction of Cripple Creek which had burned two times by 1896. The "new"   buildings, it was decided, should be built of brick.
    Cripple Creek is one of three limited-stakes gambling cities in Colorado, allowing wagers of up to $5.00.
    A new Teller County Administration building opened during the summer of 1999 and was named The Centennial Building in honor of the 100^th Birthday of Teller County. It is located at the corner of Carr & "A" Streets.
    The City offers the usual city amenities, including park and recreation facilities. It also has a nursing center, doctor's office and 24-hour emergency services. There is a branch of the Southern Teller County Library District in town and the Cripple Creek museum offers an excellent trip back in time to the mining days.
    At the present time the population of Cripple Creek is approximately 1,500. The sales tax rate is 6% (2% City, 1% County, 3% State).

    Founded in 1893, Victor is Teller County's southernmost city. Victor is a National Historic Landmark and enforces historic preservation codes. It is called "The City of Mines."
    You may hear locals and old timers use the term "The District."  This refers to the entire mining "district" from the 1890's. It includes Goldfield, Cripple Creek, Victor and surrounding areas.
    Victor is the boyhood home of Lowell Thomas. He worked on two local newspapers and was editor of The Victor Record before becoming one of the most famous journalists in the world. The Lowell Thomas Museum is located in Victor.
    World famous boxer Jack Dempsey fought his first fight in Victor's Gold Coin Club and Groucho Marx, after being stranded by a theatrical group, drove a grocery wagon in the district.
    There is a branch of the Southern Teller County Library District in Victor. The population of Victor is approximately 499 and has a total tax rate of 7% (3% City, 1% County and 3% State).

Woodland Park
P.O. Box 9007 - 80866
(719) 687-9246
Web Page

    Woodland Park is the largest city in Teller County. Incorporated in 1891, Woodland Park is often called The City Above the Clouds. It is located at the junction of State Highway 67 and US Highway 24.

There are several County offices located in Woodland Park. These include Parks, Road & Bridge, Health and Environment, the Building and Planning departments, and a branch of the Clerk and Recorders Office.
    Woodland Park offers scenic locations for custom-built homes, city police, park and recreation facilities and programs and many other services. Woodland Park has experienced a 3% (approx.) growth rate during the past two years. Limited water supplies are impacting planning, development and growth.
    The population of Woodland Park is 7,200with a total tax rate of 7% (3% City, 1% County and 3% State).

   Four communities, other than organized cities, also exist in Teller County. Under the jurisdiction of the County Government. The Teller County Sheriff's Department patrols the areas and responds to emergencies.

   The most central community in Teller County, Divide is located at the summit of Ute Pass. It has a post office, fire station, commercial area, and several county facilities including the Sheriff's Office and Jail, North Road district, Vehicle Maintenance and Animal Control.
    Central Divide is served by a sewer system. Check with the Planning Department to determine if your property is within the sewer district. Home water service is provided by private entities or individual water wells.
    Divide has the Hayden Divide Community Park and the Loop Trail. Mueller State Park is just a few miles to the South on Highway 67.
    One of the fastest growing communities Divide has one of the largest voting precincts. The area is a combination of wide open spaces and dense forest. Several large ranches continue to operate in the Divide area and Elk are frequent visitors to the fields along the roadside. Keep your eyes open!

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Other Communities

Florissant

    Once an incorporated town, Florissant is Teller County's western-most community. Home of the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Florissant has its own post office, a branch of the Rampart Regional Library District, the Heritage Museum and a community park.
    The community is located at the intersection of State Highway 24 and County Road 1, called "Teller One" by locals. Central Florissant has a water and sewer district.
    Florissant was once a favorite camping ground of the Tabeguache Ute Chief Ouray. (Tabeguache is pronounced "Tab - e - wah.)  In fact, the Ute tribes roamed and hunted throughout central Colorado, including Teller County. Visit Florissant and learn about its interesting history.

The Four Mile Area

    Once a major ranching and agricultural locale, the Four Mile community is fast becoming a residential area. Four Mile Community Center, 4-Mile Emergency Services Fire Station and Four Mile Church are the only public facilities in the area. Construction on a County Park in this area will begin in 2000.

Goldfield

    Adjacent to Victor, Goldfield was once a mining town. The small community has water service from the city of Victor but households are on private septic systems. Goldfield is graced by historic homes and the restored Goldfield Fire Station.

The only Mexican Bullfight ever staged in the United States
took place in Gillette, Colorado, on August 24th, 1895.  It focused
national attention on the Cripple Creek area.

Rural Life

    The remainder of Teller County is made up of rural subdivisions and unplatted parcels. Forty-nine percent (49%)  of Teller County is Public Land.  
    Some subdivisions offer central water services but none have central sewer. It can be difficult and expensive to obtain phone lines, electric service and/or road maintenance. It may take longer for Emergency Services to read your home if you live in some of these areas.  Check these things out first.

The Dreaded "T" Word

   Property Taxes are based on where your home is located and are driven by the needs of the County and other taxing districts or cities in which you live. Property taxes are divided between those entities which provide services and amenities. Annual budget meetings outline what those needs are and their respective costs. Watch your local newspapers for notices of budget hearings.
    Tax statements are mailed each January. Tax payments are due by February 28 (first half) and June 15 (second half) or the entire amount in one payment by April 30. Taxing districts in Teller County may include:   Property Taxes are based on where your home is located and are driven by the needs of the County and other taxing districts or cities in which you live. Property taxes are divided between those entities which provide services and amenities. Annual budget meetings outline what those needs are and their respective costs. Watch your local newspapers for notices of budget hearings.
    Tax statements are mailed each January. Tax payments are due by February 28 (first half) and June 15 (second half) or the entire amount in one payment by April 30. Taxing districts in Teller County may include:  Cities, Schools, Libraries, Fire & EMS, Hospitals, Water Conservancy, Water, Sanitation.  
Click here for Treasurer's Office.

Building a Home?   Consider These Issues.

    It is great to live in the country - to experience the mountain views, the fresh air, the wildlife, but be prepared to pay for this luxury.
    Building a home in Teller County is a challenge for several reasons: terrain may create havoc for accessing a property, and necessities such as water and sewage treatment may be more difficult to obtain.
    Building in all areas requires an engineered foundation. The way to assess soil conditions on your property is by having a soil test performed.
    A site plan for new residential and commercial construction is required before a building permit is issued. The site will be checked for setbacks from property lines, survey information and size of lot, and proposed structure.
    Spring run-off may cause a very small creek to become a major river. In protecting your property, care must be taken to avoid directing water onto neighboring properties and causing damage.
    Visit a piece of property you are interested in during inclement weather to determine its shortcomings.
    Not all lots are suitable building sites. The Teller County assessor has many taxed parcels of land listed, but some of those lots are not large enough or are not useable due to terrain and topography.
    Not all lots, particularly those of 2 acre or less, will accommodate a septic system and a well. Also, the location of a neighbor's well and septic may affect the "buildability" of a lot. Check before you buy!
    Keep in mind that accessibility for fire and emergency vehicles is important as you plan your new home.
    Remember that commercial and agricultural operations already in existence do not have to relocate because you do not like their noises or smells.
    The slope of driveways over 150 feet long may not exceed 12%. Width and clearance requirements also apply depending upon the length of the driveway.

Teller County Zoning

    Teller County is zoned for residential, multi-family, agricultural and commercial uses. Check with Teller County Community Planning, Construction & Environmental Health to verify the zoning of your property and to obtain copies of Land Use Regulations.
    All zones have permitted uses which are allowed in compliance with all other regulations, as well as conditional uses which may be approved by the Planning Commission, following a public hearing, based upon specific criteria.      Check with the Planning Department for the permitted and conditional uses for the zone classification of your property.

    Building permits are required for any type of construction in the County, except for minor maintenance, e.g., fixing a broken pipe.
    You will need a permit to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, demolish or re-roof any structure or building. A building permit is required for residential construction, including fences and retaining walls. Separate permits are required for work on plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems.
    Owners may build their own homes, but if a contractor is used they must be licensed or registered in the county.
    Inspections are required for all phases of construction. Contact Teller County Community Development Services Division for a list of required permits and inspections or click on the link below.
Teller County Community Development Services Division

Easements/Underground Rights

    Easements, or legal access granted before you purchased your property, may require you to allow construction of roads, power lines, water lines, sewer lines, etc., across your land. There may be easements that are not of record. Check these issues carefully.
    Many property owners do not own the mineral rights under their property. Owners of mineral rights may change surface characteristics in order to extract minerals. It is very important to know what minerals may be located under your land and who owns them.
    Much of the rural land in Teller County may be used for mining, however, a special review by the Teller County Board of County Commissioners and Colorado Division of Minerals & Geology or Bureau of Land Management is usually required.
    Old mine workings on your land should be tested for safety. The Colorado Geological Survey offers information and tests on old mine workings; call (303) 866-2611.
   Land owners must consider impacts of construction on wetlands. Wetlands are protected by the United States Army Corps of Engineers regulations. For details on handling wetland issues, contact the Corps at: South Platte drainage, (303) 979-4120; Arkansas drainage, (719) 543-9459.

Water & Sewer Issues

    Water is the real gold of the West and water quality and preservation is vital. Colorado law determines who owns and controls every drop. The state, not the county, controls all water and wells. The state engineer issues permits for well drilling, and the state engineer may restrict this water to household use only. Not all wells may be used to water landscaping and/or livestock. If you have other needs, make certain that you have the proper approvals before you invest.
    It is important to make sure that any water rights you purchase with the land will provide enough water to maintain trees, pastures, gardens or livestock and that these rights grant you legal access for the intended use.
    If you have access to a supply of treated domestic water, the tap fees may be expensive. You may also find that your monthly service is costly when compared to municipal systems available in larger cities.
    If you do not have access to a supply of treated domestic water, you will have to locate an alternate supply. Even if there is water on your land, do not assume you own it or that you may use it.
    If you plan to build and a municipal (city) sewer system is available within 1,000 feet of your property, you may be required to connect and pay the fees to connect.
    If you plan to build and sewer service is not available, you will be required to install an approved sewage disposal system. The type of soil available for your leach field is very important in determining the cost and function of a sewage disposal system. A percolation test is required and septic permits are required.

If you buy an existing home, have the sewage disposal system checked by a Teller County Licensed Septic Cleaner. The Teller County Community Planning, Construction & Environmental Health Department has a list of licensed septic installers and cleaners and has information on the care of individual sewage disposal systems. They will search their files for information on existing septic systems for a nominal fee. Be aware that permits were not required before 1973 and therefore records for systems installed prior to that year may not be available.
    For maximum safety, domestic wells should be tested a minimum of once each year. Use of untreated water may result in serious heath risks. Do not drink from streams or lakes without properly treating the water.
    If you have an irrigation ditch running across your property, there is a good possibility that the owners of the ditch have the right to come onto your property with heavy equipment to maintain the ditch.
    The Teller County Public Health & Environment Department has information available on water testing and labs, as does the Teller County Cooperative Extension Office.

Drawing The Line

    You may be provided with a plat of your property but, unless the land has been surveyed and pins placed by a licensed surveyor, you should not assume that the plat is accurate. Some plats have special notes on restrictions or requirements - make sure you read these and understand them.
    Fences that separate properties are often misaligned with the property lines. A survey of the land is the only way to confirm the location of your property lines.
    The properties surrounding yours will probably not remain as they are indefinitely. The best way to preserve a piece of land is to buy it. You should check with the Teller County Planning Department to find out how the properties are zoned and to see what future developments may be in the planning stages.

Owners Groups

    Many subdivisions have covenants that limit the use of the property. It is important to obtain a copy of the covenants ( or confirm that there are none), and make sure that you are able to live within those rules. Covenants are not enforced by the County but by an association or individual property owners and violations are a civil matter.
    Homeowners associations or property owners associations may be required to take care of common elements such as roads and open space. An inactive homeowners association or inadequate covenants may cause problems for you and even involve you in expensive litigation.
    Dues are almost always a requirement for those areas with homeowners associations. The by-laws of the association will tell you how the organization operates and how the dues are set. Ask your realtor or a neighbor how to contact your homeowners association.

    So you decided to build or buy a home in Teller County? Maintaining a home in rural areas may be a little different from living in town where access to hardware and lumber retailers means a short drive to exchange a part or match a paint color.
    Each season brings elemental changes to the environment which your home must weather, year after year. Knowing what to expect before you buy a home is one way of determining what you are willing to repair, replace and put up with before you relocate.
    The intense sunshine here often requires roofing and siding maintenance and replacement more often than at lower elevations. Cold and wind have effects on surfaces and structures as well.
    It is a good idea to have a few emergency repair supplies on hand to save trips to town or expensive calls for repairs late at night.
    Roofing shingles which match your existing roof may come in handy. A tube of emergency roof repair caulk is also handy. A tube of weatherproof caulk will help in patching seams and cracks caused by cold weather.
    Perform a pre-winter inspection of pipes in the sub-floor area and anywhere else they may be exposed to wind. Ensure pipes are properly insulated. Inspect them for previous damage and repair as an indicator of possible trouble spots.

If the previous owners had heat tape on pipes, inspect it for proper installation and test to make sure the tape works prior to cold weather. If you install heat tapes to prevent frozen pipes, inspect the tape yearly and replace it often. Improperly installed heat tapes are a common cause of home fires.
    Unless you are a qualified electrician, working on your own electrical system is not advised, but you should know the basics. Know where the breaker panel is and inspect each breaker label to ensure familiarity with the home=s electrical system. In case of power outages, have approved emergency light sources available.
    Homeowner servicing of heating systems should be limited to changing air filters and frequent system checks. Make sure any gas-powered heaters are checked yearly. Do not operate non-vented propane or kerosene heaters in closed rooms. A carbon monoxide monitor is a low-cost device that most homeowners can install themselves. These monitors protect your home's occupants from the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning.
    If possible, install two types of heating in your home or keep a back-up non-electrical source of heat. A wood stove or propane furnace which is not dependent on electricity might be your best friend in the winter time.
    Be prepared! A good battery-operated trouble light is a must. Insulated coveralls and rubber boots come in handy in inclement weather. A standard tool assortment and a place to keep them that is warm and dry saves time and worry.
    Local technicians sometimes have the advantage of knowing the locale better than the larger companies with nationwide name recognition.
    A good repair technician is like an overnight camper. They come, they go, and there should not be an impact to the area where they were. No-impact repairs mean that everything is returned to the original, existing state. Damage is repaired. Broken items are replaced. Incidental damage during the job is repaired or documented for later repair. Make it clear up front what you expect to see when the job is complete, and get a written estimate of costs for the repairs you specify.

Getting Around - Vehicle-Related Issues

Living in the mountains at an elevations of 9,000 feet or more requires special precautions.  Thin air causes vehicles to run differently, requiring adjustments to timing and fuel mixture.  Teller County motorists who work in El Paso County must also meet emission standards.  Check with the Clerk & Recorders Office when you register your vehicle.

Colorado law requires that you purchase insurance for your vehicle and obtain a Colorado Driver's license. If you plan to be here for more than 90 days, you must get your license within 30 consecutive days, or after 30 days of employment. There is an office of the driver's license bureau in Woodland Park. For location information and hours of operation call (719) 687-2447. You must license your vehicle as well; contact the Teller County Clerk & Recorders office for details.

Access - Teller County Department of Transportation

    Getting around in the mountains requires planning and flexibility. Getting to work or to school every day may be less traffic intensive than in the big city, but is not always easy.
    Access to mountain property often depends on the location of your property, how much planning went into your driveway, and what type of vehicle you drive. When you purchase vacant property you will still need a driveway and access permit. Call the Road & Bridge Department for additional information.
    The fact that you can drive to your property does not necessarily guarantee that you, your guests or emergency service vehicles may achieve that same level of access at all times. You may need chains and/or four-wheel drive for access.
    Emergency response times (sheriff, fire departments, ambulances, etc.,) are not guaranteed. Under some extreme conditions you may find that emergency response is extremely slow and expensive. Access to steep slopes may be impossible for fire trucks and equipment.
    There may be problems with the legal aspects of access, especially if you gain access across property belonging to others. It is wise to obtain legal advice and understand the easements that may be necessary when these types of questions arise. Just because there is a road or trail there, does not mean it is legal to use.
    Many rural properties are served by private roads which are maintained by private road associations or are not maintained at all. Make sure you know what type of maintenance to expect and who will provide that maintenance. Check with homeowners associations or the Road & Bridge Department for accurate information.

Most roads in Teller County are in mountainous terrain and are gravel. These types of roads often require slower driving speeds to ensure safety. Gravel roads also generate dust! If you have dust allergies, take this into consideration when deciding which property you wish to purchase.
    Due to the mountainous terrain you may encounter unexpected hazards such as fallen rocks or trees. In the "mining district" there are roads closed for safety reasons. Stay on public roads and do not cross fences or trespass on private property.
    Subdivision roads and other access roads that have not been accepted for maintenance by the County are the responsibility of the landowners who use those roads. To find out what road conditions might be like, check with your property owners association or with neighbors in the area of your property before purchasing.
    Many large construction vehicles cannot navigate narrow roads. If you plan to build it is prudent to check out construction access. It is often more costly to have material delivered to a site off the beaten path. Call suppliers and check before assuming the price for delivery is the same. Sometimes delivery is not possible.
    Teller County will make repairs to county roads in the event of adverse weather conditions. However, please note that it takes time to make repairs or to make roads passable during inclement weather conditions. Your road may not be first on the list. Have patience and adjust your driving speed to suit the road conditions.
    You may see wildlife or domestic animals such as cattle in the middle or along side of any road in Teller County. Enjoy this pastoral picture of rural live but please remember to drive accordingly.

    It is not unusual to have a mailing address and a "physical" address when you live in a rural area. Your physical address is where your home is actually located. A mailing address is usually your post office box number.
    Mail delivery is not available to all areas of the county. Ask the postmaster to describe which type of mail is used in your area. You may need to rent a post office box or pick up your mail at a neighborhood cluster box.
    UPS uses physical addresses, though delivery is sometimes limited.
    Standard parcel and overnight package delivery may be a problem for those who live in the country. Confirm with the service providers as to your status.    
   

Newspaper delivery is not always available to rural areas. Check with the newspaper of your choice before assuming you can get delivery. Three daily papers and several weekly papers serve the area.

 Finding Your Way

    Street numbers must be posted at the driveway and must be visible from the road in both directions to assist emergency service response. EMS recommends using six inch reflective letters and numbers for maximum visibility. Contact the Planning Department to have addresses assigned for a building site and for additional information about road names.
    Maps of the area are available from several sources, including the Woodland Park Chamber of Commerce. The United States Forest Service publishes a map with details of roads around the area. Make sure you acquire an updated map; old maps do not include all roads or new connections. In the back country it is easy to get turned around or lost for several hours.

Utilities

    Water, sewer, electric, telephone, natural gas and other services (e.g., cable TV) may be unavailable or very expensive repairs can often take much longer than in towns and cities.
    In rural Teller County, propane is the main method of heating, though wood and solar are also used for heat. Natural gas may be available near Cripple Creek, Divide and Woodland Park; in the future it will be available in and around Florissant and Victor.
    Propane trucks can only access your home if your driveway is clear and safe for large trucks. Plan ahead and order propane before snow flies and before delivery trucks become very busy.
    Telephone service may be expensive and take months to receive, depending on the location of your property. Call the phone company well ahead of building to ascertain availability and cost of service. Qwest is the main provider in the area. Century Telecommunication serves Florissant and Lake George (the 748 prefix).
    Communications may be a problem in some areas of Teller County. Cellular phones do not work in all areas. If you have one private line, it may be difficult to obtain another line for FAX or computer use.
    Electricity, the northern half of Teller County, is provided by Intermountain Rural Electric Association (IREA), a cooperative based in Sedalia.
    Aquila, based in Canon City, provides electric service to the southern half of Teller County.

Trash and Recycling

    Trash removal may be more expensive in a rural area than in the city. In some cases, your trash dumpster may be several miles from your home. It is good to know the cost for trash removal as you make the decision to move to a rural area . There is no landfill in Teller County, though trash services offer pick up and transfer station options.
    Recycling is more difficult because pick-up is not available in most rural areas. Please call trash services listed in the "Ute Pass Gold Book" (the small local phone book) and the grocery stores for recycling information.

Code Enforcement

   The rapid growth occurring in the County means that people are moving closer to ranches and older, established sites. The days of storing old junk and trash in the yard are gone. If you think about it, this is a good rule. It is dangerous to have old things lying around, and it looks bad too.
    The following are definitions from the County's Code: and persons accumulating any of the following, on their property are subject to fines:

Junk - all inorganic refuse;
Refuse - all material that has been dropped or cast aside and left unused;
Rubbish/Garbage/Trash - all organic refuse, rejected matter and material, whether animal, vegetable or mineral, manufactured or natural, including but not limited to rejected or waste household food, offal, swill, ash, yard clippings, sawdust, branches and leaves;
Junk Vehicles - any inoperable motorized vehicle; or any non-motorized vehicle which is not capable of highway travel in connection with its normal power source; or any vehicle with is partially or wholly dismantled; or any vehicle not bearing current Colorado license plates, unless exempt from registration; which is visible from roads or adjoining properties. A tarp covering shall not be considered adequate screening from view.
Off Premises Sign - Any sign placed other than on the parcel of land or premises wherein or upon which the business or activity advertised is located. Off-premises signs are prohibited. Junk - all inorganic refuse;
Refuse - all material that has been dropped or cast aside and left unused;
Rubbish/Garbage/Trash - all organic refuse, rejected matter and material, whether animal, vegetable or mineral, manufactured or natural, including but not limited to rejected or waste household food, offal, swill, ash, yard clippings, sawdust, branches and leaves;
Junk Vehicles - any inoperable motorized vehicle; or any non-motorized vehicle which is not capable of highway travel in connection with its normal power source; or any vehicle with is partially or wholly dismantled; or any vehicle not bearing current Colorado license plates, unless exempt from registration; which is visible from roads or adjoining properties. A tarp covering shall not be considered adequate screening from view.
Off Premises Sign - Any sign placed other than on the parcel of land or premises wherein or upon which the business or activity advertised is located. Off-premises signs are prohibited.

For more information contact Code Enforcement at 687-5257.

    Starting a home business in the mountains may offer the best of both worlds - a peaceful home life and a convenient means of income. Working out of your home may offer advantages such as lower overhead, less need for child care, security and the enjoyment of being your own boss. Home employment has its requirements and its restrictions.
    If you are in the construction trades, you will need a contractor's license. Contact the Teller County Building Department for information. Planning approval may be required to store materials or equipment on your property.
    Sales tax is collected for Teller County. You must register with the Colorado Department of Revenue (594-8701 for information) to collect and pay the one percent county sales tax.
    There are the usual Internal Revenue and Colorado state income and sales tax and trade name reporting requirements, as well as a personal property tax levied on businesses.
    Signs are regulated by the County and State. You must check with the Planning Department before erecting a business sign, temporary or permanent. Off-premise business signs are not permitted, so keep your location in mind.
    Remember that a separate phone line may not be available for business purposes. Also the capacity of rural phone lines does not always accommodate speedy transfer of data via computer modem.
    It is important that businesses relying on timely mail delivery be accessible to delivery trucks and that clients be able to find your location.
    Businesses such as bed and breakfasts must meet food and lodging codes and zoning regulations.
    Livestock operations are subject to zoning and environmental restrictions.

For More Information

    The Teller County Regional Development Council offers information for businesses relocating to the County. Contact the TCRDC at (719) 687-6079;   P.O. Box 1939, Woodland Park, CO - 80866.
    The Colorado Business Assistance Center offers information with a statewide perspective. Contact that office at (303) 592-5920 or (800) 333-7798.

Climate - The weather here is always full of surprises. Winters are relatively mild compared to the Midwest and northern states. Summers are cool and dry compared to the southern states.
    There are several misconceptions about Teller County weather and it is very difficult to predict weather in the mountains. Typically, snow storms are heaviest here in the Spring but difficulties getting around may occur at any time of the year. It is best to check with local law enforcement on road conditions. Cell phones are handy if you have an emergency.
    Just like the boy scouts, "always be prepared" for weather changes. Keep your vehicle fuel tank at least half full at all times. Standard gear for your vehicle, during most of the year, should include an extra set of warm clothes, gloves, boots, non-perishable snacks, an emergency kit, a blanket, an ice scraper, a shovel, and perhaps chains. For more tips contact Teller County Emergency Preparedness Department at 687-8648.  

    Driving on mountain roads is significantly different than in many other places. Safe driving requires skill, alertness and patience. As you drive our roadways, the topography, direction and elevation constantly change, leading to a wide variety of road conditions. Wildlife encounters, particularly deer and elk at night, should be anticipated. If you intend to drive on back country Forest Service roads/trails, become familiar with off-road driving courtesy. Keep in mind that most trails in the trail system are designated multi-use, e.g., hikers, cyclists, trail bikes and horse back riding.
    Driving off-road with dirt bikes and ATV's requires a special permit from the state. Call the Colorado State Parks,  Registration Unit at (303) 791-1920 for information.

Natural Hazards

    Trees are a wonderful environmental amenity, but they may also involve your home in a forest fire. Building at the top of a crested draw should be considered as dangerous as building in a flash flood area.
    Highway 24 from Cascade to Colorado Springs has experienced a number of historic flash floods.
    The Pikes Peak Region is second in the United States for lightning strikes and this includes Teller County!
    Storm clouds may develop quickly and may be blocked by a ridge or mountain top. Watch the weather closely and discontinue activities outdoors when storms develop. Operating tools or just being out on an open hillside may result in a deadly strike. Have your home properly grounded electrically. It is always a good idea to unplug televisions, computers and other appliances during a storm; stay away from windows and open doors; do not talk on the telephone during an electrical storm.
    Teller County has occasionally had tornadoes; two occurred north of Divide in 1996.
    Earthquakes are few and far between and not very intense, but they do occur. Ute Pass is a fault line and several small quakes have been felt during the past three years in this area and in the mining district. None of these have been strong enough to cause damage.

All of Teller County is covered by the emergency 911 calling service.

    The 911 system will tell the dispatcher your street address when you call from your home. This is particularly important if you are unable to speak to the dispatcher. For this system to function the phone company must have your correct street address. Check with the Planning Department for the address and contact the phone company with the correct information.
    When you report an accident or other emergency, make sure you give detailed location information and conditions at the time of reporting. Do not hang up until the dispatcher has acquired all information and if possible give them a number where you may be reached for more details.
    The Teller County Sheriff's Office has approximately 559 square miles to patrol. Most of the time there will be at least two officers on duty.
    Emergency calls for service are dispatched according to importance of call. Emergency response time depends upon the location of deputies at the time of a call and the nature of the call being responded to.
    The Sheriff's Office has a Neighborhood Watch program which encourages neighbors to help each other alleviate burglary and other incidents. For information on this program contact the Sheriff's Office or your homeowners association.
    A major problem for emergency responders in the country is a lack of visible address numbers identifying a residence or the driveway to a residence. Please be sure that your residence is well marked and easy to identify during the day. Purchase reflective numbers or light the address so that it is visible at night.
    Teller County residents have a long and rich tradition of volunteerism and often provide services which would otherwise be unavailable. Many of the fire, ambulance and search and rescue services are provided by volunteers. These people are highly trained professionals and the agencies are very well equipped.
    The Sheriff's Office has a volunteer Deputy Reserve Program, and many volunteers assist at the Animal Shelter. Applications and information may be obtained by calling or stopping in at the Sheriff's Office in Divide.

Fighting Fires With Common Sense Approaches

    Wildfire represents the greatest threat to life and property in our region. Create a 30-foot defensible space around your home. If you do not have defensible space and a wildfire occurs, it is likely that firefighters will not be able to defend your home.
    Contact your local fire district or the Colorado State Forest Service for information on defensible space.
    Learn an alternative route out of your subdivision or your area in the event of a large wildfire.
    Use extreme care with open flame and smoking materials when outside.
    If you plan to use a wood stove or fire place, know the proper use of each. Know how to keep your chimney clean or have it cleaned annually. Many rural home fires begin with a chimney fire or the improper disposal of ashes.

Keep fire extinguishers in your home and make sure they are in working order.

    High quality smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are inexpensive devices which can save your life.

A Word About Wood Cutting

    Wood cutting on your own private property should be considered as part of a conservation and wildfire mitigation plan. The Colorado State Forest Service can help with such plans, as can the County Extension Service.
    Wood cutting on public lands is by permit only. Contact the United States Forest Service, Colorado State Forest Service or bureau of Land Management for information.
    Wood cutting creates refuse such as branches and removal of refuse from your property is your responsibility.

Insects and Snakes

   For the most part, Teller County is a haven from insects, but it's not perfect. Black flies are prevalent wherever there is livestock. Mosquitoes may be encountered in swampy areas.
    Ticks are a common spring occurrence and precautions should be taken against contact with them. Always remember to check yourself,  the kids,  and your pets when you have been outdoors during tick season.
    Lyme disease is not common in Colorado, but Colorado Tick Fever is. The infection is not deadly. Symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, abdominal pain and lethargy. Once exposed, a person develops a lifelong immunity.
    Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is rare but deadly if not treated.  Teller County Community Development Services Division

Poisonous snakes prefer warmer areas than exist in most of Teller County, but rattle snakes are not uncommon in lower elevations here, especially in dry, rocky areas. Be on the lookout and always respect a rattler.
    Some reports of plague are made each year in Colorado, but no cases of human plague have been reported in Teller County. Plague is caused by a bacteria carried by fleas on infected rodents such as prairie dogs, squirrels, rabbits and chipmunks. On rare occasions, fleas carrying the plague bite humans. Plague may also be transmitted by getting the blood from infected animals in a cut or scrape.
    Keep your pets at home; fleas from rodents and prairie dogs may spread to your dog or cat. Cats that eat infected rodents may become infected as well. Symptoms include swelling of the mouth, neck and head and possibly sores on the mouth. For more information, acquire the leaflet "Common Plague Questions" from the Teller County Public Health Department.
    Teller County had one death in 1998 from the Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome which is carried by deer mice. The virus is shed in the urine, saliva and feces of infected mice. People may become infected by breathing in dust or dried feces from mice nests or droppings. Familiarize yourself with this virus.   Teller County Community Development Services Division

Animals Abound - Wild & Domestic Animals Abound - Wild & Domestic Animals Abound - Wild & Domestic Animals Abound - Wild & Domestic

    Teller County is home to bear, elk, deer, antelope, big horn sheep, mountain lion, coyote, eagles, hawks, and many other small mammals of the forest. In the Cripple Creek area you may also see donkeys roaming the roads and in many areas there is open range for domestic livestock.
    Trapping and hunting are allowed only with a license/permit and only in certain areas and during prescribed seasons. Fishing is generally permitted year round on public bodies of water but licenses are required.
    Do not feed wild animals. Although you may think you are helping them you are not. In fact you may be creating a potentially dangerous and unlawful situation. Talk with wildlife officials and nurseries about placement of bird feeders to minimize danger.
    Dispose of trash in closed containers and remove it from your property weekly. Do not leave pet food outdoors. Do not leave pets, especially small ones, on chains or ropes if you are going to be away from your property.

The Division of Wildlife and  are two good resources for information about living around wildlife.
    Be on the lookout for animals on the roads, especially at night. Enjoy wildlife from a distance and control your pets.

A Leash on Life

    Just because you live in a rural area does not mean you can let Buster roam free. Teller County has a leash law enforced by Animal Control.
    Teller County operates a small Animal Control Facility located in Divide. Officers respond to complaints and impound vicious and abandoned dogs. Obtain pet licenses from the Teller County Clerk and Recorders Office, Animal Control and your veterinarian.
    The region is home to a number of major predators and each year a number of pets disappear or are injured due to wildlife encounters or nearby road hazards.
    Dogs found to be harassing livestock or wildlife may be shot by ranchers or wildlife officers.
    Licenses are required for dogs and there are restrictions on the number of dogs you may house without a kennel license.

Livestock/Agriculture

    Keeping horses and livestock pose a management issue for landowners. Erosion control, surface and groundwater pollution, dust, fly, odor and manure management are all issues landowners keeping livestock or pets must consider.
    Other pets such as llamas are common in the County as well. Check to make sure that property is properly zoned, that you are able to care for the animals and that they will not have an adverse impact on your neighbors.
    For more information acquire "Pasture Management" from the Teller County Public Health and Environment Department.
    The CSU Cooperative Extension Office also has numerous researched-based publications that address issues associated with small acreage management, livestock management and agriculture.
    Agriculture is an important business in Teller County. If you choose to live among the farms and ranches or our rural countryside, do not expect County Government to intervene in the normal day-to-day operations of your agri-business neighbors. In fact, Colorado and Teller County have Right to Farm legislation that protects farmers and ranchers from nuisance and liability lawsuits. It enables them to continue producing food for us all.

Animals and their manure may cause objectionable odors!

    Farmers often work around the clock, especially during planting and harvest time. It is possible that adjoining agricultural uses will disturb your peace and quiet. Land preparation and other operations cause dust, especially during windy and dry weather.
    Farmers occasionally burn their ditches to keep them clean of debris, weeds and other obstructions. This burning creates smoke that you may find objectionable.
    Chemicals (mainly fertilizers and herbicide) are often used in growing crops. You may be sensitive to these substances and some individuals actually have severe allergic reactions.
    Before buying land you should know if it has noxious weeds that may be expensive to control and which, by state law, you may be required to control. Some plants are poisonous to horses and other livestock.
    The State Noxious Weed List identifies 56 weeds mandated for control. Ten of the 56 are recognized as the top ten prioritized weed species for the State of Colorado. Of the top ten, three (Canada Thistle, Musk Thistle, Yellow Toadflax) are wide-spread in Teller County. An additional four of the top ten (Leafy Spurge, Russian Knapweed, Spotted Knapweed, Diffuse Knapweed) are present in the county and have the potential to become wide-spread problems.
    Much of Teller County receives less than 15 inches of precipitation per year. As a result, we have a problem with overgrazing and fugitive dust. Without irrigation, grass does not grow very well. There is a limit to the amount of grazing the land can handle. The Teller County/CSU Cooperative Extension Office offers help with these issues and many others.
    Even though you may live in the country, all structures including agricultural buildings such as barns and sheds are required to have building permits. For more information contact the Teller County Building Department.

Natural Fun

    As Teller County grows, more pressure is placed on the countryside. Officials are working closely with state and federal agencies to identify and protect important open spaces and develop new trails and parks.
    Parks in rural areas do not provide the range of services/amenities found in urban parks. Access to utilities, particularly water, in remote locations may limit the types and extent of park development that may occur.

Teller County Government manages several public land areas in unincorporated parts of the county including the 1,320 acres of Catamount Ranch Open Space. For the most part, there is no fee for residents and visitors to use and enjoy these areas. However, permits are available and small fees may be required for the right of exclusive use of a park facility for athletic events, family reunions and other activities.
    Several miles of trails beckon hikers, bikers and horseback riders to enjoy the pleasures of the Teller County landscape. Most trails allowing legal or authorized access are well marked and clearly identify the types of use for that trail. Other trails, often called Asocial trails,@ have been created through casual use and over time may encourage illegal access or trespass on public or private land. Use of these types of trails is discouraged. For further information on parks, trails and open space, contact the Parks Division at 687-5242.
   Check with the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management for information regarding camping.

VISIT THESE TELLER COUNTY ATTRACTIONS:

                                        Mueller State Park is located in central Teller County - 687-2366.

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument in western Teller County is a must see spot- 748-3253.

Pike National Forest offers several campgrounds and hiking/biking trails in Teller County - 636-1602.

Rocky Mountain High - Mountain Health, Bright Sun, Thin Air

    Since we are dealing with realities, let's talk about health. Clean air, sunny days, and wide open space for exercise seems to be a wonderful alternative for the cramped, busy city life you have been leading. But you will need to allow your body time to adjust to the elevations which exist in Teller County.
    At first, exercise in moderation, increasing the amount gradually. Consume more water and avoid salty foods. Use extreme caution when consuming alcohol since high elevations increase the side effects.
    Altitude sickness usually begins within 24 hours of arrival and disappears in two to three days as your body adapts.
    With 300+ days of sunshine annually, ultraviolet rays are more prevalent here than just about anywhere except the equator. At high elevations the sun's rays are more powerful and precautions need to be taken against sunburn, even in winter when rays bounce off snow and are much more intense. Sunglasses and sun screen are necessities. Teller County Public Health has information on these and other health issues.

Cooking/Gardening

    Cooking in Teller County can also be a challenge. Adjustments to recipes are required if you want something resembling mom's best chocolate cake. (Many natives just add one extra egg and 2 tablespoons of flour to everything!) The Teller County/Colorado State University Extension Service provides information on adjustments for high elevation cooking.
    If you want to grow your own food, well, you might be in for a surprise. While there is a lot of sunshine here, there are fewer frost-free days and low humidity compared to lower elevations. Combined with granite soil, the cool nights make for difficult, though not impossible growing conditions.

The cost, supply and legal access to outside water also may determine whether you till up the "back 40" or plant a bluegrass lawn. The easiest way to keep a nice yard here is to use plants that are suited to dry, gravelly conditions. (Please note: Dandelions do quite well and require very little water!) The Teller County Master Gardeners offer tips on growing at high elevations. Contact them at the  Chamber of Commerce at (719) 687-9885. The Natural Resource Conservation Service at (719) 469-2691 and Colorado State Forest Service have suggestions for which plants grow best here.
    Even forested property needs some care. Infestations of mistletoe and pine beetle often affect trees in the Teller County area. It is your responsibility to remove infested trees and dispose of them properly. Check with the Colorado State Forest Service for information about tree diseases.

    In January of 1999, to kickoff the Centennial Year, the Teller County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution naming the official County Tree, Flower, Animal and Bird.
    Students from the four elementary schools in the County participated in research to determine which would be valid choices for this are. We thank them for their participation.

Columbine Elementary - the Stellar's Jay
Cresson Elementary in Cripple Creek - the Indian Paint Brush
Gateway Elementary - the Aspen Tree
Summit Elementary in Divide - the Cougar

                             LIBRARIES - Check out some of the many books about Teller County to learn more about the area.

                                Rampart Regional Library Dist.
                                Woodland Park - 687-9281
                                Florissant - 748-3939
                                Southern Teller Co. Library Dist.
                                Cripple Creek - 689-2800
                                                                                  Victor - 689-2011

    Teller County has many opportunities for you to become involved in your community. For years, the only reason small communities in rural areas survived was because citizens knew that when the chips were down they could count on their neighbors. This tradition continues into the new Millennium so don't hesitate to join in.

    One great source of information concerning non-profits is the Community Resources Directory published by Community Partnership of Teller County (686-0705). Please consult the local "Gold Book"  telephone directory published by Desert Bloom Publications for listings which have been inadvertently left out of this booklet. You may also want to contact the cities, your neighbors, the schools, and local churches for additional opportunities.

ADULT EDUCATION SERVICES - 687-0705

AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY - 687-9984

ANIMAL SHELTER - Divide - 687-0660

BUILD A GENERATION - Woodland Park - 687-9246

BUILD A GENERATION - Cripple Creek - 689-3316

COMMUNITY CUPBOARD - 687-3663

CRIPPLE CREEK PARK & RECREATION - 689-3514

FLORISSANT HERITAGE FOUNDATION - 748-8259

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY - 687-1193

PIKES PEAK ROTARY CLUB - 686-9444

PROSPECT HOME CARE HOSPICE - 687-0549

SENIOR COALITION - Woodland Park - 687-3330

TELLER COUNTY PARKS - 687-5242

TELLER COUNTY POLICE ACTIVITIES LEAGUE - 687-7774

TELLER COUNTY YOUTH ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (YAA) - 686-8966

TELLER COUNTY SEARCH & RESCUE - 687-2748

THE CLOTHS CLOSET - 687-2028

UTE PASS HISTORICAL SOCIETY - 687-1126

UTE PASS KIWANIS CLUB - 687-0308

UTE PASS LIONESS CLUB - 687-3306

UTE PASS LIONS CLUB - 687-9453

UTE PASS SOCIAL CLUB - 687-1674

UTE PASS SYMPHONY GUILD - 687-3288

WOODLAND PARK COMMUNITY BAND - 687-2210

WOODLAND PLAYERS THEATER GROUP - 687-2964

IN CONCLUSION . . .

. . . we hope you have been informed and inspired by our offering of Rural Realities, A Guide to Life in Teller County.

  The Tabeguache Ute Nation* asks that we care for and respect this place as their ancestors did. They traveled, hunted, fished, fought and died here. Their spirits still reside here. If we listen we can learn from them. This land is in our hands, for now.

   *   *The Tabeguache Ute Indians live at Fort Duchesne, Utah, having been "removed" from Colorado in 1881 to make room for the white settlers who wanted their land.

   Now we encourage you to discover what really makes this a fabulous place to live. Visit the parks, libraries, museums, and join in community events.

Explore . . .
Listen to the spirits . . .
And as the Navajo say "May you walk in Beauty . . ."