Oklahoma County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The Oklahoma County?

Public records in Oklahoma 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 and divorce certificates, birth and death records, business filings, and various other official documents. The Oklahoma Open Records Act governs access to these records, ensuring transparency in government operations.

The Oklahoma County Clerk's Office is the primary custodian of many public records for the county. They maintain land records, marriage licenses, and other important documents.

Oklahoma County Clerk's Office: 320 Robert S. Kerr Ave., Room 203, Oklahoma City, OK 73102

Is Oklahoma County an Open Records County?

Yes, Oklahoma County is an open records county. It operates under the Oklahoma Open Records Act, which establishes that all records of public bodies and public officials are open to any person for inspection, copying, or mechanical reproduction during regular business hours. This law applies to all county offices and departments.

The Oklahoma Department of Libraries Archives and Records Management Division oversees the implementation of open records policies at the state level.

Oklahoma Department of Libraries: 200 NE 18th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73105

How Do I Find Public Records in Oklahoma County in 2025

In 2025, Oklahoma County offers multiple methods to access public records:

1. Online Access: Many records are available through the Oklahoma County Clerk's website, which provides a searchable database for land records, marriage licenses, and other documents.

2. In-Person Requests: Visit the appropriate county office based on the type of record you need.

3. Written Requests: Submit a written request to the relevant department specifying the records you seek.

4. Oklahoma Open Data Portal: For statistical and aggregated data about the county.

Oklahoma County Courthouse: 320 Robert S. Kerr Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73102

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

Fees for public records in Oklahoma County vary depending on the type of record and the format requested:

• Document copies: $0.25-$1.00 per page
• Certified copies: Additional $5-$15 per document
• Research fees: Some departments charge $20-$40 per hour for extensive searches
• Electronic records: May have reduced fees or be available at no cost

The Oklahoma State Archives also maintains historical records with similar fee structures.

Oklahoma State Archives: 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive, Oklahoma City, OK 73105

Does Oklahoma County Have Free Public Records?

Oklahoma County does offer some public records at no cost:

• Basic online searches through the county's public access portals
• Viewing records in person (though copying may incur fees)
• Certain public information on the Oklahoma Open Data Portal
• Some digital archives accessible through the county's website

For more comprehensive or specialized searches, fees may apply as outlined in the county's fee schedule.

Oklahoma Open Data Portal: Data.OK.gov (Online service operated by the State of Oklahoma)

Who Can Request Public Records In Oklahoma County?

Under the Oklahoma Open Records Act, any person can request public records in Oklahoma County. This includes:

• Oklahoma residents
• Out-of-state residents
• Foreign nationals
• Media organizations
• Businesses and corporations
• Non-profit organizations
• Government agencies

No statement of purpose is generally required when requesting public records, though some specialized records may have restrictions.

What Records Are Confidential In Oklahoma County?

Despite the open records policy, certain records in Oklahoma County remain confidential:

• Personnel records that would constitute an unwarranted invasion of privacy
• Law enforcement investigation records (with some exceptions)
• Records protected by attorney-client privilege
• Medical records
• Juvenile court records
• Certain personal information in motor vehicle records
• Social Security numbers and financial account information
• Records specifically exempted by state or federal law

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation maintains guidelines on confidential records.

Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation: 6600 N. Harvey Place, Oklahoma City, OK 73116

Lookup Public Records in Oklahoma County

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

• State Archives and Records Management - Access the official repository for essential state government records and information on records management.

• County Clerk of Oklahoma County - The official site for accessing land records, marriage licenses, and other county clerk services.

• State Archives - Oklahoma.gov - Research collections and learn about policies for accessing archival materials.

• Oklahoma's Open Data Portal - Access datasets and statistics about Oklahoma government activities and financial information.

• Oklahoma Statutes governing Archives and Records - Learn about the legal framework for records management in Oklahoma.

• Budget 2024-2025 (PDF) - View the adopted budget for Oklahoma County for fiscal year 2024-2025.