Colorado Secretary of State’s Remote Notarization Emergency Rules Extended Until May 30

The Secretary of State’s remote notarization emergency rules have been extended and will remain in effect until May 30.  These rules enable Coloradans to have access to notary services without in-person contact.    

“Remote notarization has ensured business and personal transactions can continue to take place in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic,” said Secretary of State Jena Griswold.  “With social distancing guidelines still in place, we are extending remote notarization to help protect Coloradans’ health.”    

At the end of March, Governor Polis issued an Executive Order that ordered the temporary suspension of the personal appearance requirement for notarial officers to perform notarizations due to the presence of coronavirus disease in Colorado and authorized the Secretary of State to adopt remote notarization emergency rules. 

Secretary Griswold then issued emergency rules that outline the procedures and requirements for remote notarization in Colorado during this state of emergency.  The Secretary of State’s Office received a lot of positive feedback from the many Coloradans and the business community on the program. 

In April, the Governor issued additional Executive Orders extending the effectiveness of his original March order.  Remote notarization emergency rules will remain in effect until May 30. 

For the Notice of Temporary Adoption for the Colorado Notary Program Rules (8 CCR 1505-11), please click here. The notice includes the adopted rules, a statement of basis, and statement of justification. For an unofficial copy of the notary rules as adopted and effective 3/30/2020, please click here.

The Secretary of State’s Office has worked with stakeholders, including the Colorado Bar Association, on legislation on remote notary service over the last several years. The emergency remote notary process builds on this work. 

For more information, please visit www.sos.state.co.us.