Search Broward County Public Records gives you direct access to official documents recorded since January 1, 1978. These include property deeds, marriage licenses, court judgments, liens, easements, and plats. The online portal lets you filter by document type, recording date, instrument number, or party name. This helps attorneys, researchers, genealogists, and property investigators find exact records fast. Certified copies are available through the Search and Copy Services division. They handle both electronic and paper requests. For urgent legal needs, expedited processing is offered. Pre-1978 records not yet digitized can be requested at the Records, Taxes and Treasury Division office at 115 S. Andrews Avenue, Room 114, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301.
How to Use the Official Records Search Portal
The main search tool lives on the Broward County website. It covers all documents from 1978 to today. You can search by document type—like deeds, mortgages, or judgments—or by date range. Each result shows key details: instrument number, recording date, parties involved, and legal description. Click any entry to view a high-resolution image or download a PDF. The system also offers “Find Similar Documents,” which suggests related filings based on names or titles. This saves time when tracking chains of ownership or legal actions. For bulk analysis, daily index files are posted online. These list newly recorded instruments with verification dates. They help real estate professionals spot trends or monitor market activity.
Searching Court Cases and Judicial Records
The Broward County Clerk of Courts runs a separate case search system. To use it, you must enter both a start and end date in MM/DD/YYYY format. Without these, no results appear. Searches return up to 200 entries. To narrow results, add court division, party middle name, or case type. Each result includes docket number, case status, filing date, and links to downloadable PDFs. Complex queries may require help from the clerk’s help desk. They guide users on advanced filters and export options. Note that emails sent to the clerk’s office are public records under Florida law. If you don’t want your email disclosed, call instead or mail a written request.
Requesting Certified Copies and Historical Documents
Certified copies prove legal authenticity. They’re needed for court, immigration, or title transfers. Submit requests via protected email or fax to 954-357-9031. Use the form provided on the Records, Taxes and Treasury site. Include the instrument number, document type, and your contact info. Expedited service is available for urgent matters—usually within one business day. For records before 1978, visit the office in person or send a written request. Not all older documents are digitized. Staff will check availability and provide cost estimates. All requests follow Florida Statutes Chapter 132.01, which ensures open access while protecting sensitive data like Social Security numbers.
Understanding Florida’s Public Records Laws
Florida has some of the strongest open records laws in the U.S. Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes guarantees public access to government documents. Broward County follows these rules strictly. However, certain personal details—like full SSNs, bank account numbers, or minor names—must be redacted before release. Individuals can request redaction using Form 404-64. This applies only to registered agents or property owners. The Public Records Custodian oversees compliance. Under Rule 2.420, judicial records have additional privacy protections. Always check what information is visible before sharing records publicly.
Corporate and Business Filings in Broward County
Broward County links directly to the Florida Division of Corporations Business Index. This database holds corporate registrations, fictitious name filings (DBA), annual reports, and registered agent details. You can search by business name, FEIN, or document number. Results show filing dates, status, and officer names. This is useful for due diligence, background checks, or verifying business legitimacy. The index updates daily. For certified copies of corporate documents, contact the Florida Secretary of State—not the county recorder. However, county-level liens or judgments against businesses appear in the main records search.
Property Records and Real Estate Research
Property deeds, mortgages, liens, and plats are fully searchable online. Each record includes legal descriptions, parcel IDs, and ownership history. You can trace a property’s chain of title back to 1978. Daily index files list new recordings—helpful for investors or title companies. Third-party sites like County Office aggregate this data with tax assessments and parcel maps. While convenient, always verify critical info against the official county portal. Discrepancies can occur in unofficial sources. For boundary disputes or easement research, request full copies from the Records Division. Surveyors and attorneys often use these for litigation or closing packages.
Electronic Recording and Document Submission
Broward County accepts electronically recorded documents through approved vendors. These include companies like Simplifile, DocuWare, and eRecording Partners. Click “CLICK HERE” on the official portal for a current list. Electronic recording speeds up processing and reduces errors. It’s ideal for title companies, lenders, and law firms. Documents must meet Florida notarization and formatting standards. Once submitted, they appear in the public index within one business day. Vendors charge small fees per transaction. For questions, call the Records Division at 954-831-4000.
Privacy, Redaction, and Data Removal Requests
If your personal information appears in a public record—and poses a safety risk—you may request redaction. Complete Form 404-64 and submit it to the Recording Office. Only registered agents or affected individuals can apply. Common reasons include stalking threats, identity theft, or domestic violence. The office reviews each case under state law. Full removal is rare; partial redaction is more common. Note: Redaction doesn’t erase the record—it hides specific fields. Always consult an attorney before submitting such requests.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Records, Taxes and Treasury Division is located at 115 S. Andrews Avenue, Room 114, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding holidays. Phone: 954-831-4000. Fax: 954-357-9031. Email requests go to a protected address listed on their site. Walk-ins are welcome for certified copies or research help. For large projects, call ahead to schedule staff assistance. The office also runs an online satisfaction survey. Feedback helps improve service speed and accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many users ask how to find specific records, avoid fees, or protect privacy. Below are common questions with clear, actionable answers based on current Broward County policies and Florida law.
How do I get a certified copy of a property deed in Broward County?
To get a certified copy, visit the Records, Taxes and Treasury Division at 115 S. Andrews Avenue, Room 114, or submit a request by fax to 954-357-9031. Include the instrument number, document type, and your contact information. Certified copies cost a small fee and are typically ready within one to three business days. Expedited service is available for urgent legal needs. You can also request copies online through the Search and Copy Services portal. Always bring a valid photo ID if visiting in person. Certified copies bear the official seal and signature of the County Recorder, making them acceptable for court, banks, and government agencies.
Can I search Broward County public records for free?
Yes, basic searches are free on the official Broward County website. You can view document images, download PDFs, and browse indexes without charge. However, certified copies, bulk data extracts, or expedited processing require payment. Fees vary by document type and quantity. The online portal shows current pricing before you submit a request. Third-party sites may charge access fees, but the county’s own tools remain free for public use. Always use the official site to avoid scams or outdated information.
Are court case records included in the public records search?
Court case records are not in the main property records database. They’re managed separately by the Broward County Clerk of Courts. Use their case search tool at browardclerk.org. You’ll need a date range and can refine by party name or court division. Docket sheets, judgments, and filings are available as PDFs. Some sensitive cases—like juvenile or sealed matters—are restricted. For help, contact the clerk’s help desk. Remember, emails to the clerk are public unless you call or mail instead.
How far back do Broward County public records go online?
Online records start from January 1, 1978. Everything from that date forward is digitized and searchable. Documents before 1978 exist but are not yet online. You must request them in person or by mail from the Records Division. Staff will check availability and may charge for retrieval and copying. The office preserves historical records for research and legal purposes. If you’re doing genealogy or long-term property research, plan extra time for pre-1978 requests.
Can I remove my personal information from Broward County public records?
You cannot fully remove legitimate public records. However, you can request redaction of sensitive personal data—like your full Social Security number or bank details—using Form 404-64. This is only allowed if the information poses a safety risk, such as identity theft or harassment. Submit the form to the Recording Office. Approval depends on state law and staff review. Redaction hides specific fields but keeps the rest of the document public. Consult a lawyer before applying, as improper requests may be denied.
What’s the difference between a regular copy and a certified copy?
A regular copy is a plain printout or PDF from the online portal. It’s free and useful for personal reference. A certified copy includes the official seal and signature of the County Recorder. It proves the document is a true and accurate reproduction of the original on file. Certified copies are required for legal proceedings, loan closings, immigration, and government applications. They cost a fee and must be requested through the Search and Copy Services division.
How do I report an error in a Broward County public record?
If you spot a mistake—like a wrong name, date, or legal description—contact the Records Division immediately. Call 954-831-4000 or email the protected address listed on their site. Provide the instrument number, correct information, and supporting evidence (e.g., a corrected deed or court order). Staff will review and, if valid, initiate a correction process. Note: Only the original filer or their attorney can amend most documents. Errors in indexing may be fixed faster than errors in the recorded instrument itself.
Official Resources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always use these official sources:
Website: https://www.broward.org/RecordsTaxesTreasury/Records/Pages/Default.aspx
Phone: 954-831-4000
Fax: 954-357-9031
Address: 115 S. Andrews Avenue, Room 114, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM