Rate Breakdown

Property taxes in La Plata County are calculated by multiplying the assessed value (minus exemptions) by the total local millage rate.

How Property Tax Works in La Plata County

In La Plata County, property taxes are calculated by multiplying the assessed value of a parcel by the combined millage rate of all taxing entities that serve the property. The Colorado State Board of Assessment determines the taxable value, which is generally 7.15% of the property's market value as of the most recent assessment date (January 1 of the tax year). Once the taxable value is set, the county’s Assessor’s Office applies the millage rates approved by the County, municipalities, school districts, fire districts, and special districts.

Millage rates are expressed in “mills,” where one mill equals one‑tenth of one percent (0.001). For example, if the total millage rate for a property is 115.5 mills, the property tax due would be:

Tax = Taxable Value × (115.5 mills ÷ 1,000)

Because each taxing jurisdiction may adjust its rate annually, the overall rate can fluctuate from year to year. The La Plata County Assessor’s website provides an up‑to‑date breakdown of each entity’s millage rate, allowing homeowners to see exactly how their tax bill is composed.

Available Exemptions

Colorado offers several exemptions that can lower the taxable value of a property. In La Plata County, qualifying owners may claim one or more of the following:

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces the assessed value by $1,500 for owner‑occupied homes.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents age 65 or older may receive a $1,500 exemption, and those with incomes below $35,000 may qualify for an additional $1,500 reduction.
• Disability Exemption: Homeowners with a qualifying disability can claim a $1,500 exemption, plus an extra $1,500 if the household income is $35,000 or less.
• Veteran Exemption: Veterans who served honorably and are either disabled or over 55 may receive a $1,500 exemption; qualifying surviving spouses may also be eligible.

Exemptions are applied to the taxable value before the millage rate is multiplied, resulting in a lower overall tax bill. Applications are submitted to the La Plata County Assessor’s Office by February 15 of the tax year.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in La Plata County are due in two installments:

• First Installment: Due October 1; if paid on or after October 1 but before November 1, a 3% discount applies.
• Second Installment: Due January 10; a similar 3% discount is available if paid on or after January 10 but before February 1.

If either installment is not paid by the discount deadline, the full amount becomes due with no discount. Late payments incur a 1% penalty per month, plus interest calculated at the current county rate. Unpaid taxes may result in a tax lien, and after 90 days, the county can initiate a tax foreclosure process.

Homeowners may also set up automatic electronic payments or pay in person at any designated county office or approved financial institution.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is inaccurate, you have the right to appeal. Follow these steps:

• Step 1 – Review the Notice: Assessments are mailed in late February. Verify the taxable value and any exemptions applied.
• Step 2 – File a Notice of Appeal: Submit the appeal form (available online or at the Assessor’s Office) by April 15. Include supporting documentation such as recent appraisals, sales data, or photos.
• Step 3 – Attend the Hearing: An elected Board of Assessment Appeals will schedule a hearing, typically in June. Present your evidence and answer any questions.
• Step 4 – Receive a Decision: The board issues a written decision within 30 days. If the decision is unfavorable, you may appeal further to the Colorado Board of Assessment Appeals.

Timeliness and thorough documentation are crucial. The La Plata County website offers a detailed appeals checklist and sample forms to streamline the process.