Submitted by Gary W. Routh, Columbine Genealogical and Historical Society, Littleton, Colorado.

In January I learned the hard way that Colorado Vital Records Section is now enforcing a new “proof of relationship” policy on death certificate requests. Their website explains the new policy:

Effective January 1, 2007, proof of your relationship or direct and tangible interest is required. Certified [death record] copies may be issued to: parents; grandparents; stepparents; siblings; spouse; adult children, stepchildren or grandchildren of the deceased; legal representatives of any of the above; legal representatives of the deceased; probate researchers; genealogists representing family members with appropriate credentials; others who may demonstrate a direct and tangible interest when information is needed for determination or protection of a personal property right. Applicants must submit proof of their relationship or documentation to establish their legal interest in obtaining a certificate (i.e. birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, certified court orders, insurance polices).

I was told by the helpful clerk at the Colorado Vital Records Office that genealogy database printouts, research documents, family letters, genealogy society membership cards, etc., which show proof of genealogy research work related to that person will meet the requirement. I did not find out if they expect to retain copies of these “proof of relationship” documents. It is advised that you inquire about your particular death certificate request in advance before making your trip to the Vital Records Office.

Office location
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Vital Records Section
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
Denver, CO 80246-1530
(303) 692-2200
www.cdphe.state.co.us/certs/