The Gilpin County Motor Vehicle Office today announced temporary service disruptions in February 2026 related to a required statewide system upgrade by the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This upgrade is designed to enhance the experience by making the system easier to use and fully accessible on all devices
Gilpin County has adopted updated regulations governing Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) in accordance with new requirements from the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment (CDPHE).
The Gilpin County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) approved several resolutions, appointments, and program updates during its January 27 meeting. All items presented for action were approved.
Commissioners approved:
At last week’s work session, the Gilpin County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) reviewed several policy and operational topics that will shape upcoming Board actions. Work sessions allow Commissioners to discuss issues, ask questions, and provide direction to staff. No formal decisions are made during these meetings.
OWTS Fee Schedule Update
As we say goodbye to 2025, Gilpin County is reflecting on a year marked by meaningful progress, strong partnerships, and continued investment in the community. Across all departments, county staff and leadership worked to strengthen essential services, improve infrastructure, enhance public safety, and deepen connections with residents. (View our 2025 Year-in-Review video).
Effective today, December 23, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., the Gilpin County Sheriff has ordered Temporary Stage I Fire Restrictions due to current environmental conditions.
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning today for Gilpin County due to critical and dangerous fire weather conditions.
This week’s weather will continue to increase fire risk, with warm temperatures (potentially near or breaking records) and very dry conditions. We will continue to monitor conditions daily and will communicate as needed.
Looking Ahead (Monday–Saturday):
Xcel Energy is re-energizing the power lines for the cities of Central and Black Hawk and power is being restored incrementally. Crews are still working. United Power has been working throughout the day to reenergize all customers in Gilpin County. No estimated time of complete restoration has been provided by either utility.
In response to ongoing power outages and dangerous wind conditions, a Joint Information Center (JIC) has been established today with the Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office, The City of Black Hawk, and Central City, Friday, December 19. There have been reports of fires in the County and as of 11:30AM all fires are contained.
This line will be staffed until 9:00 PM tonight to answer non-emergency questions related to this event.
Update 12/18, 12 p.m.: 🔥 Red Flag Warning & Community Preparedness:
As of today, Thursday, December 18th at 11:30am, the warming shelter remains open at 10595 Highway 119 at the Gilpin County School.
Access for the shelter will be through the upper entrance to the atrium at the high school level. Due to safety and allergy concerns, only service animals will be allowed.