Chaffee County in Mountain — urban density and zoning complexity lower the buildability score, but opportunities exist in outlying areas.
📊48/100AcreScore
💰$18KLand $/acre
🏠$475KHome Value
👥20,356Population
📈+11.5%Growth (10yr)
🌊2.5%Flood RiskLow
🌡️Cold DryClimateZone 6B
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Chaffee County has local zoning regulations. Check with the county building department for specific rules on your parcel. Barndominiums may require conditional use permits in some zones.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Residential
Varies
⚠️ Conditional
Agricultural
None
✅ Yes
Commercial
Varies
❌ No
Chaffee County has local zoning. Contact the county building department for specific regulations.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Colorado requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Chaffee County Building Department
Salida, CO
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Very low flood risk. Only 2.5% of Chaffee County land falls within FEMA-designated flood zones — well below the national average.
2.5%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Good
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Moderate land prices at approximately $18,000 per acre. Chaffee County balances affordability with access to amenities.
$18K
Median $/acre
$475K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
0.45%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Chaffee County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Chaffee County sits in the heart of Mountain. Colorado Springs is 95 min away. Colorado has a state income tax — factor that into your cost-of-living calculations.
📈
Fast Growing
11.5% growth over 10 years — people are moving here and property values reflect it.
🏠
Established Community
Zoning provides predictability — you know what your neighbors can and can't build. Good for long-term property value.
At a Glance
Population20,356
10-Year Growth+11.5%
County SeatSalida
State Income TaxYes
ClimateCold Dry (Zone 6B)
How Close Is Everything?
Colorado Springs100 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Chaffee County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Salida. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
Chaffee County qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans — zero-down-payment financing for eligible buyers in most areas.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Chaffee County?
Check with the Chaffee County Building Department for specific zoning rules on your parcel. Some zones allow barndominiums outright, others may require conditional use permits.
How much does land cost in Chaffee County?
Median price is approximately $18,000 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements. USDA Rural Development loans may be available for eligible buyers.
Is Chaffee County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Yes — most of Chaffee County qualifies for USDA Rural Development programs, including zero-down-payment home loans for eligible buyers.
What is the property tax rate in Chaffee County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 0.45%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Chaffee County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Colorado, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.