How to Get Married in Denver, CO: License and Venue Guide

Getting married in Denver, Colorado, is a dream for many couples seeking a blend of urban charm, mountain-backdrop romance, and streamlined legal processes. Whether you’re planning an intimate courthouse ceremony, a scenic alpine elopement, or a grand celebration in a historic venue, understanding the legal requirements and venue options is essential to ensuring your wedding day unfolds without stress or surprises. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of obtaining a marriage license in Denver, selecting the perfect venue, and navigating local regulations—all tailored to help you plan a legally valid, memorable, and seamless wedding experience in Colorado’s most vibrant city.

Denver’s unique combination of accessibility, natural beauty, and progressive marriage laws makes it one of the most popular wedding destinations in the Rocky Mountain region. Unlike some states with lengthy waiting periods or residency requirements, Colorado offers a straightforward, inclusive process for couples regardless of nationality or residency status. This guide cuts through the noise, providing clear, actionable steps, insider tips, and real-world examples so you can focus on what matters most: celebrating your love.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility to Marry in Colorado

Before applying for a marriage license, both parties must meet Colorado’s legal requirements. You must both be at least 18 years old. If either party is 16 or 17, written consent from a parent or legal guardian is required, along with a court order. Minors under 16 cannot marry under any circumstances. Neither party can be currently married to someone else—bigamy is illegal in Colorado. You do not need to be a resident of Colorado or the United States to obtain a marriage license in Denver. International couples are welcome and frequently marry in the city.

Same-sex marriage has been legally recognized in Colorado since October 2014, and all couples are treated equally under state law. Blood tests and pre-marital counseling are not required. You are not required to have witnesses present during the ceremony, though many venues or officiants may recommend or require them for personal or ceremonial reasons.

Step 2: Apply for a Marriage License in Denver

Marriage licenses in Denver are issued by the Denver Clerk and Recorder’s Office. The office is located at 201 West Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO 80202, in the Denver City and County Building. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and it is closed on weekends and state holidays. No appointment is required, but lines can be long during peak wedding seasons (May through October), so arriving early is strongly advised.

To apply, both parties must appear in person together. You must bring valid, government-issued photo identification that includes your full legal name, date of birth, and signature. Acceptable forms include:

• Driver’s license
• State-issued ID card
• Passport
• Military ID

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring documentation proving the change (e.g., divorce decree, court order). If either party has been previously married, you must provide the date your prior marriage ended (divorce, annulment, or death of spouse). You do not need to provide divorce papers unless the clerk requests them for verification.

The current fee for a marriage license in Denver is $30, payable by cash, credit card, or debit card. The license is valid for 35 days from the date of issuance and can be used anywhere in the state of Colorado. After the ceremony, the officiant must return the signed license to the Clerk’s Office within 63 days for it to be officially recorded. You will receive a certified copy of your marriage certificate by mail within 4–6 weeks.

Step 3: Choose and Book Your Officiant

Colorado law allows a wide range of individuals to legally perform marriage ceremonies. These include:

• Judges and retired judges
• Magistrates
• Ministers, priests, rabbis, or other religious leaders authorized by their faith
• Self-solemnizing couples (see below)

Many couples choose a professional officiant for their ceremony. You can find officiants through wedding directories, local event planners, or online platforms like The Knot or WeddingWire. Officiants typically charge between $150 and $500 depending on experience, customization, and travel distance. Some venues include an officiant in their package.

Colorado is one of only a few states that permits self-solemnization—a legal option where the couple performs their own ceremony without a third-party officiant. To use this option, you must indicate your intent on the marriage license application. The license must then be signed by both parties and two adult witnesses (who must be at least 18 years old and present at the ceremony). This option is ideal for elopements, intimate outdoor ceremonies, or couples seeking a deeply personal, non-religious experience.

Step 4: Select and Book Your Wedding Venue

Denver offers an extraordinary variety of wedding venues, from historic landmarks to modern lofts and alpine retreats. Your choice will depend on your guest count, budget, season, and desired aesthetic. Below are the most popular categories:

City Center Venues

For urban elegance, consider venues like the Denver Art Museum, History Colorado Center, or the Denver Central Library. These spaces offer architectural grandeur, built-in catering, and easy access to downtown hotels. Many require booking 6–12 months in advance, especially for weekend dates.

Outdoor and Nature-Based Venues

Denver’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains makes it ideal for scenic ceremonies. Popular outdoor venues include Red Rocks Amphitheatre (book 12–18 months ahead), Chautauqua Park in Boulder, and Washington Park in Denver. Permits are required for public parks, and fees vary depending on group size and equipment needs. For private outdoor settings, consider ranches like Mountain View Ranch or Highland Farms, which offer all-inclusive packages.

Historic and Unique Spaces

Couples seeking character often choose venues like the Denver Union Station (a beautifully restored 1881 train station), the Denver Botanic Gardens, or the Elitch Gardens Ballroom. These venues often include décor, lighting, and catering services, reducing the need for third-party vendors.

Courthouse Ceremonies

For couples seeking simplicity, the Denver County Courthouse offers a quick, no-frills ceremony in a private room. These are typically available Monday through Friday, with no guest limit, but must be scheduled in advance. Fees range from $50 to $150 depending on time and availability. The ceremony lasts approximately 10–15 minutes and is performed by a judge or magistrate.

When booking a venue, confirm the following:

• Availability on your desired date
• Capacity limits
• Whether catering is included or if you can bring your own
• Alcohol policies (some venues require licensed bartenders)
• Weather contingency plans for outdoor spaces
• Setup and teardown times

Step 5: Plan Your Ceremony and Reception

Once your license and venue are secured, focus on the experience. Consider hiring a wedding planner, especially if you’re traveling from out of state. A planner can coordinate vendors, manage timelines, and ensure compliance with venue rules.

For the ceremony, decide on the tone: traditional, spiritual, secular, or personalized. Write your own vows or choose from templates available online. If you’re using a religious officiant, consult with them about rituals, readings, or music.

For the reception, consider whether you want a seated dinner, cocktail-style, or food truck catering. Denver has a thriving food scene, with options ranging from upscale farm-to-table restaurants to authentic Mexican, Thai, and vegan cuisine. Many venues have preferred caterers, but you may bring your own if allowed.

Don’t forget to arrange transportation for guests, especially if your venue is outside downtown. Ride-share services, shuttle buses, or designated drivers can enhance safety and convenience.

Step 6: Obtain Permits and Follow Local Regulations

If your ceremony is outdoors in a public park, you must obtain a permit from the Denver Parks and Recreation Department. Fees range from $50 to $500 depending on the park, group size, and use of equipment (e.g., tents, stages, sound systems). Applications must be submitted at least 30 days in advance. Permits are not available for weekends at popular locations like Red Rocks during peak season.

If you plan to use amplified sound, fireworks, or open flames (e.g., candles), additional permits may be required. Check with the Denver Fire Marshal’s Office for safety regulations.

Alcohol service requires a special event liquor license if the venue does not hold one. This can be obtained through the Colorado Department of Revenue, Alcohol and Tobacco Division. The process takes 10–14 days and costs approximately $100–$200. Many venues already hold liquor licenses, so confirm this before booking.

Step 7: Complete and Return the Marriage License

After your ceremony, the officiant (or both parties, if self-solemnizing) must sign the marriage license in the presence of any required witnesses. The signed license must be returned to the Denver Clerk and Recorder’s Office within 63 days. Most officiants handle this automatically, but you should confirm with them that the license has been submitted.

If the license is not returned on time, your marriage will not be legally recorded, and you will need to apply for a new license and repeat the process. To avoid delays, follow up with your officiant one week after the ceremony.

Step 8: Obtain Your Certified Marriage Certificate

Once the license is recorded, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate. These are needed for name changes, updating Social Security records, insurance policies, bank accounts, and immigration paperwork. You can order copies:

• Online at denvergov.org/clerk
• By mail using the request form
• In person at the Clerk’s Office

Each certified copy costs $10. You can order as many as you need—most couples request 3–5 copies. Processing time is typically 5–10 business days.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead, Especially for Peak Seasons

Denver’s wedding season runs from April through October, with June, September, and October being the most popular months. Venues and vendors book up 6–12 months in advance. If you’re targeting a specific date, start planning at least a year ahead. For off-season weddings (November–March), you may find better rates and more availability, and snow can add a magical touch to mountain venues.

Verify All Legal Requirements Before Booking

Never assume a venue will handle your legal obligations. Even if a venue offers “wedding packages,” confirm that they will ensure your license is properly filed. Always get written confirmation from your officiant that they will return the license on time.

Understand Venue Policies

Some venues restrict outside vendors, require minimum spending, or have strict noise ordinances. Read your contract carefully. If you want to bring your own photographer, florist, or DJ, confirm that the venue allows it and whether there are additional fees.

Prepare for Weather

Denver’s weather is famously unpredictable. Even in summer, temperatures can drop rapidly after sunset, especially at higher elevations. If you’re having an outdoor ceremony, provide blankets, heaters, or a tent. Always have a rain plan. Many venues offer indoor backup options, but confirm this in writing.

Use Local Vendors

Denver has a thriving community of wedding professionals familiar with local regulations and venues. Photographers who know Red Rocks’ lighting patterns, florists who source seasonal Colorado blooms, and caterers who understand high-altitude cooking all add value. Local vendors are also more likely to be responsive and reliable.

Communicate Clearly with Guests

If your guests are traveling from out of town, provide a wedding website with details on accommodations, parking, dress code, and local attractions. Many couples use platforms like Zola or The Knot to create free, customizable wedding sites. Include information about Denver’s altitude (5,280 feet) and suggest guests stay hydrated.

Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality

Consider weekday weddings (Thursday–Sunday) for lower venue rates. Opt for a morning or afternoon ceremony instead of evening to avoid peak pricing. Choose a buffet or family-style meal over plated service. Use digital invitations instead of printed ones. These small changes can save hundreds or even thousands without compromising the experience.

Tools and Resources

Official Government Resources

• Denver Clerk and Recorder’s Office – denvergov.org/clerk – For license applications, fees, and certificate requests
• Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment – cdphe.colorado.gov/marriage – Statewide marriage laws and FAQs
• Denver Parks and Recreation – denvergov.org/parks – Park permits and regulations
• Colorado Alcohol and Tobacco Division – cdor.colorado.gov/alcohol-tobacco – Liquor license applications

Wedding Planning Platforms

• The Knot – Vendor directory, checklist, budget calculator
• WeddingWire – Reviews of Denver venues and professionals
• Zola – Free wedding website, RSVP tracking, registry
• Google Maps – Use to scout venues, parking, and nearby hotels

Local Vendor Directories

• Denver Wedding Professionals Association – A curated list of local photographers, planners, and florists
• Colorado Bride Magazine – Annual guide to top vendors and venues
• Denver Business Journal Wedding Showcase – Annual event featuring local vendors (attend for inspiration and networking)

Checklists and Templates

Download and customize these free resources:

• Marriage License Checklist (Denver Clerk’s Office)
• Wedding Timeline Template (12-month, 6-month, 1-month)
• Vendor Contract Review Checklist
• Outdoor Ceremony Weather Backup Plan

Many of these can be found on the Denver Clerk’s website or through wedding planning blogs like Colorado Bride or The Knot’s Denver section.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Downtown Elopement

Emma and James, a couple from Texas, wanted a simple, legal wedding with no guests. They applied for their marriage license on a Monday morning at the Denver Clerk’s Office, arriving at 8:15 a.m. to avoid lines. They chose self-solemnization and brought two friends as witnesses. They held their ceremony at the rooftop garden of the Denver Central Library, which allowed free public access. They signed the license immediately after and emailed a copy to their officiant (a friend who is a retired judge) for filing. Two weeks later, they received their certified certificate by mail. Total cost: $30 (license) + $0 (venue) + $0 (officiant). They celebrated with dinner at a nearby restaurant and flew home the next day.

Example 2: The Mountain Wedding

Maya and Luis, from California, planned a destination wedding for 40 guests at Highland Farms, a private ranch 30 minutes from downtown Denver. They booked the venue 14 months in advance for a September date. The venue included catering, tables, chairs, and an officiant. They paid $8,500 for the package. They obtained their license in Denver and mailed it to the venue coordinator for filing. The ceremony was held at sunset with views of the Rockies. Guests stayed at the nearby Hotel Monaco. They ordered 5 certified copies of their certificate for bank and immigration purposes. Total cost: $10,200 including travel and accommodations.

Example 3: The Cultural Fusion Wedding

Sophie and Aiden, a multicultural couple (one Mexican, one British), wanted a ceremony that honored both heritages. They chose the Denver Botanic Gardens for its lush, international garden themes. They hired a bilingual officiant who incorporated Spanish and English readings. They obtained their license 30 days in advance. Because they wanted live mariachi music and a mariachi band, they secured a special event permit for amplified sound. The venue allowed them to bring their own caterer, so they hired a local Mexican restaurant to serve tamales and mole. Their guests were amazed by the blend of traditions. The license was returned on time, and they received their certificate within five weeks.

Example 4: The Courthouse Wedding with Family

Chloe and Ryan, both in their 60s, wanted to formalize their relationship after 25 years together. They chose a courthouse ceremony with their two adult children as witnesses. They applied for their license on a Friday afternoon and were scheduled for a 4:00 p.m. ceremony the next day. The judge performed a short, heartfelt ceremony in a private room. They invited their children to join them for lunch afterward at a nearby café. They paid $100 for the courthouse fee and ordered three certified copies for estate planning. The entire process took less than two hours.

FAQs

Can I get married in Denver if I’m not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. Colorado does not require proof of citizenship or residency. International couples can obtain a marriage license with a valid passport and must meet the same age and identification requirements as U.S. residents.

How long does it take to get a marriage license in Denver?

The application process takes 15–30 minutes if you have all documents ready. There is no waiting period—your license is issued immediately upon approval.

Can I get married on a weekend in Denver?

You can apply for your license Monday–Friday during business hours. However, ceremonies can be held on weekends at most venues. The Clerk’s Office is closed on weekends, so you must apply during the week.

Do I need a witness for my wedding in Denver?

No, witnesses are not legally required unless you are self-solemnizing. In that case, two adult witnesses (18+) are mandatory. Most officiants and venues recommend at least one witness for documentation purposes.

Can I change my name after getting married in Denver?

Yes. Your certified marriage certificate is the legal document needed to change your name on your Social Security card, driver’s license, bank accounts, and other official records. Start with the Social Security Administration, then update your ID and financial accounts.

Is there a waiting period between getting the license and getting married?

No. Colorado has no waiting period. You can marry immediately after receiving your license.

Can I use my marriage license from Denver in another Colorado city?

Yes. Your license is valid anywhere in the state of Colorado for 35 days from the date of issuance.

What if I lose my marriage license?

If the original license is lost before being signed and returned, you must apply for a new one. There is no replacement option—only a new application and fee.

Can I have a destination wedding in Denver if I live abroad?

Absolutely. Many international couples choose Denver for its accessibility, natural beauty, and straightforward legal process. Ensure your passport is valid and consider consulting an immigration attorney if you plan to apply for a spouse visa after the wedding.

Are there any restrictions on what I can do during my ceremony?

As long as your ceremony is consensual, legal, and does not violate public safety laws (e.g., fireworks, blocking public roads), you have great freedom. Colorado allows personalized vows, religious rituals, cultural traditions, and even animal participation (e.g., dogs as ring bearers).

Conclusion

Getting married in Denver, Colorado, is a uniquely rewarding experience that combines legal simplicity with breathtaking natural and urban beauty. From the moment you apply for your marriage license at the Denver Clerk’s Office to the final signature on your certificate, the process is designed to be inclusive, efficient, and respectful of your individuality. Whether you choose a quiet courthouse ceremony, a romantic mountaintop elopement, or a grand celebration in a historic venue, the key to success lies in preparation, clear communication, and attention to detail.

This guide has provided you with a complete roadmap: from eligibility and licensing to venue selection, vendor coordination, and legal compliance. By following these steps and leveraging the tools and resources outlined, you can navigate the process with confidence and focus on creating a day that reflects your love story.

Denver doesn’t just offer a place to say “I do”—it offers a backdrop of mountains, culture, and community that makes your wedding unforgettable. So take a deep breath, plan with intention, and embrace the journey. Your marriage begins not with a ceremony, but with a decision—and in Denver, that decision is easier, more beautiful, and more meaningful than you ever imagined.