Your Guide to Colorado Elopement Laws

Colorado is hands-down one of the easiest places to get married. There’s no waiting periods on your marriage license, no officiant required, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth! Colorado really makes eloping as stress-free and advcenturous as you want it to be.

While it is super easy to get married in Colorado, there are a few legal details to take care of. But don’t worry – I’ve got you. I will walk you through all the Colorado elopement laws and information you need to know to get married here. 

How to Get a Colorado Marriage License

First things first, you need a Colorado marriage license. To apply for a marriage license, you need to go to any County Clerk’s office in person (some allow online application as well) and fill out some paperwork. 

To get your marriage license, you’ll need to bring a valid ID. The marriage license fee is about $30, but it can vary depending on the county. Most counties take cash or card, but always double check with your chosen location. And that’s it – you can use your marriage license same day, there’s no waiting period.

Your marriage license is valid for 35 days, so you do have a little wiggle room, if you’re still finalizing your elopement details or there are delays for whatever reason. While you don’t need to get married in the same county you’ve applied for your marriage license, you do need to return it to the same County Clerk’s office within 63 days.

What is Self-Solemnization in Colorado?

One of the coolest things about eloping in Colorado? You don’t need an officiant or any witnesses. That means you and your partner can marry yourselves—just the two of you (and maybe your dog).

This is called self-solemnization, and it gives you total freedom to make your ceremony exactly what you want it to be. Want to exchange vows at sunrise on a mountaintop with no one else around? We can make it happen!

How does it work?

You’ll both sign your marriage license where an officiant would normally sign and that’s it! You’re legally married! 

This is one of the reasons eloping in Colorado is so simple and relaxed. You don’t need to worry about who’s going to officiate or needing to bring along any extra people just for legal reasons. You’re in full control of your wedding day, from start to finish.

Colorado Elopement Permits

Do you need a permit to elope in Colorado? It depends on where you want to elope, but more often than not – yes, you will need a permit. My recommendation is to always assume you’ll need one unless told otherwise.

When do you need an elopement aka special use permit in Colorado?

• If you’re eloping in a place like Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll need a Special Use Permit for your ceremony. The park has a limited number of permits per year and they go fast, so apply as early as possible!
• Some state parks (like Maroon Bells) require a permit, while others don’t. Always check with the park office to confirm.
• Most BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land doesn’t require a permit for small ceremonies, but rules can vary depending on the location.
• If you’re eloping at an Airbnb, lodge, or rented venue, they may have their own rules. Always check in advance! However, likely locations like these won’t require a permit, as it is built into their packages.
  
  

How to get your Colorado elopement permit?

Each location has its own process, but in general, you’ll need to:

1. Find the managing agency of your chosen Colorado elopement location (National Park Service, State Parks, BLM, etc)
2. Submit an application (some require advance notice—anywhere from 2 weeks to a year).
3. Pay a permit fee (this can range from $50 to $300+ depending on the location).
   
   

However, don’t sweat it! This is something I help all my couples navigate, so you don’t have to figure it out alone!

Your Dog Can Sign Your Marriage License

Another amazing benefit of getting married in Colorado is that in some Colorado counties your dog can sign your marriage license with a paw print. It’s possibly the cutest thing ever, and I highly recommend doing it if your pup is part of your elopement day.

However, always double check your chosen location allows dogs and that your chosen county allows this. Unfortunately, not every county allows it anymore. Counties that no longer allow dogs to “sign” the marriage license are Arapahoe, El Paso and City and County of Denver.

Other counties may still allow it, but always check with the County Clerk’s Office before assuming your pup can be an official witness.

If you want your dog to sign your marriage license, and you’ve made sure your chosen Colorado county allows it – make sure to bring a pet-safe ink pad to get those paw prints onto the license!

Colorado Marriage Law FAQs

Can you get married the same day in Colorado?

Yes, you can get married the same day in Colorado.

Can you get married in Colorado if you are not a resident?

Yes! As long as you meet the requirements for a valid marriage license and get your marriage license at the County Clerk’s office.

Do you need witnesses to get married in Colorado?

You do not need witnesses to get married in Colorado.

Can anyone marry a couple in Colorado?

Yes. You can either self-solemnize without anyone officiating, or have a friend or loved one officiate your ceremony.

Looking for More Guidance With Colorado Elopement Laws?

Colorado is easily one of the best places to elope, not just because of the jaw-dropping scenery but because the laws make it so easy. With self-solemnization, no waiting period, and plenty of stunning locations, you can create an elopement experience that’s completely stress-free and uniquely you.

If all of this sounds overwhelming—don’t worry. I help my couples navigate everything from permits to locations to timelines. You get to focus on your adventure, and I’ll handle the logistics. Ready to start planning your dream Colorado elopement? Let’s do this! You can check out my Colorado elopement packages here and reach out to me when you’re ready!

If you’re planning a Colorado elopement, you may also like:

• Local’s Guide to the Best Colorado Elopement Locations
• How to Elope in Colorado