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Community Development Department

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1. Do I live in Parker?

Many people who have Parker addresses actually do not live in the Town limits. A subdivision map depicting the Town limits is available. If in doubt, call the Community Development Department at 303.841.2332. Click here to see the Subdivision Map

2. How Can I Get Involved?

There are a variety of ways to get involved in the Town of Parker's development process. Residents are encouraged to attend Town Council Meetings, as well as Planning Commission Meetings. You can also contact your elected officials with your thoughts or concerns. Would you like to be even more involved in the development process? Consider running for elected office or volunteering for one of the Town's several commissions! Learn more about all the ways you can get involved in Parker at www.ParkerOnline.org/GetInvolved.

3. How can I find out what is happening on a particular piece of property?

If you see a notice of public hearings sign posted on a property and want to know more about it, take down the name of the parcel and the date of the meeting on the sign and refer to the Planning Commission minutes and/or Town Council minutes for more information. The best source of information on a development proposal is the staff report included in the Planning Commission minutes.

If you are concerned about a property that does not have a notice posted, you can call or email your questions to the Community Development Department. Please have an accurate and specific location of the property ready so that we can assist you. The Community Development Department has information only on properties located within the Town or those that have applied for annexation.

Current development information is also available on the

Development Tour Map

4. What do I need to do to develop my property?

Annexations, rezonings, subdivisions and site plans all require land use applications to be submitted to the Community Development Department. From there a planner will assist you through the process. Please consult the Land Development Code (Title 13 of the Parker Municipal Code) for an overview of this process or contact the Community Development Department at 303.841.2332 for more information.

Click to access the Development Review Division

5. What if my lot is not draining properly?

All residential lots receive a grading certificate showing positive drainage that is signed and stamped by a professional land surveyor or a professional registered engineer. Your builder should provide you with a copy of this document. Commonly, drainage problems occur as the result of changes in the grading when resident's create or change landscaping. Please take into consideration the drainage patterns in your yard when you are landscaping. If changes you make to the drainage of your yard adversely affect another's yard, you are liable. If this is not the case, it is an issue that you need to address with your home builder.

Additional information is available from the Department of Engineering.

6. What is the legal description and/or zoning of a property?

The legal description and/or zoning of a piece of property can be obtained by calling the Community Development Department with the address. Information on parcel numbers and ownership is obtainable from the Douglas County Assessor's Office at 303.660.7450. Much of the property in Parker is zoned PD-Planned Development. Following is a partial list of subdivisions that are zoned PD.

• Villages of Parker (Canterberry Crossing)
• Stroh Ranch
• Bradbury Ranch
• Rampart Station
• Willow Ridge
• Willow Park
• Quail Creek
• Parker Vista
• Clarke Farms
• Challenge Park Estates
• Cottonwood
• Crown Point
• Hidden River

For the Town of Parker Zoning Map click here

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Fact or Fiction?

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1. How can I ask a "Fact or Fiction" question?

It's easy! Just visit www.LetsTalkParker.org/Fact-Or-Fiction, leave us a question and we'll get back to you with an answer as soon as we can! Please note that you will be required to create a username and password prior to submitting your question.

While you're on Let's Talk Parker, make sure to view all of the different projects that the Town of Parker is currently working on. We love to hear feedback from our residents, and this is your opportunity to let your voice be heard!

2. Where can I read more about the My Mainstreet project implementation?

https://www.letstalkparker.org/mymainstreet-implementation/faqs

3. The Town Council recently voted to adjust mill levy rates on metro districts. Does this mean my property taxes will increase?

The Town of Parker is not raising mill levy rates on existing metro districts and does not have the authority to do so. A special district’s fees and taxes are set by its Board of Directors, subject to the limitations imposed by TABOR, Colorado statutes and the special district’s electors through the election process. The Town can place limitations on a metro district’s mill levy during the Service Plan approval process. In this case, the Town Council is changing those limitations to more closely align with other jurisdictions in the metro area.

In May 2019, the Town Council did vote to allow an increase to mill levy rates on metro districts for developments in Parker, such as the undeveloped portion of Anthology and the new Hess Ranch developments. The purpose of these higher rates, which are set before any homes are even built and still must be approved by the metro districts themselves, is to ensure that homeowners in these new developments are covering the cost for their own infrastructure, such as roads, sidewalks and trails, and that the burden to pay for them does not fall on the existing Town of Parker taxpayers. Again, this will not change property taxes for current homeowners.

4. How is the Parker Cultural Department funded?

What is the Cultural Department’s total operating expense budget for 2018?

The Cultural Department’s total operating expense budget for 2018 is $4,789,323.

What percent of the General Fund in 2018 goes to the Cultural Department to help pay for operating expenses, capital outlay and debt service combined?

6.15 percent of the Town of Parker's General Fund in 2018 goes to the Cultural Department to help pay for operating expenses, capital outlay and debt service combined.

How much of the Cultural Department’s 2018 operating expenses are covered by revenue generated through earned and contributed revenue like ticket sales, rentals, grants and sponsorships?

67% of the Cultural Department’s 2018 operating expenses are covered by revenue generated through earned and contributed revenue like ticket sales, rentals, grants and sponsorships.

5. I don’t have time to attend Town meetings. How can I find out what’s on the agenda and what happens at the meetings?

The Town knows our residents are busy, so we offer a wide variety of ways for our community to be informed about what is happening in Parker. Planning Commission and Town Council meeting agendas are available on the Town website at www.ParkerOnline.org/Agendas and meetings are live streamed on the Town’s YouTube channel.

6. How does zoning work in Parker?

The purpose of zoning is to regulate the use of land and the physical improvements to land located within the Town of Parker, without imposing undue burden on the land owner as provided by state and federal law. All land within the Town of Parker’s incorporated limits is zoned for specific uses. Land owners have a legal right to develop their privately owned land, as long as the development meets the Town’s current zoning requirements. The Planning Commission, Town Council and staff work to ensure that new developments meet the Town’s vision for growth and development, design standards and building code requirements.

The Town Council and Planning Commission do not have the authority to deny a commercial development on a property that is zoned commercial, or a residential development on land that is zoned residential, as long the project meets the Town’s standards and requirements. If a developer is requesting to rezone property, for example changing the zoning of a property to allow for commercial use instead of residential use, the Town Council can vote to deny the request to change the zoning if Town Council determines that the project does not meet the nine criteria set forth in the Municipal Code, including consistency with the Parker 2035 Master Plan.

The Town Council can ensure that developers meet the Town’s zoning standards and require that they provide adequate infrastructure and amenities such as parks, trails, open space and landscaping buffers. Parker also works hard to ensure that developments are of a high quality and pay their fair share for improvements that mitigate impacts on the community, for instance, contributing to road enhancements or expansions.

You can view the Town’s boundary map to see which developments are occurring in the Town of Parker, as many of the projects under construction are located on our Town borders in Lone Tree and unincorporated Douglas County. You can also view the Town’s Zoning Map to see how land in Parker is currently zoned.

7. Does the Town have a say in development taking place outside of Parker’s limits?

The Town does not have decision-making authority for development beyond its limits, however, Parker does coordinate with governmental entities when reviewing development proposals. Such coordination efforts are primarily through referral reviews and comments, as well as ongoing intergovernmental coordination on planning and infrastructure improvements. View Parker’s Town Boundary map and Development Tour Map to see which developments are occurring in the Town of Parker. For the many projects under construction located outside of our Town borders, visit the Lone Tree website or the Douglas County website.

8. How can I find out what uses are planned for a specific piece of property in Parker?

The Town of Parker is happy to provide information about the zoning of property in Parker, as well as what types of uses could eventually be developed there (i.e. commercial, single-family residential, multi-family residential, etc.). If you have a question about what is being developed (or could potentially be developed) on a specific piece of property, please call our Community Development Department at 303.841.2332, email staff, or visit us in person at Town Hall, 20120 E. Mainstreet and our staff can walk you through the process. This is especially helpful if you are purchasing a home in Parker near undeveloped land, which is likely planned for future development. View the Town’s Zoning Map to see how land in Parker is currently zoned.

9. How much of the property tax I pay goes to the Town of Parker?

The Town receives many inquiries about property tax and, in particular, why the Town’s property tax is so high. While a small portion of the property tax paid by Parker residents does come to the Town to support the general fund and operations, the majority is distributed to many different governmental organizations.

For instance, on a home with an actual market value of $400,000, the Town receives only $75 in property tax each year, while other entities such as the Douglas County School District, Douglas County Government, the Parker Water and Sanitation District, and the South Metro Fire Rescue Authority, among others, also receive a portion of the property tax collected.

View a detailed breakdown here or see the sample breakdown below:

10. How is Town traffic signal timing determined?

The Engineering Department’s Traffic Services Division is responsible for monitoring signal timing in the Town of Parker and coordinating traffic plans. In all, this group maintains 88 total traffic signals — 75 Town-owned and 13 which are owned by Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and maintained by the Town by contract. Traffic signals are timed based on traffic data such as daily through counts and peak hour turning movement counts. These counts are fed into analysis software to recommend the best signal timing for a corridor or group of signals. This would include how long a cycle is, how long each green phase is displayed and how each signal operates in coordination with neighboring signals. The goal is to minimize delay for the greatest number of users. The outputs of the analysis and simulation are reviewed by human eyes and further adjusted based on known field conditions that the computers may not be able to correct for. The Town routinely monitors traffic conditions and makes adjustments to timing based on changes in measured flow. In the future, the Traffic Services Division hopes to implement “traffic responsive” flow for a number of Parker signals. This is an operational strategy where signal parameters are chosen based on automated real-time data collection, rather than historic measures and expected daily patterns. To report a traffic signal not working, damaged traffic signs or other traffic-related issue, please contact the Department of Engineering at 303.840.9546 during regular hours. To report an emergency concern after hours please call the Parker Police Department at 303.841.9800.

11. What is Parker doing to improve traffic congestion?

Parker has comprehensive transportation network improvement plans in place. Since road projects can be very expensive, the Town must build them over time as funding allows. You can read more about our current capital improvement plans here.

12. How is the Town of Parker planning for the future?

The Town has a strategic plan in place, which serves as a guiding document for the Town, outlining how we can best serve our residents in the future. The current strategic plan can be found at www.ParkerOnline.org/StrategicPlan. Other similar long-range planning documents include the Parker 2035 Master Plan, Parker Road Corridor Plan, Parker Parks and Recreation Master Plan, and the Transportation Master Plan.

13. Is all vacant land in Parker designated open space?

Parker does have a robust open space program. However, not all vacant land is what it seems. There are currently many undeveloped properties in the Town of Parker that are often mistaken for open space.

What many people don't realize is that all properties within the Town limits, including these undeveloped areas, are already zoned. Zoning means that a property has been designated for a particular use or uses. Types of zoning include business, commercial, residential and industrial. Land can only be utilized for the purposes allowed under its zoning classification. View the Town’s zoning map to see the zoning for vacant land in Parker.

You can learn about the Town's open space program or view the Open Space Map.

Learn more here...

14. Where can I learn about development happening in Parker?

Lots of things are happening in Parker! You can learn more about projects currently in Parker's development process by visiting www.ParkerOnline.org/Development. Our Community Development staff is also available to answer questions about development in our community and can be reached at 303.841.2332.

Learn more here...

15. Will changes be made to the look and feel of Parker Road from E-470 to 20-Mile Road to better fit with Parker's small town feel and to improve the first impression many people have of Parker?

The Town of Parker adopted the Parker Road Corridor Plan in December 2019. This plan's purpose was to create and integrate a corridor-specific vision and goals related to land use, economics, urban form and multi-modal transportation. This planning work for the Parker Road corridor will provide an identity more closely aligned with the Town’s vision, Master Plan and Transportation Master Plan, and more reflective of residents’ desires and standards.

To learn out more about the Parker Road Corridor Plan, as well as the Town of Parker's other Master Plans/Guiding Documents, visit www.ParkerOnline.org/MasterPlans.

16. Where can I learn more about Urban Renewal in Parker?

Answers to frequently asked questions about the Parker Urban Renewal Authority (P3) can be found at https://www.p3parker.com.

Urban Renewal Information

17. When will Rueter-Hess Reservoir be open to the public?

The Rueter-Hess Reservoir is not currently open to the general public. The Parker Water & Sanitation District estimates that it may be several years before the funding is in place for the necessary infrastructure (i.e. roads, trails, restrooms, etc.) and on-site staffing required to accommodate the general public. However, a variety of scheduled programming will be taking place at Rueter-Hess Reservoir over the summer, including "Paddle Days" for increased access by the public. You can find more information about events and activities at http://www.RHRecreation.org.

View Rueter-Hess Reservoir FAQs

18. Can personal recreational equipment be used for classes and activities at Rueter-Hess Reservoir?

Although personal recreational equipment is not generally allowed at Rueter-Hess Reservoir, there are designated days during the 2019 season where the public can bring their own water craft (stand up paddle board or kayak) with pre-registration and inspection upon entry. To register or to view other recreational offerings at Rueter-Hess Reservoir, please visit http://www.RHRecreation.org.

View Rueter-Hess Reservoir FAQs

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HOA Resources - Building / Permits / Development

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1. Where can I obtain information about building, planning and zoning in Town?

You may visit the Town of Parker website at www.ParkerOnline.org/CommunityDevelopment, call the Community Development Department at 303.841.1970 (Building) or 303.841.2332 (Planning), or visit the Community Development Department in person on the first floor of Town Hall.

2. My HOA says I need to provide a plan showing proposed improvements to my property. Where do I obtain a plot plan for this?

You may obtain a copy of the approved plot plan for your residential property from the Community Development Department. Please call 303.841.2332 for more information.

3. Do I need a Town approval or permit for my home improvement project?

Most home improvement projects require a Town approval, permit or both so you should consult with the Community Development Department. This is especially the case for interior home improvements like bathroom and kitchen upgrades, finished basements and additions. It also applies to improvement projects that require new or revised electric, plumbing and structural work. For more information, visit www.ParkerOnline.org/Building.

4. Do I need a Town approval or permit for a new deck, roofed patio, hot tub or pool?

Yes. For information, please contact the Building Division of the Community Development Department at 303.841.1970 or visit www.ParkerOnline.org/Building.

5. Do I need a Town approval or permit for adding/altering a fence, changing landscaping, removing trees, altering the tree lawn or installing new xeric landscaping?

Maybe, depending upon the types of alterations and/or improvements that are proposed. You should consult with the Community Development Department about whether Town approval or a permit is required. Please call 303.841.2332 or visit www.ParkerOnline.org/CommunityDevelopment for more information.

6. How do I learn about the Town process for home improvement projects and what is required for approval?

You may attend an in-person Homeowner Building Class at Town Hall, held quarterly, or schedule a meeting with Building Division staff at 303.841.1970.

7. I need a permit and assume my property is located the Town of Parker because of my Zip Code but would like to check. How do I verify this?

The U.S. Postal Service Zip Codes for the Town of Parker is large in terms of land area and includes property in the Town, unincorporated Douglas County and unincorporated Elbert County. You may check whether your property is located in the Town of Parker by using the Property Search tool on the Douglas County Assessor website at www.douglas.co.us/assessor, contacting the Town of Parker at 303.841.0353.

8. I would like to attend a Planning Commission meeting. When are they held?

Planning Commission meetings are held the second (2nd) and fourth (4th) Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers at Town Hall. The meetings are open to the public. For more information, visit www.ParkerOnline.org/PlanningCommission.

9. How can I learn more about active development applications and projects in Town?

You may obtain this information through the Town of Parker's online Active Development Tour Map at www.ParkerOnline.org/Development.

10. Where can I learn more about parks and open space construction projects in Parker?

You can find more information about major Parks, Recreation and Open Space capital projects on the Parker Parks and Recreation Capital Projects webpage.

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HOA Resources - Community Events / Block Parties

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1. My community is hosting an event and it may impede public rights of way (streets, sidewalks, bike paths, etc.). What do I need to do?

This type of event may require a Community Event Permit to be issued by the Town. To learn more about the application process, visit our Community Event Permits webpage.

2. My community would like to hold a block party. What do I need to do?

A block party requires a Community Event Permit to be issued by the Town. To learn more about the application process, visit our Community Event Permits webpage.

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HOA Resources - Cultural

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1. Does the Town have meeting spaces available for HOA groups?

Parker Arts has the following meeting spaces available for groups on a rental basis:

• PACE Center - No matter the size of your next meeting, our Parker Arts, Culture, and Events (PACE) Center has the perfect setting for you. Seven different spaces provide the versatility you need for a variety of meeting types throughout the year. 
• The Schoolhouse - Adjacent to PACE, behind Ruth Memorial Chapel, The Schoolhouse is a historical building in downtown Parker that offers unique gathering spaces, from its classic small theater, to intimate meeting rooms, to larger event rooms. 

Learn more and book your next meeting or event at ParkerArts.org/Meeting-Venues. 

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HOA Resources - Police

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1. How do I report speeding in my neighborhood?

The Parker Police Department utilizes an interactive traffic map to help identify areas needing increased traffic enforcement efforts. It is very easy to use and pins can be dropped to exact location. The map, along with more information, can be found here: www.letstalkparker.org/policetrafficenforcementmap

2. Who do I call to report an abandoned or inoperable vehicle in my neighborhood?

Abandoned and inoperable vehicles can be reported to the Community Services Division of the Parker Police Department at 303.841.9800 or via email.

3. Who do I contact in the the event of a barking dog or a dog at large in my neighborhood?

For information about dealing with a barking dog in your neighborhood, view our Animal Services resource webpage on this issue. For other issues related to dogs or other animals, please contact the Community Services Division of the Parker Police Department at 303.841.9800 or via email.

4. Where do I report a concern (non-emergency) to the Police Department?

To report a non-emergency concern to the Parker Police Department, fill out our online form or call the Department's non-emergency phone number at 303.841.9800.

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HOA Resources - Property Maintenance

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1. Who is responsible for snow removal on a particular sidewalk?

It is the homeowner’s responsibility to remove snow and ice from all sidewalks adjacent to their property within 48 hours of the end of any snow, sleet or freezing rain. Failure to do so in the specified time frame is a violation of the Town’s Municipal Code and can result in a fine to the homeowner. For more information, refer to section 10.01.020 of the Parker Municipal Code or contact the Community Services Division of the Parker Police Department at 303.841.9800 or via email.

For property that is not adjacent to a private home or businesses and has not been cleared of snow, the responsibility for sidewalks likely lies with the HOA or Metro District, as the Town's snow removal practices and locations are well established. To find out more about a particular stretch of sidewalk, please call the Town Hall Customer Service Division at 303.841.0353.

2. Who is responsible for landscaping in a particular common area?

The responsibility for landscaping and maintenance of common areas almost likely lies with an HOA or Metro District, as the Town's responsibilities are generally well established but not readily accessible. To find out more details about a specific piece of property, please call the Town Hall Customer Service Division at 303.841.0353.

3. Who is responsible for mowing of property with native grass behind my home?

The responsibility can lie with be both the Town or an HOA/Metro District, depending on location. Sometimes, the jurisdictions are adjacent. To find out more details about a specific piece of property, please call the Town Hall Customer Service Division at 303.841.0353. 

4. Who is responsible for maintenance of a particular median?

The responsibility for the maintenance of roadway medians can lie with either the Town or an HOA/Metro District depending on location. To find out more details about a specific median, view the Town's online Median Maintenance Responsibility Map. 

5. Who is responsible for maintenance of a particular dog waste bag station, bench or trash can?

The responsibility for the maintenance of these amenities are almost always lie with an HOA/Metro District.  

6. Who is responsible for maintenance of trees in the right-of-way in my neighborhood?

The responsibility in these instances lie either with an HOA/Metro Distirct or, in some circumstances, the homeowner.

7. Who is responsible for maintenance of a specific playground?

The Town of Parker has an online listing of the public parks with playgrounds that it maintains. All others are maintained by an HOA.

8. My neighbor is not maintaining their property and I would like to make a complaint. Where do I direct my complaint?

You should contact your HOA for property maintenance issues unless you live in a neighborhood without an HOA. If your neighborhood does not have an HOA, you may contact the Police Department Community Services Division at 303.841.9800 or communityservices@parkeronline.org.

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HOA Resources - Right-of-Way Use / Street Closures

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1. What control do HOAs have over the use of public rights-of-way?

In 2022, House Bill 22-1139 was passed in the Colorado state legislature forbidding any HOA from prohibiting the use of a public right-of-way that is in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Thus, an HOA may not impose such restrictions on the use of public rights-of-way, through any declaration, bylaws or other rules or regulations. For more information. For more information, visit the Colorado General Assembly website.

2. How do I acquire a right-of-way permit?

Applications for a right-of-way permit should be submitted through the Town of Parker Engineering and Public Works Department. For more information, visit our Right-of-Way Permits webpage or call 303.840.9546.

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July 4th Fireworks Show FAQ's

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1. Is the Town hosting a Fireworks show this year?

Yes, weather dependent! We are excited to announce that the Town of Parker’s traditional fireworks display show will be making a return for 2023, baring weather-related concerns.  The Town surveyed our community last year and found that a majority of respondents stated they would prefer to see Fireworks on Independence Day instead of a drone light show.  Survey results also showed that a majority of our community like to have watch parties at their homes and/or around Town instead of attending the event at Salisbury Park. 

The Town of Parker fireworks display show will be a remote viewing show launched from the traditional location of North Salisbury Park field.  Salisbury Park will be open to the public that day, but there will be no additional services or activities and only limited parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.  The only parking available at Salisbury Park itself will be the park’s legal paved parking lot (300 parking spots). The larger grass lots used in prior years will not be available for parking in 2023. View our map of suggested viewing locations where residents can expect to obtain good viewpoints of the display.

The display show will launch at 9:30 p.m. weather permitting and any notification of a delay and/or cancelation will be shared on the Town’s social media channels.

2. What time will the fireworks launch and where?

The remote show will launch at Salisbury North at 9:30 p.m., weather permitting, and will have a duration of about 18 minutes. More details about the timing of the start of the event will be provided in the weeks prior to the event. Any notification of a delay and/or cancelation will be shared on the Town’s social media channels.

3. Is the Town holding an event and/or activities at Salisbury Park on July 4 this year?

No, there will not be activities held at Salisbury Park this year.  The Town surveyed our community last year and found that a majority of respondents felt that the event in the sky (fireworks) was the community’s Independence Day celebration and not the event on the ground at Salisbury Park. Additionally, many more respondents said that they preferred to have watch parties at their homes or other areas of Parker than those who preferred to attend the event at Salisbury Park. 

Another factor in transitioning away from the Town’s traditional in-person event is the forthcoming expansion of Salisbury Park North, which will require a relocation of the launch site in the coming years to another site that likely will not be able to accommodate a large public gathering. The expected start date of this park expansion is still to be determined.

As of result of the move away from a formal community gathering on July 4, the Town of Parker is excited to announce a new flagship event that will be held in the fall. The expanded Parker Fall Fest will be held Sept. 30 in downtown Parker and feature a variety of activities, as well as a drone light show finale similar in scope to what was held during last year’s July 4 event. The Town will announce more details about the expanded Parker Fall Fest in the coming months.

4. Will Salisbury Park have onsite parking?

Yes, but only a limited amount of onsite parking will be available. Salisbury Park will have up to 300 free paved parking spots available on first-come, first-served basis.  No additional onsite parking, such as the temporary grass lots that were used in previous years, will be available in 2023.

View our map of suggested viewing locations where residents can expect to obtain good viewpoints of the display outside of Salisbury Park.

Please note, no parking will be allowed along the side of major roadways, such as Parker Road, Hess Road or Mainstreet. If you plan on viewing the fireworks on public roadways, please do not impede traffic, block driveways or stop in an area posted with NO PARKING signs.

5. Will the Town be hosting additional events, activities or food and beverage opportunities in conjunction with the fireworks viewing show?

No, the Town will not be hosting additional activities or food and beverages on July 4. Instead, the Parker Fall Fest event planned for Sept. 30 in downtown Parker will be expanded into a signature Town event featuring more activities for the community. More information about this newly expanded event will be announced when it becomes available later this year.

6. Why is Parker not hosting a drone show this year?

The Town surveyed our community last year and found that a majority of respondents stated they would prefer to see fireworks on Independence Day rather than a drone light show.  For those that preferred the drones, we are excited to share with you that the Town of Parker is adding a drone light show finale to our expanded Parker Fall Fest event on Sept. 30, 2023. More information about this newly expanded event will be announced when it becomes available later this year. 

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Municipal Court

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1. When is Court held?

Court is held on select Tuesday nights beginning at 3 p.m. If you must come to Court, you will be given a specific time and date to appear. Juveniles (under 18 at the time of their Court appearance) must be accompanied by at least one parent when making Court appearances.

2. Where can I do my community service?

Court-ordered community service must be done at any non-profit organization, usually within a three-month period. You may call the Court Clerk for clarification on the non-profit status of any organization. There is a $3.25 fee for insurance, which must be paid before starting your community service work.

The Court will supply you with a cover letter and time cards.

3. Does the Parker Municipal Court handle small claims?

Small claims are handled at the County Court in Castle Rock, which can be reached by calling 720.437.6200.

4. Does the Parker Municipal Court perform marriage ceremonies?

The Municipal Judge is able to perform marriage ceremonies in the Parker Municipal Court. For more information, please call 303.805.3195.

5. What do I need to know about jury trials?

Any Parker resident 18 years or older is eligible for jury duty. Jurors who appear are paid $3 and those who are selected to serve on the jury are paid $6. A detailed letter is sent to prospective jurors with all pertinent information. The trials will last for one day.

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Sales Tax

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1. 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 minimum $10 penalty for each non-filed return regardless of the tax amount due.

2. When are my taxes due?

Tax returns are generally 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.

3. Is my tax return on time?

For a tax return to be considered timely filed, it must meet the following conditions:
• Hand delivered to the front desk at Town Hall on or before the due date of the return and the return must be stamped by Town staff with the date received.
• Postmarked on or before the due date of the return. Postmarked means date stamped by the USPS or any other third party mail carrier.
• Metered on or before the due date of the return AND received within 7 calendar days of the due date. Metered postage is regulated postage amounts printed onto an envelope for means of mailing. Date of metering is not considered the date of mailing.
• Metered on or before the due date of the return and date stamped as cleared by the USPS or other third party mail carrier on or before the due date of the return.
• Envelopes stamped without USPS cleared date or imprinted meter date will be treated as on time if received within 7 calendar days of the due date unless the date of the check falls after the return due date.

4. How often to I need to submit a tax return?

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, a quarterly filing basis will be granted. An annual filing status may also be granted if monthly tax is $10 or less or at the discretion of the Finance Director.

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

When a return is not filed on time, penalty and interest are assessed and the vendor fee is disallowed. Penalty is the greater of $10.00 or 15%. Interest is calculated at a rate of 1.5% per month the return is late. Additionally, the vendor fee, which normally reduces the total tax due, is disallowed.

6. What is the vendor's fee?

A vendor fee is a reduction in tax remitted by a vendor to cover their expense of collection and remittance of Town tax. The vendor may deduct 3.33 percent of the tax due, up to $200, if they remit in a timely manner.

7. When are Business and Tax Licenses renewed?

The Town of Parker's Business and Tax License is valid for two years and expires on December 31 of each even-numbered year, regardless of the date of issue.  On or before the expiration date, the business needs to apply for a renewal license.

8. Are delivery fees taxable?

Yes. Transportation and other charges to effect delivery of tangible personal property to the purchaser are taxable.

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Snow Operations

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1. What are the Town’s snow plowing priorities?

The Parker Public Works Department has a snow plowing priority system in place to clear our nearly 500 lane miles of streets. The plowing time required depends on several variables such as the snowstorm intensity, duration, wind and the temperature. The Town’s snow plowing priorities are as follows: Arterial roadways are our first priority and will be plowed first. These are the major roadways that carry the most traffic volume, such as Stroh Road, Hess Road, 20 Mile Road, Cottonwood Drive, Canterberry Parkway, Lincoln Avenue, Jordan Road, Pine Drive, Hilltop Road and Mainstreet. Collector streets are our second priority, including, but not limited to: Apache Plume Drive, Bradbury Parkway, Canterberry Trail, Clark Farms Drive, Heirloom Parkway, J. Morgan Parkway, Nate Drive, Omaha Avenue, Riva Ridge Road and Tallman Drive. These streets provide access to arterial roadways and will be cleared once the arterial roadways have been plowed. Local residential roads and cul-de-sacs that provide traffic flow within subdivisions and access to homes are not plowed unless six (6) inches or more snow has accumulated and snow continues to fall, or if major drifting has occurred.

Additional Information

2. When do snow operations begin?

Once a snow storm is imminent, the Town’s snow plowing crews switch to mandatory 12-hour shifts and begin preparing for the storm. Snow crews work 24/7 until the storm has ceased and snow operations are complete. The Town has 10 large snow plows/spreaders available throughout each storm unless maintenance is required. Depending on the severity of the storm, the Town may also deploy internal snow removal crews in pick-up trucks as necessary and as resources allow.

3. Does the Town use salt or sand to assist with snow operations?

The Town generally follows the agreements signed among the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) and the Regional Air Quality Council (RAQC), so the use of sand or other abrasives have been virtually eliminated due to possible brown cloud impacts caused by particulates. The Town currently uses a salt based product called IceSlicer (or Redmond Salt) and liquid magnesium chloride, which help to keep snow packs loose and minimize ice bonding to pavements.

4. Will the Town plow residential streets and cul-de-sacs?

The top priority for snow operations are arterial streets. Once these main roadways are cleared, the second priority for snow clearing is collector streets. Snow crews will plow local residential roads only after six (6) or more inches of snow has accumulated and snow continues to fall. During larger snow storms (six inches or more of snow), Town trails will only be plowed after residential roads have been plowed.

5. How is the amount of snowfall calculated to determine if residential streets are plowed?

Snowfall is measured with weather sensors utilizing a laser located at the intersections of Twenty-Mile Road/Pine Lane and Hilltop Road/Canterberry Parkway. The sensors accurately measure snow fall amounts.

6. Why do the Town’s plows only make one pass down residential streets instead of plowing curb to curb?

To be able to service all neighborhood streets, typically only a single pass (15 to 18 feet wide) will be made on local streets. In addition to the amount of time and funding curb to curb plowing would take, plowing wider paths creates larger snow piles, which may end up blocking driveways and sidewalks. Once snow plows have made a pass down residential streets, individual homeowners will need to make efforts to get out to the cleared path, as well as clearing snow from curbs to allow for on-street parking.

7. Can snow plows push snow to the side of neighborhood streets that will get more sun?

To ensure the safety of our drivers and others on the roadway during plowing, operators cannot continuously change plowing direction. Plows must stay on their own side of the road during plowing operations.

8. When my street was plowed, it created a snow bank on my sidewalk and/or driveway. Will the Town come remove the snow?

Since snow plows must move at a speed great enough to get the snow off of their blade, they may inadvertently throw snow far enough to cover sidewalks. Unfortunately, the Town doesn't have the budget or manpower to go back and clear sidewalks or remove ice from roadways. To help with this issue, the Town recommends that homeowners avoid shoveling or blowing snow into the street. If your street is plowed after you shovel, some snow will get back on your driveway and we understand that this can be frustrating. You can help by shoveling snow from sidewalks or driveways into your yard, as any snow placed in the street will likely be pushed back into your driveway by a passing snow plow. In addition, snow placed in the gutter may cause icing issues.

9. Who is supposed to shovel around the fire hydrants?

There are no hydrant shoveling requirements within the Town of Parker. If residents would like to enhance hydrant visibility and make firefighter access a quicker process, they are certainly welcome to do so.

10. Who is responsible for shoveling around the group mailboxes?

If the group mailbox fronts to a neighborhood sidewalk, the adjacent property owner or Homeowner’s Association (HOA) is responsible for shoveling the sidewalk in front of the group mailboxes, in a similar fashion to sidewalk clearing requirements. If the mailbox is not adjacent to a sidewalk, no shoveling requirements apply.

11. What can I do to be prepared for a snow storm?

Colorado can receive a great deal of snow each year and residents can take some important steps to be prepared for a snow storm. If you can avoid travel during adverse weather conditions, please stay at home and avoid the stress of driving in poor weather conditions. Every car left at home reduces the number of potentially stranded vehicles, which can slow down plowing operations. When there are fewer vehicles operating on the roadways, streets can also be cleared more quickly. If you must travel during a storm, make sure your vehicle is equipped with snow tires with the proper tread levels and/or chains. Carry a shovel in your car in the event that you become stuck or slide off a roadway. Also equip your vehicle with blankets, clothing, food and other emergency supplies. Residents should make the appropriate preparations to ensure that they are able to travel to and from work and home, which could also include having a four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle available for emergencies.

12. Why are bridges icier than streets?

Bridges are especially vulnerable to icing over as they are subject to rapid cooling due to the lack of earthen insulation. Cold winds flowing over and under bridges remove stored heat quickly. The Town utilizes automated bridge sensors that notify staff of potential or actual icing conditions on select Parker bridges.

13. Will the Town send a plow to respond to emergency situations?

The Town is unable to fairly prioritize the individual concerns of more than 50,000 residents, but we will work to accommodate emergency 9-1-1 calls. The Parker Police Department also responds to emergencies throughout the storm.

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Stormwater Utility Fee Billing & Payment

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1. What gives the Town the authority to charge me the stormwater fee?

In response to citizens' appeals to the Town to assist with the financial burden caused by stormwater runoff, the Town Council passed an ordinance (July 1999) creating this utility. The fee is used as an enterprise fund to provide the funding to pay for the services the Town would have to provide to manage the stormwater runoff.

For more information, please view Stormwater Utility Information

2. Does this fee have to be paid by non-profit or governmental entities?

Yes, the fee applies to all properties, just as water and sewer fees apply. It is a fee for service, not a tax.

3. How do residents benefit from this utility?

Many of our subdivisions had to pay through their homeowners association or Metro District for the maintenance of certain drainage facilities. This cost will now go through the Town and will assist those agencies in this responsibility, which was a potentially large liability for homeowners associations. With the Town providing assistance, the cost is spread out more.

4. How was the fee determined?

The fee was calculated after an extensive study was done of the costs of services.

Single Family Residential (sfr) Properties

The fee for these properties is based on the relative amount of impervious area on each property in Parker and will be as follows:

• 2023 - $8.70 per month
• Fee will increase annually based on U.S. Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index

Commercial and Non-Residential Properties For these properties, the fees are calculated as follows:

• Monthly fee = (SFR fee) x (total impervious area of property in square feet) / 4000 square feet.

The annual fee increase was instituted to offset inflation.

5. What is impervious area?

Impervious area is the area that will not allow stormwater to soak into the ground (infiltrate). Paved or hard-packed driveways, buildings, sidewalks and parking lots are all examples of impervious areas.

6. For commercial properties, how was impervious area determined?

The impervious area is outlined and calculated using computer software, aerial photos of the property and existing site plans on file at Town Hall.

7. Why do I have to pay the fee when I have already been required to have on-site detention on my commercial property?

The fee pays for regional facilities and improvements, which benefit all properties in Parker by accommodating runoff in major storm events. It also pays for routine maintenance of eligible drainage facilities, including your on-site detention ponds. Future commercial property owners will also be charged the stormwater utility fee each year, and will be required to implement onsite drainage facilities to ensure property owners downstream are not negatively impacted.

Policy guidelines in the Town of Parker Storm Drainage and Environmental Criteria Manual (SDECM) have been established to determine stormwater facilities that are eligible for Stormwater Utility maintenance assistance. Copies of the SDECM are available upon request at Town Hall.

8. As a commercial property owner, what do I do if I don’t agree with the calculation of the impervious area on the property?

The property owner may send a letter to the Town and request a review of the calculation stating the basis for the dispute. The letter can be emailed, faxed, mailed or brought to the Parker Town Hall at:
Town of Parker
Attn: Stormwater Billing
20120 E. Mainstreet
Parker, CO 80138
Ph: 303.841.0353
Fx: 303.840.9792
Email

Once we have received this letter, we will make a site visit to verify which areas are impervious to verify the amount. If it is wrong, we will correct it and rebill the proper amount. If it is correct, we will provide the documentation to you to show how it was calculated.

9. What if I refuse to pay my bill?

At 30 days past due, we will send a past due notice with a warning that a $25 surcharge will be added to the bill if it is not received within five days of this notice.

At 60 days past due, we will send a second past due notice containing a warning that this is the last past due notice that will be sent, that a $25 surcharge has been added to the bill, and a lien will be placed on your property for the amount due including the $25 surcharge when the bill reaches 90 days past due.

At 90 days past due, a lien will be filed on your property with Douglas County for the amount due plus $25. The fee will then be collected through the property tax system.