FAQs - Assessor
Appeal Property Tax - Can I appeal my property taxes to the assessor?
Not really. You may appeal your property's actual value or classification to the Assessor.
Because your property's value is an important figure in the property tax equation, a different value or classification can have an effect on your property taxes. However, the level of taxation is determined by taxing authorities, not the Assessor. Questions about the level of taxation should be taken directly to the taxing authorities.
Land classification - How do I get my lands classified as agriculture?
If you believe your property qualifies for classification as agriculture property (see Brochure)  Read more »
Change Address - How do I change my mailing address?
Written requests for address changes can be submitted to the Assessor's office or the Treasurer's Office.
Change of address form for Assessor's office.
Change of address form for Treasurer's office.
Property Value - How can my value go up so much in one year?
Property is revalued in Colorado every two years. The changes in the value of homes reflect market conditions in the county from July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2010, adjusted forward in time to June 30, 2010, the last date of the appraisal period.
Protest property value - How can I protest my property value?
Protests can be heard by the assessor's office from May 1 through June 1 every year. Protests can be filed either in person, by letter or fax. We cannot accept appeals sent in by email or taken over the phone.
Who sets the tax rate of mill levy?
Tax rates (mill levies) are determined by each taxing authority (County, City, School District, Fire Department, Water & Sanitation District & Recreation District) in the fall of each year. These authorities provide services to you and are listed on your last tax notice. Amendment 1, known as the Tabor Amendment approved by the voters in 1992, restricts the ability of taxing authorities to raise tax rates or revenue without voter approval. Read more »
Change title or ownership - How do I change title or name of ownership on my property?
The title on property can be changed via a recorded deed. The Assessors Office is an "office of record," which means changes in ownership or property boundaries are done based on recorded deeds, surveys, subdivision plats & other documents pertaining to ownership. Deeds must be recorded at the Clerk & Recorders Office before the Assessors records can be modified to reflect any changes.
Pre-pay Taxes - Can I pre-pay my taxes?
It is necessary to contact the La Plata County Treasurers Office at (970) 382-6352 or at: P O Box 99 Durango, CO 81302.
What is the formula for calculating taxes?
Current Actual Value x Assessment Rate* = Assessed Value
Assessed Value x Tax Rate (Mill Levy) = Estimated Property Tax
*Current Assessment Rate is projected to be 7.96% for residential property and 29% for all other property. The Colorado State Legislature adjusts the residential assessment rate in reappraisal (odd- numbered) years.
ACTUAL VALUE X ASSESSMENT RATE X MILL LEVY = ESTIMATED PROPERTY TAXES.
