The City of Idaho Springs runs a public water system fed by Devils Canyon and Chicago Creek, so homes on City water have no pump of their own. Where a property does draw from a private well, a plumber can test the pump, switch and tank. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Idaho Springs.
Water in Idaho Springs
Idaho Springs is a Pike's Peak Gold Rush town in Clear Creek Canyon along I-70, with a historic downtown on Miner Street and mostly residential streets on the west end. The City runs its own public water system, drawing surface water from two intakes, Devils Canyon and Chicago Creek, and disinfecting it with chlorine in the distribution system. Homes on that system receive pressurized water through a meter and have no well pump.
The fact sheet doesn't say whether any homes around the city use private wells, so we won't put a number on it. If you're not on City water and you have a wellhead and pressure tank, the well sections below apply.
The City's own building rules matter for any plumbing work. Plumbing plans are required for interior plumbing changes and must cover sewers, drains, vents, water piping and gas piping. No permit is needed to replace bathroom fixtures if the lines aren't replaced. SAFEbuilt handles plan review and inspections for the City.
City water or well: what the symptom means
| Symptom | On City water | On a private well |
|---|---|---|
| No water | City shutoff, frozen line or closed valve | Pump, power or switch |
| Weak pressure everywhere | Regulator, service line or old pipe | Worn pump or failing tank |
| Pressure pulses | Water hammer or regulator | Short-cycling switch |
| Dirty water | Old pipe or disturbed sediment | Sediment drawn into the pump |
Signs it needs attention
- Pressure loss that came on suddenly in winter
- Leaks at old threaded fittings
- Rust-colored water from older piping
- Knocking pipes
- For wells: a pump that cycles rapidly or runs without stopping
Timing and seasons
Canyon winters are cold, and lines along exterior walls, in crawl spaces or under porches can freeze. If water stops on a frigid morning, a frozen pipe is the first suspect. Call the City at 303-567-4421 if you think the problem is on the City side. Permits are submitted by email to CityClerk@idahospringsco.com or in person at City Hall, 1711 Miner Street, and inspections are booked at 303-450-8748 by 3 p.m. the day before. Mention the age of the house when you call.
Well Pump Repair questions in Idaho Springs
How can I tell if my house is on a well or on public water?
Can well equipment freeze during a Colorado cold snap?
Who do I call if the problem is on the utility side?
Who issues permits for well pump or pressure tank work here?
More plumbing services in Idaho Springs
Well Pump Repair nearby
Helpful guides
Sources
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