CO Zoning Tyrants Go To War Against A Christian-Owned Bakery

A cherished French bakery in Jefferson County, Colorado, is facing potential closure due to the county’s enforcement of exclusionary zoning regulations. This situation highlights how restrictive regulations can stifle entrepreneurship, particularly in a struggling local economy.

Lookout Mountain, known for its scenic views and as the final resting place of Buffalo Bill, is just 12 miles from downtown Denver and attracts hikers and tourists. Residents have long sought a quality café, and the opening of Et Voilà!, a French bakery, was met with enthusiasm.

Et Voilà! is operated by Eric and Rachel Dufour, along with Rachel’s sister, Ruth, who pursued her passion for baking at a renowned pastry school. The Dufours aim to share authentic French cuisine with the community while supporting their nonprofit, Serving Alongside Ministry (SAM), which provides counseling services for Christian organizations.

To establish their bakery, the Dufours sold their home and invested the proceeds into the business. They transformed an old storage building into a welcoming space, complete with café seating and vibrant decor reflecting Parisian landmarks.

The Dufours recognized the importance of living close to their bakery, especially during the harsh winters that can block access. They ordered two custom trailer coaches from Canada to serve as their living space and kitchen, ensuring they could operate their business year-round.

However, an anonymous zoning complaint claimed that the area where the trailers are located is not zoned for residential use. Jefferson County’s zoning inspectors ordered the Dufours to remove the trailers, which they argue would jeopardize the bakery’s future.

The Dufours have spent nearly a year negotiating with county officials, emphasizing that compliance would impose undue hardship on their business. Despite receiving positive reviews and breaking even in their first month, their requests for exemptions from the zoning ordinance have been denied.

In response, the Dufours launched a petition on Change.org, which garnered around 2,400 signatures from supporters who question the county’s strict enforcement of zoning regulations. One commenter noted, “Regulations like this are why we can’t have nice things.”

The zoning dispute underscores the challenges facing businesses in Colorado, which was rated poorly in a 2024 CNBC study on business climate. The state has a high level of regulation, contributing to a declining business environment and job losses. Jefferson County is also facing financial difficulties, needing more businesses like Et Voilà! to support local services.

As the Dufours continue to fight for their bakery, the situation raises questions about the balance between regulation and supporting local entrepreneurship in Colorado.