Costilla County Marriage Certificate Access
Costilla County marriage records are housed at the Clerk and Recorder office in San Luis. This historic San Luis Valley county includes the towns of Blanca and Fort Garland. San Luis itself is the oldest town in Colorado, founded in 1851. The county seat preserves marriage records for all ceremonies performed within Costilla County boundaries.
Where to Get Marriage Records in Costilla County
The Costilla County Clerk and Recorder maintains all marriage records for this historic region. Located in San Luis, this office serves one of Colorado's most culturally significant areas. The county has deep Hispanic roots extending back to the mid-19th century. Marriage records reflect this rich heritage.
Residents of San Luis, Blanca, Fort Garland, and surrounding rural areas use this office. Staff issue new marriage licenses to couples planning to wed. They also provide certified copies of existing marriage certificates. The office preserves records dating back many generations.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment provides marriage verifications. This state service confirms a marriage took place in Costilla County. Verifications cost $25 for the first copy. Order through VitalChek at 866-632-2604. Remember that verifications differ from certified copies.
Historical researchers may find records at the Colorado State Archives. Their collection includes documents from Costilla County's early history. The online index covers marriages from 1890 to 1939.
Costilla County Clerk and Recorder Office
The Clerk and Recorder office in San Luis serves all of Costilla County. San Luis is Colorado's oldest town, established before the territory became a state. This historic setting houses the offices that maintain marriage records. Staff assist couples with license applications and provide copies of certificates.
Contact the Costilla County Clerk and Recorder using the information below. Calling ahead is recommended. Staff can explain current fees and required identification. They can also advise on office hours.
| Office | Costilla County Clerk and Recorder |
|---|---|
| Address | 400 Gasper Street, San Luis, CO 81152 |
| Phone | (719) 672-3681 |
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM |
| Website | costillacounty-co.gov |
Marriage License Requirements in Costilla County
Obtaining a marriage license in Costilla County follows Colorado state requirements. The process is uniform across all counties. You will need valid identification and payment for fees. Understanding the requirements helps ensure a smooth application.
Under C.R.S. § 14-2-106, applicants must be 18 or older. Those aged 16 or 17 need judicial approval and parental consent. Both parties need government-issued photo ID. At least one party must appear in person at the Clerk and Recorder office. No blood test is required.
The license fee includes statutory amounts for domestic abuse programs. Once issued, the license is valid for 35 days. You must hold your ceremony within this period. The license is only valid for marriages performed in Colorado.
After the wedding, return the signed certificate within 63 days. Late filings incur fees under C.R.S. § 14-2-109. Colorado permits self-solemnization. Couples may marry without an officiant if they choose.
Note: Common-law marriages are recognized in Colorado. However, official verification is not available from the state.
Ordering Certified Copies from Costilla County
After your wedding in Costilla County, certified copies of your marriage certificate serve many needs. You may need them for name changes, benefits enrollment, or legal matters. The Costilla County Clerk and Recorder provides these copies. Contact their San Luis office to order.
To request copies, provide the names of both parties and the marriage date. Include payment for the copy fees. Call the office to confirm current rates. Most counties charge per certified document.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment offers marriage verifications. These confirm a marriage occurred but are not certified copies. Order through VitalChek at 866-632-2604. You may also mail an application to 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, CO 80246. Processing typically takes 30 business days.
Historical Marriage Records in Costilla County
Costilla County holds a special place in Colorado history. As one of the original counties established in 1861, it preserves records dating to the territorial period. The Colorado State Archives maintains many of these historic documents. Researchers seeking ancestral records should start there.
The Statewide Marriage Index covers 1890 to 1939. This searchable database includes Costilla County marriages. You can search from home to identify potential records. The Archives is located at 1313 Sherman Street in Denver.
FamilySearch provides an alternative index covering 1853 to 2006. This broader resource may help locate Costilla County records not in the state index. For documents after 1960, contact the Costilla County Clerk and Recorder directly. The Archives typically does not hold recent records.
Note: Most Colorado marriage records do not list parents' names. This differs from many other states.