Colorado Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale Overview
Colorado is a major livestock state with robust brand inspection and transfer regulations. The Colorado Department of Agriculture's Brand Inspection Division (formerly the Colorado Brand Board) administers mandatory brand inspections for all cattle, horses, mules, and asses sold, moved, or transferred in the state. Colorado Revised Statutes Title 35, Article 41-53 govern livestock brands and inspections. A brand inspection certificate is required for every change of ownership and is the primary legal document proving right to sell.
2.9%
Sales tax
Yes
Brand inspection
Required
Health certificate
Required
Coggins test
Colorado Livestock Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know for a smooth horse or livestock transaction in Colorado:
Important: Colorado Health Documentation
Colorado requires a current negative Coggins test for all equine change of ownership. Ensure your Coggins test is within the required timeframe before completing the sale. For interstate transport, both a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and negative Coggins are required.
What the Seller Must Provide
- Signed Bill of Sale: Complete bill of sale with animal description, sale price, and both parties' information
- Current Negative Coggins: EIA test within 12 months performed by an accredited veterinarian
- Registration Papers: Signed transfer section on breed registration certificate (if registered)
- Health Records: Vaccination history, deworming schedule, and veterinary records
- Disclosure of Known Issues: Any known health problems, lameness, vices, or behavioral issues
What the Buyer Should Obtain
- Signed Bill of Sale: Original copy with both signatures
- Coggins Test Certificate: Copy of the current negative Coggins report
- Registration Certificate: With signed transfer (if registered animal)
- Health Certificate: If transporting across state lines, CVI within 30 days
How to Fill Out a Colorado Horse Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Colorado horse or livestock bill of sale.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, farm or ranch name (if applicable), Colorado mailing address, phone number, and email. If the seller is a licensed dealer or breeder, include the license or business registration number.
Enter Buyer Information
Include the buyer's full legal name, farm or ranch name, Colorado address, phone number, and email. The buyer's location determines which local tax rates apply to the transaction.
Describe the Animal
Provide a detailed description: species (horse, cattle, goat, etc.), breed, registered name and number (if applicable), sex, age or date of birth, color, height (in hands for horses), weight, and all identifying markings, brands, tattoos, or microchip numbers.
Document Health Status
Record the Coggins test date and result (for equines), health certificate number and date, vaccination history, and deworming schedule. Attach copies of all health documentation to the bill of sale.
State Sale Price and Terms
Enter the agreed purchase price in both numbers and words. Note the payment method and any installment terms. State whether the sale is as-is or includes warranties (soundness, breeding, vice-free, etc.). Disclose any known health issues or behavioral concerns.
Sign and Complete Documentation
Both buyer and seller sign and date the bill of sale. Print two copies. Transfer breed registration papers by signing the transfer section. Ensure Coggins and health certificates are current. Complete any required brand inspections before transport.
Colorado Brand Inspection Requirements
Colorado's Brand Inspection Division requires inspections for all cattle, horses, mules, and asses at change of ownership, before transport out of the brand inspection area, and at slaughter. Inspections are conducted by state-authorized brand inspectors. Colorado brand registration is required for all livestock owners and is valid until voluntarily released. The state has one of the most comprehensive brand inspection systems in the country, processing over 1 million head annually. Inspections can be scheduled through the district brand inspector.
Colorado Health & Veterinary Requirements
Colorado requires a current negative Coggins test (within 12 months) for all equine change of ownership and for entry to shows, sales, and events. Interstate imports require a CVI issued within 30 days. Colorado has specific protocols for cattle including brucellosis testing for breeding cattle from non-certified free states. The Colorado State Veterinarian maintains import requirements that are updated regularly. Colorado is also vigilant about chronic wasting disease in cervids and vesicular stomatitis in horses.
Colorado Livestock Fees & Taxes
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with a horse or livestock transaction in Colorado:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| Brand Inspection (per head) | $13.25 (cattle) / $13.25 (horses) |
| After-Hours Inspection | $20 surcharge |
| Coggins Test | $20 - $45 |
| Health Certificate (CVI) | $25 - $65 |
| Brand Registration | $70 (initial recording) |
| State Sales Tax | 2.9% (livestock may be exempt for agricultural purposes) |
Sample Colorado Horse Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Colorado-specific horse bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required for Colorado livestock transactions.
STATE OF COLORADO
HORSE / LIVESTOCK BILL OF SALE
Equine & Livestock Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Colorado Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Colorado Address]
ANIMAL DESCRIPTION
Species: [Species] Breed: [Breed]
Registered Name: [Name]
Reg. #: [Number] Sex: [Sex]
Coggins Date: [Date] Result: [Negative]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Colorado Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Colorado horse and livestock bills of sale, health requirements, and transfer regulations.
Official Colorado Resources
Use these official state resources to verify requirements, check import regulations, and access government information for your Colorado livestock transaction.
Colorado Department of Agriculture
Livestock regulations and agricultural services
Colorado State Veterinarian
Animal health, Coggins testing, and import requirements
USDA APHIS — Veterinary Services
Federal animal health regulations and accredited veterinarians
USDA — Interstate Livestock Movement
Federal requirements for transporting livestock across state lines
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Create Your Colorado Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale
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