Do You Need a Permit for a Hot Tub in Crested Butte, Colorado?

Possibly. The Town of Crested Butte requires an Outdoor Energy Usage Permit for a hot tub larger than 64 square feet or any outdoor heated space, and it says the energy use must be offset with renewable energy or by paying a REMP fee. The Town also asks you to contact its Building Department before installing any outdoor heating system. Confirm requirements for your address before you buy a tub.

This post covers the Town of Crested Butte only, as described on its Licensing & Permitting page on November 4, 2026. The page does not list the fee amount or the offset formula. Mt. Crested Butte and Gunnison County have separate rules. This is general information, not legal advice.

What is the Outdoor Energy Usage Permit?

Per the Town, the permit applies to a hot tub over 64 square feet or an outdoor heated space. You must offset the energy use with renewable energy or pay a REMP fee. The page tells owners to contact the Building Department before installing any outdoor heating system, so call first. I did not find the fee amount or how the offset is calculated, so ask the Town for current numbers.

Who do I call?

The Town's Building Department can be reached at 970-349-5338 and is at 507 Maroon Ave., Crested Butte, CO 81224, open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The page does not list a direct email for building permits, so call or visit.

What other permits can come up on a home project in town?

The Town's Licensing & Permitting page lists these, depending on your project:

• Building permit: applied for online through Cloudpermit, and registration is required.
• Right of Way (ROW) permit: for using the town right of way, such as a parking strip or alley. Include a dimensioned drawing. The page says ROW permits cover May through October only, and you do not need one for utility digging alone.
• Tree Removal Permit: for removing a tree from private property. The Town says to speak with the Building Inspector first.
• Driveway and Walkway Application: for work in the right of way and for changes to private driveways, patios and walkways.
• Building Relocation and Demolition Permit: to demolish or relocate an accessory structure over 200 square feet, which BOZAR reviews.
• Sign Permit: for new signs or changes. Approval and payment come before the sign is made.
• Floodplain Development Permit: for construction in regulated floodplains.
• Limited Power of Attorney or Statement of Authority: if you are not the owner or the property is held by an LLC or other entity.

Does a hot tub need design review too?

The Town's BOZAR page lists exterior changes, additions and new construction as projects that go through design review, but it does not mention hot tubs by name. If your tub involves a deck, fencing, screening or a structure, ask Community Development whether BOZAR review applies. See my BOZAR guide for the process.

What should buyers ask about an existing hot tub?

If a Crested Butte home you are touring has a hot tub or outdoor heated space, I suggest asking:

• Is there a permit on file? Ask the seller for it, and confirm with the Town if you are unsure.
• Was the energy offset handled? Ask what was paid or installed.
• Who services it? Ask for maintenance records and the age of the equipment.
• How is it winterized or run in winter? Winter operation affects utility costs.
• Is the deck structurally rated for it? Ask your inspector.

Can a hot tub affect my sale?

It can help or hurt. A permitted, well-maintained tub is a selling point in a mountain town. An unpermitted one can slow a deal. If you plan to sell, gather the permits and any receipts for the offset and equipment.

Should I call before I buy the tub?

Yes. Call the Building Department before you purchase or order. The Town specifically says to contact it before installing any outdoor heating system, so you avoid a surprise after the delivery truck leaves.

What is the bottom line?

In the Town of Crested Butte a hot tub is not a simple add-on: you may need an Outdoor Energy Usage Permit and an energy offset, and other permits can apply to trees, driveways, decks and the right of way. A phone call to the Building Department before you buy is cheap insurance. A local agent can help you ask the right questions about any home with these features.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit for a hot tub in Crested Butte?

The Town requires an Outdoor Energy Usage Permit for a hot tub over 64 square feet or any outdoor heated space. Contact the Building Department before installing.

What is the REMP fee?

The Town's page says energy use must be offset with renewable energy or by paying a REMP fee. The page does not list the amount, so ask the Town.

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Crested Butte?

The Town lists a Tree Removal Permit for removing a tree from private property. Speak with the Building Inspector first.

How do I apply for a building permit in Crested Butte?

Online through Cloudpermit. Registration is required.

Connect with a great real estate agent in Crested Butte, Kelsey Loftis with Crystal Peak Properties.

Phone: (970) 784-6768 · Email: kelseyloftis@gmail.com · Website: crystalpeakproperties.com

Source: Town of Crested Butte, Licensing & Permitting page (townofcrestedbutte.colorado.gov), reviewed November 4, 2026. Not legal advice.