New eligibility rules to obtain birth and death certificates

An important change goes into effect this month regarding who can request certified copies of birth and death certificates. Due to a statewide regulation change, grandparents and grandchildren will no longer be considered immediate family. They will no longer be eligible to obtain birth or death certificates without a direct and tangible interest or a certified court order of custody or guardianship.

This statewide change goes into effect on October 15, 2024, and will impact Mesa County. Moving forward, parents, siblings, spouses, and people with a tangible interest will be able to obtain birth and death certificates. Documentation that shows proof of the relationship may be required.

“Our team safely handles these important documents. We will work with our customers to help them understand this change. We know these records are essential for each individual as they go through various phases of their life,” said Sarah DeBrucque, Mesa County Vital Registrar.

Official birth and death certificates are available at Mesa County Public Health. Visit our website to learn more about the process for obtaining these records.