Plumbers in Idaho Springs, CO

A gold rush town in Clear Creek Canyon

Idaho Springs was founded in 1859 during the Pike's Peak Gold Rush and incorporated as a statutory city in 1885. It is the largest community in Clear Creek County, though Georgetown is the county seat. The city lines Clear Creek along Interstate 70, about 26 miles west of downtown Denver, with 1,782 residents at the 2020 Census. Miner Street holds the historic downtown, tourist businesses cluster on the east end, and the west end is mostly residential. The Argo Gold Mine and Mill and the Charlie Taylor Water Wheel are local landmarks.

City water from two creeks

The City of Idaho Springs operates its own water system, drawing surface water from intakes on Devils Canyon and Chicago Creek and disinfecting it with chlorine in the distribution system. The City's water quality report says it is responsible for removing lead pipes that it controls. Questions about water service go to the City at 303-567-4421, and the City's current water quality report has test results.

Sewer

The fact sheet behind this page didn't confirm who provides sewer service in Idaho Springs, so we won't guess. Your utility bill or City Hall can tell you who handles the main. The line from the house to that main is where most backups start, and a plumber can clear or camera it either way.

Permits: what needs one

Idaho Springs spells out its rules more clearly than most small towns. Replacing bathroom fixtures does not need a permit as long as the plumbing lines stay in place. Water heaters, gas lines and boilers are One-Stop permits, and the sticker on a new water heater has to stay on until inspections pass. Changes to interior plumbing require plumbing plans covering sewers, drains, vents, water piping, roof drains and gas piping. Submit permits by email to the City Clerk or in person at City Hall, 1711 Miner Street. SAFEbuilt reviews plans and handles every inspection; call 303-450-8748 by 3 p.m. the day before.

Gas and heating

No gas utility was confirmed for Idaho Springs. If you smell gas, leave the building first, then call 911 and your gas utility from outside.

Canyon living versus the city of Denver

The canyon setting means colder nights and pipes in older buildings that can be exposed to the cold, so freeze prevention matters more than it does on the plains. The water also comes from mountain creeks treated by the City rather than Denver Water. When you call the number on this page, say you're in Idaho Springs and describe the problem. You'll be connected with an independent plumber who serves the area, and you agree on cost and scheduling with that plumber.