Impact Fees
As our community grows, so does the demand for emergency services. New homes, businesses, and developments increase the need for fire stations, apparatus, equipment, and other capital improvements to ensure Black Forest Fire Rescue can continue providing a high level of service.
Impact fees are one-time fees paid by new development to help fund the additional capital infrastructure needed to serve that growth. These fees are authorized under Colorado law and are based on a professionally prepared impact fee study that determines the relationship between new development and the District’s future capital needs.
Impact fees:
- Help ensure that the cost of growth is shared by new development rather than existing taxpayers.
- May only be used for growth-related capital facilities and equipment, such as fire stations, apparatus, emergency response equipment, and other long-term assets needed to serve new development.
- Cannot be used for day-to-day operating expenses, personnel salaries, or maintenance of existing facilities.
The Black Forest Fire Rescue Protection District adopted impact fees following completion of an independent Impact Fee Study conducted by BBC Research & Consulting. The study established the maximum fee necessary to offset the impacts of future development within the District.
Current impact fee rates are based on the type of development and are assessed on a per-square-foot basis. The current fee schedule is available below.
FAQs about Impact Fees
Who should I contact if I have questions about the Impact Fee Study or impact fees?
The Board of Directors has the sole authority regarding the impact fees imposed. Questions regarding the Impact Fee Study or the District’s impact fees should be directed to the Black Forest Fire Rescue Board of Directors.
board@bffire.org
Why am I being charged an impact fee?
Impact fees apply to new construction because new development creates additional demand for fire protection services and facilities.
Does this fee replace property taxes?
No. Impact fees are a one-time fee paid during development. Property taxes fund the ongoing operation of the fire district, while impact fees help pay for the capital infrastructure needed to serve growth.
How are impact fees calculated?
Fees are based on an independent impact fee study that analyzes projected growth and the capital improvements necessary to maintain fire protection services for new development.
If my property taxes support the fire district, why are impact fees needed?
Property taxes fund the District’s ongoing operations, including staffing, emergency response, training, and daily services. Impact fees are separate and are dedicated solely to the capital improvements needed to serve new development. This approach helps ensure that the cost of growth is shared by new development rather than existing property owners.
