Search Custer County Deed Records
Custer County deed records are maintained in Westcliffe. The Clerk and Recorder preserves these important documents. The county sits in the Wet Mountain Valley. It is surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo and Wet Mountains. The area is known for ranching and outdoor recreation. Many properties are large ranches. Others are mountain retreats. The county formed in 1877. Records date from that era.
Custer County Deed Facts
Custer County Clerk and Recorder Office
The Custer County Clerk and Recorder serves a rural mountain community. The office records all land transactions. Deeds, mortgages, and liens are filed here. The staff also handles elections and marriage licenses. Recording is a vital service for property owners.
Westcliffe is the county seat. It sits at 7,888 feet elevation. The town offers stunning mountain views. The dark skies attract astronomers. Tourism supplements the ranching economy. Many visitors buy vacation properties. These sales keep the recording office busy.
The area has a rich history. It was named for General George Armstrong Custer. He explored this region in 1874. Gold discoveries brought early settlers. Mining camps sprang up. Ranching eventually became dominant. Deeds reflect these transitions. Early mining claims appear in records. Later documents show ranch consolidation.
Staff are familiar with rural property issues. Access easements are common. Shared driveways appear frequently. Water rights are always important. The arid climate makes them valuable. Wells and springs are documented. The office maintains these critical records.
| Office Name | Custer County Clerk and Recorder |
|---|---|
| Physical Address |
205 South 6th Street Westcliffe, CO 81252 |
| Phone | (719) 783-2441 |
| Hours |
Monday through Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Excluding Holidays |
Custer County Recording Fees and Requirements
Custer County charges state-mandated recording fees. The Colorado legislature passed HB24-1269. This bill updated fee structures. Changes took effect July 1, 2025. The standard recording fee is $43 per document. This rate applies statewide.
The documentary fee may also apply. It is calculated at $0.01 per $100. This is based on the consideration amount. Sales over $500 trigger this fee. The higher the price, the higher the fee. Some transactions are exempt. Family gifts may not pay this fee.
Payment options should be verified. Call (719) 783-2441 for current information. Ask about acceptable payment types. Credit card availability varies. Check policies before visiting. This ensures smooth transactions.
Processing typically takes 7 to 10 days. Documents are reviewed for compliance. They are then recorded and returned. Mail submissions should include return postage. This speeds the return process. Plan accordingly for your timeline.
Custer County Document Requirements
Documents must comply with Colorado law. C.R.S. § 30-10-406 sets the standards. The Clerk checks every submission. Non-compliant documents are rejected. This maintains record quality. It protects property rights.
Margin requirements are strict. The top margin must be 1 inch. Sides and bottom need 0.5 inches. The top must remain clear. The recording stamp occupies this space. No text or bar codes should appear there. This ensures the stamp is readable.
Most transfers require a TD-1000 form. This is the transfer declaration form. It reports sale details to the county. The assessor uses this information. File it with your deed. Both are required for recording. Missing forms cause delays.
Colorado is a race-notice jurisdiction. C.R.S. § 38-35-109 establishes this rule. Recording first provides protection. It defeats later claims. Buyers should record immediately. Do not delay after closing.
Custer County Online Search Options
Custer County offers online deed searching. You can access records from anywhere. This helps absentee landowners. Many owners live outside the county. The system is free to search. You pay only for copies. This supports remote property management.
The database contains valuable information. Ranch deeds are well represented. Mountain cabin transfers are common. Conservation easements appear frequently. These protect open space. They affect property values. The records document these arrangements.
Searching is straightforward. Use owner names to find deeds. Book and page reference older documents. Reception numbers locate recent filings. Legal descriptions find specific parcels. Multiple methods ensure success. The system is designed for public use.
Property research is important. Verify ownership before purchase. Check for existing liens. Review easement documents. The online access makes this possible. It supports informed decisions. Transparency benefits everyone. Access the county portal to begin your search.
Nearby Counties with Deed Records
Custer County is surrounded by mountain counties. The Wet Mountain Valley connects to neighboring areas. Ranch properties sometimes span boundaries. Title searches may require multiple counties. Check all relevant offices for complete records.
Surrounding counties share similar characteristics. Mountain and valley lands are common. Each office has its own procedures. Contact them directly for specific requirements.