Your Comprehensive Guide to Colorado Public Records
Colorado Public Records
Public records in Colorado consist of various documents and information held by state and local government agencies, accessible to the public under the Colorado Public Records Act (CPRA). This Act, codified in Colorado Revised Statutes §§ 24-72-201 to 24-72-309, governs the availability of government-held records to the public and establishes the guidelines for accessing them. The full details of the CPRA can be explored in the Colorado Public Records Act.
Are Colorado Records Public?
Yes, records in Colorado are public. The Colorado Public Records Act ensures that most government records are open for public inspection and copying, with certain exceptions for privacy, security, and other protected interests. You can visit the Colorado Secretary of State's website for more comprehensive information on the Act.
What do Colorado Public Records Include?
Colorado's public records encompass a wide range of documents, including:
- Vital Records: Such as birth, death, marriage, and divorce records, which the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment maintains. Further details are available at Colorado Vital Records.
- Property Records: This includes information on property ownership, valuations, and taxes, managed by local county assessors' offices, like the Denver County Assessor's Office.
- Criminal Records: Managed by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, providing background checks and criminal history. Visit the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.
- Court Records: Covering records from civil and criminal courts, accessible through the Colorado Judicial Branch website, Colorado Judicial Branch.
- Business Records: This includes business filings and registrations overseen by the Colorado Secretary of State. Information can be found at Colorado Secretary of State Business Services.
How to Find Public Records in Colorado
To locate public records in Colorado, follow these steps:
- Identify the Record Type: Determine the specific record you need, such as a property record or birth certificate.
- Locate the Responsible Agency: Different records are held by different departments. For instance, vital records are available through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
- Please submit a Request: Each agency has its process for requesting records, typically available online, in person, or by mail.
- Follow the Agency's Guidelines: Comply with the agency's specific requirements, including completing any forms and providing necessary identification.
- Pay Any Applicable Fees: Some records may involve fees for processing or duplication.
- Wait for Processing: There may be a waiting period for your request to be processed and the records to be available.
The Colorado State Archives is a valuable resource for assistance and more detailed guidance.
Lookup Public Records in Colorado
Key departments in Colorado for public records include:
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment: For vital records like birth and death certificates. Visit Colorado Vital Records.
- County Assessor's Offices: For property records, such as the Denver County Assessor's Office.
- Colorado Bureau of Investigation: For criminal records and background checks. More information at the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.
- Colorado Judicial Branch: For court records. See Colorado Judicial Branch.
- Colorado Secretary of State: For business records. Check out Colorado Secretary of State Business Services.