If you’re exploring homes in Golden, planning a renovation, thinking about building new, or looking at adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), there’s one factor many buyers overlook: Golden’s water and sewer tap fees.

These fees are not the same across Colorado, and Golden, in particular, has some unique considerations that can meaningfully impact your total project cost and timeline. As a local Golden realtor, I see this come up often with clients who fall in love with a home’s potential, only to be surprised later by municipal water requirements. Here is what to know before you move forward.

What Are Water and Sewer Tap Fees?

Water and sewer tap fees are charges assessed by the City of Golden to connect a property to city water and sewer services. They typically come into play when:

• Building new construction
• Increasing square footage that impacts plumbing capacity
• Creating an ADU or accessory structure
• Converting a garage or studio to a livable unit
• Replacing or rebuilding a structure
• Subdividing a lot

Think of these fees as the cost to access Golden’s municipal utility system.

A Real-Life Example

Imagine a buyer finds a charming property in West Pleasant View with a detached garage and envisions converting it into a rental studio. Zoning supports an ADU, and everything looks workable on paper. However, when utilities are reviewed, it becomes clear that the home’s existing tap does not support a second unit. A separate tap is required, triggering water and sewer tap fees that can add tens of thousands of dollars to the project budget.

This is why verifying tap capacity early matters.

What Buyers Should Do Before Making an Offer

Ask about the existing tap allocation.

Confirm any plans for an ADU or expansion directly with the City of Golden before moving forward.
Request an estimated tap fee quote prior to closing, not after.

Golden has published tap fee schedules, but real-world costs vary depending on infrastructure layout, meter size, and existing capacity.

Typical Tap Fee Ranges in Golden

Type of Tap/Approximate Cost Range:

Standard Single-Family Residence $14,000 to $30,000+ADU

Secondary Unit $8,000 to $20,000

New Construction Primary Residence $25,000 to $60,000+

*Always confirm directly with the City of Golden Utilities Department for the most current figures.

Neighborhoods Where This Matters Most

• Downtown Golden
• North Table Mountain neighborhoods
• West Pleasant View
• Golden Gate Canyon transitional properties
• Any property marketed as “ADU ready” or “expansion potential”

If expansion potential is part of your buying strategy, tap fees should be a planning consideration from the start.

Final Thoughts

Golden’s charm, walkability, trail access, and community-forward feel make it a standout place to live. And that is exactly why the city protects its water resources and manages growth intentionally. If you are considering a home where future expansion is part of the vision, planning ahead for tap fees can help you avoid surprises and ensure the property truly aligns with your goals.

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