Saint Johns County Public Records are official documents maintained by local government offices and available to residents, researchers, and legal professionals. These records include court filings, property deeds, marriage licenses, criminal case files, business registrations, tax statements, building permits, and meeting minutes. The Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller, Brandon J. Patty, oversees the central records system, ensuring accuracy and public access. Most records date back to 1995 and are stored in a verified digital database cross-checked against original paper files. Residents can search, view, and request copies online or in person at the main office located at 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084. The county follows Florida Statute 119.07(4) for fees and exemptions, promoting transparency and accountability.
How to Access Saint Johns County Public Records
Accessing Saint Johns County Public Records is simple and free for basic searches. The primary portal is the Clerk’s Office online system, which allows users to browse board meeting minutes, civil and criminal court dockets, land deeds, liens, and foreclosure notices. Each record includes a PDF copy and a timestamp showing when it was entered into the system. For physical copies or certified documents, requesters must submit a Public Records Request Form. This form requires the requester’s name, contact information, specific documents needed, and the purpose of the request. Completed forms can be emailed to Loni M. Silvestris, Records Management Officer, or mailed to 4040 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084. The county responds within a reasonable time, as required by Florida law.
Types of Records Available in Saint Johns County
Saint Johns County Public Records cover a wide range of official documents. Birth certificates are issued by the Vital Statistics Office, while death certificates require a formal request with proof of relationship. Marriage licenses are managed by the Clerk’s Office and include both current and historical records. Criminal case files contain arrest reports, charges, court rulings, and sentencing details. Civil cases include lawsuits, evictions, small claims, and domestic disputes. Property records include deeds, mortgages, liens, tax assessments, and parcel maps. Business registrations show corporation filings, fictitious names, and licensing information. Building permits track construction projects, inspections, and code compliance. Meeting minutes from the County Commission and other boards are also published online.
Online Search Tools and Third-Party Resources
Several online platforms help users find Saint Johns County Public Records quickly. The official Clerk’s Office portal offers a searchable database with filters for date, document type, and party name. OnlineSearches.com provides an indexed collection of records by municipality, such as St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach, and allows filtering by year and category. The site also offers a “Link To Us!” badge for educational and municipal websites to share. Another resource, RecordsFindLL.com, hosts archived data from December 2021, including docket entries, property ownership tables, lien filings, and civil judgments. These tools make it easier for users to locate specific documents without visiting the courthouse.
Fees and Cost Recovery for Public Records
Saint Johns County follows Florida Statute 119.07(4) to determine fees for public records. The Property Appraiser’s Office calculates costs based on page count, document type, and labor involved. For example, a single-page deed may cost $1 to copy, while a 50-page court file could cost $15. Estimates are provided before processing, and payment is required before delivery. Exemptions apply for certain sensitive information, such as social security numbers, juvenile records, and ongoing investigations. The county does not charge for viewing records online or for basic searches. However, certified copies, expedited service, and large requests may incur additional fees.
Public Records Request Process
To obtain Saint Johns County Public Records, start by identifying the specific documents needed. Complete the Public Records Request Form with your full name, phone number, email, and mailing address. Clearly describe the records, including case numbers, dates, or property addresses if known. State the purpose of your request, though this is optional under Florida law. Submit the form via email to Loni M. Silvestris or mail it to 4040 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084. The county will review your request and respond within a reasonable time, usually within 10 business days. If fees apply, you’ll receive an estimate before processing. Once paid, records are delivered by mail, email, or pickup.
Clerk of Courts and Official Records
The Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller, Brandon J. Patty, manages all official records for Saint Johns County. His office maintains the civil case docket, issues marriage licenses, and authenticates county seals. The Clerk’s Office also oversees the online records portal, ensuring data accuracy and system reliability. Located at 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084, the office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Residents can call (904) 819-3600 for assistance. The Clerk’s team verifies every digital entry against original paper files, providing confidence in the authenticity of each record.
Property Records and Tax Information
Property records in Saint Johns County include deeds, mortgages, liens, tax assessments, and parcel maps. These documents are maintained by the Property Appraiser’s Office and the Clerk of Courts. Users can search by owner name, address, or parcel ID. The December 2021 archive contains detailed property-ownership tables, foreclosure notices, and tax delinquency records. Each entry includes a PDF and timestamp for verification. The Property Appraiser also provides fee estimates for record requests based on Florida law. This system helps homeowners, buyers, and real estate professionals verify ownership and tax status.
Voter and Election Records
Voter records in Saint Johns County include registration status, ballot history, and precinct assignments. These are managed by the Supervisor of Elections and available through third-party search tools. The county monitors these sites for accuracy and updates. Residents can verify their registration, view past elections, and find polling locations. While the county does not host voter data directly, it provides links to trusted sources. This ensures privacy while maintaining public access to election information.
Historical and Archived Records
Saint Johns County maintains historical records dating back to the 1800s, including deed transfers, court rulings, and land grants. The December 2021 archive features lien search tools that cross-reference the Clerk’s database with the Property Appraiser’s parcel viewer. Researchers can access warranty deed abstracts, title histories, and payroll authorization logs. These records support genealogy, legal research, and property investigations. Each document is digitized with a timestamp and PDF copy for easy retrieval.
Community Engagement and Library Resources
The St. Johns County Public Library supports access to public records through digital tutorials and community events. The library’s Facebook page has 7,191 likes and shares updates on author talks, reading programs, and online resources. Branches in St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach offer computers and staff assistance for record searches. This partnership helps residents navigate government databases and understand their rights under Florida’s public records law.
Contact Information and Office Hours
For assistance with Saint Johns County Public Records, contact the Clerk’s Office at (904) 819-3600. The office is located at 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084, and open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Property Appraiser’s Office can be reached at (904) 209-2100. For public records requests, email Loni M. Silvestris or mail forms to 4040 Lewis Speedway. The county responds promptly and follows state guidelines for transparency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about accessing and using Saint Johns County Public Records. Below are common inquiries with clear, direct answers based on current policies and procedures. These responses reflect the most up-to-date information from official sources and aim to help users navigate the system with confidence.
How long does it take to receive public records from Saint Johns County?
Saint Johns County typically responds to public records requests within 10 business days, as required by Florida law. The response time depends on the complexity and volume of the request. Simple searches, such as a single deed or court case, are often completed within 3 to 5 days. Larger requests, like multiple property files or extensive court dockets, may take longer. The county provides a cost estimate before processing, and delivery occurs after payment. Users can check status by calling (904) 819-3600 or emailing the Records Management Officer. Rush services are not officially offered, but urgent requests are prioritized when possible.
Are there fees for viewing Saint Johns County Public Records online?
No, there are no fees for viewing Saint Johns County Public Records online. The Clerk’s Office portal allows free access to board minutes, court filings, deeds, and other documents. Users can search, filter, and download PDFs at no cost. However, fees apply for certified copies, physical prints, or large-volume requests. For example, copying a 20-page file may cost $5. The Property Appraiser’s Office calculates fees based on page count and labor, following Florida Statute 119.07(4). Payment is required before delivery, and estimates are provided upfront.
Can I get a birth certificate from Saint Johns County?
Yes, birth certificates are available through the Florida Department of Health, not the county clerk. Saint Johns County residents must request birth records from the Vital Statistics Office in Jacksonville or online via the state portal. Only immediate family members or legal representatives can obtain certified copies. The process requires valid ID and a completed application. Fees vary by request type, typically ranging from $10 to $20. The county does not issue birth certificates but can provide guidance on where to apply.
What records are exempt from public access in Saint Johns County?
Certain records are exempt from public access under Florida law. These include social security numbers, juvenile court files, ongoing criminal investigations, medical records, and personnel files. Law enforcement may withhold information that could compromise safety or privacy. Exemptions are listed in the county’s Public Records Policies and Procedures guide. Requesters are notified if part of a document is redacted. Appeals can be made to the Clerk’s Office or through legal channels.
How do I search for property records in Saint Johns County?
To search for property records, visit the Clerk’s Office online portal or the Property Appraiser’s website. Enter the owner’s name, property address, or parcel ID. Results show deeds, liens, tax assessments, and ownership history. The December 2021 archive includes detailed tables and PDF copies. For certified documents, submit a Public Records Request Form. Fees apply based on page count and type. The system is updated regularly and verified against original files.
Can I access criminal records for someone in Saint Johns County?
Yes, criminal records are public and available through the Clerk’s Office. Search by name or case number to view charges, court rulings, and sentencing. Some details may be redacted for privacy. Arrest records are maintained by the Sheriff’s Office and may require a separate request. Expunged or sealed records are not accessible. Third-party sites like CountyOffice.org also index criminal data but may charge fees.
Is voter registration information public in Saint Johns County?
Voter registration status is public, but personal details like party affiliation and voting history are limited. The Supervisor of Elections provides basic data through approved third-party sites. Full records are not hosted directly by the county to protect privacy. Residents can verify their own registration online. Requests for bulk data require approval and may incur fees.
Saint Johns County Public Records are managed by the Clerk of Courts, Property Appraiser, and other offices. For official requests, contact the Clerk’s Office at 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084, or call (904) 819-3600. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visit https://stjohnsclerk.com for online access.