The Pierce County Auditor's Office is responsible for maintaining and providing access to public records in Pierce County, Washington. These records include everything from property records to marriage licenses and voter registration information.
What are Public Records?
Public records are any records that are created, maintained, or kept by a government agency or official. They are considered to be public property and are available for anyone to access and view.
Examples of public records include birth and death certificates, property records, court records, and government contracts. These records are important for maintaining transparency and accountability in government.
Accessing Pierce County Auditor Public Records
To access public records held by the Pierce County Auditor's Office, you can submit a records request online, by mail, or in person. The records request form is available on the Auditor's website.
You will need to provide specific information about the record you are requesting, such as the type of record, the date of the record, and the name of the person or entity associated with the record.
Once your request is received, the Auditor's office will review it and provide you with a response within five business days. If the requested record cannot be provided or is exempt from disclosure, the office will provide you with an explanation for the denial.
Types of Public Records Available
The Pierce County Auditor's Office maintains a wide variety of public records, including:
- Property records, such as deeds, mortgages, and liens
- Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
- Court records, including criminal and civil cases
- Business licenses and permits
- Voter registration records
These records can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as conducting genealogical research, performing a title search on a property, or obtaining information about a business or individual.
Fees for Public Records Requests
The Pierce County Auditor's Office charges fees for providing copies of public records. The fee schedule is available on the Auditor's website.
The fee for copies of records is $0.15 per page for standard-sized documents. For non-standard-sized documents, the fee is the actual cost of reproduction. There may also be additional fees for electronic records or other special requests.
Exemptions from Public Records Requests
There are certain records that are exempt from public disclosure under Washington State law. These include:
- Medical records
- School records
- Personal financial information
- Investigative records
- Trade secrets
If a requested record falls under one of these exemptions, the Auditor's office will notify you that the record cannot be provided.
Conclusion
The Pierce County Auditor's Office is an important resource for accessing public records in Pierce County. By following the proper procedures and paying any required fees, you can obtain copies of a wide range of records, including property records, marriage licenses, and court records.
Remember that some records may be exempt from disclosure, so it's important to be aware of these exemptions before submitting a request.