Find Florida Public Records

Is Florida a Public Records State?

Yes, Florida is a public records state. Under the Florida Sunshine Law, most documents and information generated by government entities are deemed public. This law affirms that every individual has the right to access records from municipal, county, and state offices. The Sunshine Law defines public records as any material made or received by a public agency in the course of public business.

What is Public Information in Florida?

Public information in Florida encompasses a wide range of records, including criminal history records, court documents, bankruptcy files, arrest records, sex offender data, vital records, and inmate records. Florida's Sunshine Law ensures that the public can access these records regardless of their format, transmission mode, or characteristics. Documents, books, photographs, sound recordings, tapes, software, films, and other materials are all included in the definition of public records. The law also mandates that public access should not be restricted by any agency's efforts to automate records (Fla. Stat. § 119.01(2)(a)). Agencies providing remote access to public records must do so efficiently and cost-effectively.

How Do I Look Up Public Records in Florida?

To look up public records in Florida, follow these steps:

Determine the Record Type: Identify the specific type of record you need, such as court records, inmate records, or vital records. This helps streamline the search process.
Identify the Relevant Agency: Different records are maintained by different agencies. For example, court records are held by the respective courts, while property records can be found with the county’s Property Appraiser.
Make an Official Request: Submit an official request to the appropriate agency. This can often be done via physical forms, phone, fax, or online. An official request should include:
- The specific type of record needed
- A detailed description of the record, including names, dates, and other pertinent information
- The requester's full name and contact details
- Identification, if required
- Payment as specified by the agency
- Delivery details
Submit the Request: Follow the agency’s submission guidelines to avoid delays. Methods of submission may include mail, fax, phone, or online. Note that certified copies often require in-person or mail requests and may necessitate a government-issued ID.

Utilizing Third-Party Resources for Florida Public Records Obtaining

City Records

Third-party websites offer access to public city records. These platforms often provide user-friendly tools for comprehensive searches. Users may need to provide specific information, such as:

The subject's name (must be over 18 or not a juvenile)
The requestor's address
Case number or file number (if known)
Document or person location
Last known or current address of the registrant

These third-party sites are not government-sponsored, so record availability and accuracy may vary.

Public Records

Third-party websites also aggregate public records, offering non-geographically limited search services. To assist with the search, users should provide:

The subject's name (not a juvenile)
The last known location of the record subject

Again, these services are not government-sponsored, and the availability and accuracy of results can vary.

How To Look Up Public Records in Florida for Free?

While many Florida agencies charge fees for copies, inspecting records may be free. This typically requires visiting the custodian’s office to use a public terminal or library. Some agencies offer free online databases. For instance, the Florida Supreme Court has a free online docket for non-confidential documents. The Florida Sexual Offender Registry also provides free access to sex offender information. County recorder’s offices often have online databases for deeds, judgments, and other official records.

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