Find Marriage Records in Clear Creek County

Clear Creek County marriage records are kept at the Clerk and Recorder office in Georgetown. The county is nestled in the Rocky Mountains just west of Denver, with Idaho Springs as its largest community. Residents who marry in this scenic mountain county file their licenses locally through the Georgetown office.

Where to Get Marriage Records in Clear Creek County

The Clear Creek County Clerk and Recorder maintains all marriage licenses issued within the county boundaries. This office is located in Georgetown, the county seat. Staff issue new licenses to couples planning mountain weddings. They also preserve and provide copies of existing marriage records.

Residents of Idaho Springs, Georgetown, and smaller communities like Silver Plume all use this office for marriage needs. The mountain location makes Clear Creek County a popular spot for destination weddings. Couples from Denver and beyond come here to marry in scenic settings.

For state-level marriage verification, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment offers a service. They can confirm a marriage occurred in Clear Creek County. Verifications cost $25 for the first copy and $20 for extras. Order online through VitalChek or by mail. Note that this is not a certified copy of the license.

Clear Creek County Clerk and Recorder Office

The Clerk and Recorder office in Georgetown serves all of Clear Creek County. This historic mountain town houses the offices that handle marriage licenses. Staff assist couples with applications and provide copies of existing records. The office supports residents of Idaho Springs and the surrounding mountain communities.

Contact the Clear Creek County Clerk and Recorder using the details below. Calling ahead is wise, especially during peak wedding season. Mountain weather can affect office hours in winter months. Staff can advise on current procedures and fees.

Marriage License Requirements in Clear Creek County

Obtaining a marriage license in Clear Creek County follows Colorado law. The process is straightforward for couples planning to wed. You will need proper identification and payment for fees. Both parties should understand the timeline for using the license.

Under C.R.S. § 14-2-106, applicants must be 18 or older to marry without restrictions. Those aged 16 or 17 require judicial approval. Both parties need valid government-issued photo ID. At least one party must appear in person at the Clerk and Recorder office. No blood test or waiting period is required in Colorado.

The license fee includes statutory amounts. These cover the base license cost plus contributions to domestic abuse programs. The license becomes valid immediately upon issuance. It remains valid for 35 days only. Plan your ceremony within this window to avoid reapplying.

Colorado allows self-solemnization. Couples may perform their own marriage ceremony without an officiant. This appeals to many marrying in Clear Creek County's natural settings. After the ceremony, return the signed certificate to the Georgetown office within 63 days. Late filings incur fees under state law.

Note: Colorado recognizes both ceremonial and common-law marriages. The state offers unique flexibility for couples.

Ordering Certified Copies from Clear Creek County

Following your wedding, certified copies of your marriage certificate serve many purposes. You may need them for name changes, insurance updates, or legal matters. The Clear Creek County Clerk and Recorder provides these copies. Contact their Georgetown office to request them.

To order, provide the full names of both parties and the marriage date. Include payment for copy fees. Most counties charge per certified document. Fees support the office's record-keeping services. Call ahead to confirm current pricing.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment provides marriage verifications. These confirm a marriage took place but are not certified copies. Order through VitalChek at 866-632-2604. Verifications cost $25 for the first copy. Processing takes about 30 business days for online orders.

Check with the requesting agency to determine their requirements. Some accept verifications. Others demand certified copies from the county.

Historical Marriage Records in Clear Creek County

The Colorado State Archives holds historical marriage records from Clear Creek County. These date back to the county's founding during the Colorado mining boom. Researchers can search the Archives database for ancestors who married in the Georgetown or Idaho Springs areas.

The Statewide Marriage Index covers 1890 to 1939. This searchable database includes names, dates, and license numbers. You can search online before visiting the Archives in Denver. The Archives is located at 1313 Sherman Street, Room 1B-20.

FamilySearch offers a broader index covering 1853 to 2006. This resource may help locate Clear Creek County marriages not in the state index. For records after 1960, contact the Clear Creek County Clerk and Recorder directly. The Archives likely does not hold these newer documents.

Note: Most Colorado marriage records lack parents' names. This differs from many other states. Genealogists should seek alternative sources for family connections.