Colorado Eviction Process
Court: County Court in the county where property is located
28
Min. days
(uncontested)
(uncontested)
50
Typical days
300
Worst case
(contested)
(contested)
Yes
Self-rep OK?
Notice Types
10-Day
10-Day Demand for Payment
Tenant has 10 days to pay or vacate. Must state exact amount owed.
10-Day
10-Day Notice to Cure or Quit
For lease violations. Must specify the breach.
3-Day
3-Day Notice to Quit (Substantial Violation)
Illegal activity, severe property damage, or criminal activity.
21-Day
21-Day Notice to Terminate (Month-to-Month)
21 days minimum for month-to-month termination.
Step-by-Step Process
1
Serve demand/notice
Personal delivery or mail. Keep proof of service.
2
Wait for notice period +10 days
10 days for nonpayment or violation, 3 days for substantial violations.
3
File forcible entry and detainer complaint +1 days
File at County Court. Hearing typically set 7-14 days out.
4
Summons served on tenant +3 days
Process server or sheriff serves summons. 5 days before hearing minimum.
5
County Court hearing +10 days
Both parties appear. Bring all evidence.
6
Judgment and writ of restitution +1 days
Writ issued after judgment. Sheriff executes.
7
Sheriff executes writ +7 days
Sheriff posts notice and enforces. Tenant must vacate.
Key Warnings
- Colorado state law preempts local rent control (C.R.S. §38-12-301) — no city can impose rent control.
- Self-help eviction is illegal — C.R.S. §38-12-510.
- Denver has additional tenant protections including relocation assistance in some cases.
Court & Filing Details
| Court | County Court in the county where property is located |
|---|---|
| Filing Fee | $85–$200 depending on county and claim amount |
| Statute | Colorado Revised Statutes §§38-12-101 et seq.; C.R.S. §13-40 (forcible entry and detainer) |
| Find the Court | County Court in the county where property is located |
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Browse Notice TemplatesThis tool provides legal information, not legal advice. Nothing on this site creates an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.