Fresno County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The Fresno County?

Public records in Fresno County encompass a wide range of official documents maintained by various county departments and agencies. These records include:

Property records (deeds, liens, mortgages)
Vital records (birth, death, marriage certificates)
Court records and case files
Property tax assessment records
Voter registration information
Business licenses and fictitious business names
Environmental health permits
Building permits and code enforcement records
County meeting minutes and agendas
Property maps and parcel information
Criminal and arrest records
Traffic citations and accident reports
Professional licenses
County contracts and financial records

These documents are maintained by different county departments including the Recorder's Office, Assessor's Office, County Clerk, Superior Court, and various other agencies.

Is Fresno County an Open Records County?

Yes, Fresno County is an open records county, operating in compliance with the California Public Records Act (CPRA) as outlined in California Government Code §6250-6270. This legislation establishes that public records are open to inspection during regular office hours of governmental agencies, with limited exceptions.

According to the California Public Records Act, public access to governmental records is a fundamental right. The act specifically states in §6253(a) that public records are open to inspection at all times during the office hours of the state or local agency and every person has a right to inspect any public record.

Fresno County government agencies are required to assist members of the public in making focused and effective requests for identifiable records by helping to identify records responsive to the request.

How Do I Find Public Records in Fresno County in 2025

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

Online Access: Many records are available through the Fresno County Public Records Portal, which provides access to recorded documents including property records.
In-Person Requests: Visit the appropriate county department during business hours:
- Property records: County Recorder's Office
- Court records: Superior Court Clerk
- Vital records: County Clerk-Recorder
- Property tax information: Assessor's Office or Tax Collector
Written Requests: Submit a written public records request to the specific department that maintains the records you seek. Include:
- Your contact information
- A clear description of the records requested
- Preferred format for receiving records
Geographic Information System (GIS): For property maps and parcel information, use the Fresno County GIS Portal.
Department-Specific Websites: Many departments offer searchable databases on their websites, such as the Fresno County Assessor for property information.

Agencies must respond to requests within 10 calendar days, though complex requests may qualify for a 14-day extension under §6253(c) of the California Government Code.

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

Fees for public records in Fresno County vary by department and record type:

Recorder's Office Fees:

Certified copies of birth certificates: $32
Certified copies of death certificates: $24
Certified copies of marriage certificates: $17
Recording documents (first page): $14
Each additional page: $3
Document certification: $2 per document

Court Records:

Case searches: $15 per name
Copies of court documents: $0.50 per page
Certified copies: $40 for first page, $0.50 each additional page

Assessor's Office:

Property record searches: $5-$10 depending on complexity
Parcel maps: $5-$15 depending on size

County Clerk:

Fictitious Business Name filing: $40 for first business name
Certified copies of FBN statements: $5

Under the California Public Records Act §6253(b), agencies may only charge for the "direct costs of duplication" or a statutory fee, if applicable. Electronic records may be provided at lower or no cost when feasible.

Does Fresno County Have Free Public Records?

Yes, Fresno County does offer some public records at no cost:

Online Resources:
- The Fresno County GIS Portal provides free access to basic property information and maps.
- The Fresno County Public Records Portal offers free searches of recorded document indexes.
- Fresno County Courts provides free case information searches online.
In-Person Inspection:
- Most public records can be inspected in person at no charge during regular business hours at the appropriate county office.
- The Fresno County Law Library provides free access to legal resources and some public records.
Public Health Information:
- Certain public health statistics and reports are available at no cost through the Fresno County Health Department.
Meeting Minutes and Agendas:
- County Board of Supervisors meeting minutes, agendas, and videos are freely available on the county website.

While inspection is typically free, fees may still apply for copies, certifications, or extensive searches requiring staff time.

Who Can Request Public Records In Fresno County?

Under the California Public Records Act, anyone can request public records in Fresno County:

California residents
Out-of-state residents
Foreign nationals
Organizations, businesses, and associations
Media representatives
Attorneys and legal representatives
Government agencies
Incarcerated individuals (though some limitations may apply)

According to §6253(a) of the California Government Code, "every person" has the right to inspect public records. Requesters:

Do not need to state a reason or purpose for their request
Do not need to identify themselves (though contact information is needed if copies are requested)
Cannot be asked about their intended use of the records
Do not need to be directly involved in the matter related to the records

The only exceptions are for certain law enforcement records where disclosure would endanger an investigation or confidential informants, as specified in §6254(f).

What Records Are Confidential In Fresno County?

Certain records in Fresno County are confidential and exempt from public disclosure under various provisions of California law, including §6254 of the Government Code:

Personal Information: