Chaffee County CO Property Search
How to Begin Your Chaffee County Property SearchFAQs about Chaffee County CO Property Search
Chaffee County, located in central Colorado, is home to some of the most scenic and sought-after real estate in the state. Whether you're looking to buy a home in Salida, Buena Vista, or Poncha Springs, or you're interested in land for investment or development, conducting a thorough property search is the first and most crucial step. This guide provides detailed information on how to perform a Chaffee County property search, how to access property records, understand property values, and the departments involved in the property search process.
How to Begin Your Chaffee County Property Search
When starting your search for properties in Chaffee County, it is essential to use official government resources. The County Assessor’s Office, Clerk and Recorder, and the Treasurer’s Office all play vital roles in property transactions and maintaining accurate records. These departments provide the tools and resources you need to search for properties, view public records, and get information on property taxes.
Accessing the Chaffee County Assessor’s Property Database
The first stop in any property search in Chaffee County is the Chaffee County Assessor’s Office. The Assessor is responsible for discovering, listing, classifying, and assessing the value of all real property within the county. Every two years, properties are reappraised, and the assessed values are updated. For those seeking property valuation information or property records, the Assessor's website provides an accessible and user-friendly property database.
How to Search for Property Records
Visit the Chaffee County Assessor’s Property Database:
The official Chaffee County Assessor website offers access to the property records database. You can search for property information by address, parcel number, or owner name. This tool allows you to access real-time data on property values, land assessments, and property classifications.
Understanding Property Value Notices:
Every year, property owners in Chaffee County receive a Property Valuation Notice. This document indicates the assessed value of the property, which is used to calculate taxes. If the valuation seems inaccurate, there are steps for filing an appeal.
Property Tax Year Information:
Residential properties are generally assessed at 7.05% for schools and 6.25% for local governments.
Non-residential properties typically have a higher assessment rate of 27%.
In 2025, for instance, notices of value will be mailed out on May 1, and property owners will have until June 9 to file any objections. These objections can be submitted online or delivered in person to the Assessor's Office.
Appeals Process:
If you disagree with your property’s assessed value, you can appeal the decision to the Board of Equalization. The Board reviews appeals and has the authority to adjust property valuations. To file an appeal, you will need to submit relevant documentation and provide a clear rationale for your objection.
Property Sale Information:
The Assessor also provides Sales Books, which list recent transactions for residential, commercial, and vacant land properties in the county. These resources can be used to compare similar properties to determine fair market value.
Property Tax Records: How to Look Up Taxes
Property taxes in Chaffee County are calculated based on the assessed value of the property. The Chaffee County Treasurer’s Office is responsible for managing tax payments and keeping accurate records of all property taxes owed in the county.
How to Pay Property Taxes
To search for taxes owed, visit the Chaffee County Treasurer’s website. You can find property tax records by searching with the property address or parcel number. If taxes are due, they can be paid directly through the Treasurer’s online payment portal. Tax payments can also be made by check or through various in-person methods.
The Clerk and Recorder’s Role in Property Transactions
In addition to the Assessor and Treasurer’s Office, the Clerk and Recorder’s Office maintains records on property transactions, including deeds, title transfers, and mortgage filings. The Clerk’s office is crucial for anyone looking to verify ownership, view recorded documents, or obtain copies of legal property documents.
Recording Documents
If you're involved in buying or selling property in Chaffee County, the Clerk and Recorder’s Office will handle the recording of documents such as deeds, title transfers, and liens. These records are important for ensuring the legitimacy of ownership transfers.
You can access recorded documents through the Chaffee County Clerk’s online portal. Additionally, the Clerk’s office provides information on fees, document recording procedures, and requirements for public access to property records.
Community Planning and Zoning: Understanding Land Use
Another essential component of property searches in Chaffee County is understanding zoning and land use codes. The Planning and Zoning Department helps determine how a particular piece of property can be used, whether it's residential, commercial, or agricultural.
Zoning and Land Use Codes
Chaffee County follows the Land Use Code which determines the types of developments allowed on specific parcels. The zoning regulations cover everything from residential housing to large commercial developments. Before purchasing property, it’s important to check the zoning designation for any restrictions that may affect your planned use.
The Community Planning and Natural Resources Department is responsible for providing guidance on zoning codes and overseeing the comprehensive land use plan for the county. If you're interested in developing or changing the use of a property, this department provides the necessary applications, guidelines, and fees.
The Board of Adjustment: Special Property Use Cases
In some cases, you may need to apply for variances or exceptions to zoning rules. The Board of Adjustment is the county board that hears requests for variances, conditional use permits, or appeals related to zoning decisions. If you wish to pursue an unusual use for a property or need a variance to build in a restricted zone, you would need to work with the Board of Adjustment.
Building Permits and Code Enforcement
If you plan to construct, modify, or improve a property, the Building Safety Department will be involved. This department issues building permits and ensures compliance with local building codes. Before beginning any construction project, it’s essential to apply for a building permit through the Building Department.
Applying for Building Permits
Building permits are required for most construction activities. The Building Department provides all the necessary forms, applications, and information about the permitting process, including associated fees and required inspections.
Chaffee County Property Search Resources and Websites
To help you navigate your property search and understand your responsibilities, several key departments provide helpful online resources. Below are the official websites and contact information for the relevant Chaffee County departments:
Assessor’s Office: Provides property records and valuation data.
Website
Phone: 719-539-4016
Address: 104 Crestone Ave, Salida, CO 81201
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 699, Salida, CO 81201
Clerk & Recorder’s Office: Handles document recording and property transaction records.
Website
Phone (Salida): 719-539-4004
Phone (Buena Vista): 719-395-8296
Address (Salida): 104 Crestone Ave, Salida, CO 81201
Address (Buena Vista): 112 Linderman Ave, Buena Vista, CO 81211
Treasurer’s Office: Responsible for managing property tax payments.
Website
Phone: 719-539-6808
Address: 104 Crestone Ave, Salida, CO 81201
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 249, Salida, CO 81201
Planning & Zoning Department: Provides land use codes, zoning maps, and planning guidelines.
Website
Phone: 719-539-2218
Address: 104 Crestone Ave, Salida, CO 81201
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 699, Salida, CO 81201
Building Safety Department: Issues building permits and inspects properties for code compliance.
Website
Phone: 719-539-2124
Address: 104 Crestone Ave, Salida, CO 81201
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 699, Salida, CO 81201
Chaffee County Property Search Departments and Contact Information
| Name | Address | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Assessor’s Office | 104 Crestone Ave, Salida, CO 81201 | 719-539-4016 |
| Clerk & Recorder’s Office | 104 Crestone Ave, Salida, CO 81201 / 112 Linderman Ave, Buena Vista, CO 81211 | 719-539-4004 (Salida) / 719-395-8296 (Buena Vista) |
| Treasurer’s Office | 104 Crestone Ave, Salida, CO 81201 | 719-539-6808 |
| Building Safety Department | 104 Crestone Ave, Salida, CO 81201 | 719-539-2124 |
| Planning & Zoning Department | 104 Crestone Ave, Salida, CO 81201 | 719-539-2218 |
| Community Planning & Natural Resources | 104 Crestone Ave, Salida, CO 81201 | 719-530-5572 |
With these resources, you can ensure your Chaffee County property search is informed and accurate. Whether you are searching for residential properties, land for development, or need to understand zoning laws, the county's official departments provide all the necessary tools to make the process efficient and transparent.
FAQs about Chaffee County CO Property Search
How Can I Access Chaffee County Property Records?
To access property records in Chaffee County, you should visit the Chaffee County Assessor’s website. The Assessor’s Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and assessing all property within the county. Their online database allows users to search property records by address, parcel number, or owner name. The property records include information such as property values, land assessments, and property classifications. You can access the records by visiting the Chaffee County Assessor's website.
What Should I Know About Property Tax Records in Chaffee County?
The Chaffee County Treasurer's Office is responsible for managing property tax records. Taxes are based on the assessed value of properties, and you can view your tax information through the Treasurer’s online portal. To search for your tax records, you can visit the Chaffee County Treasurer's website. If you wish to pay property taxes, you can also do so directly through the portal. Tax payments can be made online, via check, or in person at the Treasurer’s Office.
How Do I Appeal Property Valuations in Chaffee County?
If you disagree with the assessed value of your property, you have the right to file an appeal. The Chaffee County Assessor will send out Property Valuation Notices, which you can review and contest if necessary. For 2025, property owners can file appeals from May 1 to June 9, 2025. Appeals should be filed with the Board of Equalization, which handles property valuation disputes. Detailed instructions for filing an appeal can be found on the Chaffee County Assessor’s page.
Where Can I Find Information About Zoning and Land Use?
Understanding the zoning and land use regulations in Chaffee County is vital for anyone looking to purchase land for development. The Chaffee County Planning and Zoning Department is responsible for maintaining land use codes, zoning maps, and planning guidelines. For detailed information on zoning regulations and land use applications, you can visit the Chaffee County Planning & Zoning page.
Can I Access Records of Property Transactions in Chaffee County?
Property transaction records, including deeds and title transfers, are handled by the Chaffee County Clerk and Recorder's Office. These records are essential for verifying ownership and ensuring legitimate property transfers. You can access recorded documents through the Clerk’s online portal, available on the Chaffee County Clerk’s website.