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1. How do CRPD’s staffing levels compare to police departments in neighboring communities?

One way to attempt an apples-to-apples comparison of police departments’ staffing is a ratio of the number of police officers to 1,000 residents. Castle Rock is at the low end of the scale locally using that metric, with 1.05 officers per 1,000 residents. By comparison, Parker has 1.31 and Lone Tree 3.47. 

Looking a bit further away, to other communities of 50,000 to 100,000 residents, Broomfield has 2.01 officers per 1,000 residents, Longmont has 1.64, and Loveland has 1.51.

2. Is a new fire station planned in Castle Rock?

Castle Rock Fire and Rescue Department’s 2021 Master Plan (PDF) foresees a need for a sixth fire station, to serve northeast Castle Rock, within the next five years. Additional stations may also eventually be needed to serve west central Castle Rock and possibly also southwest Castle Rock. New stations benefit the entire community because they help alleviate call volumes at existing stations. It costs about $2 million annually to staff a fire engine, which a new station would house.

3. How much would the new housing construction tax add to the cost of the average home in Castle Rock?

The average new home built in Castle Rock is about 2,200 square feet. At $7 per square foot, the new housing construction tax would add $15,400 to the cost of that average home. It's important to note that market factors determine the price for which homes sell, and not the actual cost of construction, which includes land costs, construction materials, labor, permits, taxes, fees and other expenses.

4. How do recent home sales prices in Castle Rock compare to that of other Front Range communities?

Recent single-family home sales prices in Castle Rock are on the lower end of the spectrum when examining data for other communities in Douglas County and other similarly sized communities along the Front Range. Median August 2021 sales prices, according to REColorado:

Broomfield:             $635,000

Castle Pines:           $830,000

Castle Rock:            $610,000

Commerce City:      $500,000

Highlands Ranch:   $655,000

Larkspur:                 $894,000

Lone Tree:            $1,095,000

Parker:                     $657,000

Sedalia:                    $685,000

Source data: https://www.dmarealtors.com/news/market-trends/city-and-county-market-trends-reports-sep-21

5. CRPD has requested 34 more staff and CRFD 41, for 75 positions total. The new housing tax is estimated to generate $13.9 million annually. Does that mean these employees would each be paid $185,000?

The funding being requested would cover not only the 75 positions but also various equipment, training and operational needs for CRPD and CRFD.

In 2021, the average CRPD Officer’s salary is $82,238. The Town also pays an average of $29,381 per officer in payroll taxes and benefits – including retirement and healthcare. Additionally, an average of $10,707 is budgeted per officer to cover training, uniform and vehicle costs, for an average annual budget need of $122,326 per officer hired.

For CRFD firefighting/prevention/EMS staff, the average salary is $82,103. Benefits average $28,813, and $17,000 is included for training, uniforms and overtime, for a total cost of $127,916 per firefighting/prevention/EMS position.

6. Doesn’t growth – new homes and new commercial developments, like the Promenade – generate enough sales tax to pay for the firefighters and police officers the Town needs?

Growth helps pay for growth, but it doesn’t generate sufficient sales tax revenue to fund the Town’s fire and police needs. Looking back a decade, in 2011, the Town collected $19.5 million in sales tax revenue into its General Fund, where fire and police expenses are budgeted. 2017 was the first full year major stores in the Promenade were open. That year, the Town collected $30.7 million in sales tax into its General Fund, so that development substantially increased the Town’s capacity to fund general service needs. But, the revenue trajectory has declined, with $37.6 million in sales tax revenue collected into the General Fund in 2020.

To fund fire and police needs over the next five years and beyond, the Town needs $76-$80 million in revenue annually into the General Fund. Sales tax currently accounts for 65% of the fund’s revenue, so $49-$52 million in sales tax would be needed. Budget projections include 8% growth in 2021, 4.5% in 2022 and 3% in each year from 2023-2026. That would mean sales tax revenues of $42-$46 million – less than the $49-$52 million needed. The new housing construction tax would be used by the Town to meet fire police needs, as well as other general service needs, over the next five years and beyond.

7. Why is the Town requesting a 10-year “TABOR timeout?”

The Town is anticipating receiving grants and other financial contributions to construct the I-25/Crystal Valley Parkway interchange.

If the Town obtains $40 million in intergovernmental and developer contributions toward the interchange, its total TABOR revenues for 2023 could be about $120 million, or roughly $30 million over its projected TABOR revenue limit for the year. In the absence of a TABOR timeout, that means the Town would have to stop the interchange and return the contributions or cut expenses elsewhere – like in fire, police, parks and rec, or roads – by $30 million so it could issue TABOR refunds.

Further, strong sales tax revenue thus far in 2021 has created the possibility that the Town will exceed its TABOR revenue cap for this year. Granting the TABOR timeout would allow the Town to use all funds collected in 2021 – and in any year through 2030 where financial performance is strong – to meet needs while still preserving other aspects of TABOR that require voters' approval for tax increases or multiyear financial obligations.

8. What would the effective date be for the ballot measures if they are passed?

The new housing construction tax would take effect Jan. 1, 2022, and would be applicable to any building permits pulled after that time. The lodging tax would also take effect Jan. 1, 2022, while the sales tax increase would take effect April 1, 2022, to allow adequate time to educate retailers. The TABOR timeout would apply to all of 2021 and would last 10 years, through the end of 2030.

9. Has the Town worked to cut its costs prior to requesting additional revenues?

As the Town budget is developed each year, Town staff evaluates more than 6,000 line items to identify areas of potential savings and adjusts the budget accordingly. This includes evaluation of the Town’s fleet of nearly 450 vehicles, trailers and other equipment to determine optimal replacement schedules for the best cost benefit. Additionally, Town leadership has consistently said “no” to potential service expansions, choosing to focus on core services like fire and police. For instance, the Town has not pursued adding an arts center, public internet service, a public transit system or a number of other services offered by other area municipalities, keeping its focus on community-supported priorities.

10. My home’s value has increased, and I’m expecting a big increase to my property tax bill. Won’t the Town get some of that money to help meet its needs?

Colorado voters in 2020 repealed the Gallagher Amendment, which set residential and nonresidential property tax assessment rates in the State Constitution. Now, the State’s General Assembly sets the rates.

The residential assessment percentage for 2021 is 7.15%. At that rate, the owner of a median-valued home in Castle Rock ($449,947.50) pays $38.48 in Town property tax.

The General Assembly has temporarily lowered the assessment percentage for 2022 and 2023 to 6.8%. 2022 is not a reassessment year, so if the Town’s mill levy rate remains at its current 1.196, the owner of a home valued at $449,947.50 would instead pay the Town $36.59 in property tax next year. The Town’s mill levy rate could decline, however, due to this year’s reassessment and a provision in the Town Charter that restricts annual growth in the Town’s property tax revenue to 5.5%. In that instance, the homeowner in the example would pay the Town even less than $36.59 in property tax in 2022. The Town expects in 2021 to bring in only $1.4 million in property tax revenue.

11. How does the Town’s sales tax compare to that of neighboring communities?

Currently, the total sales tax rate in Castle Rock is 7.9%, with 4% of that going to the Town. Here’s how that compares to other municipalities within Douglas County:

Castle Pines:       6.75% total, 2.75% of which is local

Larkspur:             7.9% total, 4% of which is local

Lone Tree:           7.8125% total, 2.8125% of which is local*

Parker:                 8% total, 3% of which is local

Posted Sept. 2, 2021; updated July 1, 2022

12. I understand the Town receives a nominal portion of my property tax, but I think I pay enough overall. If the Town needs more revenue, can’t it negotiate with other local tax recipients for some?

It’s true that the Douglas County Schools, Douglas County and the Douglas County Libraries all receive more property tax revenue from Castle Rock homeowners than the Town. And, in many areas, a neighborhood-level metropolitan district receives the most significant portion of the property tax Castle Rock homeowners pay.

Each of these entities, like the Town, provides an array of local services and is wholly independent, with a governing board whose interest is meeting the entity's own funding obligations. The Town cannot compel these groups to contribute funds toward the Town's needs, nor force them to negotiate. Given these dynamics, it’s not feasible to simply reallocate the property tax homeowners pay to these other entities to meet the Town’s needs.

13. Don't the police and fire departments benefit from the impact fees the Town charges on every new house built?

The Town charges impact fees – as well as water-related system development fees – for every new home built. View current impact and system development fees. Of these fees, $1,052 goes to the Fire Capital Fund, and $526 goes to the Police Capital Fund. These one-time payments can be used for one-time purposes, like toward building a new fire station. Impact fees cannot be used to fund ongoing operational costs, like paying a firefighter or police officer’s annual salary. It's because of this that impact fees are not a revenue source able to meet the growing staffing needs of the Fire and Police departments. A video helps further explain this information.

14. Would a sales tax increase disadvantage Castle Rock businesses by driving people to instead make online purchases?

This would have been more of a concern in the past, before a 2018 U.S. Supreme Court decision ruled that states can charge sales tax on purchases from out-of-state retailers. Since that ruling, most online retailers – including major ones, like Amazon – have been collecting and remitting sales tax to the Town when purchases are shipped to Castle Rock addresses.

15. Does the Town spend all the revenue it brings in each year? If not, why can’t prior years’ savings be used to fund the needed fire and police positions?

The Town manages its finances conservatively and generally spends millions less each year than it brings in – this held true even during the Great Recession. Fire and police positions are in the General Fund, which had a 2020 year-end balance of $21.1 million – about $9 million of which wasn’t committed to a specific purpose. It’s not prudent for the Town to use those funds to hire additional fire and police personnel, however, because they can’t necessarily get replenished each year. CRFD and CRPD’s needs will add about $5 million in expenses in 2022 and another $4 million in 2023. (Additional costs in outgoing years are $3 million in 2024, $8 million in 2025 and $4 million in 2026.) One can see that simply using savings would not allow the Town to meet these needs, not to mention it would exhaust the Town’s savings, which is intended for use during difficult financial times or for funding extraordinary opportunities.

16. I heard the Town can’t ask for a 10-year TABOR timeout – that five years is the maximum timeout allowed. Is that true?

That’s not true. In fact, in two separate rulings, the Colorado Supreme Court – both in City of Aurora v. Acosta (1995) and in Havens v. Board of County Commissioners of the County of Archuleta (1996) – affirmed that voters can allow their local governments to keep revenues in excess of TABOR limits using parameters as broad or as narrow as they may choose.

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1. I occasionally hear aircraft noise in my neighborhood, does the Town noise ordinance apply to this noise?

Federal laws govern the flight patterns and noise levels of aircraft. The Town’s noise ordinance does not apply and does not have any authority over aircraft noise, as only federal law applies to this issue. Whether the aircraft is associated with Centennial Airport in Arapahoe County or Denver International Airport, only federal laws apply to aircraft noise.

Published April 19, 2022

2. What can be done to reduce the noise from aircraft flying over Castle Rock?

The Centennial Airport Community Noise Roundtable was created in 2009 with the intent to reduce and mitigate noise impacts from users of Centennial Airport. This group includes representatives from the Colorado Department of Transportation, the Federal Aviation Administration and local municipalities, including Castle Rock. This group provides a means to ensure cooperation between the airport and local communities in achieving noise reductions wherever possible (such as suggesting different flight patterns for consideration by airport authorities). Additional information is available on the Centennial Airport Community Noise Roundtable website.

Published April 19, 2022

3. How do I submit an aircraft noise complaint?

Aircraft noise complaints should be directed to the proper airport authority. The Town of Castle Rock is not able to take action on noise related to aircraft and directs citizens with concerns to the information below:

Noise complaints for the Centennial Airport can be directed to the Centennial Airport Authority. Complaints can be filed via the noise complaint hotline at 303-790-4709 or via the Centennial Airport website.

Noise complaints for Denver International Airport can be directed to the noise complaint hotline at 303-342-2360. More information can also be found on the Denver International Airport website.

Published April 19, 2022

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1. Who is involved in the annexation process?

Annexations require a coordination with a wide range of participants that include: the property owner, Town staff, County representatives, affected Homewner Association (HOA) representatives, interested citizens, many state review agencies to include the Colorado Department of Transportation. All annexations require public hearings for all to participate in front of the Planning Commission and the Town Council prior to any official approval/denial.

2. How can I voice my opinion on an annexation?

Public hearings and neighborhood meetings are the best place to voice your opinion. However, use of the Town's website and writing letters to staff, the Planning Commission and Town Council are also good ways to voice your opinion.

3. What is the impact to the Town’s road infrastructure?

Annexations increase traffic in and around Town borders. Prior to any annexation, a transportation study identifies the necessary road improvements to handle the increase in traffic. The annexation and zoning processes also include a Development Agreement, and that agreement decides how the development team of annexed property will pay for the necessary road improvements.

4. If we stop annexations, do we stop growth in Castle Rock?

No. We currently have approximately 29,000 homes and apartments built in Castle Rock, and approvals for more than 55,000 entitled residential units that can be built in Castle Rock. Residential and associated commercial and industrial growth is likely to occur with or without annexation.

Updated Jan 20, 2023

5. What is the impact to the Town’s water supply?

Castle Rock Water has a long-term water plan in place that accounts for existing and future Council-approved developments. Properties that annex into the Town must also 1) convey all existing ground water rights under the property or at Council discretion pay cash in-lieu if they do not have enough ground water rights to support proposed development and 2) provide adequate renewable water resources for proposed development of the property to the Town to ensure the appropriate amount of water is available.

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1. Can I cancel a swim class that has not started yet?

Yes, you can. Classes canceled three days in advance will be given a household voucher or refund for the full amount of the class. A $5 cancellation fee will be applied to classes canceled within three days of the start date.

2. Can I cancel a swim class once the session has started?

Yes, you can. However, you will still be charged for the session - even if you did not attend the classes. Special circumstances will be handled through the Aquatics Division on a case-by-case basis.

To cancel a class, call the Front Desk, 303-660-1036, email the Aquatics Division or call them at 720-733-2283.

3. What lap lanes are open now?

Lap lane schedules are available to print by visiting our expanded schedules page. This page allows you to filter and print schedules based on your interest.  The lap lane schedule is also available on our app which is available in the Google Play and/or App Store for ios by searching “RockRec”. If you would like to view the full schedule for a particular pool, you can click the link to the pool you are looking for on the left-hand side of the screen.

4. What are the pool hours? What time does the pool open?

Pool hours vary by hour and scheduled activities/programs. You can view the schedule for the specific pool you are looking for by visiting our expanded schedules page. If you would like to view the full schedule for a particular pool, you can click the link to the pool you are looking for on the left-hand side of the screen

5. Do I have to pay if I'm just watching kids swim?

All visitors, including parents and guardians, are required to pay a daily admission for each visit.

6. What is the deepest part of the leisure pool?

1. MAC: 4 feet 2 inches
2. REC: 5 feet

7. When is the splash pad open?

Splash pads operate seasonally. They are generally open between Memorial Day to Labor Day from 10 a.m. -  6 p.m. 

8. What are the ages of children to be left alone at the MAC, REC and outdoor pools?

Children ages 11 and under must be accompanied by a guardian at least 15 years of age or older, at all times, to utilize the facilities.

9. How do I view schedules for the lap, leisure and outdoor pools?

Schedules are available to print by visiting our expanded schedules page. 

To filter to a specific calendar, click "Deselect All" in the Legend Key. Then, click on the category, or categories, you are interested in viewing. Keep in mind, some schedules may not be listed as a category. View those individual expanded schedules on the left-hand navigation of this page such as Burgess Memorial Pool, Butterfield Crossing Pool, MAC Pool Schedule, REC Lap Pool Schedule and REC Leisure Pool Schedule.  

Class schedules are also available on our app which is free to download in the Google Play and Apple App Store or iOS by searching “RockRec”.

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1. How are teams formed?

1. Academic / scholastic grade (at the time of registration)
2. Team balance / skill level - beginning at third or fourth grade (depending on the sport), we hold
skill evaluations to ensure teams are equal and competition is fair
3. School / neighborhood - Why is this important?
A. To bring together communities and familiarize families that attend the same school
B. To provide participants with an opportunity to know more schoolmates

2. Can my child play up?

Play-ups are not allowed for pre-K through second grade. Why?

A. Children rarely display exceptional fundamentals, listening skills or patience before that time, which is not fair for the kids with whom they are trying to play up. It also poses safety issues.

B. Focus should be on fun, sportsmanship, teamwork and basic fundamentals.
• Occasionally, play-ups are permitted (third grade and above), but only if / when a player displays
exceptional skills or physical development. Then, they can compete at the upper-tier level in the age group ABOVE their present level / grade.

Why?
1. Our goal is to build self-esteem and leadership qualities in all players.
2. If a safety issue is present due to physical development.

3. Do I get a discount when I register my child if I volunteer to coach?

• No, all coaches are volunteer. Why?
A. We encourage coaches to come forward because they are vested in the program and committed to helping the youth.
B. As a recreational provider, we strive to keep the cost to a minimum to ensure cost is not the reason a child cannot come out to play.

4. How do I volunteer to coach?

• Contact the coordinator of your program to be placed on the coaches list.
• Attend the coaches meeting.
• Attend the coaches training.
• Pass a background check.

5. What are skill evaluations?

• As recreation providers (compared to competitive), we want to ensure families that teams are equitably balanced.
• At third- or fourth-grade (depending on the sport), we conduct sport-specific skill evaluations to assess each player’s skill level.
• Third and fourth grades are when players begin displaying sound fundamentals and separation of playing talent is observable.
• Our goal is not to break up teams that have been playing together, our priority is to “level the playing field” to create balance in all programs.
• Balanced teams are able to play together until sixth grade.
• Exception: Hockey - evaluations are conducted every season due to the wide range of grade levels playing together.

6. What equipment is provided?

• Each league provides the basic equipment and league shirts.
• All shirts are pre-ordered in bulk to save on cost.
• For specific equipment questions, contact your league coordinator and attend parent meetings.

7. What is the waitlist?

• It is a list of participants who are waiting for a spot in a particular program.
• Payment is required at the time of registration. It is totally refundable to those unable to get into a program.
• We cannot guarantee a spot in a neighborhood / school division or program but make every effort to not turn away a child who wants to participate.

8. What is the athletic refund policy?

To create a fair and consistent standard by which the Town of Castle Rock Athletic Department will issue refunds, we have provided the following structure:
a. Any parent requesting a refund may receive a full refund in the form of an e-gift card or a monetary refund in the form of a check or credit card credit, minus a $5 processing fee for the following circumstances:
i. Request refund before rosters are released to coaches
ii. Request refund after rosters are released, and a child on the wait-list is able to replace their position on the team they are leaving
b. Any parent requesting a refund for the following circumstances may receive a partial refund in the form of an e-gift card or monetary refund in the form of check or credit card credit. The amount indicated below would be the cost of the program minus the designated administrative fee:
i. Requesting a refund after rosters were released and there is not a child on the wait-list to replace their position on the team they are leaving would be subject to a $20 administrative fee.
ii. Requesting a refund after games start would be subject to a $30 administrative fee
c. Any parent requesting a refund due to an injury that prevents a child from playing would be allowed the following options:
i. E-gift card for 100 percent of the cost of the program for an injury occurring during the first half of season
ii. E-gift card for 50 percent of the cost of the program for an injury occurring in the second half of the season.
d. No refunds will be issued once a season reaches the halfway mark unless the participant suffers from an injury that would prevent them from participating.
e. This policy doesn’t encompass facility rentals, adult leagues or leagues that are contracted through the Town of Castle Rock.

9. Why do I need to attend the parent meetings?

• We believe in order to keep our small-town feel, it is important for you to know who we are and what we are about.
• We enjoy being able to put a face with a name and believe you do, too.
• To receive all the season information: dates, times, locations, rules, etc.
• Ability to make a request for a certain teammate or coach.
• Ability for families to meet other families in the program.
• Enables the coordinator to answer a majority of parent questions so we can focus on developing teams and practice / game schedules in a timely manner.
• To understand our program philosophy.
• To learn about volunteer opportunities.

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1. The eTRAKiT Development Portal is not working. What should I do?

Try the following troubleshooting tips:

1. Log out and log back in.
2. Make sure you are not connected to a VPN.
3. Connect to Wi-Fi to ensure consistent connectivity.
4. Confirm that the address you are entering is within Town jurisdiction.
5. Leave off any attachments until you have received a permit number. Then, return to the permit and attach the documents.
6. There may be a high volume of users trying to access the portal. Please wait and try again.

2. Do I need a building permit for my home project?

Many projects require a permit, while some don't. If you need help determining if you need a permit, email the Building Counter with a general description of your plans. A staff member will let you know what permits you'll need (if any) and how to get started with your application.

3. How do I find the status of my building permit application?

You can check the status of your permit in the eTRAKiT Development Portal, even if you were not the party who submitted the application. Simply create a public login, and search permits by your address.

4. How do I pay for my building permit?

Your building permit must first be approved before you can make a payment. Payments can be made through the eTRAKIT Development Portal, in person, or by mail (checks only).

There is a 2.5 to 3.5% convenience fee associated with credit card payments. E-checks are $0.19/check and in-person checks are free of charge.

We cannot take payments over the phone.

5. I forgot my log-in information for eTRAKiT. What do I do?

Email the Building Counter requesting an account reset. Please include your username and email. It can take up to 48 hours for your account to be reset. You'll receive an auto-generated email containing a link to log in and reset your password. Keep in mind that the link will expire after 15 minutes of receipt.

6. How do I schedule or cancel a building inspection?

Visit our Building Inspection page and learn how to schedule, reschedule and cancel a building inspection. You'll also find helpful information on processing times, holiday schedules and how to confirm what time your inspector will arrive.

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1. What is 5G?

5G is used to describe the fifth generation of wireless communications technologies supporting cellular data networks.

2. What is the Town’s responsibility in regard to cell towers, small cell and 5G?

Local governments have very limited authority to regulate with respect to radio frequency emissions. There is a federal statute that prevents states and localities from regulating wireless facilities on the basis of the health or environmental effects of radiofrequency (RF) emissions. The preemption is found in the 1996 Telecommunications Act, 47 U.S.C. § 332(c)(7)(B)(iv). The statute and the case law interpreting it give sole authority for regulating in this area to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Local governments can do little more than require wireless companies to certify that they will comply with the federal regulations for RF emissions.  

Local government organizations of which the Town is a part have advocated for the FCC to ensure these standards are up to date, and that they specifically address 5G technology. To date, the FCC has not come out with any regulations specific to 5G. The Town can continue to advocate, but not regulate, with respect to these issues.

3. Who should citizens contact regarding any safety concerns they might have for 5G?

To the extent that you would like to see greater local and/or state control over radio frequency emissions, we recommend you contact your Congressional representatives and advocate for a change in the law.

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1. What is CodeRED and why is Douglas County using it?

CodeRED is an emergency notification system that allows emergency response personnel to notify residents and business owners during an emergency. 

2. CodeRED Frequently Asked Questions

CodeRED Frequently Asked Questions

3. How do I sign up?

Sign up for CodeRED and enter the required information (address, name, phone number (s), and email).

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1. How do I report a concern or an issue to the Town?

You may submit your concern using our Report a Concern portal or use the Contact Us button on this website.

2. How do I obtain additional information about Town events / issues?

If you need more information about Town events or issues, email Communications or call the Division at 303-660-1365.

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1. What is a Comprehensive Master Plan?

Our community is thriving. As more residents and business owners discover Castle Rock as a desirable place to raise a family or grow a business, it's important to have a guiding plan. A plan helps ensure the Castle Rock we know today, remains the Town we still love in the future. A Comprehensive Master Plan defines the Town's broad and long-term direction. Then, it defines specific goals and objectives to help guide the Town's decisions around growth and development.

2. What’s included in the plan?

Castle Rock's plan is built upon Four Cornerstones: Town Identity, Responsible Growth and Development, High-Quality Community Services and A Healthy and Growing Economy. In a very broad sense, these are the things that are important to our community, based on resident and business owner feedback.

3. How does the plan guide development decisions and control growth?

Growth is market-driven. We can't control when there will be market interest to create new businesses and housing developments in our community. What we can influence is how that growth happens when the market is ripe. Every residential and commercial development must be approved through the Town's planning process. As expert Town planners and engineers work with interested developers, they compare proposed plans with the Town's Comprehensive Master Plan. Visit the Development Steps webpage to learn more about the process.

Updated Dec. 7, 2021

Watch our video to learn more about the process.

4. What other ways does the plan guide the Town?

The 80-page plan details goals and objectives for every area of Town, including public safety, roads, water, parks, trails, recreation, open space, Downtown development and more. This helps guide budget planning and capital improvement projects.

5. How often is plan updated?

The Comprehensive Master Plan is intended to be a relevant and timely guiding document for our community. To achieve that goal, the plan will be updated as our community evolves and our population changes. The next update is expected after the 2020 Census.

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1. What are the plans for water usage and transportation?

The Comprehensive Master Plan is meant to be a land use-focused document that accompanies the Town’s other guiding documents, such as the Transportation Master Plan and the water-related master plans. Those other documents specifically address water usage and transportation/roadways/traffic.

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1. Why doesn't the Town provide a second access point to/from Sapphire Pointe to the northwest via Mesa Drive?

The existing connection between the end of Sapphire Pointe Boulevard and Mesa Drive is meant for emergency access only. Converting that to a public roadway connection would add additional traffic on Mesa Drive, which the roadway was not designed to carry. Given that Mesa Drive is a two-lane rural roadway with residential driveways on it, this is not an ideal route for regional traffic to/from Interstate 25.

Updated Oct. 27, 2022

2. When will an alternate route/road be installed between Crowfoot Valley Road and I-25?

There is a planned roadway that would connect Crowfoot Valley Road to Hess Road through the Canyons Development in the City of Castle Pines. This development is located to the north and west of Crowfoot Valley Road. That roadway is slated to be constructed by the developer of that property but the timing of the full connection from Crowfoot Valley Road to Hess Road is currently unknown.

Updated Oct. 27, 2022

3. What are the plans for widening Crowfoot Valley Road? Why hasn't this been thought through for this area?

The widening has been part of the Town's Transportation Master Plan to support projected growth. Crowfoot Valley Road is planned to be widened to a four-lane cross-section from Founders Parkway to the Town limit just north of Sapphire Pointe Boulevard. This widening project is currently part of the Town's 5-year Capital Improvement Program plan and is slated to occur in 2024.

Updated Oct. 27, 2022

4. Any plans to improve safety for cyclists?

The widening of Crowfoot will include bike lines along the full length of the project. In addition to that, there is planned future regional trail connection running from southeast to northwest through the area that will cross Crowfoot Valley Road somewhere between Diamond Ridge and Sapphire Pointe.

Updated Mar. 15, 2023

5. Does the Transportation Master Plan projected volume of 37,000 vehicles per day fully account for all developments being built out on Crowfoot ?

The Town's Master Plan traffic forecasts use the Denver Regional Council of Governments regional forecasting model in the projection of traffic. This traffic forecasting model takes planned developments into account that have been provided to Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) by each local agency. Given that, the majority, if not all of the planned development along Crowfoot Valley Road has been taken into account in the Town's Master Plan. In addition to this, the Town was very conservative in the land use assumptions within the Town's limit in the Master Plan study and assumed full build-out of the Town by 2040. Based on both of these factors, the 37,000 vehicles per day is expected to be a good estimate for future traffic on Crowfoot Valley Road.

Updated Oct. 27, 2022

6. Will the speed limits change on Crowfoot to Founders?

Posted speed limits on a given roadway are set based on engineering studies and/or roadway design criteria. A speed study was done on Crowfoot Valley Road a few years ago. The speed limit within Town limits was reduced to 40 mph in the summer of 2021. The currently posted speeds on the roadway today are supported by the data collected during that speed study. As such, the speed limits will not change.

Updated Oct. 27, 2022

7. What will you do for sound and light mitigation on the corridor?

The Town’s design criteria will be used for the widening project. The lighting for the roadway will be based on what is needed for a four-lane arterial. The light fixtures are designed to minimize the unwanted scattering of light but instead, focus the light where it is needed on the roadway. There are no current plans identified to specifically address noise levels, as there are currently more project needs identified than there are projected funds to implement them. Due to the significant costs associated with sound mitigation, measures like these would further increase the gap between wants and needs versus projected funds to complete the project. As such, other projects would need to be delayed should sound mitigation measures be included.

Updated Mar. 15, 2023

8. Why is the turn light at the corner of Crowfoot and Founder not yellow flashing during lower volume times as you proceed from Founders on to Crowfoot?

The Colorado Department of Transportation is responsible for the timing of the traffic signals on Founders Parkway. The red arrow was put in several years ago due to a higher-than-expected number of T-bone type collisions. In addition, it is not uncommon for a double left turn movement to have red arrows for the left turn during all times of the day. Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)  is currently running the signal so it is more responsive (i.e., shorter wait times) during lower volume times. The Town's Traffic Engineering staff will continue to closely coordinate with CDOT on the operation of the signals along the corridor.

Updated Oct. 27, 2022

9. Is there enough right of way for a major roundabout (especially with the gas line along Crowfoot)?

Feedback received from prior public outreach indicated roundabouts were not wanted. A signal will be added to the intersection of Sapphire Pointe and Crowfoot Valley Road.

Updated Mar. 15, 2023

10. Why not have the developer fund the cost of a traffic signal at Sapphire Pointe now instead of waiting to fund and construct when the traffic volumes are higher?

The need for a traffic signal is based on an engineering evaluation that includes traffic volume thresholds outlined in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Installing a traffic signal before an engineering recommendation can have unintended consequences including increased crashes or increased vehicle delays. And, as part of the Crowfoot widening project design, a signal is planned to be added to the intersection of Sapphire Pointe and Crowfoot Valley Road.

Updated Mar. 15, 2023

11. Why doesn't the Town have the developers pay for the road widening since the projected increases in traffic are due to their new construction?

Developments within the Town do pay impact fees per residential unit or commercial square foot constructed. These fees are collected at the time of building permit and are used for the construction of roadway widening projects. Developments outside of the Town do not contribute funds to the Town but typically have development agreements with the agency where they are located (i.e., Douglas County).

Updated Oct. 27, 2022

12. If there are budget issues around ensuring quality of life for the neighborhoods negatively impacted by this expansion, why doesn't Douglas County and/or Castle Rock issue a bond to fund the work?

The Town and Douglas County have partnered on this project with budgeting for design and construction for these improvements to expand Crowfoot to four lanes. The current funding available for the project is about $4.2 million. Prior to construction, a budget amendment would be requested for any costs that may exceed these current funds. A timeframe for construction on this stretch of road is expected to be begin by Spring 2024.

Updated Mar. 15, 2023

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1. What are water budgets?

You are charged for actual water usage on a monthly basis. However, a water budget is the maximum amount of water that your particular household is allowed to use. The budget is shown in tiers identifying indoor usage, outdoor (irrigable) usage, excess over budget and surcharge over 40,000 gallons. These tiers are established by your household's actual usage and are independent of your neighbors. If you use more than your water budget, additional rates apply. A water budget has been shown to be an effective water conservation tool.

2. Why does Castle Rock have watering schedules?

Assigning different days to irrigate your yard helps manage peak water demand and pressure concerns and produces less strain on the infrastructure. Limiting the time of day to water makes irrigating more efficient and decreases evaporation. Water schedules have been shown to be an effective peak demand and water conservation tool. Residents who water outside of the water schedule could be issued a watering violation.

3. Does Castle Rock have a water supply problem?

Castle Rock does not have a water supply problem and actually is implementing very strategic plans to ensure a long-term sustainable water future. Potential talk about our water supply and conservation measures are due to keeping our customers informed. The Town feels an informed community is an engaged one. New sources of supply, infrastructure projects and conservation measures occur in all Colorado communities-and Castle Rock Water wants you to know what our plans are. Frequently, we also ask for resident input on these plans. Sign up to join the discussion.

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4. What can I do if there is excessive water running through my yard?

Especially with new development, drainage of water may be seen flowing through the yard and into the storm drain. Your home was graded with swales, directing water away from the foundation and channeled toward the sidewalk and ultimately to the storm drain. If there are excessive amounts of water or this water causes algae or ice buildup, it is necessary to look at measures to reduce it. Overwatering from you or your neighbor accounts for the primary reason for excessive water. Landscaping that has not yet matured and misaligned downspouts also cause drainage issues. Find more ways to reduce excessive water.

reduce excessive water

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1. How is the Town communicating its designated truck routes to businesses?

Public Works staff will coordinate with the Communications Department to provide an update to businesses and the community about the routes. Town Staff will install signage to guide drivers to the appropriate routes and give notice to the public. Staff are following a communication plan that includes emails to stakeholders, including: Chamber, Economic Development Council, the Colorado Motor Carriers Association, and specific businesses that have regular truck traffic. There will also be social media posts, a news release, and letters mailed to specific businesses by Town staff.

2. What is the Town doing to make sure that businesses are following the routes?

Businesses will be made aware of the truck routes and program through a robust communication plan. The Castle Rock Police Department will focus its efforts on the enforcement and education of motorists on the law. If truck drivers are traveling off route, they would need to provide Castle Rock Police Department (CRPD) evidence of business in the area to justify their presence. If needed, CRPD could dedicate members of their team for directed enforcement which can speed the educational process. Communication will continue between Public Works and the Police Department as the program matures.

3. What is the expected traffic increase for roads along the truck route?

Traffic counts were taken in April 2022. The counts show that of the total average daily traffic (ADT) on corridors, trucks were less than 5% of overall traffic on state highways, and between 1% and 3% on the Town's major arterials. This is a below-typical percentage of trucks (usually between three to 6%) on these types of roadways. Since the overall total number of trucks routing through Town will not be influenced by the implementation of a designated truck route program, truck volumes are not anticipated to change on Wolfensberger Road, Lake Gulch Road, Highway 86 east of Founders Parkway/Ridge Road or Highway 86 north of Meadows Parkway. With the implementation of truck restrictions on Gilbert Street and Wilcox Street, there will be a very small increase in the number of trucks along Founders Parkway, Plum Creek Parkway and Ridge Road. However, the increase of trucks along these roads is anticipated to be less than 100 trucks per day. In addition, the implementation of the truck route would result in a reduction of trucks on Gilbert Street and through Downtown by 130 or fewer trucks per day.

The table below shows the existing truck volume and percent of trucks and the forecasted truck volume and percent of trucks along routes where implementation of the designated truck route program will increase or decrease overall truck traffic.

Existing and projected truck traffic with the implementation of the designated truck route program

Roadway	Location	Average daily traffic (ADT)	Existing truck volume (April 2022)	Existing percent trucks of ADT	Projected truck volume with designated truck routes	Projected percent of trucks with designated truck routes
Founders Parkway	North of Highway 86	20,826	360	1.7%	427	2.1%
Ridge Road	North of Enderud Boulevard	14,366	140	1.0%	207	1.4%
State Highway 86	East of Founders Parkway	17,635	315	1.8%	315	1.8%
Plum Creek Parkway	East of Gilbert Street	21,749	168	0.8%	235	1.1%
Plum Creek Parkway	Near Perry Street	22,938	174	0.8%	241	1.1%
Fifth Street	East of Woodlands Boulevard	11,711	134	1.1%	5	0.04%
Wolfensberger Road	West of Prairie Hawk Drive	5,656	69	1.0%	69	1.0%

As shown in the table, the overall percent of truck traffic is expected to increase by 0.3% on Plum Creek Parkway, 0.4% on Ridge Road, 0.4% on Founders Parkway and reduce by 0.7% on Gilbert Street. Note that the above figure is an estimation and the projected five trucks on Gilbert Street are representative of local deliveries still being allowed under the designated truck route program.

4. Will the Town be monitoring noise levels from the truck traffic?

Members of the Castle Rock Police Department have reviewed the designated truck route program, and feel it is a great way to keep trucks on the major thoroughfares and out of neighborhoods and residential streets. Public Works will continue to coordinate with police to address noise complaints associated with truck traffic using decibel meters. The volume level of truck noise is not likely to change.

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1. Should I request my building inspections in a certain order?

Please refer to your eTrakit account which provides you with a complete list of required inspections and the order in which they should be performed.

2. Where can I find out about current development?

You can find up-to-date information on current development on the interactive Development Activity Map. This will provide detailed information on what's happening around Town. 

Subscribe to the monthly Development Highlights Newsletter to get a monthly update on various current development projects. 

You also can call Development Services and speak to a planner, 303-660-1393.

Updated 1/20/23

3. Where can I find information on building permits and inspections?

You can apply for a building permit or track permits and inspections online by accessing the eTRAKiT page of our website. To speak with a building permit specialist, call the Building Division, 720-733-3527. To schedule an inspection, call our inspection line, 303-660-1341, or use our eTRAKiT system.

4. Who can I talk to about planning and zoning?

You can speak to a planner at Development Services by calling 303-660-1393. To find out about development activities , go to the interactive Development Activity Map. You can find zoning information on our zoning page.

Updated 01/20/23

5. What is the Town's plan for future growth?

The Castle Rock Comprehensive Master Plan outlines the Town’s strategies for handling future short- and long-term growth. The plan is built on four cornerstones:

Distinct Town Identity
Ensure Castle Rock is recognized and rewarded as a unique and welcoming community distinguished by its vibrant and historic Downtown, small-town character, distinct identity as the Douglas County seat, diverse and easily accessible recreation options, scenic natural environment, and family-friendly activities.

Responsible Growth
Plan for responsible development that accommodates the needs of existing and future residents while enhancing the Town’s own character, maintaining a distinct identity and ensuring we remain a vibrant freestanding community within the region.

Community Services
Ensure quality community services and infrastructure are provided in an efficient manner to support public health, safety and welfare to maintain a high quality of life for Castle Rock residents and business owners.

Thriving Economy
Ensure Castle Rock is a self-sufficient community where people can work, live and play.  This includes a business environment that offers a broad range of primary employment opportunities for residents and maintains a healthy tax base.

Based on these objectives, the Castle Rock Comprehensive Master Plan should help guide our community in making the best choices for the Town and ensure success for future generations.

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1. Is your contractor registered with the Town?

If you plan on hiring a contractor to do work that requires a permit, they must be registered with the Town before work begins. A contractor can not obtain a permit unless his or her license is in good standing. You can search to verify if your prospective contractor holds a registration by visiting the eTRAKit Development Portal.

2. Why are contractor registrations required?

Town Council has determined that unregistered and unlicensed contractors may adversely affect public safety and property values by not adhering to adopted Municipal Codes and International Building Codes.

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1. When are neighborhood meetings required?

If a project requires public hearings for land use approvals, it will most likely require up to three neighborhood meetings. These types of applications include planned development plans/zoning, and site development plans for residential, large commercial or Downtown projects. Historic Preservation applications also require neighborhood meetings.

2. How many neighborhood meetings will there be?

Neighborhood meetings are typically required during three stages in the development review process.

1. An initial neighborhood meeting is scheduled where applicants present designs and gather feedback from the neighborhood.
2. The second neighborhood meeting will be scheduled after the applicant submits to the Town. The applicant will present changes that might have been made since the first meeting took place, as well as gather additional feedback from the neighborhood. The original submittal may change after several rounds of Town staff review.
3. A third meeting is scheduled to allow an applicant to present the final version of the project prior to public hearings. Smaller projects, with few changes, may require fewer meetings.

3. How do I schedule a neighborhood meeting?

You will coordinate with your Town planner to schedule a date and time for your meeting. You'll provide suggested dates, a meeting location, and a short description about your proposal. Once your meeting dates are confirmed, you'll send out the public notices. Most projects require in-person neighborhood meetings with an option to attend virtually. Sometimes smaller projects can be approved for a virtual-only meeting. Please confirm with your planner which format will be required for your project.

4. What kind of Public Notice is required?

All neighborhood meetings require a public notice, including a mailed version sent by the applicant to nearby residents. Mailed notices must be postmarked within 15 days before the scheduled meeting. The applicant will pick up Public Notice signage from the Town and must post on the subjected property 15 days prior to the meeting. The Town will post the meeting on their website and may post to Town social media platforms.

5. What is required of an applicant during and after a neighborhood meeting?

Applicants should plan to make a clear and detailed presentation of the project. Plan to engage in dialogue with residents and ask for feedback on your proposal.

On the night of the meeting, you should plan to:

• Provide an overview of the project and general information about the development process
• Encourage active participation during the question / answer period
• Record attendance with a sign-in sheet
• Record your meeting

6. What is needed to provide to the Town?

The day after your meeting, you should provide the following to the Town:

• A copy of your meeting presentation (Powerpoint, maps, etc.)
• List of attendees
• Recording of meeting

Residents interested in attending a neighborhood meeting can find more information on our Neighborhood meeting page and the public notice page of our website.

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1. Can I put a sign out about my garage sale, to help find my pet or to advertise my business?

No. Signs are prohibited in the public right of way or on Town-owned property, except for sandwich boards as described in the FAQ below. In an effort to keep Castle Rock beautiful, these signs will be removed when placed in a public right of way.

2. Can my business put out a sandwich board sign?

The Town of Castle Rock Municipal Code allows one sandwich board in the public right of way per organization. 

Sandwich boards are:

• Allowed during daylight hours only (no illumination)
• Permitted during hours that the organization is physically occupying the building where the board is placed
• Not to exceed 4 feet in height and 8 square feet
• Not to create a safety hazard for pedestrians or motorists
  • Cannot block the view of pedestrian crossings or intersections
  • Maintains a minimum of 4 feet clear sidewalk width
  • Cannot block building entrances or exits

3. I have always been able to post signs to advertise my landscaping business. What has changed?

Town Municipal Code has never allowed these signs in the public right of way. Historically, we have removed these during the week but did not regularly provide enforcement on weekends. As part of an ongoing effort to keep our community clean and beautiful, Town Council has directed Town staff to remove any signs (real estate, garage sales, business advertising, lost pets, etc.) that are placed in a public right of way.

4. I lost my dog, why am I not allowed to post a sign to find him?

While we understand that the loss of a pet can be difficult, please use online platforms such as Nextdoor or Facebook community groups for this purpose. 

5. Can I place a sign in my yard or my neighborhood for advertisement?

You are allowed one sign on your own property that can measure no larger than 6 square feet and 4 feet in height. Placing signs anywhere other than your own property is prohibited or requires permission from the property owner.

6. Do I need a permit for a banner?

Yes, the following rules apply:

• One sign per street front, per business location
• Maximum of two permits per year
• Signs can be posted for 30 days or the duration of a special event
• Signs cannot be larger than 32 square feet

7. Does the Town allow electronic message signs?

Yes,  see Castle Rock Municipal Code 19.04.054.

8. Can I place window signs at my business?

Yes, window signage is allowed, but may not exceed 25% of the window area.

9. When do I need a permit?

A sign permit is required to display, erect, relocate or alter most permanent and temporary signs. Apply for a sign permit.

10. Are inflatable balloons allowed?

Wind signs are prohibited. Examples include, but are not limited to, air dancers, balloons, fan-operated air puppets, feather flags, flags, inflatable signs, sky dancers and wind socks.

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1. What is a train horn quiet zone?

Train engineers are required to sound train horns at railroad crossings for safety reasons. In 2005, the Federal Railroad Administration developed the Federal Train Horn Rule. This new set of rules established standards for how train engineers must sound the horns, including the decibel range of the horn. At the same time, the rules established criteria that would allow for local jurisdictions (like Castle Rock) to silence the regular sounding of horns if certain improvements are implemented in place of the train horn. This is referred to as establishing a quiet zone. It's important to note that, even with the establishment of a quiet zone, train engineers can still sound the horns if they perceive a danger or a threat.

Reviewed Jan. 5, 2023.

2. What are the options for creating a train horn quiet zone?

Options for creating a quiet zone could include completely closing a crossing, installing raised medians, installing additional gates, creating one-way streets, or using horns at the gates rather than on the train - called wayside horns. The goal of a quiet zone is to reach a certain level of safety, defined in a measurement index by the Federal Railroad Administration. Any one or a combination of safety options can be used as long as they reach a certain threshold for safety as defined by that index. It is also possible that using one of the measures at one crossing can reach an appropriate safety score within that index to quiet the horn at multiple crossings located near each other, such as the crossings at Second, Third and Fifth streets.

Reviewed Jan. 5, 2023.

3. What are the needed steps to create a quiet zone?

The Town and Union Pacific will be implementing improvements to the roadway crossings at Second, Third and Fifth street crossings. The improvements include new track, extended crossing platforms, additional crossing gates, sidewalk construction and new curb and gutter along with additional signs and striping. Both the Town and Union Pacific will be constructing these improvements over the course of months, due to the complex nature of the work and scheduling constraints. Once the improvements have been constructed, the Town notifies appropriate regulating bodies that the quiet zone has been established, and the train horns will "go silent."

Updated Jan. 5, 2023.

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1. Can I install solar panels, wind generators or shade structures on my home to reduce electricity needs?

Yes, as long as you obtain zoning and building permits from the Town. If you live in an homeowners association-controlled neighborhood, you need HOA approval. Call Development Services for more information, 720-733-2204.

2. How do I request ADA accommodations from the Town to participate in Town services or activities?

Please call the Town Manager's office at 303-660-1374, or email the ADA Coordinator. You may also fill out this form to request an accommodation.

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1. If the town approves The View, an enormous apartment complex in north downtown, will there be an improvement made to the intersection of Wilcox and Eighth st?

The Traffic Impact Analysis for The View - prepared by a licensed traffic engineer and reviewed by the Town's traffic planner - indicates that allowed movements at the Wilcox/Eight streets intersection (referred to in the analysis as the Wilcox/Jerry streets intersection) may need to be limited in the future.

The study says the Public Works Department may ultimately wish to disallow left turns from Eighth/Jerry onto Wilcox, to head north, in order to maintain performance levels at that intersection.

Posted Feb. 16, 2021

2. Is it true that the block with the B&B cafe has been bought out by developers and has plans to be redeveloped as a high rise? What other high-rises are in the works for downtown?

Do we have a plan of open space to acquire to provide that land for these downtown residents to access? Could we ask developers to dedicate open space elsewhere in town, as close to downtown at possible, to provide open space for this population that they’re bringing to town?

Regarding B&B Cafe, Town staff is not aware of a change of ownership, nor any new development plans for this area. We’d recommend you contact the business directly for confirmation. View the Development Activity Map for information on all active development projects.

Since 2008, the goals for Downtown Castle Rock have included having a welcoming, friendly Downtown core; enhancing the area's historic character; providing easy access to trails and open spaces; and ensuring public spaces and event areas that are family friendly.

These goals were outlined in the 2008 Downtown Master Plan - a 20-year plan for the evolution of Downtown Castle Rock. Work on the plan began in 2006 and was guided by an advisory commission, along with input from more than 600 community members. Adding residential uses Downtown has been an important part of this plan also, as residents Downtown help support our small businesses.

View the entire Downtown Master Plan (PDF).

Planning for parks and open space, current facilities and acreages, and plans for future needs, can be seen in our Parks and Recreation Master Plan (PDF). The Town currently owns and manages approximately 3,000 acres of open space, which along with Douglas County and HOA-owned open space, accounts for about 28% of Castle Rock's total land area. This percentage will grow to over 30% in the future. In addition, Castle Rock will continue to meet the Municipal Code requirement of 8 acres per 1,000 residents for parkland as the community grows.

Castle Rock residents living Downtown have direct access to extensive open space areas along the East Plum Creek Trail and nearby parks, including Festival Park and the Douglas County Fairgrounds by way of the Sellars Gulch Trail.

Updated Dec. 29, 2022

3. I heard that the Emporium and the Barn are being turned into apartments. Is that true?

As of August 2022, there are no formal land use applications or pre-application meetings scheduled for the Barn or the Emporium properties. Any such proposal would require a site plan that would go before the Town's Design Review Board. Stay up-to-date on land-use public hearings by subscribing to the Public Notices calendar.

Updated Aug. 31, 2022

4. Can landowners demolish Downtown buildings?

Buildings built in the historic Downtown area before 1945, or buildings that have a landmark designation, require a recommendation from the Historic Preservation Board if they are historic landmark properties and approval from Town Council before they can be demolished.  If the building was built after 1945 and is not eligible for landmark designation, the owner must obtain a demolition permit from the Development Services Department.

When reviewing a demolition request, the Board and Council use the following criteria:

• Whether the property is currently landmarked and/or would be able to achieve landmark status
• If the property is void of features of architectural and/or historical significance and/or integrity
• Whether the effect of demolition would be positive or negative on adjacent properties or the Downtown district
• If the deterioration of the property has progressed to the point where it’s not economically feasible to rehabilitate the property
• Whether moving the building been investigated and is demolition a feasible option

5. What are the height restrictions for buildings in Downtown?

Allowable building height depends on where the building is located Downtown.

There are three districts in Downtown - the Core District, and the North and South districts. The Downtown Core District is bounded by Fifth Street on the north, the railroad tracks on the east, Second Street on the south and Interstate 25 on the west. Building height in the Downtown Core District is limited to four stories, with a maximum height of 60 feet. A landowner may request one additional floor, with a corresponding increase in building height, in the Downtown Core District. The Design Review Board, which has the authority to review building heights in Downtown, may, at its discretion, grant an additional floor request after considering the following criteria:

• Whether the project will incorporate design elements found in adjacent landmark structures
• The impacts of the increased building height on adjacent properties

The North District is bounded by Wolfensberger Road on the north, the railroad tracks on the east, Fifth Street on the south and I-25 on the west. The South District is bounded by Second Street on the north, the railroad tracks on the east, the Safeway shopping center on the south and I-25 on the east. Building height in the North and South districts is limited to six stories, with no maximum height limitation. The Board, at its discretion, may grant two additional floors in these districts.

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1. We have grocery stores that are incredibly crowded due to an incredibly minuscule amount of stores for the population. Is there large retail space at the new Dawson trails area?

The Dawson Trails property, on the south side of town, west of Interstate 25, is zoned to allow around 600,000 square feet of commercial retail spaces where a grocery store could go in. The property owner is working with retailers interested in grocery operations, which include discussions with a Costco Wholesale Club. There is additional property within the Town zoned for commercial grocery store uses. If King Soopers, or other grocery store chains, seek to expand or open new stores, the Town is ready to work with them. Much of Castle Rock was zoned in the 1980s; however, it has taken decades to build out to current levels. Additional residential uses in the Founders/Terrain areas have been planned for some time, and the retail/grocery market will respond with expansion or new stores when needed. To learn more about the approved zoning for properties within Town, view the zoning map.

Posted on Sept. 21, 2022

2. Are there plans to have EV chargers installed at current and future gas stations and convenience stores?

The Town does not require the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at gas stations or convenience stores. Individual businesses, including gas stations and convenience stores, are able to install EV charging stations on their property at their discretion as long as they apply for the appropriate permits and receive the necessary approvals. Various businesses have installed EV charging stations in their parking lots over the past few years, including retailers.

Posted on Jan. 21, 2022

3. What’s the latest on the Young American Planned development?

The application remains under review with the Town. Staff completed a second review in November of 2022. The application has many outstanding issues and will look to re-submit and schedule a second neighborhood meeting some time in 2023. The project is referred to as Chateau Valley and is proposing to construct approximately 297 single-family homes and 63 paired homes (126 dwelling units) for a total of 423 units.

Updated Jan. 3, 2023

4. What’s the latest on the Pine Canyon and Pioneer Ranch proposals? Are there plans within these developments to preserve that forest and protect our wildlife neighbors?

If that's not In the proposals, could town make that a priority as we negotiate with developers?

The Pine Canyon rezoning application is currently under review for development with Douglas County, not the Town.

The Pioneer Ranch annexation was originally submitted in May 2018 and is currently pending resubmission. Learn more about the proposal.

Developments within the Town must have a minimum of 20% open space, either public or private. We also require dedication for public land to be used for parks, schools and, potentially, additional open space. However, we don't have any requirements on preserving trees.

The Town recognizes the value of the forested areas on these properties, not only for its beauty and uniqueness in an urban area, but also for wildlife habitat it provides.

Updated Jan. 3, 2023

5. How can I find out what uses are planned for a specific piece of property in Castle Rock?

You can view the Town's Zoning Map to see how land in Castle Rock is currently zoned. The Development Activity Map shows you where development projects are being built as well as proposed projects. You can also subscribe to our monthly Development Highlights Newsletter to get the latest updates and photos of various current development projects in town. For more information about zoning or development activity, email Planning or call 303-660-1393.

Updated Jan. 20, 2023

6. What can Town Council do/not do in terms of zoning?

Much of Castle Rock was zoned in the 1980s and 1990s, and landowners are legally entitled to develop the land according to previously approved zoning requirements. Town Council is obligated to honor the legal contracts of the past.

If a landowner seeks new zoning or rezoning of their property, there are specific zoning criteria that Town staff, the Planning Commission and Town Council must use to evaluate when determining if a zoning request should be approved.

Neighborhood meetings and public notice are required prior to the zoning hearings.

The Planning Commission reviews the request and makes a recommendation to Town Council, which makes the final determination. Town Council is required to objectively review the request based upon 

1. The facts and circumstances brought to the attention of the Council in the hearing process
2. The 2030 Vision and the Comprehensive Master Plan
3. All development codes

7. How can I find out who owns a property?

A property search tool is available on the Douglas County Assessor’s website.

8. What can be done to stop the development of Castle Rock?

Much of Castle Rock was zoned in the 1980s and 1990s, and landowners are legally entitled to develop the land according to previously approved zoning requirements. While Town Council is obligated to honor the legal contracts of the past, there are plans in place for responsible, quality growth. The Castle Rock Vision 2030 and 2030 Comprehensive Master Plan outline policies and goals to continue quality growth and add a diversity of businesses and housing options.

Responsible, quality growth is a combination of many things. It's having strategic plans in place for water, transportation and public safety to make sure services like emergency response times aren't compromised by population increases. It's valuing land conservation, with an average of 30% of our community being preserved as open space. And, it's development codes that require height limitations to protect the incredible views and buffer zones between residential and commercial developments. Most importantly, smart growth is a vision for the future.

The Town also requires new development to pay impact fees and system development charges to provide revenues to support growth-related infrastructure needs, such as water supply, adding capacity for streets, and building new parks and fire stations. These funds allow for additional Town infrastructure necessitated by growth.

The Town can't stop Colorado's growth, but it can insist on quality growth in our community.

An informative video has been created to explain how the Town plans for growth and quality development. Watch the video and learn more at the Castle Rock Planning page.

Updated Jan. 20, 2023

9. Any plans for a Trader Joes coming to Castle Rock?

There are no current plans for a Trader Joes in Castle Rock.

10. The 2030 master plan talks about a border around Castle Rock to keep it separate from surrounding cities. What does this look like? Is this a narrow border purchased by the city or a large greenbelt

 funded by Douglas County?

The Town of Castle Rock 2030 Comprehensive Master Plan does list a goal of working to ensure that Castle Rock maintains a physical separation from abutting towns, cities and development outside of Town limits. While there is no set metric of what the separation will look like, the Town is open to all available tools, which may include land purchase, dedication through development activity and working with current and future land preservation programs of partner government agencies to achieve the best separation possible.

11. Any word of a Dunkin' Donuts coming to Castle Rock?

A site plan is under review for a Dunkin' Donuts in the Founders Marketplace located on near the southeast corner of Hwy 86 and Founders Parkway. You can view plans for this project through the Development Activity Map, and also subscribe to stay up to date about future meetings or public hearings.

Updated Jan. 20, 2023

12. Any plans for a Costco in Castle Rock?

As part of the Dawson Trails Planned Development a Costco is being planned. Costco could open sometime in 2025 at the same time the Crystal Valley interchange is completed.

Updated Jan. 20, 2023

13. What is annexation and how does the process work?

Annexation is the process by which a property becomes incorporated into the Town of Castle Rock's jurisdiction. With that annexation, the area benefits from services the Town provides, such as public safety, snow removal, street maintenance, park maintenance and more. It also means taxable units or sales tax from that property help pay for those services. All annexation proposals must follow a State-mandated process, which includes public hearings. As part of that process, Town Council must make three decisions:

• Substantial Compliance: Does the annexation petition comply with State Code?
• Eligibility: Is the property eligible to be annexed in accordance with State Code?
• Annexation: Should the property be annexed?

The Town has several proposals under consideration. Learn more and view the annexation proposals.

14. How does development work in Castle Rock?

Like in most municipalities, all development - including building, planning and zoning - is handled by the Town's Development Services Department. A new development must start with a proposed plan.

The plan is submitted to Development Services, which is staffed with experts. Engineers, community planners and designers evaluate the plan on everything from traffic and water impacts to design and aesthetic standards. Their goal is to ensure every new development not only matches the community's vision but also makes technical sense and, above all, is safe to use. Then, the public process can begin. Planned developments are presented to the public through Planning Commission, community meetings, and Town Council. Then, staff follows up with developers to ensure public comments taken at public meetings are incorporated into the plan to the extent possible. You can see the projects going through this process using the map. Sometimes, if the zoning use on the area is already in line with what the developer is proposing, it can be reviewed and approved by staff.

It's important to know this process is market-driven. When the economy supports new amenities, developers will approach the Town with their ideas.

View a video about the process on YouTube.

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1. What’s going on with the property near the Enderud Boulevard roundabout on Ridge Road?

The property at 468 Ridge Road was annexed into Town in 1987, with zoning that generally allows churches, public meeting and assembly facilities, a daycare and/or a parochial school. Other uses would require the property to go through a rezoning process, with public hearings to determine uses in the best interest of the community.

Over the past few years, Town staff has received general questions from the landowner or other developers about the property, but no formal application to rezone it has been submitted. Recent inquires have included rezoning to allow a self-storage facility; adding a car repair function to the existing home on the property; or rezoning for general business/commercial uses. In response to these inquiries, Town staff provided information that these industrial and commercial uses are not considered compatible with the surrounding residential uses. The process to take forward any of these proposals - including neighborhood meetings and public hearings - was explained, but the interested parties have never moved forward with an application.

Staff is not aware of any inquiries to rezone the property to allow a public park, which is a use that is compatible with the surrounding residential neighborhoods. Town Council makes the decision on applications for rezoning.

Published April 20, 2022

2. What about the land east of Lantern Circle and South of Mitchell? There is a large piece of land off of Lost Canyon Ranch Road that I heard the owner is trying to sell for development, is there an

Potential developers of this parcel have spoken to the Town on occasion over the past several years, but no applications have been submitted at this time. If an application is submitted, it will be posted on our Development Activity Map.

Updated Jan. 20, 2023

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1. Is it true that you are considering allowing The Rock church to build a homeless shelter/low income housing in the Meadows, less than a mile from our parks and schools where our children play?

The Town has not received a formal proposal from the Church of the Rock.

The Town was invited to and participated in a meeting in early October that explored the options for the church site. The Douglas County Housing Partnership, which is planning to partner with the Church of the Rock on the potential project, applied for the charrette through the Housing Colorado Design Charrettes Program to look at the feasibility of constructing multifamily housing on the Church of the Rock property to allow for affordable family housing, community supportive transitional housing and emergency housing for individuals experiencing homelessness.

If Church of the Rock submits a formal proposal to the Town, they will need to follow Town Code. The property's current zoning doesn't allow housing. If the church wants to pursue changes to the zoning, an application would need to be submitted to the Town. Before an application is submitted, they would have to hold a public neighborhood meeting. At least three public neighborhood meetings would be required as part of the process.

There are criteria established in Town law that guide how staff looks at applications. Staff evaluates if the proposal complies with the Town's Comprehensive Master Plan and if it's compatible with adjoining properties, and they review it for any other issues associated with the proposal. Ultimately, the proposal goes to a public hearing at the Planning Commission, which Town Council has appointed to make recommendations for land use items. The Planning Commission would then provide a recommendation to Town Council.

Town Council consideration requires one formal public hearing. If the ordinance is adopted on the first reading at the public hearing, it would then be considered at another Town Council meeting for second and final reading and approval. Council and Planning Commission consideration is done in a quasi-judicial fashion, meaning they have to apply Town law to the facts presented and they have to make a determination on whether or not the application meets Code requirements and therefore determine if the application would be approved or denied.

Updated Dec. 29, 2022

2. What uses is the Meadows Town Center zoned for?

The Meadows Town Center is zoned for mixed-use development, which includes retail, office space, commercial and residential uses - single-family homes (attached and detached), condos, townhomes and apartments. It's zoned for a maximum of 3,679 dwelling units and a maximum height of 60 feet, and up to 75 feet if approved by a Use by Special Review.

Updated Jan. 20, 2023

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1. I read the town is deciding how to use pandemic money from the Fed. Would they consider using this to build affordable housing for our workforce? It’s getting very expensive for them to live here.

At the April 5, 2022 Council Meeting, Town Council directed staff to use the Town's American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds toward road projects as recommended. To date, an affordable housing project has not been part of internal Town discussions on the topic. Historically, the Town has supported affordable housing within the community as a participant in the Douglas County Housing Partnership and not through direct projects.

2. How much in annual revenue does the Town’s sales tax on food produce?

Grocery tax revenue came in at about $9.38 million in 2021, making up 14% of the $66 million in total sales tax revenue for the year. Grocery tax only applies to food purchased at the store and then eaten at home. Other items such as paper goods, cleaning supplies, toiletries and even foods that can be immediately consumed, such as prepared sandwiches, are taxed separately from groceries.

3. Can grocery tax revenue be used to help fund renewable water?

No, renewable water is funded through growth-related revenue from new development in Castle Rock, as well as from fees on monthly water bills. The Town's water funds are classified as enterprise funds, meaning they legally can receive only minimal tax support.

4. If the grocery tax was eliminated, would the Town have less resources for transportation needs?

Yes. Part of the Town's sales tax revenue is allocated to the Transportation Fund. That fund provides for maintenance of streets - including snow removal - as well as for capital projects. Elimination of the grocery tax would impact the resources available annually for street maintenance and construction.

5. How much reserve funds does the Town have?

Using preliminary 2021 year-end numbers, the Town estimates it will end 2020 with $38.4 million available in the General Fund. Of this total, approximately $26.3 million is unobligated or not already designated for a particular use. The Town believes this reserve amount reflects sound cash management in the event of an economic downturn, given the Town’s annual General Fund expenditures exceed $55 million.

6. What services are funded by local taxes?

Your tax money supports the Town's Fire and Rescue, Police, streets, Parks, Open Space, Recreation Center and administration services.

View the annual budget.

7. Is the Town responsible for all public services within Town boundaries?

No. The Town is a full-service municipality, offering police, fire and rescue, parks and recreation, water, building/planning/zoning, and roads/public works services to the community. However, other public entities work within Castle Rock, too. For example, Douglas County provides social, correctional and other services; Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) maintains traffic signals on and near state highways; and the Douglas County School District is responsible for oversight of local schools. There's even a separate cemetery district. Waste removal, meanwhile, generally is handled privately, or by a homeowners' association.

8. Does the Town of Castle Rock help fund local schools?

No. Local schools - including teacher salaries and building maintenance costs - are funded through the Douglas County School District. More information about funding for Douglas County schools can be found at the Douglas County School District website.

9. Can you explain why Founders Village is a special Tax district and how money from this tax district is used? Thanks.

Several neighborhoods in Castle Rock have Metropolitan Districts, "Metro Districts" for short. These Metro Districts are separate governmental entities and are usually created by the developer/property owner at the time of initial development of the neighborhood or subdivision to allow for a special, localized mill levy to be imposed for certain development-related improvements (local streets, waterlines, landscaping, neighborhood amenities, etc.). These mill levies continue to support debt payments for initial improvement costs, some maintenance and new enhancements and other items set out in the approved service plans for the Metro Districts.

Metro Districts - and their mill levies - vary widely throughout Castle Rock as shown in this Town-prepared report (PDF).

Since the Metro Districts are separate entities, specific budget questions should be directed to your Metro District.

10. What is the additional fee on purchases at the Promenade, and to whom does that go?

Businesses selling tangible personal property in the Promenade area have an additional Public Improvement Fee (PIF) that is assessed and remitted to the metropolitan district in that area. The metro district uses that revenue to repay debt that it issued to construct the infrastructure to develop the area.

11. I made a purchase at a Castle Rock grocery store and noted there were 3 sales tax items shown: 4%, 3.9% & 2.9%. I thought Castle Rock’s sales tax was 7.9% total. What is the breakdown for this 10.8%?

Castle Rock's combined sales tax rate is 7.9%, which includes State (2.9%), County (1%) and Town (4%). The receipt also indicates taxes charged by other jurisdictions, which, in some cases, tax items at a different rate than the Town. For example, the Town taxes food for home consumption (gallon of milk, loaf of bread, etc.), but the State of Colorado and Douglas County do not. Therefore, for all food for home consumption, the only tax that should be applied is at the 4% rate. However, there are many things everyone taxes, such as laundry detergent, which would have a tax rate of 7.9%. The different rates are broken down by the grocery store's system, which charges the correct tax on each item, according to the jurisdiction's tax base. Therefore, it would be incorrect to add up all the percentages to 10.8%. Rather, the receipt shows a breakdown of various jurisdiction's taxes.

12. Where can I find out about the Town’s budget?

A balanced budget is a core part of the Town's annual planning efforts. In fact, state law requires local governments to balance their budgets. We wouldn't have it any other way.

View the annual budget.

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1. Are some varieties of trees prohibited in Castle Rock?

The Town does not prohibit any trees for Castle Rock residents. There are, however, some limitations for commercial/non-residential properties. Landscapers for those properties must stick to Castle Rock Water's approved plant list (PDF). Additionally, some homeowners associations (HOA) may have restrictions on tree types. Check with your individual HOA before starting a landscape project.

While the Town does not prohibit anything for residents, there are some recommendations. The Plant Finder at CRconserve.com is a great resource. Additionally, we discourage residents from planting anything highly flammable like juniper or spruce trees.

Updated Jan. 21, 2022

2. Are there any requirements on what kind of trees developers are required to plant? Or seems like there are too many deciduous trees and not many native ponderosas which really define our town. Could

developers be asked to plant Ponderosas instead of deciduous?

Currently, developers must plant large-canopy deciduous trees along their streetscape and are allowed to have 50% deciduous and 50% evergreen trees throughout the rest of their project. Learn more about the requirements in the Landscape and Irrigation Criteria manual (PDF). While the manual incorporates requirements from several departments, changes would be managed through Castle Rock Water, and approved by Town Council.

3. Do you need to be a Castle Rock resident to be on one of the city boards (such as the art commission)?

A residency requirement exists to be a member of most Town boards and commissions. There are a few exceptions: members of the Design Review Board, Downtown Development Authority, Historic Preservation Board and the Public Art Commission are not always required to be residents, but they must meet other criteria as outlined in each group's bylaws. All other boards and commissions require members to be residents.

Posted on Feb. 10, 2021

4. Can an HOA within the city of Castle Rock restrict or limit the installation of artificial turf on a homeowners residential property?

The Colorado General Assembly in 2019 passed House Bill 1050. Among the legislation's provisions are that an HOA cannot prevent xeriscaping or hardscaping but may set standards for those landscapes. Please reference the legislation for additional detail: HB 19-1050 (PDF). Additionally, you may wish to contact the State's HOA Information and Resource Center, which serves as a resource for consumers to understand their basic rights and duties under the Colorado Common Interest Ownership Act, for additional information: Colorado HOA Information and Resource Center website.

Posted Feb. 3, 2021

5. What's the scoop on why Castle Rock is not part of Regional Transportation District (RTD)?

Prior to 2005, portions of the Town were part of the Regional Transportation District, which operates the Denver area light rail and bus systems, along with other services. Service for Castle Rock was very limited, and residents did not believe they were getting adequate service for the amount of taxes paid. In 2005, Castle Rock residents voted "all out" of RTD and the associated sales tax.

6. Are there any additional supermarkets slated for Castle Rock?

The Town does not have any current developer inquiries for additional grocery stores. Grocery stores in Town currently include King Soopers, Safeway, Sprouts, Vitamin Cottage, Sam's Club, Walmart, Target and Whole Foods. As part of the Dawson Trails Planned Development a Costco is being planned. Costco could open at the same time the Crystal Valley interchange is completed, in approximately 2025.

Updated Dec. 29, 2022

7. How do I propose that an older ordinance get reviewed for adjustments?

Ordinances and the Town Code are generally changed through actions of Town Council at Council meetings. A constituent may address Town Council during unscheduled public comments at a Council meeting and/or contact his/her Councilmember regarding his/her proposal.

Updated Dec. 29, 2022

8. Does Castle Rock have a paper, glass, aluminum, plastic, and tin recycling program?

The Town does not provide trash removal or recycling services. Neighborhoods with homeowners associations may provide trash removal through the HOA. Those in areas without an HOA must obtain individual service. There is a community recycling center that operates 10 a.m. to noon Saturdays at 701 Prairie Hawk Drive. Visit the Community Recycling Center website for additional information.

9. How do I ensure that my feedback becomes part of the official record of a Town Council meeting?

There are three ways to provide feedback for the official record of a Town Council meeting. First, you can attend the meeting and speak during the time allowed for public comment. Second, you can submit an email or call the contact listed for the agenda item for which you'd like to provide feedback. Finally, in some instances, there are online feedback forms set up on the Town's website to collect feedback on certain items on the Council agenda. You can view Council agendas.

10. Will you please provide the exact rules/laws for the use of personal fireworks when it is not the 4th of July?

As per Town Code 9.16.030, which addresses prohibited acts, no person shall use permissible fireworks except on the 4th of July between the hours of 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. If the Town is under Fire Restrictions, no fireworks are allowed at all.

11. Is a short term rental allowed in Castle Rock?

The Town of Castle Rock does not regulate short term rentals such as Airbnb or VRBO. However, all businesses must obtain a Town business license and collect and remit applicable lodging and sales tax. You can find the business license application online.

12. Why does the Town not enforce its illegal sign code? ...

Weekend home builder signs (Richmond, KB, DRHorton, Kaufman, etc.) I have previously raised this concern to Town Council, Town Manager, Planning/Zoning and was told that the Town does not have money in the budget to enforce. I don't believe this excuse when I see the Town "blow" $1.4 million on an unnecessary round about.

Town staff enforces sign violations during normal business hours. When violations are observed and reported outside of regular businesses hours, the violations and the responsible party are notified by the Zoning staff on the next working day. Town staff typically will do a sweep Friday afternoon and early Monday morning to stay on top of illegal signs.

13. When are Town Council meetings?

Town Council meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. Town Council can also schedule special meetings. Get details on meeting dates and times, and see what’s on the agenda, at the Castle Rock Council page.

If you can’t attend in person, watch online or on TV. Town Council meetings are broadcast live, where you can also find a recording of the meeting the next day. Town Council meetings are also broadcast on Channel 22 for Comcast Cable Subscribers several times each day.

View Council's current agenda.

14. How can I receive emails about Town happenings?

Your Town is excited to connect with you! Get information straight to your inbox by signing up for various email lists. Some lists are based on projects. For general updates, sign up for the "News and Announcements" listing. For all lists, look for a confirmation email from NoReply@CivicPlus.com.)

Sign up for emails.

15. Where can I learn about events and open houses?

Check out the Castle Rock Town Calendar. There, you’ll find a calendar of upcoming events that includes everything from Town Council or Board and Commission meetings to special events, concerts, and neighborhood meetings or open houses. You can also sign up for emails from the calendar listings.

See a calendar of events.

16. Is it possible to opt out of door-to-door solicitation?

The No Knock List allows residents to opt out of door-to-door solicitation and sales. Any issues with a solicitor not following the guidelines of the Town No Knock ordinance may be reported to the Castle Rock Police non-emergency line at 303-663-6100. If possible, contact the police while the solicitor is still in your neighborhood. Please note, civic, religious, charitable or political causes are not required to register with the Town or held accountable to the No Knock ordinance requirements. Learn more at the No Knock List page.

Learn about the No Knock List.

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1. What is the estimated completion date for the new Mitchell Gulch Park improvements?

Town Council approved a construction contract and renovations to Mitchell Gulch Park began in October 2022. The improvements are currently scheduled to be complete by late summer 2023. You can find more information about the project including a renovation master plan and future updates on completion dates on the Park Improvements webpage.

Published Jan. 23, 2023

2. Does it still cost $600 an hour to use the Millhouse for an event?

Rental rates for the Millhouse vary depending on the day of the week. Monday through Thursday the Millhouse may be rented for $300 per hour, and Friday through Sunday the rate is $600 per hour. Nonprofit rates are available with proper documentation. Rental rates include a guest service representative who will be onsite throughout your event and can help with setup. The grass area to the east of the Millhouse can be used for larger functions and is included in the rental fee. More information about the facility and rentals is available on the Millhouse at Philip S. Miller Park webpage.

Published Nov. 8, 2022

3. Is a new park being planned somewhere along Gilbert Street or is a new name being considered for Centennial Park?

The Town is not planning a new park along Gilbert Street nor considering a name change to Centennial Park. Information on current and future park and recreation projects is available on the Parks and Recreation Project Updates webpage.

Updated Feb. 17, 2023

4. Would the town consider building another incline or two in town? The one at Phillip S. Miller is so popular it’s hard to find a space. Maybe another incline on that same hill or maybe one on the

hill where the fireworks shoot off from in The Meadows?

The Town does not currently have plans to construct another incline. If you're looking for a new challenge, check out the Rosie Rueter Trail and Incline at Rueter-Hess Reservoir just 15 minutes north of Castle Rock.

Updated Feb. 17, 2023

5. With the explosion in development and population. Are there plans for another recreation center? The current facility is already over crowded it appears at most peak times.

To continue to maintain quality of life expectations for a growing community, the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and Strategic Plan support the development of a new indoor recreation facility. Throughout 2021, staff partnered with architecture firm Barker Rinker Seacat (BRS) to conduct an Indoor Recreation Facility Feasibility Study to assess programming needs and operational and site requirements. After obtaining public feedback and Town Council direction on the study's proposed facility options, staff are now working with BRS to complete a schematic design of a proposed sports development center that could be built in conjunction with the Brickyard development. To learn more about the proposed facility, the Brickyard project and for general updates and timing, visit the Proposed Recreation Facility webpage.

Updated Feb. 17, 2023

6. Are e-bikes and dirt bikes allowed on Castle Rock trails?

Motorized recreation vehicles, such as motorbikes, motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles are not allowed on trails or open spaces. While the Town does not have a specific ordinance on electric bikes, according to State law, electric bikes or e-bikes that reach 20 miles per hour or less (designated as Class 1 and 2) can be ridden on bike, pedestrian or multi-use paths.

7. What are you doing with the land by Sovereign and Cherry?

To continue to maintain quality of life expectations for a growing community, the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and Strategic Plan support the development of a new indoor recreation facility. Throughout 2021, staff partnered with architecture firm Barker Rinker Seacat (BRS) to conduct an Indoor Recreation Facility Feasibility Study to assess programming needs and operational and site requirements. After obtaining public feedback and Town Council direction on the study's proposed facility options, staff are now working with BRS to complete a schematic design of a proposed sports development center that could be built in conjunction with the Brickyard development. To learn more about the proposed facility, the Brickyard project and for general updates and timing, visit the Proposed Recreation Facility webpage.

Updated Feb. 17, 2023

8. Can I climb to the top of Castle Rock?

The Town does not maintain - and has not improved - the rock scramble that is the ascent and descent to and from the top of Castle Rock. You are responsible for your own safety and your decision to leave the trail. The Rock has sheer walls that drop 50 feet or more, and falls have resulted in serious injuries and deaths.

Updated Feb. 17, 2023

9. Can the Town construct a staircase to the top of the Rock?

Current zoning requires that the Rock remain in a natural condition. The Town does not have any plans to construct a staircase to the top.

10. Why do Town employees go up on the Rock?

The Town maintains the Star, a flagpole and security cameras on top of Castle Rock. Skilled workers from the Fire and Parks and Recreation departments make the climb, using safety gear as necessary, to perform needed maintenance.

11. Are there any plans to construct a full-sized ice rink in Castle Rock?

An indoor ice rink is something the Town considered in its Indoor Recreation Facility Feasibility Study since hockey and ice skating are popular in Colorado. Most ice rinks in Colorado have been built through either a public/private partnership or by a dedicated funding source, such as taxes, due to the high costs associated with building and maintaining ice arenas. While there has been some interest from the private sector in building a new ice rink in Castle Rock, no construction is currently planned.

Stay tuned for Council meeting details and presentation dates. Or, sign up for Town Council update emails.

Updated Feb. 17, 2023

12. Are there plans for a year-round simulated snow park at Philip S. Miller Park?

This project was proposed as a public/private partnership in 2015 between the Town of Castle Rock and Snowsports 365. At this time, the Town has not received a request from Snowsports 365 to move forward with development of facility, which is dependent on a private investment. The potential for this project still exists, but we do not have a timeframe for development.

13. What percentage of Castle Rock land is dedicated/protected open space? Is there a map showing these locations?

The Town has set exaction standards to help ensure that parkland and open space areas are set aside and preserved as Castle Rock grows. At this time, approximately 28% of Castle Rock is zoned as parkland and open space. At full build-out, the percentage will increase to approximately one-third. A map showing parkland and open space areas is available online.

Updated Feb. 17, 2023

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1. Is it legal to discharge a firearm in the active protection of livestock(chickens) against a nuisance animal (bobcat) attack?

The Town of Castle Rock has a municipal ordinance as it pertains to the use of firearms. Castle Rock Municipal code 9.04.160 - Discharging weapons states it is unlawful for any person, except law enforcement officers in the performance of their duties, to fire or discharge within Town limits. Discharging a firearm to protect livestock from wildlife is not accepted under the municipal code. It is worth noting, chickens are not considered livestock according to the Town of Castle Rock Municipal code 6.02.030, where livestock is specifically defined as horses, mules, sheep, goats, cattle, swine, geese, pigeons, turkeys, pea fowl and guinea hens. For more information on requirements for chickens and ducks in the Town of Castle Rock, please read Municipal code 6.02.250, or call the Castle Rock Police Department's Animal Control Unit at 720-733-6063.

2. What can be done to stop noise from jake brakes/compression engine brakes?

Castle Rock Police Department (CRPD) officers can make a stop on a Commercial Motor Vehicle for any violation of Title 42/Model Traffic Code. CRPD will be teaming with the Colorado State Patrol in 2023 to conduct commercial motor vehicle inspections with an emphasis on proper compression engine brakes.

Updated Jan. 17, 2023

3. How is the need for fire restrictions evaluated?

Seven factors are considered when determining whether the Town should be placed under fire restrictions. These are: 1 and 2) two different evaluations of the moisture content of plant materials; 3) the current fire danger rating from the National Weather Service; 4 and 5) the resources available to fight fires and recent incidences of fires; 6) whether adverse fire conditions are predicted to continue; and 7) the local fire preparedness level as set by the National Multi-Agency Coordination Group.

If specified criteria are met related to at least three of these factors, Stage 1 restrictions are considered. Once a fourth condition is met, Stage 2 restrictions are considered. Conditions are evaluated for the Town as a whole and not for certain areas, although moisture levels may vary throughout Town given how rainfall tends to occur here.

It's important to note that while the rapid downpours that are typical in summer in Castle Rock generally help increase the moisture level of grasses, they typically do not provide great amounts of moisture for larger, more flammable plant materials like scrub oak and trees. Additional factors including heat, relative humidity and wind also come into play when recommending fire restrictions.

More information about Fire Restrictions

4. What is the schedule of maintenance for fire hydrants in Castle Rock?

Castle Rock Water's goal is to check each fire hydrant in Town annually. Additionally, Castle Rock Fire Department (CRFD) checks hydrants when they respond on fire alarm calls, natural gas leaks and other requests for service.

In its most recent Insurance Service Office evaluation in 2021, the Town received a score of 39.37 out of a possible 40 for water supply, reflecting well-maintained hydrants and overall water system.

Published Jan. 24, 2022

5. What is the process to request police to increase their presence in neighborhoods where speeding is prevalent?

To report speeding traffic, call the Castle Rock non-emergency line at 303-663-6100 or Report a Concern. When prompted to select an issue type, choose Speeding Traffic. Castle Rock Police will be notified of your concern.

Report a Concern

6. Who is supposed to enforce the "No Parking at any Time" signs posted in Castlewood Ranch? Is it the Homeowners Association (HOA), Douglas County Sheriff's Office or CRPD?

For signs on Town streets, the Castle Rock Police Department would be the enforcing agency. Violations can be reported to the non emergency Police line at 303-663-6100 or Report a Concern. When prompted to select an issue type, choose "Vehicle parked in the same place..." The Castle Rock Police Department will be notified of your concern.

Report a Concern

7. In a residential neighborhood, is it legal to park on the opposite side of the street, going against traffic? Also, is it legal to park with two wheels on the sidewalk?

Both are illegal. Vehicles must park with the flow of traffic and cannot park on the sidewalk.

8. Is it legal for motorized dirt bikes to be driven on streets in The Meadows? It is legal for motorized vehicles/bikes to ride in the open space adjacent to Morning Glory and Waverton Ranch?

Dirt bikes that are registered with the State are legal to drive on streets. As to the open space, if someone has permission from the property owner - the Meadows HOA, in this case - to use the property in that way, they may. If they do not have permission from an HOA representative, then riding in that area could be considered trespassing and/or damaging property.

It shall be unlawful for any person to drive, ride upon or engage in the recreation use of any motorized recreation vehicle within the Town upon any private lands, other that his or her own, unless the use thereon has been specifically authorized by the Town, or unless written permission has been secured from the owner of the land allowing such use and such permission is in the possession of the person so using the land.

Updated Jan. 17, 2023

9. What are the laws around marijuana consumption outdoors on residential property? Are these laws being enforced?

With the passage of the Colorado Medical Use of Marijuana, Initiative 20 (in 2000), and the Colorado Marijuana Legalization Initiative, Amendment 64 (in 2012), marijuana use (subject to certain restrictions) was legalized in the State. Article XVIII of the Colorado Constitution, Section 16 (3)(d), titled "Personal Use and Regulation of Marijuana" states: Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the following acts are not unlawful and shall not be an offense under Colorado law or the law of any locality within Colorado or be a basis for seizure, or forfeiture of assets under Colorado law for persons twenty-one years of age or older: (d) Consumption of marijuana, provided that nothing in this section shall permit consumption that is conducted openly and publicly or in a manner that endangers others. A number of Colorado statutes also govern various aspects of marijuana use. Generally, property owners are permitted to make their own choices about marijuana use on their property. However, there are a number of considerations that need to be taken into account when making determinations surrounding the "legality" of marijuana use, on private property, which are driven by particularized factual circumstances. Accordingly, we are not in a position to make global statements about any specific situation. The Castle Rock Police Department is sworn to enforce the laws and it is committed to doing so.

10. Is it true that Castle Rock’s growth is bringing more crime?

Although no community is immune from crime, Castle Rock is a very safe community. Castle Rock Police Department (CRPD) strives to keep up with population growth as we continue to provide a high level of public safety service to the community. It is worth noting the Town of Castle Rock has received continued recognition as being among Colorado's safest places from various organizations throughout the years.

Note: Crime statistics are published each year in Castle Rock Police Department Annual Report.

Updated Jan. 29, 2021

Castle Rock Police Department Annual Report

11. Why are the firefighters on overpasses/bridges on I-25?

A group called the Federal Protection Agency (follow them on Facebook) provides escorts of fallen military personnel to and from Denver International Airport (DIA). Usually, they are taking the fallen member from Colorado Springs to DIA to be flown home.

Whenever this occurs, they notify all public safety agencies along the route of their estimated travel times. When possible, CRFD stands at to the overpasses to render honors as the fallen member passes through Castle Rock. Castle Rock police officers and Douglas County sheriff's deputies also join when available, and most public safety agencies pay their respects along the entire route.

12. I’ve heard Pit Bulls will no longer be banned. Is that true?

As a home rule municipality, the Town of Castle Rock has its own set of laws and codes. Following two open houses, written public feedback and three Town Council public hearings, Council officially approved staff's recommended changes to the Town Code related to animals.

No dogs are restricted based on their appearance or breed. Restrictions are now based on dog behavior, and are identified in a two-tiered system defining potentially dangerous dogs, and dangerous dogs. A dog need not bite to be determined as potentially dangerous. A potentially dangerous dog may be allowed to remain in the Town under court ordered restrictions. A dog determined to be a dangerous dog is not allowed in the Town.

updated April 16, 2021

Learn about animal ordinances

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1. Some time ago I read where the town administration was creating a truck routing system requiring large trucks to use only certain streets or roads.

I continue to see large tractor trailer semis and mobile pre-mix concrete trucks using Gilbert Street which was one the the streets that was supposed to restrict those types of vehicles. What happened to that plan?

Through an ordinance approved by Town Council in October 2022, the Town created a truck route program to help reduce cut-through freight traffic in residential areas.

Although the comprehensive truck route program began last October, the routes will not be official until signage is installed along the roadside. The project team is currently in the process of installing these signs this spring. Signs are currently being installed within right of way owned by the Town. We are also finalizing the approval process with the Colorado Department of Transportation to install signs within their right of way. We anticipate all signs will be installed by May 2023. Once installed, the Town’s designated truck route will commence.

The Town’s designated truck route program applies to freight and cut-through traffic only. Trucks with destinations away from the routes will be able to deviate from the approved routes to complete deliveries. Overall, this ordinance is expected to lessen the trucks on Gilbert Street, but will not completely remove them.

Published March 31, 2023.

2. Can you help me out with a reference in the Town Code regarding the pedestrian warning lights such as those on Wilcox Street in the Downtown area?

Although there is no specific mention of our flashing beacon crosswalks in Town Code, our Traffic Engineering Division regularly references the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices to determine their use and function.

Additionally, the Federal Highway Administration has approved the use of flashing beacon crosswalks as a supplemental treatment to improve the visibility of pedestrians trying to cross. The flashing lights inform drivers that there is a pedestrian present. This should raise drivers' awareness and their ability to yield, which is the State law in Colorado.

The Town has found that when using flashing beacon crosswalks, we improve the driver yield rate to over 90% of the time versus without, which is only about 50% of the time. Pedestrians need to make sure the driver is yielding to them before proceeding and to always proceed with caution. The section that references yielding is from the Colorado Model Traffic Code, which was adopted by the Town in the Town Municipal Code with a few exceptions and clarifications. For more information on the Model Traffic Code, reference Title 10 of Town Code.

3. Why are the striping on the roads not reflective?

The striping on all Town roads is painted with reflective material. The Public Works Department uses a contractor to paint and place reflective beads on our road markings to follow Colorado Department of Transportation specifications. To ensure Town striping is effective, Public Works completes a nighttime inspection at the beginning of the winter season to confirm that its reflective nature will last through the cold weather. Another layer of reflective paint striping is applied to our roads in early spring.

The lifespan of pavement markings can vary based on traffic volumes and weather conditions. If you have a certain spot of concern, please send the location to the Public Works Department by email or by calling 720-733-2462. The team would be happy to look into this further for you.

Published Dec. 14, 2022

4. Will the middle segment of Woodlands Boulevard ever be built?

Construction of the middle segment of Woodlands Boulevard is identified in the Town's Transportation Master Plan. The Town prioritizes roadway improvements based on the available budget. After the annual budget review, this construction project was not included in the Five Year Capital Improvement Program. This is mostly due to the undeveloped property that Woodlands Boulevard would need to pass through. If this property does not develop within either the Town or Douglas County, a future determination on the need for this improvement will be assessed. The property owners of this section of land have submitted a development application with Douglas County. The Town of Castle Rock is strongly opposing the application before the County. For more information on Douglas County development applications, visit the County web page regarding development review and regulations.

Published Aug. 12, 2022

5. Will there be plans to update the Wilcox Street/Wolfensberger Road and Interstate 25 intersection?

The Wilcox Street/Wolfensberger Road and Interstate 25 interchange is owned, operated and maintained by the Colorado Department of Transportation. However, Town staff is leading a Townwide signal system project that includes upgrading vehicle detection and retiming the traffic signals at this interchange. The vehicle detection was upgraded in April 2022, and the traffic signal retiming effort will begin in June 2022.

Published May 26, 2022

6. What process does the Town use to decide whether to install a stoplight or a roundabout at an intersection?

The Town reviews the need to install a traffic signal or roundabout at an intersection during the review of new development projects and for Town-initiated projects.

For new development areas, we ask developers to document traffic through a Traffic Impact Analysis to determine the best method of traffic control. Where the amount of vehicles is forecasted to be higher, roundabouts are the preferred option, due to the advantages they have over traffic signals related to safety and efficiency.

Roundabouts can reduce accidents and improve traffic flow at intersections. As a result, they are preferred to traffic signals or to four-way stop controls unless it can be demonstrated that a specific location is not a good candidate. View the at benefits of a roundabout.

Read more about the Town's process for installing traffic signals. The Town follows the national guidelines of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices to meet the minimum requirements to install a traffic signal. This process includes an engineering evaluation called a Traffic Signal Warrant Study. These studies are conducted annually based on the Town's intersection watch list and changes in traffic volumes across the community. Intersections are also evaluated at least every two years as a part of the Town's Crash Facts Report, which determines locations across Town that would most benefit from safety improvements.

During the Town's engineering evaluation, the feasibility of installing a roundabout is considered. This evaluation includes an operational and safety analysis consisting of a review of crash history, pedestrian and bicycle safety, vehicle safety, available land use and overall benefit-to-cost analysis. Based on this portion of the analysis, the recommendation for installing a traffic signal versus a roundabout is made.

The Town strives for transparency when making traffic decisions. Typically, the Town will hold an open house or will seek community feedback through our website. This assists us in making a final decision.

Published May 17, 2022

7. Is there a plan to extend Prairie Hawk Drive to Plum Creek Parkway?

As part of our Transportation Master Plan (PDF), the Town is recommending to connect Prairie Hawk Drive and Plum Creek Parkway. This project would be in partnership with a future development, so timing is not yet determined.

8. Are there any plans to widen Wolfensberger from Red Hawk Drive to Coachline?

As part of our Transportation Master Plan and the Five Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP), the Town has plans to widen Wolfensberger Road. Currently, the design phase of the project is set to begin in 2022. If land acquisition is needed, design may extend to 2023, with construction set to begin in 2024. These timeframes are subject to change based on yearly updated revenue projections.

Updated Jan. 10, 2022

9. What is the plan for roadways in terms of fifth street and the traffic through downtown as it relates to the new developments up on ridge road and north of highway 86? It is already very congested,

and it would appear those 1200+units going in would make it very very difficult to navigate downtown. Will there be a bypass for those who live in downtown, terrain, etc?

The Town's Transportation Master Plan (TMP) is the document that provides a guide on how the Town will work to address the additional traffic from new development. The TMP projects what future traffic conditions are expected to be with the planned growth and then identifies what roadway projects will be needed to address congestion associated with that growth. A new bypass in the vicinity of Downtown Castle Rock is not a project in the current TMP. The recommended projects from the TMP are reviewed and prioritized each year based on the available funding. The highest priority projects are included in the Town's five-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP).

Specifically regarding Downtown, the Town initiated the Downtown Mobility Master Plan in 2018 as a follow up to the TMP to plan for future growth and its impact on Downtown. The goal of the plan was to identify transportation improvement projects that maintain mobility, reduce congestion and improve access throughout Downtown. Several improvement projects have been identified in the report and will be implemented with other priorities in Town. This includes intersection improvements and bike and pedestrian improvements.

Some of the key recommendations identified as part of the Downtown Mobility Master Plan include a series of intersection improvements such as new roundabouts and new traffic control patterns. Similar to the larger TMP, all recommended capital projects identified in the Downtown Mobility Master Plan will need to be prioritized against other transportation needs.

Additionally, the Town is underway with a design to widen Fifth Street and add bike lanes and sidewalks in an effort to improve mobility along this corridor. Construction is expected to begin in 2023, according to the Town's Capital Improvement Program.

Updated Jan. 11, 2022

10. Is there a plan to make the city more accessible by walking/biking? We have a lot of sidewalks that end abruptly and bike lanes that go nowhere.

Our neighborhoods seem to be on their own little islands. Rec trails are great for families or walking the dog, but they don't allow people to get from A to B. I've seen the master plan documents, but it seems like CR is way behind the times when it comes to transportation and it seems to be getting worse as we expand without a comprehensive plan.

Thank you for sharing your concerns regarding biking and walking in Town. The Town strongly supports being able to bike or walk to destinations in Town and surrounding communities. In 2017, the Transportation Master Plan was updated and is available to review on the Town's website. It shows the master planned vision which is our goal, and includes adding bike lanes and multi-use sidepaths (wide sidewalks) to a number of streets throughout Town. Wide sidepaths are wide enough to accommodate people walking or biking, which is especially important for adults or children who do not feel comfortable biking in the roadway. As guided by this plan, the Town is also constantly adding new on-street bike lanes every year as part of the Pavement Maintenance Program, which will add a new striped bike lane where one is planned and where pavement width permits. In some instances, new sidewalks will also be constructed as part of the annual Pavement Maintenance Program (PMP) work.

Updated Jan. 11, 2022

11. Why can't the traffic engineer time the lights so you don't have to stop at every red light. Founders is a mess.

Timing signals is an imperfect science, and in Castle Rock, managing that science is a partnership between the Town and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT).

CDOT owns and operates signals along U.S. Highway 85, including the segment between U.S. 85 and I-25 known as Meadows Parkway. The same is true for Founders Parkway, between I-25 and Fifth Street. Some signals are pre-programmed to go with the ebb and flow of traffic, based on traffic counts and patterns during certain times of the day.

Considering the level of growth and changing traffic patterns in and around Castle Rock, the Town and CDOT have regular discussions and review traffic operations. The Town is currently working with CDOT on two projects with the anticipated implementation date of spring 2022. One project is related to adaptive signal timing, which adjusts the signal timing based on real-time traffic needs, balancing the delay of all vehicles on the corridor. You can learn more about the Town's philosophy and how we measure this topic in our asset management plan on our website.

Updated Jan. 10, 2022

12. What road construction is happening in Castle Rock?

Generally speaking, the Town defines two types of roadwork: maintenance and capital improvement projects. For maintenance projects, the Town takes a strategic approach through the annual Pavement Maintenance Program. Neighborhood roadwork is concentrated to one of five areas of Town on a rotating basis. This maintenance extends the life of Town roads and helps the Town get the most out of its investment in infrastructure. Learn more and see when improvements are coming to your area. Capital improvement projects are those that address safety or congestion-related concerns. This work includes adding new lanes, improving intersections and more. Learn more about capital improvement projects and the pavement maintenance program.

View current lane and road closures.

Updated Feb. 9, 2021

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1. Can we have a rain barrel on our property to collect rain water and/or sump pump discharge water? I thought rain barrels were legal in Colorado but have heard conflicting opinions locally.

What are the rules and regulations regarding the use of these on private property? 

In 2016, House Bill 1005 was signed allowing rainwater collection of up to two rain barrels - with a combined capacity of 110 gallons - at each Colorado household. Collected rainwater may be used to irrigate outdoor lawns, plants or gardens. If you live within a homeowner's association, check the guidelines as your homeowners association (HOA) may have aesthetic requirements for the location and/or appearance of rainwater barrels.

Published July 8, 2022

2. Will pharmaceuticals (birth control, hormones, etc.) and other chemicals and organic material (such as blood) be extracted from our drinking water with advanced treatment?

If so, will it remove all or most of these compounds? I have read that reverse osmosis tends to remove everything, but I was not sure about microfiltration.

Yes, pharmaceuticals, hormones and other non-regulated contaminants are being removed to below detectable levels by the advanced treatment processes that has been added to the Plum Creek Water Purification Facility as part of our reuse project. The processes added include ozone treatment, biologically active carbon filtration, ultraviolet radiation and granular activated carbon filtration. These are in addition to microfiltration, which is already used at the facility. Microfiltration is very similar to, but not quite as extensive as, reverse osmosis. There are now a total of nine different treatment processes to provide redundancies ensuring a pure water with efficiencies for equipment and operations.

Regardless of where our water originates, Castle Rock Water must meet very strict state and federal regulations to provide clean and safe water. In fact, the wastewater treatment plant also must remove contaminants from water before releasing it into the creek, as communities downstream are already picking this water up to treat it for drinking water.

Updated Jan.19, 2022

3. Will the cost of our water go down with the implementation of water reuse, or should we expect costs to remain steady?

One of the reasons we are implementing reuse is that it is a more economical solution for Castle Rock. Pumping water from thousands of feet below the surface, or from sources far away, is more expensive than using water we already own and is within our community. Projections indicate we may still need to raise rates slowly over time, but at a much smaller pace than if we were to use other water supplies.

Updated Jan. 29, 2021

4. Why are we being forced to drink recycled water starting in 2020? Did I miss a Town vote on this? I do not want to drink recycled water. I'd rather slow Town growth than drink recycled water.

Reuse water is a safe, sustainable and economical water source for the community that Castle Rock Water has been planning for since 2006. There was not a vote held on this, but rather years of outreach and planning to secure the community's long-term water future. Planning documents can be found at the Water Plans and Regulations page, and the public is invited to attend the monthly Water Commission meetings to learn more about long-term water. Reuse water is the wave of the future, and as all water is recycled, this transition is a natural process. It is estimated that all South Metro communities will be using reuse water by 2050. Most communities are already recycling water, as treated wastewater is discharged into rivers and then picked up for drinking water treatment by communities downstream. Instead of allowing cities downstream to use this water that we have paid for, we will be recapturing it. While water demand is a factor, reuse water and transitioning to a renewable water are necessary for a sustainable future, regardless of growth.

Updated Jan. 18, 2022

5. What is the source of the water in Sellars Gulch? It flows year-round through Festival Park but seems to disappear just a few miles upstream.

Sellars Gulch is a surface stream that flows into East Plum Creek. The stream has natural flows that come from rain and snow, sprinkler systems, and natural surface springs. Surface streams, like Sellars Gulch, are a dynamic system that lose and gain water as they travel downstream. Sellars Gulch is wet around Festival Park, but then dips below ground. The water spreads among the sand and gravel underground, but then can be extracted as a drinking water supply downstream. Water that exists in the sand and gravel adjacent to a surface stream below ground is called an alluvial aquifer.

Updated Jan. 29, 2021

6. Why is Castle Rock Water asking residents, HOAs, and commercial customers to conserve more water?

Conserving water is simply the right thing to do. Castle Rock Water's conservation efforts are about being proactive and asking for help from all water customers. Conserving water in the landscape is the easiest place to be more efficient and save. Every year, Castle Rock Water prepares a Summer Demand Plan, which helps predict the summer water demand. This plan takes into account new water supplies, weather projects and other changes in our community. The Town is utilizing more renewable water supplies from sources such as East Plum Creek. These renewable sources are very sustainable in the long term, but are affected by seasonal weather conditions. The recent hot, dry weather and lack of rain has resulted in some renewable water sources dropping to record low levels. One immediate solution is to reduce peak summer use. Peak demand is when everyone is using the water at the same time. Typical water usage over the summer is about 13.4 million gallons per day. Typical water usage during the winter is only 4 million gallons. On very hot, dry days, usage can shoot up to excess of 17 million gallons. It's not that we are running out of water, but is difficult for the storage tanks and distribution lines to keep up with this daily demand. What this means for water customers is to stick to the watering schedules of every-third-day and watering during the cooler hours of the evening. All customers, residents, HOAs and businesses, including the Town, have these watering schedules (though the times and days may differ.) The watering schedules spread out the demand and the evening watering times reduce evaporation, a major water waste. Customers are also encouraged to replace plants with low and no water landscaping, use more efficient irrigation products and adjust irrigation run times.

Visit Conserve Castle Rock to find the watering schedule, tips for indoor and outdoor conservation, registration for Water Wiser and ColoradoScape workshops, and rebates for water efficiency products.

Updated Jan. 18, 2022

7. Is our water bill among the highest in the nation?

No, but our rates are a result of the local challenges related to water supply in our semi-arid region. Like most South Metro communities, Castle Rock is transitioning from a deep groundwater, nonrenewable supply to a renewable supply which comes from snow and rain. This will ensure a sustainable water source for the future. Castle Rock Water rates are mid-range compared to Front Range providers. See how one study compares water and sewer rates nationally. Keep in mind that comparing water bills is not easy, as every water provider is different. For instance, one reason a water bill from Denver Water is less than Castle Rock Water is that it is for drinking water service only. Separate bills (or property taxes imposed) are required for wastewater and stormwater in some other communities while, in Castle Rock, it is all on one bill. Castle Rock Water rates and fees are analyzed and adjusted annually, and this plan is reviewed by a resident-driven, open-meeting Water Commission.

Updated Jan. 29, 2021

8. Why aren’t developers required to desert-scape in Castle Rock?

Developers are required to utilize low-water landscaping materials designed for our semi-arid environment. There are very specific requirements for landscape materials and irrigation practices and the landscape criteria manual (PDF) is updated periodically. For example, Kentucky Bluegrass is not allowed on common spaces and, in 2018, it is no longer allowed anywhere for new development in the Town - including on residential lots.

While we are high, mountain desert, we don't call it desert-scape. We don't even call it xeriscape. These terms give the idea of rock and cactus. While beautiful, this is not the native Colorado landscape. Castle Rock advocates "ColoradoScape," which emphasizes landscape design with a variety of colorful, low-water-use plants, accented by boulders and filled in with various organic mulch.

Updated Jan. 29, 2021

9. Does the Town have a surplus of water it sells to other communities?

Castle Rock Water has been purchasing water rights in areas of the South Platte River watershed for the last five years as part of our long-term water supply strategic master plan (PDF). We are also working on projects to fully reuse all of the water the Town already owns the legal right to use. While we work to build infrastructure (pipes, tanks, plants, etc.) to use that water, Castle Rock leases the water to other entities in order to maximize revenues, to help offset the costs to our customers for developing these water supplies. Our goal is to keep rates as low as we can while still ensuring we have a healthy water supply, updated infrastructure and sustainable water future.

Updated Jan. 18, 2022

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1. What is the sales tax rate in Castle Rock?

Castle Rock's combined sales tax rate is 7.9%, which includes State of Colorado (2.9%), Douglas County (1%) and Town (4%).

2. How do I obtain a business and tax license in Castle Rock?

Please visit the Revenue/Sales Tax page for the proper applications. Contact the Sales Tax Division via email or 303-660-1397.

Sales Tax Division

3. How do I get on the bid list?

All requests for proposals are posted on the Rocky Mountain Bid System website. Interested bidders need to register with Rocky Mountain Bid System. Direct any questions to:
Purchasing 303-660-1377
Town of Castle Rock
100 N Wilcox St.
Castle Rock, CO 80104

4. What Town services are paid for with tax money?

Your tax money supports the Town's Fire and Rescue, Police, streets, Parks, Open Space, Recreation Center and administration services.

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1. Why do I need to bring the car seat manual?

The manual should always be checked over at every inspection. Some seats have small nuances that are not totally obvious and our certified car seat technicians will need to look through it with you.

2. What if I don't have the car seat manual?

You will need to pull the manual up on your phone. This way, the manual can be referenced during the inspection and education around the car seat and you will have it on hand for future reference.

3. What to do with your car seat after a crash?

It is recommended that car seats be replaced following a severe or moderate crash. A car seat may not need to be replaced after a minor crash.

If one or all of the following apply, the crash was considered minor:

• The vehicle was able to be driven away from the site of the crash.
• The vehicle door nearest the car seat was not damaged.
• There were no injuries sustained to any passengers in the crash.
• The vehicle airbags did not deploy.

If there is damage to the car seat or the car door nearest the seat was damaged, the car seat must be replaced. Your insurance company may assist you in replacing your car seat.

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1. Why doesn't Castle Rock have tornado sirens?

Tornado sirens, better known as outdoor warning systems, are designed for one purpose - to alert people who are outdoors of potential tornadoes. They are not intended, nor designed, to alert people in houses, businesses or vehicles of tornado warnings. Most outdoor warning systems in place in Colorado today are remnants of the old civil defense siren system. Outdoor warning systems are expensive. Based on the model that says one siren covers 1 mile, the Town would need a minimum of 33 sirens at a cost of about $35,000 each, or $1.16 million. That amount does not include annual maintenance and fees. To be prepared in the event of tornadic activity, the Town recommends that each homeowner and business purchase a NOAA weather radio. A good radio costs $25 and $50 and can be purchased at local stores. Some even are portable. These radios will alert you to any severe weather, not just tornadoes. Residents also can register with a number of free services on the Internet to have severe weather alerts sent to their mobile devices. These steps will ensure that you get notified of severe weather whether you are at home, work or outdoors. Preparedness begins with the individual, and these are two easy steps to be more prepared.

2. How do I become a firefighter with the Castle Rock Fire and Rescue Department?

Minimum requirements generally include a valid Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), a valid test score with the National Testing Network, a high school diploma, and an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or EMT-P certification. CRFD only accepts applications during specified posting times, which are posted on the Job Opportunities page.

3. What are the Town's fire restrictions?

The Town's fire restrictions page, available at the Fire Restrictions page, will give you clear and concise direction. If you require further information or more clarification, call us at 303-660-1066.

4. How do I dispose of my fire extinguisher?

For information on proper fire extinguisher disposal, visit the Douglas County Health Department Household Waste Management page. CRFD does not accept fire extinguishers for disposal.  CRFD does not recharge fire extinguishers. CRFD encourages individuals to contact the manufacturer of your fire extinguisher to get accurate information regarding safe handling of their product, safe disposal of their product and more.

5. Where can I dispose of used sharps for proper disposal?

CRFD recommends individuals contact their residential waste management company regarding information on safe and proper sharps disposal. For more information on proper sharps disposal, visit the Douglas County Health Department Household Waste Management page.

6. Why do you send a fire truck/engine when someone calls for an ambulance?

The Castle Rock Fire and Rescue Department has fire stations strategically placed geographically throughout the Town. To meet current demands, each station hosts one fire truck or engine and three of our stations have an ambulance. Each fire truck/engine and each ambulance have at least one paramedic, and the rest are Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). By having paramedics on each apparatus, this allows us to get a paramedic to you as quickly as possible, no matter who arrives first. Also, some calls require more assistance than others, which is why we send both a fire truck/engine with an ambulance. If there is only a need for an ambulance after the scene has been assessed, the fire truck/engine will go back into service and can then immediately respond to calls again.

7. What hospital will I be transported to?

You or your loved ones may choose which hospital you are taken to. The only exceptions to this are if you are having a serious enough medical emergency that we must go to a specialized facility that has the appropriate doctors, staff and equipment to treat your serious illness or injury. The majority of these specialized facilities are located in close proximity to us. This decision will be made by the paramedics on scene.

8. Will I get a bill from the Fire Department if you come and rescue me?

The only emergency service for which you will receive a bill from Castle Rock Fire and Rescue is for transportation by one of our ambulances with a paramedic to a local hospital. The Castle Rock Fire and Rescue Department responds to many different types of calls, but the only incidents that generate a bill are those for ambulance transports. You will not be billed if you receive care but are not transported by ambulance.

The Castle Rock Fire Department uses a third party vendor for its invoicing services. If you require assistance with your ambulance bill, please contact Apex Paramedics at 720-486-0591.

9. How many firefighters are on duty in Castle Rock on any given day?

There are 22 to 27 firefighters serving at five stations, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information on our staffing please visit our website.

10. What is the CRFD shift schedule like?

A firefighter's schedule is 48 hours on-duty, followed by 96 hours off-duty. During their shift, they respond to any 911 call in addition to training, station and apparatus up keep and maintenance, as well as other administrative duties. Chiefs and administrative staff work a typical 40-hour work week, in addition to on-call hours and special assignments.

11. Are all CRFD firefighters paramedics? What’s the difference between an EMT and a Paramedic?

All Castle Rock firefighters are trained to a minimum level of Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) work. Some have received additional education to obtain Paramedic certification, which allows them to operate under a larger "scope of practice," administer a greater number of medications, place breathing tubes, etc.

12. Why does the fire apparatus park in the fire lane, even when not on a call?

While the firefighters are at the store they still must respond on any incoming 911 call as quickly as possible. If they are called out on an emergency, parking in the fire lane will allow for a quick exit and timely response to the emergency.

13. Does CRFD have a fire dog?

No. Unfortunately having a dog around the station is not feasible, as they require care that we cannot ensure during a shift that might have us out of the station for extended periods of time.

14. Who buys the food when you are at the grocery store?

Castle Rock Firefighters are at work for 48 hours straight. This means that they must eat all their meals for these two days at the firehouse. The crew members buy all of the food out of their own pockets. How much they spend, and what they cook is up to them. Firefighters do not use taxpayer money to shop for food.

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1. Do you have a printout of the fitness class schedule?

Schedules are available to print by visiting our expanded schedules page.

To filter to a specific calendar, click "Deselect All" in the Legend Key. Then, click on the category, or categories, you are interested in viewing. Keep in mind, some schedules may not be listed as a category. View those individual expanded schedules on the left-hand navigation of this page. Class schedules are also available on our app which is free to download in the Google Play and Apple App Store or iOS by searching "RockRec."

2. How old to you have to be to participate in the group fitness classes?

We recommend the ages 13 years and older.

3. Does it cost extra to take a group fitness class?

No! Classes on the group fitness schedule are free with facility admission or membership.

Fitness Schedule

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1. What are the planned improvements?

The Improved Signalized Intersection alternative was chosen as the recommended alternative. The intersection will be controlled by a traffic signal, and lanes will be added on all legs of the intersection, including an additional through lane in every direction, double left turn lanes for northbound and southbound traffic, and a separate southbound right turn lane. Islands on each corner will allow for free right turns. Protected left turns will be included (where drivers can only turn left with an arrow signal) and are to be programmed by time of day to change to a flashing yellow arrow.

This project will accommodate bicyclists and pedestrians in a safe manner. On-street bike lanes will be carefully considered with the speeds and volumes at this intersection. A pedestrian overpass is not planned due to the high cost of that improvement. Widened sidewalks and improved at-grade crossings will be included.

Reviewed March 7, 2023.

2. Will access to nearby business and commercial properties south of 5th Street/Hwy 86 be maintained or improved?

On the east side of Ridge Road, the Founders Marketplace access will remain in the current location. The Founders Marketplace accesses at Ridge Road and Highway 86 were evaluated with the project design and it was determined that turn lane lengths and transitions would not allow for improved accesses due to traffic signal operations and available right-of-way, so the existing accesses will be maintained in their current state as right in/right out turning movements.

On the west side of Ridge Road, the existing access to the Emmaus Anglican Church will be removed, and a new access constructed on Fifth Street across from Bader Court. The Town is finalizing the design of the new driveway in which the Church has agreed to.

Updated March 7, 2023.

3. Does the Town plan to improve Hwy 86, Ridge Road, and Fifth Street to allow the Four Corners intersection to operate well?

Additional analysis was conducted to determine the length of lanes and widening needed in all directions from the intersection with this project. In addition, the Town plans to widen Fifth Street to the east from this intersection to Gilbert Street as a separate project in 2023. Ridge Road is currently under construction to widen to a full four-lane roadway from the traffic signal at the King Soopers entrance, south to Plum Creek Parkway. Both the Fifth Street and Ridge Road widening projects include bike lanes. Widening of Founders Parkway to the north of the intersection is also included in the Douglas County Transportation Plan.

Updated March 7, 2023.

4. How long do you expect the improved intersection to handle our growing traffic volumes?

Improvements were designed to accommodate traffic at least through the year 2040. The regional travel demand model developed for the Douglas County Transportation Plan was used to forecast traffic volumes. This takes into consideration future development and roadway network improvements through the year 2040.

Reviewed March 7, 2023.

5. When will Four Corners intersection improvements be constructed?

Construction is expected to begin in summer 2023 and will likely be finished in spring 2024.

Updated March 30, 2023.

6. How will traffic detour during construction? Will rush hour, business, and school traffic be taken into consideration?

Details such as construction phasing, lane closures/shifts, and detour routes will be determined by the contractor once they are chosen in the spring of 2023. The Town anticipates construction can be completed through a sequence of lane closures and doesn’t anticipate directing detoured traffic through nearby neighborhood streets. Every possible effort will be made to minimize impacts to vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle traffic.

Updated March 7, 2023.

7. Why wasn’t a roundabout the recommended intersection configuration here? They seem to work well at other locations.

Although roundabouts are a good solution in many locations, they aren’t ideal for an intersection such as this with high traffic volumes and high turning movement volumes. A roundabout here could operate well until 2030 when increasing traffic volumes would create congestion and queues on the roadways leading into the roundabout. In addition, the multiple lanes needed for a proposed roundabout at this intersection could cause driver expectancy issues and crashes. The Improved Signalized Intersection provides a longer-term solution and has more flexibility for small modifications to address specific heavy turning movements.

Reviewed Mach 7, 2023.

8. How is public input being considered?

Community member input from the first online public open house confirmed the recommended improvements. A second open house was held in July 2021 to gather feedback regarding the preliminary (30%) design. Community member suggestions are being used to optimize improvements and minimize impacts as the design is finalized. Please join the project mailing list to receive notices of other project updates, and/or send comments through the project web page.

Reviewed March 7 2023.

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1. Are sparklers allowed at the celebration?

No sparklers, firecrackers, or fireworks of any kind are permitted at the Park. 

2. Will there be a fireworks show on July Fourth?

This year, we are excited to offer residents a full day of activities for the entire family at Philip S. Miller Park in celebration of our nation's birthday. The fun-filled Castle Rockin’ the Fourth event culminates with an Independence Day drone show, which replaces the fireworks display of years past. We know that many look forward to celebrating with fireworks; however, the fallout from a typical July 4 fireworks show poses a significant wildfire risk. The dry summers we’ve experienced the past several years have created a high risk of wildfire and resulted in show cancellations. Fireworks are still planned for Starlighting as the low-flying fireworks show poses less fire risk during a typically less dry time of year.

3. Where do I park? Is there a fee to park?

Parking is free!

If parking is not available within the park, a parking crew member will direct you to overflow parking. 

Overflow parking can be found at the Douglas County Fairgrounds at 500 Fairgrounds Road. The Town Trolley will be running between the Fairgrounds and Philip S. Miller Park. The Town trolley is wheelchair accessible.

4. Are grills allowed?

You may grill in the parking area. No open flames are allowed and the grill must fit into your parking spot.

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1. What is GIS?

Maps are powerful communication tools people use to locate streets, addresses and destinations. The Town uses maps to represent and analyze what is happening in our community and to plan for the future. A combination of computer software, people and data sets form the Town's Geographic Information System. The Division of Innovation and Technology uses GIS to create maps of Castle Rock and to answer more complex questions such as: How steep is the slope in this area? How dense is the housing in Plum Creek? What areas are Preble's mouse habitats?

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1. How do I find out what type of Internet access is available in the Castle Rock area?

If you live in the Town of Castle Rock, there are a variety of high-speed Internet options that may be available at your address. 

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1. What are the group class sizes?

All group classes have a minimum of three participants. Preschool classes have a maximum of four participants and many youth classes have a maximum of four participants. Our advanced swimmers in Pre-Team and Competitive Swim Technique classes max between six and ten participants.

2. What should we bring for swim lessons?

Commercially produced swim suit, towel, goggles (optional), swim cap or hair tie, swim diaper (if not potty-trained).

3. When can I register for a class?

Registration will open on the specific dates outlined in our registration portal. If you have a swimmer currently enrolled in the program, please contact your instructor two weeks prior to the end of your current session, to have a better understanding of what level you should sign up for next.

4. Is it possible to make up a lesson if a class is missed?

Due to pool and instructor availability, we are not able to provide make-up lessons. Refunds and pro-rations are not granted for missed classes or planned absences.

5. How do I cancel my lessons?

Please call our Aquatic Programming Specialist at 720-733-2283 or Learn to Swim Coordinator at 720-733-4485 before the session starts. Once a session has begun, refunds will not be granted. There will be a 10% cancellation fee charged for any class cancelled within three days of the start of a session.

6. Can my child swim before or after their lesson?

Learn to Swim registration fees include pool time (“Practice Swim”) for 30 minutes before or after your lessons for the participant only. All safety rules must be followed to ensure that we continue to permit Practice Swim each session. Should you wish to stay after using your 30 minutes of Practice Swim, or for siblings not enrolled in swim lessons, we ask you to visit the front desk to purchase a Daily Pass.

7. My swimmer is on the wait-list. How do I know if they are placed in a lesson?

If your swimmer is selected to participate from the wait-list (either somebody drops out of the class, or we create an additional section of the class), you will be notified by phone or email immediately. If you are not notified before the class starts, your swimmer was not selected. Waitlisting is free, and is useful to let us know where we may need to build a class in the future. It is always possible that a student will be moved to a different class on the first day, potentially freeing up space. So we encourage families to waitlist as necessary.

8. Are there changes in class times on a holiday?

We do not have lessons during the weeks of Thanksgiving, Christmas and Spring Break. There are also occasions where other holidays may interfere with programming, which will always be addressed at the time of registration and pro-rated for your convenience

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1. Is that open space really "open space?"

There are many open areas of privately owned pieces of land throughout Castle Rock where landowners may someday choose to develop. When they do, it’s possible that the vacant land behind your house may become something quite different. Sometimes, these uses change and real estate professionals – even very knowledgeable ones – may not know about recent developments or unusual agreements. Therefore, always feel free to call the Planning Division directly with questions regarding vacant land near your prospective home, 303-660-1393. Information in this regard is also available on the Undeveloped Properties tab of our Development Activity Map.

Updated May 6, 2022

2. How do I find out about zoning?

Learning the zoning of your neighborhood – and the definition of that zoning – before you buy is a good idea. Zoning is what determines if your neighbors can own ducks, if a church can be built next door or what kind of business you can operate out of your home. Because of the way Castle Rock was zoned in the early '80s, zoning definitions may vary between developments. For example, "multi-use" zoning in one neighborhood may allow different uses than "multi-use" zoning in another neighborhood.

Our Planning Division can help you determine what the zoning is for your neighborhood and nearby areas, plus what the definitions allow – call 303-660-1393.

3. What are Castle Rock’s taxes?

The Town of Castle Rock collects very little in property taxes. For example, a $450,000 home brings the Town approximately $38 for the year in 2021. However, property taxes are collected by other government entities such as Douglas County, the Douglas County Library District and Douglas County School District. If your home is located in a metro district – not all are – you’ll pay an additional tax that varies from district to district. Some developments use metro districts to pay for roads, water lines, sewer lines and other development infrastructure. To determine what your property and metro district taxes may be, call the Douglas County Assessor's Office, 303-660-7450. Town services primarily are paid for by municipal sales tax, which is 3.9 percent of the 7.9 percent paid in local sales tax. Therefore, the Town encourages residents to ensure quality services by shopping locally.

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1. I received a blue door tag. What does that mean?

Castle Rock Water electronically reads your water meter each month. When a problem occurs, you will receive a blue door tag explaining the need to set an appointment to inspect the transponder on your meter. An appointment is required for scheduling and safety purposes for all parties. The meter technician will not come into your home without an appointment.

2. What can I expect during an appointment from Castle Rock Water?

When the meter technician comes for the exact time appointment, for your safety, please ensure: 

1. Their vehicle is clearly marked with the Town of Castle Rock logo 
2. The tech is wearing a Town of Castle Rock shirt 
3. The tech has a picture ID badge 

For our technicians' safety, please ensure: 

1. All pets are secured 
2. An adult (18 or older) is present in the home 
3. The meter is easily accessible

3. Whose responsibility are the water lines in my home?

The Town owns and maintains all water service lines throughout the Town and to the point of connection at your property line. Your property will have a meter pit or curb stop with a valve and is the property of the Town. Lines from this valve into your home as well as all of the lines in your home, including sewer, are the homeowner's property and responsibility. Keep in mind, even though your water meter may be located within your property, it belongs to the Town. Tampering or damage to the meter is prohibited and reasonable access to this meter is required. (Municipal Code 13.12.050)

4. How do I turn off water in the event of a water emergency?

Should you need to turn off the water coming into your home (i.e. for a frozen pipe break), turn off your water at your water shut-off valve. This is usually located near your meter (on the meter tree) in your basement or crawl space on the wall closest to the street. Do not shut your water off at the street. The valve at the street is the property of the Town and should not be tampered with. Accessing this street valve/meter pit, during cold weather, can allow the warm air to escape and colder air in, potentially causing additional problems. If you need an emergency shut-off at the curb stop or meter pit, call 720-733-6000. For after-hours, simply press 1, and you will be connected to Castle Rock Police who will dispatch to on-call staff.

5. How do I avoid frozen pipes?

Cold weather can result in frozen pipes. If temperatures drop below freezing, follow these tips:

• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to uninsulated pipes under sinks near exterior walls.
• Set the thermostat in your house no lower than 55 degrees.
• Insulate pipes in your home's crawl space and attic. These exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing. Insulation, heat tape or thermostatically-controlled heat cables can help.
• Seal leaks that allow cold air inside near where pipes are located (e.g. electrical wiring, dryer vents and pipes).
• Disconnect garden hoses. If your water pipes are frozen, or if there is only a trickle, try some of the helpful tips listed below before calling a plumber:
• Locate where the water comes into your home - basement, crawl space or garage. Get heat to this area.
• Open your cabinet doors to let heat in on your pipes. A small space heater can help.
• Run a hair dryer on your pipe so heat can dispense through your plumbing system.
• Open a faucet, let a trickle run. If there is no water at all, leave the faucet open, but make sure the drains are clear.

If you are completely out of water after trying these steps, call us at 720-733-6000.

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1. What are the ages of children to be left alone at the MAC, REC and outdoor pools?

Children ages 11 and under must be accompanied by a guardian at least 15 years of age or older, at all times, to utilize the facilities.

2. I made an account online, but I can't access it - how can I get into my account to register?

Please make sure you are visiting recreation.crgov.com and attempting to log in/create an account from this page. If you are not in our registration portal, you may be attempting to create an account on the Town’s general website. The general website is not related to our registration system.

More information can be found by clicking here.

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1. What if I have more than 10 kids at my party?

We know how difficult it can be to finalize your party guest list in advance. All party packages are designed and priced for up to 10 kids, with an additional $5 per child over 10. Please let your party host know when you arrive on the day of your party if you have more than 10 kids. They are happy to set up for your additional guests and verify additional charges.

2. What is your cancellation policy?

A full refund will be given if parties give notice at least three weeks prior to the rental date.  A half refund will be given if parties give notice at least two weeks prior to the rental date.  All parties will be encouraged to reschedule.

3. Is food and cake allowed? Is alcohol permitted?

You are more than welcome to bring in food or drinks, however you are asked to keep this in the party room. NO alcohol is allowed in the facility.

4. What age does the MAC charge apply?

Children between the ages of 1-17 are included in your party attendee count. Additional admission information is available at CRgov.com/MAC.

5. When can I get into my party room?

You will have access to your party room as soon as your party host is able to complete set up for you. Please be courteous and watch your scheduled time, as there is most likely another party scheduled after yours. We want to make sure everyone is able to enjoy their scheduled times.

6. What do I do with my belongings during the day?

You are responsible for your own belongings before, during and after your party.  You will be provided with a cart to transfer your belongings from your car to the party room and then from the party room to your car after the party reservation is over. There is also limited locker space available and patrons are encouraged to bring padlocks for extra security.

7. Is there a refrigerator or freezer for use at the facility?

No. There is not a refrigerator or freezer available for customer use at the MAC. Please plan accordingly and use a cooler to keep your items cool.

8. Can we have food delivered?

You are welcome to have food delivered for your party. 

9. Can blow up toys be used in the pool?

No. Inflatable toys, flotation devices, mermaid tails, and confetti are not allowed in the pool area. Children age 7 and under need to be accompanied by an adult in the water.

10. Do we need to bring our own towels for the pool?

Yes, you will need to provide your own towels.

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1. Can I pay my ticket online?

You can pay your ticket online if: 1) Fines and costs are written at the bottom of the ticket or, 2) you have already been to court.

Pay ticket here

2. When is my payment, class, or community service due?

The due date for payment, a class, and/or community service is written on the sentencing summary sheet you received at court. If you do not have your sentencing summary, please call the court at 303-663-6133. 

3. Can I change my hearing date?

The clerks for the Municipal Court can change your hearing date one time and no more than 30 days after the original date. You must call the court at 303-663-6133 to inquire about changing your hearing date. 

4. Can I get an extension on my payment, class, and/or community service?

Please contact the court by email or at 303-663-6133 for any inquiries concerning extensions. 

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1. How do I get a deaf or blind child area warning sign installed on my street?

The Town of Castle Rock is very concerned about child safety. A resident living within the Town limits of Castle Rock who wishes to have a (Deaf/Blind) Child Area warning sign installed must submit a written request to the traffic engineer technician. The written request shall contain a statement to the effect that the child is under 18 years of age and shall be signed and dated by a parent. The request needs to have the child's address of residence and contact information of a parent for record keeping. The requester shall renew the request every two years in a written form to the traffic engineer. Documentation will need to be submitted by a licensed professional documenting the child's need for the warning signs in their neighborhood. Based on the location of where the signs need to be installed on your street, neighbors may need to be notified ahead of time as a courtesy. When a sign is approved, the following guidelines apply:

• The (Deaf/Blind) Child Area sign shall be placed in accordance with the guidelines in the MUTCD
• The sign placement will be reviewed every two years to insure that the criteria stated above still applies
• The sign(s) will be removed when the child becomes 18 years of age The requester of the sign shall be responsible for notifying the Town of Castle Rock traffic engineer if the child is no longer living at the address for which the signs were placed
• The requester of the sign shall recognize that these signs are supplemental signs for warning purposes only and do not carry full protection for the child

Reviewed Mar. 15, 2023

2. How are crosswalks determined?

In order to gain consistency on how crosswalks are marked, the Town's Traffic Engineering Division follows the Town Council-approved Crosswalk Marking Guidelines. The establishment of guidelines helps reduce the indiscriminate marking of crosswalks, helps increase awareness for motorists and pedestrians, and strives to increase safety for both. Crosswalk markings are not needed at intersections where legal crosswalks exist in order for them to be enforced. This is an important distinction to be kept in mind and is the guiding principal for the establishment of these guidelines. Markings should be limited to locations where legal crosswalks don't already exist in order to create one and at intersections with legal crosswalks only when additional supplemental treatments are added to increase safety. Standard locations that are marked are uncontrolled approaches, stop sign-controlled approaches, traffic signals on all approaches, school zone crosswalks and safe routes to school. All other locations are engineer-reviewed following the Crosswalk Marking Guidelines.

Reviewed Mar. 15, 2023

3. How do I get a stop sign installed on my street?

Each year, the Town of Castle Rock receives many requests to install stop signs as a way to reduce speeding. The purpose of a stop sign is to assign right-of-way at an intersection or where traffic is required to stop.

Stop signs are installed at intersections when an engineering evaluation indicates the installation is appropriate. They are installed where a minor street enters a major street, on a street entering a highway or where a combination of restricted view and accident history indicates a need.

Federal and state regulations require the installation of all traffic control devices, including stop signs, to follow the guidelines in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. The manual dictates the size, shape and color of all traffic control signs. This manual has guidelines for installing signs in order to create uniformity from state to state, which makes it easier to drive in places you have never visited before.

Similarly, many people believe installing stop signs on all approaches to an intersection will result in reduced speeding or fewer accidents.

There is no real evidence to indicate that stop signs decrease the overall speed of traffic. In fact, impatient drivers view the additional delay caused by unwarranted stop signs as lost time to be made up by driving at higher speeds between stop signs. Again, if problems with speeding exist, stricter enforcement should be sought from appropriate law enforcement authorities.

Reviewed Mar. 15, 2023

4. How are speed limits determined?

Speed limits on Town roadways are determined on the basis of traffic engineering surveys. These surveys include an analysis of roadway conditions, accident records and a count of the prevailing speed of traffic. A safe and reasonable limit is set at or below the speed at which 85% of drivers drive.

Traffic flowing at a uniform speed results in increased safety and fewer accidents. Drivers are less impatient, pass less often and tailgate less, which reduces both head-on and rear-end collisions.

Posting the appropriate speed limit eases the job of law enforcement so most traffic chooses to abide by the speed limit posted. Patrol officers then are not subjected to defend unrealistic and arbitrary speed limits.

Reviewed Mar. 15, 2023

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1. Who do I contact regarding parks maintenance?

Email the Parks Maintenance Division or call them at 720-733-2260 for questions, comments or updates on mowing schedules, weed trimming, watering, etc.

2. Where can I find an off-leash dog park?

The Town does not maintain an off-leash dog park. Douglas County does maintain one in Castle Rock, however, at Fairgrounds Regional Park. Douglas County off-leash dog parks

3. Are grills allowed in the park?

The Parks and Recreation Department does not provide grills. Gas grills are allowed, however, charcoal grills are not. Also, at times, Town fire restrictions may prohibit the use of all grills. Visit the Town’s fire restrictions website for more information.

4. How do I reserve a picnic shelter/pavilion?

Picnic pavilions at select parks are available for rental with at least two weeks' notice by calling 720-733-2260 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Pavilion and Field Reservations

5. Are there campgrounds located in Castle Rock?

No, the Town does not have any campgrounds within Town limits.

6. Are e-bikes and dirt bikes allowed on Castle Rock trails?

Motorized recreation vehicles, such as motorbikes, motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles are not allowed on trails or open spaces. While the Town does not have a specific ordinance on electric bikes, according to State law, electric bikes or e-bikes that reach 20 mph or less (designated as Class 1 and 2) can be ridden on bike, pedestrian or multi-use paths.

7. Are horses allowed on Town trails?

No, horses are not allowed. Horses are allowed on Hidden Mesa Open Space, maintained by Douglas County Open Space, located in the northeast section of Castle Rock with a trailhead on Highway 83.

8. Why is mountain biking prohibited at Gateway Mesa Open Space?

Due to permanent conservation easement restrictions placed on the property to protect the Conservation Values, mountain biking is prohibited on both Chuck’s Loop Trail and Legacy Trail.

9. Can I climb to the top of Castle Rock at Rock Park?

The Town does not maintain and has not improved, the rock scramble that is the ascent and descent to and from the top of Castle Rock. If you are a skilled climber or hiker, you can probably make it to the top. Climbing to the top is not generally illegal, but it is not recommended. You are responsible for your own safety and your decision to leave the trail.

The Rock has sheer walls that drop 50 feet or more, and falls have resulted in serious injuries and deaths. The climb down is more difficult than the climb up. Do not risk your life by depending on vegetation to stop a slip.

Climbers can be held responsible if hiking outside the park’s hours of dusk to dawn if creating a dangerous condition such as kicking rocks off of the summit – even if on accident – or for requiring an emergency response.

Additional information on Rock Park.

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1. How will I know when work is beginning on my street?

48 to 72 hours prior to work beginning on your street, you will receive a bright green notification on your front door. This door hanger will notify you about temporary inconveniences, such as parking off of your street and blocked driveway access. If work is delayed due to weather or other issues, you will receive a new door hanger with updates. "No Parking" signs will also be placed on your street 24 hours ahead of construction, along with electronic message boards about 3 to 5 days before work begins.

Reviewed March 6, 2023.

2. What happens if the contractor damages my property while working on my street?

Please email the Public Works Department or call 720-733-2462 to report any property damage. Public Works will respond to your request within two business days and corrections will be completed by the contractor within seven business days.

Reviewed March 6, 2023.

3. How do I get to my house if I can’t park on my street?

Sidewalks will still be accessible, and contractors will also assist residents to their homes by golf cart while street access is blocked. A phone number will be provided on the informational door hanger to request this service.

Reviewed March 6, 2023.

4. Where can I provide feedback on the work that is done on my street?

Please email the Public Works Department or call 720-733-2462 to provide feedback or ask questions. Near the end of the roadwork season, usually around September, a survey will be sent to your home. Your input helps us continue to improve our program and serve you better. 

Reviewed March 6, 2023.

5. How much money is the Town investing in road maintenance this year?

The Town is investing about $18.5 million in the Pavement Maintenance Program in 2023. The funding is primarily from the Transportation Fund, which includes revenue from sales tax, motor vehicle and building use taxes.

Updated March 6, 2023.

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1. How do I obtain a police report?

You may come into the Police Department during normal business hours (8 am to 5 pm. Monday through Friday, excluding holidays) and complete a records request form at the front counter. (You must have valid identification to obtain a report.) You can also access a request form (PDF) on the Town's website.

Police records

2. Can I do anything about a dog that barks all the time?

Document the barking (the dog must be barking for 10 minutes or more) on your audio/visual device and call Castle Rock Animal Control at 303-663-6100. Or you may Report a Concern. When prompted to select an issue type choose "Barking dog." The Castle Rock Police Department will be notified of your concern. It is unlawful to keep a dog that habitually barks or creates a nuisance. More information may be found at Report a barking dog.

Report a barking dog

3. Can I look up crime statistics for Castle Rock?

Yes, the Town of Castle Rock's crime statistics are reported to software company LexisNexis and reported on the Community Crime Map. You will be asked to accept their disclaimer statement. You may type the name of the Town or an address and use the search buttons under their Menu to create your report. Questions? Call 303-663-6104.

Community Crime Map

4. Are pet licenses required in Castle Rock?

Licenses are required for dogs, not cats. Any person owning, keeping or having custody of any dog older than 6 months must obtain a license. Get more information on licensing your dog.

Castle Rock Municipal Code

5. I want to be a police officer. How do I apply?

Applications are accepted only during specified posting times (generally in the fall) and are posted on the Town's Career Opportunities. Applicants must:

• Possess a high school diploma or GED (college coursework or a degree is preferred)
• Possess a valid Colorado driver's license with a good driving record
• Not have any felony convictions
• Be able to work any shift and be physically able to meet the demands of the job

More information on becoming a Police Officer

6. What is curfew in the Town of Castle Rock?

The Castle Rock Municipal Code 9.20.010 states curfew applies to those under the age of 18 from midnight to 5 am.

Exceptions

• Have a signed note from parents or legal guardian
• Be in transit from legal employment

7. How do I report a crime?

To report a crime, call 303-663-6100; a police officer will respond to your location or contact you by telephone. Many nonviolent crimes may be reported by filling out a counter report at the Police Department, or there is a convenient online form available for nonviolent crimes that occurred within the Town's limits. The online form may be used for crimes where there are no suspects or pursuable evidence / information, such as theft, identity theft, vandalism, trespass, or lost property.

ePoliceReporting

8. How do I file an online Police report?

ePoliceReporting allows residents and business owners to report nonviolent crimes such as gas theft, identity theft, vandalism, trespassing a vehicle or property, and lost property to police officers using the Web. Crimes reported through the system should be non-emergencies, occur within Town limits, and have no known suspects. Incidents occurring along Interstate 25 or on a state highway are not eligible, as those are pursued by Colorado State Patrol. In addition, crimes occurring in the unincorporated Douglas County areas are also not eligible, as those are handled by the Douglas County Sheriff's Office. All reports filed using the system are reviewed by a police officer and receive the same investigation and statistical analysis as if the report had been filed by an officer. If further review is needed, an officer will contact the person who filed the report.

File a report using ePoliceReporting

9. What is the noise ordinance in the Town of Castle Rock?

Radios, televisions, musical instruments and similar devices may not be audible 100 feet away, nor audible through the walls common to two parties. Construction noise is prohibited between the hours of 7 pm and 7 am on weekdays and between the hours of 6 pm and 8 am on weekends or holidays. To report noise issues call Castle Rock Police's non-emergency phone number 303-663-6100 or Report a Concern. When prompted to select an issue type, choose "Excessive noise."

(Updated April 16, 2021)

Report a Concern

10. How do I find lost property?

Call the Castle Rock Police Department's property and evidence technician, 303-660-7558.

(Updated April 16, 2021)

Lost and Found

11. How do I become a victim advocate volunteer?

Volunteers must complete a 40-hour training program (various programs held throughout the year). This program assists victims of crime by providing immediate crisis interventions, referrals and follow-up support. Volunteer staff works directly with Castle Rock Police officers and investigators. For specific questions about the program or application process, please contact the Victim Assistance Coordinator at 303-663-6110. You may also follow the link below for more information about this program.

Victim Advocate information

12. Can I have my fingerprints taken at the Castle Rock Police Department?

The Police Department no longer provides fingerprinting services in response to Senate Bill 17-189. For additional information on where you can obtain applicant fingerprint services, visit the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.

(Updated April 16, 2021)

Colorado Bureau of Investigation

13. Does the Town of Castle Rock require a monitoring permit for a home security system?

At this time, the Town of Castle Rock does not require a permit for home security systems.

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1. What do I do if my pet is missing?

If your dog is licensed through the Town, Castle Rock Animal Control should have your address and contact information. Many un-licensed pets are dropped off at the Castle Rock Buddy Center, which is a good place to start. For more information email Animal Control or call 303-663-6100.

(Updated April 16, 2021)

2. What do I do when my neighbor’s dog barks continuously?

Document the barking (the dog must be barking for 10 minutes or more) on your audio/visual device and call Castle Rock Animal Control at 303-663-6100. Or you may Report a Concern. When prompted to select an issue type choose "Barking dog." The Castle Rock Police Department will be notified of your concern.

(Updated April 16, 2021)

Report a Concern

3. Can I have a pit bull?

Yes, there are no longer breed specific restrictions. Restriction are now based on the dog's behavior.

4. Are dogs allowed off leash?

No, they are only permitted off leach in designated off leash parks.

5. Can I use an electronic leash?

No, physical leashes are required up to 10 feet long.

6. How do I license my dog?

Licenses are required for dogs, not cats. Any person owning, keeping or having custody of any dog older than 6 months must obtain a license. More information on licensing your dog can be found at the Pet Licensing website.

7. Do I need to license my cat?

No, cats no longer need to be licensed.

8. Am I allowed to have chickens?

Yes, up to 8 (no roosters) and check with your Home Owners Association as community by-laws may prohibit.

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1. How do I become a volunteer for Parks, Open Space and Trails – POST Partners Program?

Anyone can volunteer and make an impact in their community. To become a volunteer, register online for an event, then complete the yearly required Legal Waiver. For more information on next steps contact MJones@CRgov.com or visit CRgov.com/POSTPartners.  

2. Can my school, church group, or business do a volunteer event with POST Partners?

Yes. Please contact the Volunteer Coordinator to schedule a group event. For more information on the next steps contact MJones@CRgov.com or visit CRgov.com/POSTPartners.  

3. Can volunteer hours be verified for graduation or court ordered?

Yes. The Volunteer Coordinator can sign off on verified hours for high school graduation and court-ordered requests. For more information on the next steps contact MJones@CRgov.com or visit CRgov.com/POSTPartners.

4. What volunteer opportunities are available through the Town of Castle Rock’s POST Partners Program?

The Town of Castle Rock has many volunteer opportunities. The POST Partners Program utilizes volunteers on Town-owned Parks, Open Space and Trails.

For more information on the next steps contact MJones@CRgov.com or visit CRgov.com/POSTPartners.

5. What do I bring with me on volunteer events?

All supplies needed to perform volunteer duties are provided. Volunteers should plan to keep their hands free for tools, by keeping their cell phone, water and other belongings in a small backpack or in their vehicle. 

6. Why is volunteering so important?

Volunteering is a great way to meet new people while making a positive local impact. It strengthens your ties to the community and broadens your support network, exposing you to people with common interests, neighborhood resources, and fun and fulfilling activities.

7. What training will I get as a POST Partner volunteer?

You’ll get an introduction to the local area and onsite training on the day of the event. Crew Leaders are trained and background checked. For more information on the next steps contact MJones@CRgov.com or visit CRgov.com/POSTPartners.

8. Will you provide me with a reference when I have finished volunteering for you?

Yes. You can ask for a reference when you stop volunteering, or sooner if you need one for a job or college application. We will confirm the dates you volunteered and your role involved. For more information on the next steps contact MJones@CRgov.com or visit CRgov.com/POSTPartners.  

9. Can I add my volunteer service to my resume or job applications?

Yes. The experience, knowledge and skills you gain as a volunteer are applicable to many paid positions in both public and private sectors. Volunteer work often demonstrates to prospective employers your personal initiative, enthusiasm and dedication.

10. How old do I need to be to volunteer with POST Partners?

Volunteer opportunities require youth ages 14 and under to have a parent or guardian present and participating at all times. A parent or legal guardian must give written consent on the legal waiver before a person under 18 years of age may volunteer. There is no upper age limit for our volunteers. Volunteer events with certain tools are specified for age appropriateness on the event calendar.

For more information on the next steps contact MJones@CRgov.com or visit CRgov.com/POSTPartners.

11. Where are the volunteer positions located for POST Partners?

Volunteer positions are all located in the Town of Castle Rock on town-owned Parks, Open Space and Trails.  For more information on the next steps contact MJones@CRgov.com or visit CRgov.com/POSTPartners.  

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1. How do I view schedules for fitness classes, lap pool, trampolines, indoor fields, gym and virtual classes?

Schedules are available to print by visiting our expanded schedules page. 

To filter to a specific calendar, click "Deselect All" in the Legend Key. Then, click on the category, or categories, you are interested in viewing. Keep in mind, some schedules may not be listed as a category. View those individual expanded schedules on the left-hand navigation of this page. Class schedules are also available on our app which is free to download in the Google Play and Apple App Store or iOS by searching “RockRec”.

2. I made an account online, but I can't access it - how can I get into my account to register?

Please make sure you are visiting recreation.crgov.com and attempting to log in/create an account from this page. If you are not in our registration portal, you may be attempting to create an account on the Town’s general website. The general website is not related to our registration system.

3. How do I cancel a class or receive a credit for a class?

To cancel or receive a credit for a class, call the Recreation Center Front Desk, 303-660-1036.

4. Are fitness and water aerobics classes included with admission? Where is the fitness class schedule located?

Yes, both fitness and water aerobics classes are included. Class schedules are updated on a monthly basis.

Schedules are available to print by visiting our expanded schedules page.

To filter to a specific calendar, click "Deselect All" in the Legend Key. Then, click on the category, or categories, you are interested in viewing. Keep in mind, some schedules may not be listed as a category. View those individual expanded schedules on the left-hand navigation of this page. Class schedules are also available on our app which is free to download in the Google Play and Apple App Store or iOS by searching “RockRec”.

Fitness Class Schedule

5. What are the ages of children to be left alone at the MAC, REC and outdoor pools?

Children ages 11 and under must be accompanied by a guardian at least 15 years of age or older, at all times, to utilize the facilities

6. I'm interested in employment with the Parks and Recreation Department; how do I apply?

All job openings are posted on the Town's website at CRgov.com/jobs. Employment applications are accepted only for open positions. Working for the Town FAQ's

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1. How do I get a pothole fixed?

To report a pothole that needs repair, you can call 720-733-2462, email the Public Works Department, or submit a request online using the eTRAKiT portal.

2. How do I report vandalism to a sign?

If you notice vandalism to a traffic sign, call the Roads Hotline at 303-814-6414, email the Public Works Department, or visit the eTRAKiT portal to report a concern.

Updated Mar. 15, 2023

3. How do you synchronize traffic lights?

Traffic signal coordination is the timing of traffic signals so traffic can travel along a street without stopping at every light. Several factors make trying to coordinate (synchronize) signals difficult. Each street's green indications are referred to as a phase. A simple intersection consists of two phases:

• Phase one - green for the main street
• Phase two - green for the cross street

This is called a cycle length. The amount of green each phase is given is based on the amount of traffic on the streets.

Updated Mar. 15, 2023

4. Why don't we have longer cycle lengths for traffic signals?

As the cycle length is increased, the amount of time given to the red lights increases, meaning longer delays and longer lines of cars. This balancing act becomes more difficult at intersections with left turn arrows, because this is a separate phase. These signals, which commonly are found in Town, have eight or more phases, increasing the cycle length. The quality of progression can be very sensitive to these cycle lengths. When signals are irregularly spaced, providing progression can be a very difficult task. On some streets, full two-way progression is only possible for very short stretches. Good coordination plans must be updated whenever traffic volumes increase or new signals are added. Despite the difficulties, good signal coordination benefits include reduced auto air pollutant emissions, reduced delay for drivers, improved roadway efficiency and decreased fuel consumption.

Reviewed Mar. 15, 2023

5. What are the different types of traffic signals? I’ve noticed cameras on some of them.

Castle Rock uses two types of traffic signals: fixed-time signals and traffic-actuated signals. Fixed-time signals are set for average conditions and change at predetermined time intervals. Traffic-actuated signals use video cameras or radars. Each detection type has pros and cons, but they all detect the presence of vehicles at an intersection and adjust the timing for optimal traffic flow.

In the past few years, the Town has made improvements to our traffic signal system by installing CCTV cameras at traffic signals to improve our understanding of situational awareness and be able to make signal timing adjustments and improve maintenance of signal operations. 

Updated Jan. 10, 2022

6. What if a traffic signal isn't working correctly?

If you notice a traffic signal that doesn't seem to be working correctly, call the Roads Hotline, Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 303-814-6414, after hours and weekends, please call the Police Department, 303-663-6100. Please be prepared to give as much detail of the observed problem as possible.

Reviewed Mar. 15, 2023

7. How can I get a traffic volume count?

Please find our latest inventory of traffic counts and contact information on the Traffic Count Information page.

Updated Jan. 10, 2022

8. How can I get information about traffic calming in my neighborhood?

The Town has a Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program. For more information, visit the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program page or call 720-733-2483.

Updated Jan. 10, 2022

9. What is the proper way to cross a street at an intersection?

This subject isn’t as simple and straightforward as it may sound. At intersections where there is no pedestrian signal, pedestrians should cross in conjunction with the traffic signals. At signalized intersections where there is a pedestrian signal, cross when the "walk" or walking pedestrian symbol lights up. A flashing "don't walk" or upraised hand symbol means that if you haven’t yet entered the intersection, it’s too late to cross the street before the traffic signal changes. A steady "don't walk" or a steady upraised hand signal means it’s too late to begin crossing. Don’t enter the street, but quickly finish crossing if you already have started.

For more information and safety tips, visit our Pedestrian Crossing Information page.

Updated Jan. 10, 2022

10. How can I get information about the Town's On-street Parking Policy in my neighborhood?

The Town has a Neighborhood Parking Policy. For more information, call 720-733-2483, or visit our On-Street Parking Policy page.

Updated Jan. 10, 2022

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1. Why make the change to a new registration system?

With the start of the new decade, the Parks and Recreation Department has decided to completely modernize their point of sale system. The Department strives for excellent customer service. The new point-of-sale (POS) system will streamline all previously offered services; combining all membership, pro shop, registration, senior specialized programs, athletics and group fitness services into one easy system. This means a new, user-friendly experience, both online and in person. The new system will also run concurrently with a mobile app, compatible with iOS and Android devices.

Along with the new registration system, the Department will also be accepting all major credit cards, including American Express and Discover, as well as chipped cards, "tap" cards and Apple and Google Pay.

2. I’ve been to the Recreation Center and the MAC dozens of times. I even have an old ID card. Why aren’t I in the system now?

In order to ensure only the most accurate and current data is entered into the new system, the Department decided to only transfer over the information of members who had active memberships as of December of last year. Even with this stipulation in place, the Department still transferred approximately 10,000 members from our old registration software into the new system.

In order to be put into the system, please be ready to share current information. Members must bring in a Town of Castle Rock water bill to prove their residency. Both paper and online bills are acceptable. The system requires a current and valid name, birthday, address, phone number and email. Please note that all members will need to have their picture retaken in the interest of safety and security.

Members are welcome to bring in their old ID cards for disposal. New member cards are available, with bar codes instead of magnetized strips. No need to bring your entire wallet-new member cards also come with two keychain-sized cards for easy access. Once you've downloaded the mobile app, members can also use the bar code affiliated with their member profile to scan for entry.

3. Will my old punch card still work?

Yes. Until the transition is fully complete, staff will still have access to the data from the old registration system. Please note that with the new operating system, punch cards will now have an expiration date of two years past the date of purchase. Legacy punch cards from the old registration will still be honored.

4. Why can’t I use the self check-in with my punch card anymore?

Due to the parameters of the new registration system, only members with an active membership may use the self check-in at the Recreation Center. To check in with a punch card, please speak with a staff member.

5. I am trying to log into my account on the online member portal. I forgot my password, can you tell me what it is?

No, Recreation staff cannot retrieve passwords from the system. On the login page, there is a link available to reset your password. Recreation staff members can also resend this link to the email on file in the system.

6. I have Silver Sneakers/Silver&Fit/Renew Active. Do I get a member card?

Yes! These specialized senior programs will now be integrated into the new registration system. Senior members in the Silver Sneakers, Silver&Fit or Renew Active programs will need to be entered into the system in order to take advantage of these programs. Senior members in these programs will receive a new member card, and will be able to use the self check-in at the Recreation Center. In order to be put into the system, members must bring in a Town of Castle Rock water bill to prove their residency, either paper or online bills are acceptable. The system requires a current and valid name, birthday, address, phone number and email. Please note that all members will need to have their picture retaken in the interest of safety and security. Specialized senior programs also require a unique code. Please contact your insurance company and bring in this code to front desk staff in order to start this specialized membership. Front desk staff may assist in retrieving this code only if they have all required information, especially an email. If you cannot provide all relevant information, please contact your insurance company for assistance.

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1. When are my taxes due?

Tax returns generally are due on the 20th of the month following the reporting period. If the 20th falls on a holiday or a weekend, the due date is the next business day. Returns must be postmarked on or before the due date to be considered timely.

2. If I have no tax liability, do I still need to file a tax return?

Yes, a return must always be filed, even if there is no tax due. There is a $10 non-filer charge for each required return not filed.

3. Is a postmark of the 20th acceptable as proof of the mailing date?

Yes, but be careful to make sure the post office has the proper postmark if taxes are mailed on the 20th.

4. When do I report / remit sales taxes?

If more than $300 in tax will be remitted each month, returns must be sent in monthly. If less than $300 in tax will be remitted each month, quarterly filing will be granted. An annual filing status also may be granted if monthly tax is $10 or less, or at the discretion of the finance director. Returns are sent out at the beginning of the year for monthly and quarterly filers. Annual filers will receive their tax returns at the end of the year.

5. What happens if I do not file on time?

There is a $10 nonfiler charge for each required return not filed. Additionally, a 15 percent penalty will be assessed on delinquent taxes. An interest rate of 1.5 percent per month also will be charged. The vendor fee is not allowed.

6. What is the vendor's fee?

Vendor may deduct 3.33 percent of the tax due, up to $200, if they remit in a timely manner.

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1. What are residents responsible for clearing?

Town Code requires all businesses and residential property owners and/or tenants to remove snow and ice from sidewalks within 48 hours of each snow event, with 2 inches or more of accumulation. If you live on a corner, snow removal is required on both sidewalks - in the front and on the side of your property. Residents should also keep curbs and gutters free of ice, to allow drainage and prevent buildup. 

Reviewed Nov. 18, 2022.

2. Why don't plow drivers specifically clear to the north side of the street?

For safety and efficiency, plow drivers cannot change plow directions based on the street. The Town's policy is to plow residential roads from the center outward, providing a passable lane in each direction, placing snow along the side. This prevents favoring one side over another and is time efficient. Most roads are usually crowned (sloped) so they can drain to the gutters; this allows for the travel lanes to dry more quickly, preventing melt from refreezing over the road.

Reviewed Nov. 18, 2022.

3. How do I report an ice issue?

The Town has invested in two ice-breaking attachments to address major ice buildup issues. Residents can request ice breaking in a specified area by emailing the Public Works Department or by calling 720-733-2462. Public Works will evaluate icy areas of Town and prioritize treatment in the same manner as plowing, starting with priority No. 1 streets, and by looking at the severity of the buildup and traffic volume. With the number of sunny days in Colorado, some icy areas will be left to melt on their own.

Reviewed Nov. 18, 2022.

4. Why do plow drivers dump snow on freshly-cleared driveways or sidewalks?

Snow is never intentionally dumped onto cleared driveways and sidewalks; however, it will happen as plows move quickly. To help with the issue, pile snow onto the grass rather than the street, and continue to clear driveways as plows visit your neighborhood. Snow that is piled on the street will likely be pushed back into your driveway by a plow. 

Reviewed Nov. 18, 2022.

5. Who can I reach out to if I need help removing snow?

Senior citizens and persons with disabilities who are unable to clear snow from their sidewalks may receive assistance from the following organizations:

• Aging Resources of Douglas County: A free assistance and referral program for qualified seniors needing help with light maintenance and chores – donations are accepted. To learn more, call 303-814-4300 or email the Aging Resources of Douglas County team to ask about their assistance program.
• To the Rescue: A program that provides a range of services offered to all community members, with specialized services for seniors and persons with disabilities. To learn more about their services, email the To the Rescue team or call 720-851-2100.

Updated Nov. 18, 2022.

6. What does the Town do with snow Downtown?

Downtown has its own plow route. Plow drivers will clear a lane in each direction, with snow pushed to the middle. If a significant storm occurs, trucks and a snow blower will haul away snow. More often, plow drivers will slush out the snow, moving it back and forth across the road to help it melt. It is recommended that businesses choose one parking stall on each block to pile snow into, so the rest remain available for use.

From Dec. 1 through March 31, there will be no parking on portions of Third and Fourth streets from midnight and 7 a.m. Signs have been placed marking these areas so plows can clear snow in hard-to-clear sections.

Updated Nov. 18, 2022.

7. What kind of deicer does the Town use?

The Town only uses one type of salt treatment on the roads: ice slicer. This material is effective down to zero degrees, whereas most salt mixtures stop working at 15 degrees. When temperatures are expected to remain lower than zero degrees, the Town will use a gravel mix to maintain traction. Treating roads before a storm helps prevent icing, especially on elevated roadways and bridge decks. Cold, dry conditions are best for pretreatment, as precipitation washes the mixture away.

To lower environmental impacts and preserve the Town’s stormwater system, the snow team optimize the amount of products used to get the job done.

Updated Nov. 18, 2022.

8. How many snowplows does Castle Rock have?

The Town has 17 plow trucks, two of which are scheduled for auction in 2023. We also have 10 4x4 trucks with front plows, four front-end loaders, a snow blower and a motor grader. All of these vehicles work together depending on the significance of the storm. 

Updated Jan. 5, 2023.

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1. Can I bring my food and alcohol?

Ticketed concerts

No outside food or beverages are allowed in other than ONE sealed water bottle per person. Bag searches will be performed upon entry.

Free concerts

No outside beverages are allowed in other than ONE sealed water bottle per person. Bag searches will be performed upon entry.

2. Where do I park? Is there a fee to park?

Parking Information

Parking is free!

If parking is not available within the park, a parking crew member will direct you to overflow parking.

Overflow Parking

Overflow parking can be found at BURLY Brewing at 680 Atchison Way Number 800. Street parking is widely available near BURLY on Topeka Way and Atchison Way. Street parking is widely available near BURLY on Topeka Way and Atchison Way. Hop on the Town trolley and take a short 5 minute drive to the amphitheater.

The Town trolley is wheelchair accessible.

Ticketed Concerts

There will be a continuous shuttle running from 4:30 to 10:30 p.m. between BURLY and The Amphitheater at Philip S. Miller Park.

Free Concerts

There will be a continuous shuttle running from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. between BURLY Brewing and The Amphitheater at Philip S. Miller Park

3. What time do the concerts start?

Ticketed concerts

Gates open at 6 p.m. The opener will perform from 7 to 8 p.m. The headliner will perform at 8:30 p.m. for 75 to 90 minutes. This is for all ticketed concerts for the 2023 Summer Concert Series EXCEPT The Denver Pops with the Ultimate Stones which gates open at 7:00 p.m. and the show starts at 8:00 p.m. There is no opener for this show.

Free concerts

Gates open at 5 p.m. The band performs from 6:30 to 9 p.m. with a short break.

CRgov.com/psmconcerts

4. What happens if it rains?

Ticketed concerts

Ticketed concerts are rain or shine. There may be a delay of the show for the safety of the patrons, artists, and staff. No refunds will be issued unless the event is canceled.

Free concerts

Free concerts are rain or shine. If the forecast allows for a delay, the show will be postponed for a period of time and canceled if time does not permit for the show to occur before 9 p.m.

While all of our shows are rain or shine, shows are canceled or rescheduled in cases of extreme and dangerous weather conditions for the safety of our patrons, staff, and performers. 

Please check the weather and dress for Colorado’s changing weather.

5. Will there be food and drinks for sale at the concerts?

Ticketed & free concerts

Yes, we have a full cocktail bar with liquor, beer, and wine, as well as, non-alcoholic beverages for sale. Each concert will have multiple food trucks.

6. Can I bring my pet?

Ticketed concerts

Only service animals are allowed into the ticketed concerts.  

Free concerts

Yes, you can bring your well-behaved pet on a leash.

7. What can't I bring inside the venue?

Ticketed concerts

• Alcohol
• Coolers of any kind
• Food
• Glass of any kind
• Marijuana (all forms)
• Pets, except service animals
• Soft Drinks
• Umbrellas
• Water bottles, except factory-sealed water bottles. One per person.
• Weapons

Free concerts

• Alcohol
• Glass of any kind
• Marijuana (all forms)
• Soft Drinks
• Water bottles, except factory-sealed water bottles. One per person.

8. What size chair can I bring to the venue?

Ticketed concerts

The Amphitheater is best suited for camping style lawn chairs. Lawn chairs must not go above the shoulders of the person sitting in them. The goal is not to block the views of people sitting behind you. We appreciate your cooperation with this.

Free concerts

You can bring any type of lawn chair the free concerts.

9. Will I be allowed readmission if I leave?

Ticketed & free concerts

Yes, you may re-enter the venue, but will be subject to bag check.

10. Do I need to print out my ticket?

Ticketed concerts

No. We can scan the ticket you received from Ticketweb from your device. Once inside the venue, you will not need your printed ticket again, as we use wristbands to identify ticketed guests.

Free concerts

No ticket is required to free concerts.

11. Are children free?

Ticketed concerts

Children 2 and under do not need to have a ticket for entry.

Free concerts

Free concerts are family and pet friendly events.

12. What are the seating options in the amphitheater?

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1. Where can I find information regarding drainage requirements on residential construction?

Section 8 of the Temporary Erosion and Sediment Control Manual (TESC) (PDF) provides information on residential drainage regulations for all residential lot construction. Refer to Section 8.4 for minimum drainage requirements for finished grade.

2. Can I store landscape materials in the street for my house project?

Temporary storage of landscape and construction material is not permitted in the street, nor on the sidewalk. Landscaping materials left in the street will be washed away with the next rain or snowstorm, clogging drains, impairing waterways and impeding emergency access routes. Store materials on private property away from the path of drainage.

3. When am I required to install landscaping at my new house?

The Town requires landscaping to be installed within six months after occupancy. This includes both front and back yard landscaping.

4. Where do I submit a mosquito annoyance complaint or information request?

The Town contracts with Vector Disease Control for mosquito control. To submit a mosquito annoyance complaint or request information on the Town's mosquito control program, please contact Vector at 877-276-4306 or email Vector Disease Control.

Vector Disease Control International

5. What can I do about the excessive water and ice that constantly flows over my sidewalk?

Refer to our Excessive Water brochure (PDF) for troubleshooting facts and suggestions to address excessive water, ice and algae growth concerns. To inquire about our chase drain program, please call the Stormwater Hotline, 720-733-2235.

6. Can the storm drain inlet on my street be altered?

Storm drain inlets are intended to capture street drainage and maintain safe travel on streets during flooding events. The size and shape of the storm drain inlets are required to ensure that flooding does not occur. Restrictions to these openings are not permitted, as they have the potential to cause clogging or reduced capacity resulting in adverse flooding impacts to property and emergency access routes. Take appropriate precautions near these facilities. For your safety, never open, climb in or attempt to retrieve items from a storm drain inlet. To report accidental or illegal dumping down the storm drain, please call the Stormwater Hotline, 720-733-2235.

7. Who may I contact to address soil erosion in the open space near my property?

Generally, maintenance responsibility of open space lies with the property owner. If you have more questions or would like to request maintenance of Town-owned open space, please contact 720-733-2235. Please note that open spaces in the Town are naturally steep and erosive. It is expected that some degree of erosion and drainage will result from these natural spaces. You may refer to Section 6 of the TESC Manual (PDF) for guidelines on acceptable natural vegetative cover on construction project.

Douglas County parcel locator

8. Who may I contact to request maintenance of the drainage facilities on or near my property?

Generally, the property owner is responsible for maintenance of drainage facilities on their parcel. If you have additional questions or would like to request maintenance of Town-owned facilities, please call the Stormwater Hotline at 720-733-2235. If you do not know who owns the open space in question, visit the Douglas County parcel locator.

Douglas County parcel locator

9. How may I request a review of the monthly stormwater utility fee for my commercial property?

Customers are entitled to appeal for an adjustment of the Stormwater Utility fee for non single-family properties. Stormwater utility fees for commercial property are calculated based on the number of single-family-equivalents as follows: Parcel size in square feet times 80% impervious divided by 3,255 impervious square feet. To request a review, complete the Request for Administrative Review Form, and submit to Castle Rock Water. We will respond to your request within 45 days.

Request for Administrative Review Form

10. Who should I call if I am aware of accidental or illegal dumping down the storm drain?

Recognize potential illegal discharges! Only stormwater is allowed down the drain. When considering what may go down the "gutter," remember it is anything you would be comfortable drinking or swimming in. Report accidental and illegal dumping into the storm drainage system to the Stormwater Hotline, 720-733-2235. Call 911 immediately if you suspect hazardous or life-threatening substances. For a list of allowable discharges, refer to the Town Municipal Code Chapter 4.03.080.

Municipal Code 4.03.080

11. Where does the water that leaves my street go?

Stormwater runoff is collected by a network of gutters, catch basins, pipes, temporary holding ponds and channels that lead directly to the nearest waterway. This network is known as the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System, or MS4. Only stormwater is allowed in the MS4. Remember: one thing is clear, our rivers, lakes and creeks depend on you!

One Thing is Clear

12. What is a drainage swale?

A drainage swale is an engineered drainage feature, which the builder creates for the purpose of protecting the structure. View an illustration of a swale (PDF) and Section 8 of our TESC Manual (PDF) for additional information.

13. My lender is requiring flood insurance. What do I do?

Visit our Flood Insurance page for information on this topic.

Flood Insurance

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1. How do I register to vote?

You can register to vote online at Go Vote Colorado. To register in person, go to the Douglas County Elections Office at 125 Stephanie Place in Castle Rock.

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1. Are there any plans to offer some type of connecting transportation from Castle Rock to south Denver? There are citizens that cannot drive, and would like service to the RTD south-most endpoint.

The Town does support giving rides to seniors through the Castle Rock Senior Center. Medical rides are offered up to Lincoln Avenue in Lone Tree and the Southeast Light Rail stop at the Ridgegate Station. For more information on how to register for the senior shuttle, visit our Transportation Services page or call the Castle Rock Senior Center at 303-688-9498.

In addition, Aging Resources of Douglas County will help seniors in Douglas County find rides to various locations including south Denver. For more information, contact Aging Resources of Douglas County at 303-814-4300.

In the future, the Colorado Department of Transportation Bustang transit service plans to open a stop in Castle Rock with the nearest stop at the Ridgegate Station in Lone Tree. The timing of this new service is currently unknown.

Reviewed Jan. 5, 2023.

2. If I need a ride to and from the doctor’s office, is that one or two trips?

When you schedule a round-trip ride, you actually are scheduling two one-way trips. Depending upon the length of the trip, you may be required to pay a fare each way.

Reviewed Jan. 5, 2023.

3. What if I need assistance?

If you use a wheelchair or other mobility device, you must let us know when you make your reservation. If you need assistance when you travel, such as help pushing your wheelchair, carrying packages or assistance with walking, you are encouraged to bring an attendant to help. There is no charge to bring an attendant along. Taxi drivers will provide boarding assistance to riders who use wheelchairs or scooters but are not required to provide additional help.

Reviewed Jan. 5, 2023.

4. How many rides can I reserve?

Only two round-trips per person may be scheduled at a time for medical or shopping trips. Work trips can be scheduled for a week at a time.

Reviewed Jan. 5, 2023.

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1. Why does the Town have watering restrictions?

Water used for outdoor irrigation accounts for the largest demand on our water system. Watering schedules have been in effect since 1985 to help level out peak demand and make customers more attentive to water usage. Increasing water efficiency can save the Town, and its rate payers, millions of dollars in new infrastructure, help stabilize future rates, protect the investments of property owners, and most importantly, extend the life of our aquifers. Watering schedules are in effect May 1 through September 30.

2. How do I report a water break?

If you see water excessive water running down the street, call Castle Rock Water, 720-733-6000, and for after-hours, press 1. (This will reach the Police Department who will dispatch to the water on-call staff.) If you suspect a leak within your home, turn off the main water valve near the meter. You can check for leaks within your home using these easy steps.

3. How do I report a water waste violation?

Please call Castle Rock Water, 720-733-6017 or email Water Conservation. Castle Rock Water will send our water monitors to investigate the issue. Water waste violations are typically excessive water running over sidewalks and down the street, watering on the wrong scheduled day, watering during the day (between 8 am to 8 pm), or broken irrigation equipment.

4. How are water meters read?

All water meters in the Town are read for actual usage the first three days of the month and bills are generated and mailed between the 6th and 9th of the same month. Meters are read remotely using a small radio transmitter that is connected to the water meter. The radio device collects a reading from the meter and transmits the reading to a collection/receiver device located in a vehicle that's being driven through your neighborhood.

5. If I see a spike in my water bill, what could it mean?

Unaccounted spikes in water use are most likely a result of a leak. Castle Rock Water recommends checking for water flow through the meter to see if there is a potential leak. Find the steps here. Check to see if you qualify for a leak adjustment on your bill.

6. What can I do about changes in pressure in my water?

Most changes in pressure (99%) are a result of internal plumbing issues, such as a deteriorating Pressure Regulating Valve (PRV) or backflow device. Because of our system's hydraulic engineering, construction typically does not interfere with pressure, even as more homes are added to the pressure zone. See how to adjust your PRV here. Keep in mind that internal pressures higher than 75 psi can possibly damage household appliances.

7. I got a water violation. What should I do?

Castle Rock Water has water monitors that look for water waste. This waste can include excessive water running over the sidewalk, watering on the wrong scheduled day, watering during the day, or broken irrigation equipment. The first violation is a warning with subsequent violations incurring a fee which will be applied to the water bill. Water monitors are required to have a picture and time of the infraction. If you received a violation, please correct the water waste problem immediately.

8. What do I do if I see continuous water running over the sidewalk?

If you have continuous water flowing over the sidewalk, it could be caused by over-watering from you and/or your neighbors. To minimize this water, reduce watering times, incorporate cycle and soak irrigation, ensure downspouts transfer water through the landscape, and check that landscaping has not disrupted the graded drainage swales on your lot. Encourage neighbors to do the same.

9. How can I avoid frozen pipes in extreme cold?

The best way to prevent frozen pipes is by maintaining an indoor temperature of at least 55 degrees and opening cabinets to expose pipes. Open heat vents in basements or crawl spaces to allow heat to reach pipes in this area. Please do not open the metal lid to your meter pit - this causes warm air to escape and can cause additional problems.

10. What is backflow and what causes it?

Backflow (cross-connection) is the flow of water and other substances into the potable supply from any source other than its intended source. In other words, it's when potentially hazardous substances get forced or sucked into the drinking water system. Backflow is caused by backpressure (pressure on the house side of the meter is greater than the supply side) or by backsiphonage (negative pressure causing substances to be sucked into the supply lines). Backsiphonage (the effect is like a soda straw) can occur when a leak, line break or heavy usage causes the pressure in water lines to drop below the pressure in other areas of a home. Both cause a reversal of normal water flow, possibly drawing contaminated water into the public water supply system.

11. How can I protect my home from backflow (cross-connection)?

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment requires owners to test and maintain their backflow assembly(s) annually. A simple and cost-effective way to protect your home's water system is to install hose connection vacuum breakers at your connection hose-supplied outlets. Call Castle Rock Water, 720-733-6000, for more information.

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1. What is reuse water?

Reuse water involves producing safe drinking water from wastewater. After water is used in our homes and businesses, it goes down the drain and is sent to the wastewater treatment plant. There, contaminants are removed and the water is released, in our case, into East Plum Creek. This water will then be picked back up from the creek, and sent to Plum Creek Water Purification Facility where it will undergo traditional and Advanced Treatment processes. This purified drinking water will be distributed to homes and businesses throughout Castle Rock.

2. Why is Castle Rock going to reuse?

Reusing water is one of the most cost-effective, environmentally sound and sustainable methods of water supply that there is. Castle Rock is diversifying its sources to ensure a strong water future. We currently get water from underground aquifers and our local East Plum Creek. Reuse water will allow these sources to recharge. We also import water, and while it is a great supply, this is expensive. The cost for reuse water is considerably less than many other sources. Reuse water will make up about 1/3 of all water supply for the Town beginning in 2020.

3. Is reuse water safe?

All drinking water that is distributed to homes must meet strict local, state and federal regulations for drinking water standards, regardless of where the water originates. With reuse water becoming more common, additional scientifically-proven treatment processes, like Advanced Treatment, are put in place. Advanced Treatment addresses contaminants such as pharmaceuticals and personal care products that can get into local creeks and rivers. Advanced Treatment will make water more pure than current standards. Reuse water and all drinking water is tested daily to ensure it is safe to drink. Customers can take a tour of the treatment facility and also view water quality test results.

4. What is Advanced Treatment?

Advanced Treatment is a multi-barrier process designed to eliminate contaminants, such as pharmaceuticals and personal care products. This treatment is in addition to the traditional treatment processes which, by local, state and federal law, must already meet safe drinking water standards. Having several treatment processes addresses different contaminants and provide redundancies. Advanced treatment has proven to completely eliminate difficult to remove common compounds like sucralose, an artificial sweetener, ensuring similar, less prevalent and easier to remove compounds like amphetamines, opiods and other pharmaceuticals are also eliminated to below detectable levels. Advanced Treatment processes are being added to the Plum Creek Water Purification Facility in 2018-2020.

5. How is reuse water different than downstream water?

It isn't - water reuse already happens. Usually water that has been treated from the wastewater treatment plant is released into the nearby stream. Communities downstream then pick that water up and transport it to a drinking water treatment plant, where it is treated, tested and then distributed for use within the home or business. To address water rights and concerns for biological and pharmaceutical contaminants, regulations and processes specifically for reuse water are being developed.

6. Are we drinking the same water the dinosaurs did?

Yes - molecularly speaking, anyway. The same water that exists today also did when the dinosaurs roamed the earth. All water on earth is recycled in some way. Treatment processes just speed up and focus those natural purification processes.

7. What other communities use Reuse Water?

Water reuse purification facilities are popping up all over the world and some communities have used reuse water for more than four decades. Potable reuse in the U.S. Locally, Aurora began using reuse water in 2010 with the installation of the Prairie Water project which supplies 50 million gallons of potable reuse water per day to Aurora and surrounding communities. (Some of our WISE water is from Prairie Waters.) It is estimated that by 2065 almost 30% of water consumed in all South Metro communities will be from reuse.

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1. What is a water budget?

A tool to manage water usage efficiently, found on your statement.

A water budget is divided into tiers, with each tier charged at a higher rate, to encourage conservation. Tier 1 is Indoor Usage and calculated as an average of your actual usage during the winter months. Tier 2 is Outdoor Usage and is calculated based on your property's actual landscape area, along with identified plant material. Tier 3 is Excessive Use and should be avoided. There is also a surcharge for amounts over 40,000 gallons per month.

2. Why is my water budget changing?

Castle Rock Water recently conducted a flyover, and completed an aerial map that updated the irrigated area for some properties and identified actual plant type. The previous water budget was calculated using the water requirements for Kentucky Bluegrass, a high water-use plant. Kentucky Bluegrass is no longer allowed in public areas. The newly adjusted budget uses turf, shrubs and trees and native areas in water usage calculations.

3. What happens if I go over my water budget?

The adjusted water budget for non-residential accounts went into effect in April 2021. The new 2021 allocated water budget may have a different, presumably reduced, budgeted amount of water. At any time, if a customer exceeds their allocated water budget, they will be charged at the Tier 3 - Excessive Use rate and be charged a higher rate for water consumption.

The intent of water budgets are not to gain more revenue from customers, but to encourage more efficient water use. In fact, if customers stay within the newly adjusted water budget, this will reduce Castle Rock Water revenues with the reduction in usage.

Outreach was conducted in 2019 and 2020 regarding this change in allocated water budget to non-residential customers to provide time to make accommodations to irrigation. Please contact the Castle Rock Water billing department for specific questions on your budget and account at 303-660-1373.

4. What does Castle Rock Water recommend I do to stay within my adjusted water budget?

1. Water between midnight. and 8 am, on your designated watering day. Watering in the evening when temperatures, sun exposure and wind are lower, and humidity is higher, greatly reduces water waste to evaporation. Daytime evaporation can waste up to 50% of irrigation.
2. Adjust your sprinkler run times according to plant type. Your past budget was based on Kentucky Bluegrass, a high-water use plant. Often irrigation timers are set for a large volume of water to ensure a green landscape. However, overwatering is not only wasteful but the primary cause of poor plant health. Kentucky Bluegrass is no longer allowed in non-residential areas, and as of 2018, no longer allowed on new residential lots. There are turf alternatives that require less water than Kentucky Bluegrass, and most shrubs and trees require even less. Naturalized (native) areas only need an occasional water during dry, hot periods, and not every week. Irrigation times should reflect plant needs.
3. Ensure irrigation equipment matches the plant type. Only turf should have sprinklers, while trees and plants should be on a more efficient drip system. Turf areas that are less than 10-feet wide shall not have overhead sprinklers due to excessive water waste.
4. Adjust your irrigation controller for weather conditions. Turf and plants need less water in the spring and fall than they do during the hottest time of the summer, and watering schedules should reflect that. Consider installing a smart controller that makes automatic adjustments for weather conditions. Check that rain sensors are in working order to eliminate watering during rain events.
5. Avoid overwatering to fix problems. If dry spots appear in turf areas, don't crank up the controller. Instead do a cup test to ensure sprinkler coverage is even. Brown spots usually are a result of ineffective or broken irrigation equipment. Sprinkler heads should all be the same type, and height in a single zone. Misaligned sprinkler heads hit by mowers or people, as well as obstructions such as trees and fences could be causing lack of water to that area. Finally, pests and disease can also cause brown spots.
6. Use Cycle and Soak method of watering. Break up the total irrigation schedule into shorter cycles. For instance, if an area takes 45 minutes to water, consider breaking up the irrigation schedule into three 15-minute cycles with at least 30 minutes in between. This will allow the water to fully soak into the root zone before adding the next shot of water, creating healthier plants that are more tolerant of dry conditions.
7. Inspect your irrigation system for leaks, broken sprinkler heads, and over-spray, regularly. Though irrigation takes place at night, it is still critical to continually monitor for a properly functioning system that is devoid of leaks, equipment breaks and overspray. Broken sprinklers, misaligned heads, lack of head to head coverage, and too much pressure are all common conditions that contribute to overwatering and water waste.
8. Hold your landscape professional accountable. If you have hired a landscape maintenance company to manage your irrigated area, show the landscape professional your water budget and express the need to stay within that budget.
9. Hire a Water Manager to look at irrigation efficiency. This landscape professional will look at and adjust your irrigation processes according to specific plant and space needs. The cost of hiring this professional could pay for itself in water savings
10. Use CRconserve.com as a resource. Though geared for residential use, this conservation website has been developed specifically for Castle Rock, with a run-time calculator for irrigation controllers, recommended plant materials, and tips on conservation and irrigation methods. Castle Rock Water provides rebates for efficient rotary sprinkler nozzles, smart controllers and removal of high-water-use plant material.
11. Apply for a rebate. Castle Rock Water provides several rebates for water efficient irrigation products including smart controllers and rotary nozzles. Additionally, we offer rebates for renovating high-water-use plant material into low- or no-water-use material.
12. Check indoor water usage. Tier 1 is indoor usage and begins the tiered structure on your budget. If you have excessive use indoors, this could push Tier 2 consumption into Tier 3-Excessive Use rates.
13. Decipher spikes in usage. If you see a spike in usage, this could indicate a leak. Check the Castle Rock Water Conservation website to identify how to determine if the leak is indoors or out. Create a schedule to periodically check for leaks or abnormally high consumption instead of waiting to see the spike on the bill.

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1. How hard is Castle Rock water?

Hard water is created when water moves through soil and rock dissolving small amounts of naturally occurring minerals. These minerals primarily include calcium and magnesium which are nutrients frequently found in food. Hard water is not a health concern and thus water providers typically do not treat for it. Front Range communities, like Castle Rock, have Moderately Hard to Hard water.

While Castle Rock Water does not advocate using water softeners due to the amount of salt that can impact the wastewater system, hardness settings for Castle Rock are between 6.6 to 10.8 gains per gallon (GPG) or 108 to 125 parts per millions (ppm).

2. Why is there white residue on my glassware?

This white residue is most likely a result of the hardness of the water. The Moderately Hard to Hard water found in Castle Rock contains naturally occurring calcium and magnesium ions. These minerals are not removed from the water and are actually essential minerals our bodies need. The white spots on glassware or other fixtures are caused by the calcium. Adding a rinse aid to the dishwasher may help eliminate the white film and appliance discoloration.

3. Is there fluoride in our water?

Fluoride is not added to Castle Rock water, however, it is a naturally occurring element and trace amounts could be found in our water (at levels well below the drinking water standard.)

4. Do I need a water filter?

Having an in-home water filter in Castle Rock is not necessary. We conduct daily, quarterly and annual testing throughout the year to analyze the quality of water throughout the water treatment and distribution process. Castle Rock Water continues to meet or exceed water quality requirements making your tap water safe to drink. Using an in-home water filter is a personal choice.

5. Is bottled water safer than tap water?

Bottled water is considered a food product and is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Bottled water is not as heavily regulated or tested as tap water. Water utilities are required to publicly provide water quality reports while bottled water companies are not. Some bottled water companies actually use tap water as their source.

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1. What are chloramines and why are they used?

Chloramines are a combination of chlorine and ammonia at low concentrations. They are regarded as a more reliable disinfectant than chlorine alone because they last longer in distribution systems. Chloramines also produce lower levels of disinfection byproducts than chlorine alone.

2. Are chloramines safe?

Castle Rock water began using chloramines instead of chlorine in 2013. While this process was relatively new to our customers, many municipal and private water providers across the United States and Canada have used this safe, effective disinfectant for more than 90 years. Denver and surrounding communities, for example, have been using chloramine-treated water since 1917.

3. If chloramines disinfect, can’t they harm people and pets?

No. To be harmful, chloramines have to go directly into the bloodstream, as happens in kidney dialysis. Fish take chloramines directly into their bloodstream through their gills. That's why chloramines must be removed from water used for either of these purposes.

4. Kidney dialysis patients, aquatic life owners and beermakers should remove chloramines.

Just like chlorine, chloramines will need to be removed from water for processes requiring highly conditioned water. Tanks for fish, amphibians and reptiles, as well as dialysis machines and beer making should use water in which chloramines have been removed.

5. Do home water softeners remove chloramines?

Most water softeners are not designed to remove chloramines. Check the label on any de-chlorinating product to ensure it is effective for removing chloramines before use.

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1. Does Castle Rock Water test for lead?

State and federal regulations require Castle Rock Water to conduct periodic lead and copper testing. Samples are collected from indoor taps in designated single family homes built between 1982 and 1988. These homes have been identified because they were built during the time frame when lead-based solder was more widely used. In 2016, we voluntarily expanded the testing opportunity beyond the required regulatory sampling, to any home likely to have lead-based plumbing materials.

2. I have a home built between 1982 and 1988, should I have lead testing done?

If you believe your home might contain lead plumbing materials and would like to participate in the sampling program, please complete the in-home lead testing form and you will be contacted for consideration. Residents can also contact the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) Laboratory Services Division at 303-692-3090 or CDPHE website where water testing is available for a small fee at any time.

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1. Why are we hearing about PFAS now if they've been around for decades?

PFAS compounds are difficult to detect. They exist in most products at extremely minuscule levels. It's only recently that laboratory testing technology could detect them at the levels being discussed.

Technological advances now allow us to detect concentrations in the parts-per-trillion (ppt) range. For perspective, a part per trillion is one drop of water in 20 Olympic-sized pools. The health advisory limits, however, are below what can be currently detected.

The scientific understanding and regulatory response to these compounds is uncertain but rapidly evolving. This includes potential public health implications.

Castle Rock Water is closely monitoring the new EPA drinking water health advisories for PFAS chemicals and will be working with the state to protect public health. Castle Rock Water uses the latest and best technology available to monitor and safeguard your drinking water.

2. Are PFAS regulated?

National drinking water quality standards are set by the EPA and administered in our state by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, the EPA issues national health-based standards for drinking water to protect against both naturally occurring and man-made substances that may be found in drinking water.

To date, PFAS compounds (a group of thousands of per and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are not regulated. Recently, the EPA released new recommendations, known as health advisories, on two compounds, GenX and PFBS, and lower health advisories for PFOA and PFOS and is evaluating additional actions to address other PFAS.

Castle Rock Water is preparing for these future regulations and is currently using granular activated carbon, one of the best treatment technologies available for removing PFAS from water, to remove PFAS down to laboratory reporting levels.

3. What is a health advisory?

A health advisory provides information on substances that can cause negative human health effects. Health advisories are non-enforceable and non-regulatory.

The health advisory levels were calculated to offer a margin of protection for all people, including sensitive populations and ages, against adverse health effects and take into account other potential sources of exposure beyond drinking water (for example, food, air, consumer products, etc.). Because these substances have been used in an array of consumer products, most people have been exposed to them and have them in their systems. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the average concentration (geometric mean) measured in the general U.S. population during 2017-2018 was 1.4 parts per billion (ppb) of PFOA and 4.3 ppb of PFOS. For comparative purposes, this average blood level is 1,400 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA when the health advisory in water is 0.004 ppt.

4. What are the potential health effects of PFAS?

Research has shown that there may be health effects associated with exposure to some PFAS. Because there are many types of PFAS chemicals, which often occur in complex mixtures and in various everyday products, researchers face challenges in studying them. More research is needed to fully understand all sources of exposure, and if and how they may cause health problems. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) provides updated information on health effects as well as a searchable database of published scientific papers about PFAS.

5. Why aren't PFAS listed in the 2022 Water Quality Report?

In 2022, Castle Rock Water collected over 3,000 samples and conducted tests throughout our system to ensure that the water we deliver to your home is as clean and safe as possible, and meets or exceeds all state and federal regulatory standards. Every year, we provide a Water Quality Report that shows the results of our continuous laboratory testing for regulated substances. To date, PFAS compounds are not regulated.

Prior to June 15, 2022, the EPA had a health advisory limit for two PFAS compounds (PFOA and PFOS) at 70 parts per trillion (or 0.07 ppb). Castle Rock Water's drinking water had tested well below that limit for PFOA and PFOS.

6. Voluntary sampling and results

With the installation of our Advanced Treatment processes in 2020, Castle Rock Water began to regularly conduct additional testing for non-regulated contaminants such as PFAS.

• Prior to June 15, 2022, only PFOA and PFOS had advisory limits set at 70 parts per trillion (ppt).
• As of June 15, 2022, the EPA released much lower health advisories for two PFAS compounds PFOA and PFOS and issued health advisories for two new compounds - GenX and PFBS.
• Castle Rock Water has been sampling at our Plum Creek Water Purification Facility for these four PFAS substances as well as many others since July 2020. Results of the sampling at the entrance to our distribution system at the Plum Creek Water Purification Facility are shown below.

_{ND = Non-detect | ^nanograms per liter (ng/L) = parts per trillion (ppt)}

Castle Rock Water will continue testing for PFAS at the Plum Creek Water Purification Facility as part of our monitoring protocols. While we can effectively treat and remove PFAS at the Plum Creek Water Purification Facility, we regularly examine our treatment system and adjust these processes as part of our mission to provide safe, dependable and sustainable water now and in the future.

7. Required PFAS Sampling in 2023

In 2023, Castle Rock Water as well as all other water providers across the United States will be required to collect samples for PFAS at all of their water supplies to their water distribution system. Results from this testing will likely be available by the end of 2023. Castle Rock Water will keep our customers updated on the progress of this sampling.

8. Castle Rock Water's treatment process

Public health and the quality of your drinking water is Castle Rock Water's top priority. Castle Rock Water continues to meet or exceed all state and federal drinking water standards.

Castle Rock Water strives to provide clean, safe, great-tasting drinking water to its customers. The Town's water comes from a diversity of sources, including groundwater, surface water, reuse water and imported water. Groundwater is treated at four of our treatment plants. To date, PFAS has not been sampled for in the raw groundwater supply to these plants. Imported water comes already treated from Parker and Aurora. To date, this supply has also not been sampled for PFAS. The Plum Creek Water Purification Facility treats groundwater, surface water and reuse water. PFAS has been detected in the surface water and the reuse water. This water is treated using a multi-barrier process that includes granular activated carbon, which is an approved technique to reduce PFAS levels. (LINK) GAC is one of the best-known methods to remove PFAS; currently, there are only a few treatment plants in Colorado with this process. Read more about GAC systems.

9. What is Castle Rock Water doing about PFAS?

Castle Rock Water is committed to protecting our residents and our resources. Staff have been engaged in numerous discussions at Federal, Regional and State levels (including regulators and legislators) stressing the importance of appropriately regulating, managing and remediating PFAS substances. The multibarrier approach used in our treatment system means we have flexibility in treating new substances.

These communications have included the importance of holding those parties who introduced the PFAS into the environment responsible for remediation and clean-up and the importance of prohibiting additional use of PFAS compounds in the manufacture of goods.

In 2022, Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed into law the most comprehensive state bill restricting the sale of PFAS in consumer products, as well as fluids used in the extraction of oil and gas products, as early as 2024. Eliminating PFAS at the source is the best way to keep it out of the environment.

We also support a growing body of peer-reviewed scientific research on PFAS. As a leader in the water industry, Castle Rock Water is engaged in stakeholder and other local, state and national opportunities to develop solutions. Castle Rock Water will continue to closely monitor the EPA's guidelines on PFAS to inform our next steps.

10. If PFAS are in so many consumer goods, why haven't I heard about the PFAS levels in them?

Drinking water providers test their product more than just about any other industry. Water quality is highly regulated, primarily through CDPHE, which is the enforcement of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act. Measuring PFAS in water is easier compared to measuring exposure from other sources of PFAS like clothing, food packaging or dental floss.

11. Is bottled water safe from PFAS?

Bottled water is not regulated nor tested to the same stringent standards as tap water and bottled water quality can vary. According to Consumer Reports, some bottled water may also contain PFAS. The EPA is not recommending bottled water as a source to avoid PFAS. Various organizations are beginning to look deeper into this topic. Find more about PFAS and bottled water from the American Water Works Association.

12. How can you help protect water quality?

We encourage residents to avoid PFAS when purchasing consumer goods and new household products. This will not only protect your health but also prevent the compounds from further entering our environment. For a list of PFAS-free consumer goods, visit PFAS Central.

13. I received information about a water filter, but a company gave me a quote that cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. Do I really need a water filter?

Generally, it is more effective to treat water system-wide where it can be managed by trained, licensed water treatment professionals and supported through state-of-the-art laboratories. If you do use a filter, for example with your refrigerator's water or ice dispenser, please make sure that you replace the filter regularly based on the manufacturer's recommendation.

Surrounding communities have received reports of companies using predatory sales tactics to scare customers into paying more than they need to on water treatment options. Expensive water filtration systems are absolutely not necessary for anyone with Castle Rock water.

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1. How do I apply for a job with the Town?

Visit the Town's employment page and submit an application online. 

Town of Castle Rock employment page

2. How do I check the status of my application?

Applicants who are selected to participate in an interview will be contacted directly by the hiring department within 10 to 15 days after the closing date listed on the job announcement. Otherwise, you will not be contacted.

3. Will I automatically be considered for other positions if I previously submitted an application?

No. You must submit a new application for each new job posting.

4. I missed the deadline – can I still apply?

We will accept late applications; however, the application will be marked as late when it is submitted to the hiring manager. We cannot ensure a late resume / application will be considered.