Colorado Department of Revenue

High Polluter Program

 
Parking Lot Full of Cars

The Colorado Department of Revenue (DOR) is working in partnership with the Colorado Department of Health and Environment (CDPHE) to identify high-polluting vehicles.

 

Role of CDPHE:

Does a compliance test of vehicles that have been identified

as high-polluting and gives vehicle owner(s) assistance in getting

the vehicle repaired. For more information on CDPHE's role in the program please visit their website.

 

Vehicles not in Compliance:

Vehicles may not be in compliance for one of two reasons:

  • First, may be that CDPHE was unsuccessful in obtaining a response from the owner to bring the vehicle in for the compliance test.
  • Second, the vehicle owner does the compliance and fails, but does not respond within 90 days after the initial compliance test. Only then will DOR proceed with contacting the vehicle owner and notifying them of the potential for assessing fines and/or administratively suspending the vehicles registration.

 

Reasons for Assessing a Fine or Suspending the Registration:

  • The vehicle owner failed to comply with the certified letter sent from CDPHE within 30 days from the date listed on the notification letter to schedule a compliance inspection.
  • The vehicle owner took the vehicle in for a compliance test within first 30 days as required, but did not show proof of repairs and/or complete the follow up test with CDPHE within 90 days of the compliance test.
  • If the above circumstances take place a $100.00 fine is imposed for non-compliance pursuant to § 42-4-313(3)(i), C.R.S. and 1 C.C.R. 204-11 (Rule 10(1001.1)(b)(1)(B)). The fine must be paid to DOR at 1881 Pierce Street Room 128, Lakewood, CO. Checks must be made payable to DOR.

 

Registration Suspended for being a High-Polluter:

  • You will not receive a registration renewal for your vehicle.
  • You will not be allowed to renew your vehicle registration or license plates.
  • The vehicle's registration is flagged for an Emissions Hold (high-polluter).
  • Law enforcement may ticket and/or impound your vehicle.

 

Good News:

Currently, the Regional Air Quality Council has monies available to assist you in repairing your vehicle. Contact CDPHE for details. For further assistance call the Department of Revenue at 303-205-5603.