Access the info and resources you need to become certified

The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, along with Colorado State Emergency Operations Center, created the 5 Star State Certification Program. Learn more about the program and access the resources you need to determine if certification is right for your business.
Fast Facts

• The 5 Star State Certification Program enables businesses that meet enhanced safety guidelines in qualifying counties and municipalities to open at a greater capacity.
• Participation is optional and voluntary.
• We’ll begin accepting applications on Feb. 3,  2021.

​El Paso County is currently in Level Orange in the state’s dial framework. Certified businesses may operate in Level Yellow.

Resources Specific to Your Application
Before you begin the application process, we encourage you to complete the following steps:

1. Review CDPHE’s 5 Star Certification framework to determine if the program is a good fit for your business. Participation is optional and voluntary.
2. Review our sample mitigation plans and applications by industry:
   • General Business
   • Restaurants, Breweries, and Bars
   • Gyms & Fitness
   • Personal Services
   • Indoor Events
3. Access additional resources, including the industry-specific mitigation strategies, below.
4. View step-by-step instructions to submitting your mitigation plan and application here.

Mitigation Strategies by Industry

• General business mitigation strategies
• Gyms & fitness mitigation strategies
• Restaurant mitigation strategies
• Personal services mitigation strategies
• Indoor events mitigation strategies

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) 

• CDPHE 5 Star Certification Framework
• CDPHE Print Materials
• CDPHE Mask Guidance
• CDPHE Cleaning Guidance
• CDPHE Symptom Support Tool
• CDPHE Employee Screening Form
• CDPHE Guidance on Outbreak Plans
• CDPHE Guidance of Sufficient Ventilation

Local Business Resources

• City of Colorado Springs Economic Development
• City of Colorado Springs: COVID-19 Response for Businesses
• Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC Small Business Resources
• Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC COVID-19 Resources
• El Paso County Economic Development 
• El Paso County Public Health
• Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center

Contact Us
Can’t find the information you need? Email us at [email protected].