Windsor Marriage Vital Records Access

Windsor is a growing community in northern Colorado with over 41,000 residents. The town sits in both Larimer and Weld counties, which means residents may use either county's clerk and recorder office. Most Windsor residents are in Weld County, with a portion extending into Larimer County. The town is located between Fort Collins and Greeley.

Where to Get Marriage Records in Windsor

Windsor residents must determine their county of residence before seeking marriage records. The majority of the town is in Weld County. These residents use the Weld County Clerk and Recorder in Greeley. Those in the Larimer County portion use the Larimer County office in Fort Collins.

Windsor marriage records follow Colorado's standard process. The county clerk issues licenses. After the ceremony, the officiant returns the signed certificate. The clerk records and files the document. Certified copies become available to qualified requesters.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment offers marriage verifications. These confirm a marriage occurred. However, they are not certified copies. For most legal needs, you need certified copies from the county clerk.

The Colorado State Archives may hold older Windsor marriage records from before 1960. Their collection includes various types of marriage documents from across the state. Researchers can search the Archives database online before planning a visit to Denver. The Archives research room is open Tuesday through Friday by appointment only.

Weld County Clerk and Recorder Office

The Weld County Clerk and Recorder serves most Windsor residents. The office is at 1400 N. 17th Avenue in Greeley. This location handles marriage licenses and maintains records for the county. Windsor couples in Weld County can apply for licenses and request copies here.

Both parties must appear in person to apply for a marriage license. Valid photo ID is required. Staff will explain current fees and requirements. They can answer questions about Colorado marriage procedures.

For Larimer County residents of Windsor, the clerk is at 200 W. Oak Street in Fort Collins. This office follows the same state laws. Call either office to confirm services and hours.

Marriage License Requirements for Windsor Residents

Windsor couples must meet Colorado's marriage requirements. Both parties must be at least 18 years old. Minors aged 16 or 17 need court approval and parental consent. Those under 16 cannot marry. Government-issued photo ID proves age and identity.

Colorado requires no blood tests or medical exams. There is no waiting period. Marry immediately after receiving your license. The license expires after 35 days. Use it only within Colorado.

Under C.R.S. Section 14-2-109, Colorado allows self-solemnization. Couples may perform their own ceremony without an officiant. This gives Windsor residents flexibility in planning their wedding.

After the ceremony, the certificate must return to the clerk within 63 days. Late filings incur a penalty of at least $20. This ensures timely recording. The 63-day deadline is established in Colorado Revised Statutes. Officiants who fail to meet this deadline may face additional penalties. Couples should ensure their officiant understands this requirement to avoid complications.

Ordering Certified Copies in Windsor

After your wedding, obtain certified copies of your Windsor marriage certificate. These prove your legal marriage. Request them from the county clerk where your license was issued.

The state Vital Records office provides verifications only. These differ from certified copies. A verification merely confirms a marriage took place.

To order certified copies, show direct interest in the record. Eligible requesters include the married couple and immediate family. Bring valid photo ID for in-person requests. The clerk office needs to verify your identity and relationship to the parties on the certificate. This protects the confidentiality of vital records under Colorado law. Mail orders should include a copy of your identification along with the completed request form.

VitalChek offers online ordering with additional fees. Call 866-632-2604. Processing times vary.

Historical Marriage Records for Windsor Area

Windsor was founded in the 1880s and incorporated in 1909. Early marriages were recorded in Weld or Larimer counties. The Colorado State Archives may hold these historic records. Their marriage index covers 1890 to 1939.

FamilySearch.org offers a Colorado marriage index from 1853 to 2006. Registration is required. The index is alphabetical by groom's name.

Most Colorado marriage records do not include parents' names. Researchers may need other sources for family connections. Census records, birth certificates, and obituaries can provide parental information. Cemetery records and church documents may also help establish family relationships. The Windsor area has several historic cemeteries that may be useful for genealogical research.

For records not at the Archives, contact the appropriate county clerk. They maintain records from 1900 forward. The 1940-1974 period may be county-only.