Lake County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The Lake County?

Public records in Lake County refer to documents, files, and information created or maintained by government agencies that are accessible to the public. These records include property documents, court records, vital statistics, tax information, and various other official documents. Lake County maintains these records through different departments and offices, ensuring transparency in government operations and providing citizens with access to important information.

The Lake County Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller is the primary custodian of many public records, including court files, official records, and historical documents.

Lake County Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller, 550 West Main Street, Tavares, FL 32778

Is Lake County an Open Records County?

Yes, Lake County is an open records county. Florida has some of the most comprehensive public records laws in the United States, often referred to as "Sunshine Laws." These laws mandate that most government records be available to the public upon request.

Lake County follows Florida Statutes Chapter 119, which establishes the right of access to public records. Government agencies in Lake County are required to provide requested records unless they fall under specific exemptions defined by state law.

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners also maintains a commitment to transparency and provides many records online through their various departmental websites.

Lake County Board of County Commissioners, 315 W. Main Street, Tavares, FL 32778

How Do I Find Public Records in Lake County in 2025

Finding public records in Lake County in 2025 has become increasingly convenient through digital platforms. Here are the primary methods:

1. Online Access: The Lake County Clerk's Official Records Search portal allows you to search for various documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, marriage records, and more.

2. Property Records: The Lake County Property Appraiser's website provides comprehensive property information, including ownership details, property values, and tax information.

3. Court Records: Access court records through the Lake County Clerk's Court Records Search system.

4. In-Person Requests: Visit the appropriate county office to request records in person.

5. Written Requests: Submit a written public records request to the specific department that maintains the records you seek.

6. Lake County Sheriff's Office: For incident reports and certain law enforcement records.

Lake County Sheriff's Office, 360 W Ruby Street, Tavares, FL 32778

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

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

• Standard copies: $0.15 per one-sided page and $0.20 per two-sided page for letter-size documents
• Certified copies: Additional $1.00 per document
• Large format documents (maps, blueprints): Varies based on size, typically $5.00-$25.00
• Digital records: May include a nominal fee for CDs/DVDs or electronic delivery
• Special service charges: May apply for extensive requests requiring significant staff time (typically charged at the hourly rate of the lowest-paid employee capable of performing the work)

If a request requires extensive use of information technology resources or clerical assistance, Lake County may charge a reasonable service charge based on the cost incurred.

Does Lake County Have Free Public Records?

Lake County does offer some public records at no cost:

1. Online searches through the Official Records portal are free, though downloading or printing documents may incur fees.

2. The Property Appraiser's website provides free access to property information, including ownership details, property characteristics, and assessed values.

3. Many records can be viewed for free in person at the appropriate county office, with fees only applying to copies or certified documents.

4. The Lake County Tax Collector's website offers free access to tax payment information.

Lake County Tax Collector, 320 W. Main Street, Tavares, FL 32778

5. The Lake County Supervisor of Elections provides free access to voter information and election results.

Lake County Supervisor of Elections, 1898 E. Burleigh Boulevard, Tavares, FL 32778

Who Can Request Public Records In Lake County?

Under Florida's Public Records Law, anyone can request public records in Lake County regardless of:

• Citizenship status
• Age
• Reason for the request
• Intended use of the records

Requesters do not need to:

• Identify themselves
• Provide a reason for their request
• Make the request in writing (though written requests can help document the specifics)
• Be a resident of Lake County or Florida

Government agencies cannot require you to complete a specific form or provide personal information to access public records, though they may ask for contact information to respond to your request.

What Records Are Confidential In Lake County?

While Lake County maintains an open records policy, certain records are confidential or exempt from public disclosure under Florida law:

1. Personal information including:

   • Social Security numbers
   • Driver's license numbers
   • Medical records
   • Bank account numbers

2. Records related to active criminal investigations

3. Juvenile criminal records (with some exceptions)

4. Child abuse reports and investigations

5. Certain personnel records and evaluations

6. Records related to security systems and emergency response plans

7. Home addresses and phone numbers of certain public employees (judges, law enforcement officers, etc.)

8. Records protected by attorney-client privilege

9. Sealed court records and expunged criminal records

10. Certain economic development information

The Lake County Attorney's Office reviews requests involving potentially exempt information.

Lake County Attorney's Office, 315 W. Main Street, Suite 335, Tavares, FL 32778

Lookup Public Records in Lake County

Lake County Clerk - Records Search - This portal allows users to search for official records in Lake County, including deeds, marriage records, and other public documents.

Welcome to The Property Appraiser's Office for Lake County, Florida - The Property Appraiser's Office provides access to property records, tax information, and exemption applications for Lake County, Florida.