By Shannon Lukens.
Be aware of the latest scam.
It’s a fake email to those who have applied for a permit through the Planning Department with the City of Steamboat Springs. The email looks official and may reference real permit information.
Check where the email is from to make sure it is from “steamboatsprings.net.”
Do not click on any links or attachments, or send any personal information. And do not pay any fees through the fake online portal that is in the email.
More information is below.
Press Release from City of Steamboat Springs; Nov. 7, 2025.
Phishing For Payments – Scam Targets City Permit Process
Fraudulent Emails Targeted Planning Department Permit Applicants
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO-November 6, 2025-The City of Steamboat Springs has been made aware of recent fraudulent email attempts targeting individuals who have applied for permits through the city’s Planning Department. These scam emails are designed to appear as official correspondence and may reference real permit information that is publicly available.
Details of the scam include:
- Emails are not sent from official @steamboatsprings.net addresses.
- Messages appear to come from the City of Steamboat Springs Planning Department or other city staff.
- The emails are relatively sophisticated, often referencing actual permit numbers, project details, or applicant names.
- Victims are solicited for payment through unofficial channels, typically via email.
The city reminds all applicants and residents that all permit-related fees must be paid exclusively through the official CityView online portal. The city will never request Planning Department payments via email or through third-party services.
If you receive a suspicious email requesting payment or containing unexpected instructions:
- Do not click on any links or attachments.
- Do not provide any personal or financial information.
- Contact your assigned Project Manager directly or call the City of Steamboat Springs Planning Department front desk at 970-871-8258 to verify the legitimacy of the message.
If you received a fraudulent email and/or provided payment and would like to report this as a crime, you can contact the Steamboat Springs Police Department at 970-879-4344 to file a police report.
The City of Steamboat Springs is committed to maintaining the security and integrity of its permitting process and protecting the personal information of all applicants. While we take these incidents seriously, and are actively monitoring for fraudulent activity, we want to emphasize that there is no indication that any city systems have been compromised. Our staff is working diligently to ensure that residents and applicants are informed, supported, and safeguarded against scams.
Other Scam Coverage on Steamboat Radio News
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- Oct. 11, 2023 — Strong Tower group asked to leave Walmart in Craig
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- Jan. 31, 2023 — Identity Theft Awareness Week
- May 24, 2024 — “Stand for the Silent” group asking for money is questioned by Steamboat Springs Police
- Sept. 12, 2021 — SSHS and MCHS football fans are being targeted with a scam