Miami-Dade County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The Miami-Dade County?

Public records in Miami-Dade County refer to documents, files, and information created or maintained by government agencies that are accessible to the public. These records include official documents such as deeds, mortgages, liens, marriage licenses, court records, property records, and various other government-generated documents. The Miami-Dade Clerk of the Court and Comptroller maintains many of these official records, which are available for public inspection as mandated by Florida's Public Records Law, also known as the "Sunshine Law."

Is Miami-Dade County an Open Records County?

Yes, Miami-Dade County is an open records county. Florida has some of the most comprehensive public records laws in the United States, often referred to as the "Sunshine Law" (Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes). This law establishes a right of access to most records made or received by government agencies in the course of their official business. Miami-Dade County adheres to these state regulations, making most government records available to the public with certain exceptions for confidential or exempt information.

How Do I Find Public Records in Miami-Dade County in 2025

Finding public records in Miami-Dade County in 2025 can be accomplished through several methods:

1. Online Search Tools: Use the County Recorder's Official Record Search portal to access documents digitally.

2. Visit in Person: Go to the Miami-Dade Clerk of Courts office to request records directly.

3. Submit a Public Records Request: File a formal request through the county's public records request system.

4. Department-Specific Requests: Contact the specific department that maintains the records you're seeking (e.g., Property Appraiser for property records, Police Department for incident reports).

5. Miami-Dade County Public Library: Some public records and historical documents may be accessible through the county library system.

How Much Does It Cost To Get Public Records In Miami-Dade County?

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

• Standard copies: $0.15 per one-sided page, $0.20 per two-sided page
• Certified copies: Additional $1.00-$2.00 per document
• Large format documents (maps, plans): Varies by size, typically $5-$25
• Electronic records: May be provided at no cost if readily available in electronic format
• Special service charges: May apply for extensive requests requiring significant staff time

Additional fees may apply for specialized searches or expedited service. Payment methods typically include cash, credit cards, and money orders.

Does Miami-Dade County Have Free Public Records?

Yes, Miami-Dade County does offer some free public records access:

• Many records can be viewed online at no cost through the county's official websites
• In-person inspection of records is generally free of charge
• Basic online searches through the County Recorder's database are available without fees
• Some electronic records may be emailed at no cost if readily available and not extensive

However, while viewing may be free, obtaining copies (physical or electronic) typically incurs the standard fees mentioned above. The county also reserves the right to charge for extensive requests requiring significant staff time or resources.

Who Can Request Public Records In Miami-Dade County?

Anyone can request public records in Miami-Dade County. Florida's Public Records Law grants access to public records to:

• Florida residents
• Non-Florida residents
• U.S. citizens
• Foreign nationals
• Businesses and organizations
• Media representatives
• Anonymous requesters

Requesters do not need to provide identification, state a reason for their request, or complete any special forms (though forms are available to help facilitate requests). The law specifically states that access to public records is a right of each person, and agencies cannot require disclosure of the requester's identity or purpose.

What Records Are Confidential In Miami-Dade County?

While Miami-Dade County follows Florida's open records laws, certain records are confidential or exempt from public disclosure:

• Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, and credit card information
• Medical and health records
• Certain personnel records and evaluations
• Active criminal investigation records
• Juvenile offender records
• Child abuse reports and investigations
• Adoption records
• Records related to security systems and emergency response plans
• Attorney-client privileged communications
• Trade secrets and proprietary business information
• Records specifically exempted by state or federal law
• Certain personal information of specific groups (judges, law enforcement officers, etc.)

These exemptions are designed to protect privacy, security, and other important interests while still maintaining the general principle of government transparency.

Lookup Public Records in Miami-Dade County

Here are some key resources for accessing public records in Miami-Dade County:

• Official Records - Miami-Dade County - Access information on deeds, mortgages, liens, and other official records maintained by the Clerk's office.

• Records - Miami-Dade Clerk - Find various records maintained by the Miami-Dade Clerk of the Court, including certified copies and public records requests.

• County Recorder's Official Record Search - Search for official records by name, document type, or other criteria.

• Request Public Records - Miami-Dade County - Learn how to request public records, including instructions and links to relevant forms.

• Request Reports & Records - Miami-Dade County - Information on requesting reports and records from the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office, including traffic crash reports and background checks.