Okaloosa County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The Okaloosa County?

Public records in Okaloosa County refer to documents, files, and information created or maintained by government agencies that are accessible to the public. These records include court documents, property records, marriage licenses, divorce decrees, birth and death certificates, arrest records, and various other official documents. The Okaloosa County Clerk of Court and Comptroller is the primary custodian of many of these records, maintaining both court and official records for public access.

The Clerk's Office maintains records dating back to the county's establishment, with many records now available through online portals. Public records serve as transparent documentation of government activities and are essential for research, legal proceedings, and personal information needs.

Okaloosa County Clerk of Court and Comptroller: 101 E James Lee Blvd, Crestview, FL 32536

Is Okaloosa County an Open Records County?

Yes, Okaloosa County is an open records county. Florida has some of the most comprehensive public records laws in the United States, often referred to as "Sunshine Laws." Under Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes, most government records in Okaloosa County are available to the public.

The Florida Constitution and the Public Records Act establish a right of access to records made or received in connection with official government business. This means that citizens have the legal right to access, inspect, and copy public records maintained by state and local government agencies in Okaloosa County, with certain exceptions for confidential or exempt information.

Florida Division of Library and Information Services: 500 S Bronough St, Tallahassee, FL 32399

How Do I Find Public Records in Okaloosa County in 2025

Finding public records in Okaloosa County in 2025 has become increasingly convenient through digital platforms. Here are the primary methods:

1. Online Access: The Okaloosa County Clerk's website offers a comprehensive online records search system. Users can access court records, official records, and case information through their digital portal.

2. In-Person Requests: Visit the Clerk's office locations in Crestview or Fort Walton Beach to request records in person.

3. Specialized Departments:

   • For property records: Okaloosa County Property Appraiser
   • For tax records: Okaloosa County Tax Collector
   • For law enforcement records: Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office
   • For vital records: Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County

4. Written Requests: Submit formal public records requests in writing to the appropriate agency.

5. Third-Party Services: Various commercial websites aggregate public records, though these may charge fees and might not have the most current information.

Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office: 50 2nd St, Shalimar, FL 32579

Okaloosa County Property Appraiser: 1250 Eglin Pkwy N, Shalimar, FL 32579

Okaloosa County Tax Collector: 701 E John Sims Pkwy, Niceville, FL 32578

How Much Does It Cost To Get Public Records In Okaloosa County?

The cost of obtaining public records in Okaloosa County varies depending on the type of record and the format requested:

• Standard Copies: $0.15 per one-sided page and $0.20 per two-sided page for standard letter-size documents
• Certified Copies: Additional $2.00 per document for certification
• Large Format Documents: Maps and blueprints typically cost $5.00 per page
• Digital Records: $1.00 per CD/DVD for electronic copies
• Research Fees: Special service charges may apply for extensive requests requiring more than 30 minutes of staff time, charged at the hourly rate of the employee performing the work
• Court Records: Specific court documents may have statutorily set fees

The Clerk's Office accepts payment by cash, check, money order, or credit card. Some records available through the online portal may have different fee structures for access or downloads.

Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County: 221 Hospital Dr NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

Does Okaloosa County Have Free Public Records?

Okaloosa County does offer some public records at no cost:

• Online Searches: Basic searches through the Clerk's online portal are free, allowing users to locate records without charge
• Public Viewing: Examining records in person at the Clerk's Office is free of charge
• Self-Service Terminals: Available at the courthouse for free public record searches
• Some Digital Records: Certain digital records may be available for free download through the county's online systems
• Public Meeting Minutes and Agendas: Available at no cost on the county's website

However, while searching and viewing many records is free, obtaining copies (physical or digital) typically incurs the fees mentioned in the previous section. Additionally, some specialized databases or comprehensive searches may require subscription fees or per-record charges.

Okaloosa County Administration Building: 1250 N Eglin Pkwy, Shalimar, FL 32579

Who Can Request Public Records In Okaloosa County?

Under Florida's Public Records Law, anyone can request public records in Okaloosa County regardless of:

• Citizenship status
• Age (though minors may face practical limitations)
• Residency (you don't need to be a Florida resident)
• Purpose or motivation for the request

The law specifically states that a person requesting public records does not need to show "legitimate interest" or explain why they want the records. Government agencies cannot require requesters to:

• Identify themselves
• Provide a reason for their request
• Make the request in writing (though written requests can help document and clarify complex requests)
• Complete a specific form (though agencies may offer optional forms)

This broad access applies to individuals, organizations, businesses, media outlets, and even inmates in correctional facilities (with some limitations). The only restrictions come from specific statutory exemptions, not from the identity or purpose of the requester.

Florida Attorney General's Office: The Capitol PL-01, Tallahassee, FL 32399

What Records Are Confidential In Okaloosa County?

While Florida has strong public records laws, certain records in Okaloosa County remain confidential or exempt from disclosure:

1. Personal Information:

   • Social Security numbers
   • Driver's license numbers
   • Medical and health information
   • Bank account and credit card numbers

2. Sensitive Records:

   • Juvenile criminal records (with exceptions)
   • Adoption records
   • Certain domestic violence and abuse records
   • Records related to active criminal investigations
   • Security system plans for government buildings

3. Protected Individuals:

   • Personal information of law enforcement officers and their families
   • Information about victims of certain crimes
   • Personal information of judges, prosecutors, and public defenders
   • Records of minors in most contexts

4. Government Operations:

   • Attorney-client privileged communications
   • Trade secrets and confidential business information
   • Examination questions and answer keys
   • Sealed court records and expunged criminal records

5. Specific Exemptions:

   • Records related to ongoing bid processes
   • Certain emergency response plans
   • Some personnel records and evaluations

These exemptions are specifically established by Florida Statutes, and the list continues to evolve through legislative action.

Florida Department of Law Enforcement: 2331 Phillips Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32308

Lookup Public Records in Okaloosa County

For comprehensive access to public records in Okaloosa County, the following resources are available:

• Search Records | Okaloosa County Clerk of Court and Comptroller - Access a wide range of public records, including court documents, case information, and official filings.

• Okaloosa County Clerk of Court and Comptroller - The official site offering information on various services and public records.

• Record Services | Okaloosa County Clerk of Court and Comptroller - Information on documents recorded in the Clerk's Office, including mortgages, deeds, and court documents.

• Public Records - okaloosatax.com - Access to public records related to property taxes and business tax receipts from the Okaloosa County Tax Collector.

• Public Records Requests | Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office - Information on requesting public records from the Sheriff's Office, including arrest records and law enforcement documents.