Colorado Springs Residents Directory Access
Colorado Springs residents directory records are managed through both the city clerk's office and El Paso County systems. The city clerk sits at 30 South Nevada Avenue in Suite 101, handling municipal documents, permits, and city council records. Most residents directory searches begin with a written request submitted to the clerk. You can also call 719-385-2367 to ask questions about what records exist and how to get them. Colorado Open Records Act provisions require the city to respond within three working days, though this window can extend to seven days for complex requests. Requests should be as detailed as possible to help staff locate the right files quickly and avoid unnecessary delays or research fees.
Colorado Springs Quick Facts
City Clerk Office Services
The clerk's office at 30 South Nevada Avenue opens Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM. Staff process residents directory requests, provide copies of city ordinances, and maintain records of official city business. You can pay with cash, check, credit card, or money order when you pick up copies.
Visit the city clerk website to learn about services and download request forms. The site lists contact numbers for different departments. Some records can be viewed online without a formal request.
The image below shows the city clerk portal where you can find forms and instructions.
This page walks you through the request process step by step. It tells you what information to include and how long you should expect to wait. Many people find it helpful to read the FAQ section before they submit a request.
Colorado Open Records Act Rules
The state passed CORA to ensure government transparency. C.R.S. §§ 24-72-200.1 through 205 spell out the rights you have and the duties of government offices. Most records are open to anyone who asks. A few types of data stay private to protect individual rights or public safety.
Records available within three working days, extendable to seven. If your request is simple, you might get an answer in one or two days. Complicated searches take more time because staff must review multiple files or check with legal counsel. The city will send you a letter if they need extra time.
You do not have to say why you want the records. The law does not require you to state a purpose. However, explaining what you need can help the clerk find the right files faster. Vague requests like "all records about X" force staff to guess what you want, which slows things down.
Note: Requests should be as detailed as possible to speed processing and reduce unnecessary research time.
Understanding CORA in Colorado Springs
The CORA information page hosted by the city explains how the law applies to Colorado Springs specifically. Each city interprets the law slightly differently based on local procedures.
This page covers fees, timelines, and what to expect when you file a request. It also lists examples of records that are open and records that are restricted. Reading this page before you submit a request can save you time and help you write a better request letter.
Some records require extra steps to release. Police reports, for example, might have redacted sections to protect ongoing investigations or victim identities. The city must balance your right to know with other people's right to privacy. If part of a record is withheld, the clerk will explain why.
Permit and Licensing Records
Colorado Springs tracks business licenses, building permits, and other regulatory records through an online system. Visit the city permit portal to search for active licenses and permit applications. This database lets you look up records by address, owner name, or permit number.
You can see when a permit was issued, what work it covers, and whether inspections have been completed. Contractors use this tool to verify that work meets code. Home buyers check it to learn about past renovations. Researchers pull data for studies on city development patterns.
Most permit records are public. A few types, like those involving security systems or sensitive infrastructure, may be restricted. The city explains any limits when you search.
If you need certified copies of a permit for legal purposes, contact the clerk. Certified documents carry an official seal and signature. They cost more than plain copies but are necessary for court filings or applications with other government agencies.
El Paso County Records
Colorado Springs sits in El Paso County, so some residents directory records are held by the county clerk and recorder rather than the city. The El Paso Clerk and Recorder website provides access to property records, marriage licenses, and court filings.
The county follows the same CORA rules as the city. Response times and fees are similar. However, you must submit separate requests to the county for county-held records. The city cannot release documents it does not have.
Many people need both city and county records to get a complete picture. For example, a property transaction might involve city permits and county deed records. A business license might require both city approval and county registration. Check with both offices if you are unsure who has what you need.
Note: El Paso County maintains its own request system, so you will need to contact them directly for county-level residents directory records.
Search Request Best Practices
Write your request clearly. Say what records you want, what dates matter, and what format works best for you. If you want digital files, say so. If you need paper, say that. If you only need to inspect the records without making copies, let them know.
Include your contact information. The clerk may need to ask follow-up questions or let you know when records are ready. Provide a phone number and email address so staff can reach you easily.
Be patient. Staff handle many requests each week. They work in the order requests arrive. Calling every day to check status does not speed things up and can actually slow the process by taking staff away from their work.
If you get a denial, read the reason carefully. The clerk must cite a specific law when they withhold records. You can appeal if you think the denial is wrong. The appeal process is explained in the response letter.
El Paso County Residents Directory
Since Colorado Springs is located in El Paso County, county records are an important part of any comprehensive residents directory search. The county clerk maintains records that the city does not handle, including property deeds, court judgments, and certain vital records. For a full overview of what the county offers, see the county page.
Nearby Colorado Cities
Other cities in the region also maintain residents directory systems. If your search involves multiple locations, you will need to contact each city separately. Records are not shared across city boundaries without your request.