Tulare County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The Tulare County?

Public records in Tulare County refer to documents, files, and information created, maintained, or received by government agencies that are accessible to the public. These records include property documents, birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, court records, and various other official documents. The Tulare County Clerk-Recorder's Office is responsible for maintaining many of these records and making them available to the public in accordance with California's Public Records Act.

The County Clerk-Recorder's Office provides access to vital records, property records, and other official documents that are considered public information. These records serve as important historical documentation and provide transparency in government operations.

Tulare County Clerk-Recorder's Office: 221 S. Mooney Blvd., Room 103, Visalia, CA 93291

Is Tulare County an Open Records County?

Yes, Tulare County is an open records county. Like all counties in California, Tulare County operates under the California Public Records Act (CPRA), which ensures public access to government records. This act establishes the public's right to access information concerning the conduct of the people's business as a fundamental right of citizenship.

The Tulare County government is committed to transparency and provides various methods for citizens to request and access public records. The county has established procedures for submitting public records requests through the Clerk of the Board and other county departments.

Tulare County Clerk of the Board: 2800 W. Burrel Avenue, Visalia, CA 93291

How Do I Find Public Records in Tulare County in 2025

Finding public records in Tulare County in 2025 can be accomplished through several methods:

Online Access: Many records are available through the county's official website. The Tulare County Clerk-Recorder's Office provides online access to various records, including property records and some vital statistics.
In-Person Requests: You can visit the appropriate county office in person to request records. The Clerk-Recorder's Office handles vital records and property documents, while the Clerk of the Board manages Board of Supervisors records and other administrative documents.
Written Requests: Submit a written request to the relevant department. For general county records, you can submit a Public Records Act request to the Clerk of the Board.
Email or Phone Requests: Some departments accept requests via email or phone, though written requests are typically preferred for documentation purposes.

For specific types of records, you'll need to contact the appropriate department:

Vital Records (birth, death, marriage): County Clerk-Recorder's Office
Property Records: Assessor's Office or Recorder's Office
Court Records: Superior Court of Tulare County

Tulare County Superior Court: 221 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia, CA 93291

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

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

Vital Records: Certified copies of birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses typically cost between $25-$30 per copy.
Property Records: Copies of recorded documents cost approximately $2 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page.
Research Fees: If staff time is required to search for records, there may be additional fees based on the time spent.
Copying Fees: Standard copying fees range from $0.10 to $0.25 per page for regular documents.
Electronic Records: Some electronic records may have different fee structures, particularly for bulk data requests.

The county may waive fees if the request is deemed to be in the public interest. Payment methods typically include cash, check, or credit card, depending on the department and request method.

Tulare County Assessor's Office: 221 S. Mooney Blvd., Room 102-E, Visalia, CA 93291

Does Tulare County Have Free Public Records?

Tulare County does offer some public records for free, particularly when accessed through online portals or when the request is minimal in scope:

Online Property Information: Basic property information may be available for free through the Assessor's online portal.
Board of Supervisors Agendas and Minutes: These are typically available for free on the county website.
Public Notices and Announcements: Generally available at no cost.
Some Court Case Information: Basic case information may be accessible online without fees.

However, most official certified copies of documents, extensive research requests, or large volume copying will incur fees as outlined in the county's fee schedule. The California Public Records Act allows agencies to charge for the direct costs of duplication or for electronic production of records.

Tulare County Board of Supervisors: 2800 W. Burrel Avenue, Visalia, CA 93291

Who Can Request Public Records In Tulare County?

In Tulare County, as throughout California, public records are generally available to anyone regardless of citizenship or residency status. The California Public Records Act establishes that:

Any person can request public records
Requesters do not need to provide identification
Requesters do not need to state the purpose of their request
Requesters do not need to be California residents

However, there are some exceptions for certain types of records:

Vital Records: Certified copies of birth, death, and marriage certificates may have restrictions on who can obtain them. For example, birth certificates may only be available to the individual named on the certificate, parents, legal guardians, or those with a direct interest.
Confidential Records: Some records that contain personal or sensitive information may have access restrictions.

Government agencies, researchers, journalists, businesses, and private individuals all have the right to request public records, subject to applicable exemptions and privacy laws.

Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency: 5957 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia, CA 93277

What Records Are Confidential In Tulare County?

While Tulare County is committed to transparency, certain records are confidential and exempt from public disclosure under California law. These include:

Personal Information: Records containing personal information such as Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and financial account information.
Medical Records: Individual medical and health records are protected by privacy laws, including HIPAA.
Juvenile Records: Court records involving minors are generally confidential.
Ongoing Investigations: Records related to active law enforcement investigations.
Personnel Records: Employee personnel files, including performance evaluations and disciplinary actions.
Attorney-Client Communications: Legal advice and communications between county officials and their attorneys.
Sealed Court Records: Court records that have been sealed by judicial order.
Certain Vital Records: Some vital records may have restricted access, particularly adoption records.
Records Protected by Other Laws: Any records specifically protected by state or federal law.

The county is required to justify any denial of access to records by citing the specific exemption that applies under the California Public Records Act.

Tulare County Sheriff's Office: 833 S. Akers Street, Visalia, CA 93277

Lookup Public Records in Tulare County

For more information about accessing public records in Tulare County, please visit the following resources:

County Clerk / Recorder - Assessor - Tulare County, California - Details on obtaining various public records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, as well as how to record documents in Tulare County.
Public Records Request - Clerk of the Board - Tulare County, California - Information on the process for submitting public records requests to the Clerk of the Board in Tulare County, including contact information and office hours.
Copies of Recorded Documents - Assessor - Tulare County, California - Information on how to obtain copies of recorded documents in Tulare County, including fees and methods of obtaining copies.