Chaffee County Marriage License Lookup

Chaffee County marriage records are available through the Clerk and Recorder office in Salida. The county sits in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, with Buena Vista and Poncha Springs among its notable communities. Residents who marry in Chaffee County file their licenses locally. These records serve as proof of marriage for legal matters.

Where to Get Marriage Records in Chaffee County

The Chaffee County Clerk and Recorder maintains all marriage licenses issued within the county. This office is the primary source for certified copies of marriage certificates in Chaffee County. Couples who marry in Salida, Buena Vista, or surrounding areas file their completed licenses here. The office also processes new marriage license applications for couples planning to wed.

You may also obtain a marriage verification from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. This state office provides verification of marriage records for events that occurred in Chaffee County. However, the CDPHE only confirms that a marriage took place. It does not issue certified copies of the actual marriage license or certificate. For most legal needs, you will want the certified copy from Chaffee County.

The Colorado State Archives holds some older marriage records from Chaffee County. If your ancestor married before 1960, the Archives may have the record. Their collection includes marriage licenses, applications, and registers from various counties. Note that most Colorado marriage records do not include parents' names. You can search their online database to see if your record is available.

Chaffee County Clerk and Recorder Office

The Clerk and Recorder office in Salida serves as the hub for marriage records in Chaffee County. This office issues marriage licenses to couples planning to marry. Staff also file completed marriage certificates after the ceremony takes place. Residents of Buena Vista, Poncha Springs, and rural Chaffee County all use this office for marriage needs.

You can reach the Chaffee County Clerk and Recorder using the contact information below. It is wise to call ahead before visiting. Office hours and procedures may change. Staff can answer questions about what to bring when applying for a marriage license.

Marriage License Requirements in Chaffee County

Getting a marriage license in Chaffee County follows Colorado state law. Both parties must meet certain requirements. The process is straightforward but requires proper identification. Plan ahead to ensure you have everything needed before your wedding date.

Under C.R.S. § 14-2-106, both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without restrictions. Those aged 16 or 17 may marry with judicial approval. No blood tests are required in Colorado. The license fee includes a base amount plus funds for domestic abuse programs.

To apply for a marriage license in Chaffee County, you will need valid government-issued photo identification. Acceptable forms include a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Both parties must appear in person at the Clerk and Recorder office. At least one party must be present to complete the application. The license becomes valid immediately upon issuance. It remains valid for 35 days, so time your application accordingly.

Colorado recognizes both ceremonial and common-law marriages. Couples may solemnize their own marriage without an officiant. This self-solemnization option is unique to Colorado. If you choose this route, you and your partner sign as both parties and officiants on the certificate. Return the completed license to the Chaffee County Clerk and Recorder within 63 days to avoid late fees.

Ordering Certified Copies from Chaffee County

After your wedding, you may need certified copies of your marriage certificate. These official copies serve as proof of marriage for name changes, insurance updates, and other legal needs. Chaffee County provides certified copies upon request. The process is simple and can often be completed by mail.

To order a certified copy from Chaffee County, contact the Clerk and Recorder office. Provide the full names of both spouses and the date of marriage. Include payment for the copy fees. Most counties charge per copy, with additional fees for certified documents. Call the Salida office to confirm current rates.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment offers marriage verifications as an alternative. A verification confirms that a marriage took place but does not provide a copy of the license itself. Verifications cost $25 for the first copy and $20 for additional copies. You can order through VitalChek by calling 866-632-2604. Note that verifications may not meet all legal requirements. Most situations call for the certified copy from Chaffee County.

Note: Always check with the requesting agency to determine whether they need a certified copy or if a verification will suffice.

Historical Marriage Records in Chaffee County

Genealogists and family historians may find valuable marriage records for Chaffee County at the Colorado State Archives. The Archives holds marriage records from many Colorado counties. Their collection spans from the territorial period through the mid-20th century. Not all years are available for every county.

The State Archives maintains a Statewide Marriage Index covering 1890 to 1939. This searchable database lists names, marriage dates, counties, and license numbers. You can search online to see if a Chaffee County marriage appears in the index. Not all indexed records are held by the Archives. Some must be requested from the county.

For marriages after 1960, contact the Chaffee County Clerk and Recorder directly. The Archives likely does not hold these newer records. FamilySearch also offers a Colorado Statewide Marriage Index covering 1853 to 2006. This resource can help you locate marriage information before requesting official copies.