Archuleta County Public Records

Archuleta County maintains public records that include court files, property deeds, government documents, and vital records. These are available under Colorado's Open Records Act, which says that most records shall be open for inspection by any person. You can get records by visiting offices in Pagosa Springs, sending written requests, or using online databases where available. Each type of record has a custodian who manages access. Some files can be viewed for free, while others need fees for copies or staff research time. How fast you get records depends on what you ask for and how busy the office is at the time.

How to Request Records

Colorado law requires that public records be open for inspection at reasonable times. This includes documents made or kept by Archuleta County offices. To get records, you must contact the custodian of the specific files you want. There is no single place that holds all county records. Different offices manage different types of documents.

County offices respond to requests within three working days. If the request is complex or requires searching through many files, they can extend this by seven more days. You will be notified if more time is needed. State law allows the first hour of research and retrieval to be free. After that, offices can charge up to $41 per hour. Paper copies cost $0.25 per page. Electronic records sent by email are often free.

Be specific when you make a request. Include names, dates, document types, and other details that help staff find what you need. The Secretary of State CORA page provides tips for writing effective requests. You can submit requests by email, mail, or in person at most county offices in Colorado.

Some records are not public. Exemptions include personnel files, active criminal investigations, work product, and certain medical information. If your request is denied, the office must tell you which law allows them to withhold the records. You can challenge denials in court if needed.

Property and Marriage Records

The Archuleta County Clerk and Recorder keeps land records, deeds, mortgages, liens, and other documents related to real estate. This office also issues marriage licenses and maintains voter registration files. The office is in Pagosa Springs at the county courthouse. You can visit in person during business hours or call ahead for information.

Many Colorado counties offer online searches of recorded property documents. You can look up deeds by name, address, or document number. Viewing the index is usually free. If you need certified copies, you must order them from the clerk's office. Standard copies cost $0.25 per page. Certification adds $1 per document. Oversize documents like plats cost more.

Marriage licenses are public records in Archuleta County. Get copies by visiting the clerk's office or submitting a written request. Include the names of both parties and the approximate date. Birth and death certificates are not kept by the county. For those, contact the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. The state charges $20 for the first copy and $13 for additional copies.

Divorce records are court documents. You must request them from the District Court where the case was filed. The court clerk can help you locate a case if you have the names or case number.

Court Files in Archuleta County

Archuleta County is part of the 6th Judicial District. Court records include civil cases, criminal cases, family law, probate files, and small claims. Most are public unless sealed by a judge or restricted by law. You can search some records online or visit the courthouse in person to view files.

The Colorado Judicial Branch provides limited online access through third-party vendors. LexisNexis Colorado Courts is one option. This service charges fees for searches and document viewing. It shows case summaries and docket entries. Full documents must be requested from the court clerk.

To get copies of court documents, contact the Clerk of Court at the Archuleta County courthouse. You can request records in person, by mail, or through the state's online form. Fees include $0.75 per page for paper copies and $0.25 per page for electronically filed documents. Research time is billed at $30 per hour after the first free hour. Certified copies cost $20 each.

Some court files are confidential. Juvenile cases are usually sealed. Certain domestic violence cases have restricted access. Mental health proceedings are not public. If you cannot view a record, the clerk will explain why and cite the law that restricts it.

Sheriff and Arrest Records

The Archuleta County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records, incident reports, booking photos, and jail rosters. These are governed by the Colorado Criminal Justice Records Act. Some are public, while others can be withheld during active investigations or to protect victims and witnesses.

Current jail bookings may be available online. This includes names, photos, charges, and booking dates for people in custody. Historical arrest records require a formal CORA request. Submit your request in writing to the Sheriff's Office. Include as much detail as possible, such as dates, names, and case numbers.

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation maintains statewide criminal history records. You can search for a person's arrest and conviction history through the CBI's online system. The search costs $5.00 online or $13 by mail. This database only includes arrests where fingerprints were taken. It does not show out-of-state convictions or sealed records.

Some law enforcement records are exempt from disclosure. These include ongoing investigations, informant identities, surveillance techniques, and certain victim information. If your request is denied, the Sheriff's Office will cite the specific exemption under state law.

Additional County Records

The Archuleta County Assessor keeps property tax records. You can search ownership, assessed values, and tax history online or in person. The Assessor's website shows property details like lot size, year built, and sale history. Most of this data is public. For certified records, contact the Assessor's office directly.

The Treasurer's office handles tax payments and collections. You can look up tax bills and payment history online. For older records or detailed information, submit a CORA request to the Treasurer's office. Make sure you contact the correct office for the type of records you need.

Building permits and zoning records are usually public. Contact the county Planning and Development office for permits, zoning decisions, and land use files. These show permit applications, inspections, and approvals. Some are available online, while others require an in-person visit or written request.

Public Health records include immunization records and health data. Most health records have privacy protections. You can only get your own records or records for people you have legal authority to represent. Contact Archuleta County Public Health for information about requesting these files.

Historical Records and Archives

Older public records may be stored at the Colorado State Archives. The Archives holds historical documents from counties across the state, including death records, divorce files, probate cases, and land records dating back to the 1800s.

You must make an appointment to visit the Archives in Denver. Call 303-866-2358 to schedule. The Archives is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Staff can help you locate records if you are not sure where to start. Some records are searchable online, while others require an in-person visit. Check the Archives website for a list of searchable records and holdings by county.

Nearby Counties

For records from surrounding areas, check the pages for nearby counties in southern Colorado.