Find Utah Public Records
Is Utah a Public Records State?
The Utah State Records platform offers a comprehensive means for the public to access and review public records. This service ensures that Utah residents can obtain this information as per the Utah Government Records Access Act. This act mandates that all government records and information be accessible to the public.
The primary objective is to ensure that all members of the public have the right to access state public records without needing to provide a reason or personal information, unless the record is confidential by legal standards.
Utah State Records includes information on subjects such as criminal records, court records, and vital records, encompassing over 25 million transparent public records.
What is Public Information in Utah?
Public records in Utah include:
- Court records
- Divorce records
- Sex offender information
- Property records
- Bankruptcy records
- Arrest records
- Death records
Utah law defines public records as those not classified as private, protected, or controlled, and not exempt from public disclosure under the state’s public records act (UT Code § 63G-2-103(21)). GRAMA specifies that public records are documents, letters, books, photographs, recordings, electronic data, and other documentary materials created or used for official business (UT Code § 63G-2-103(22)). Unless otherwise specified by statute, all records should be open to the public (UT Code § 63G-2-201(2)).
How Do I Look Up Public Records in Utah?
The process for requesting public records may vary slightly between agencies. Here are the general steps to follow:
- Determine the desired type of information: Identify the specific type of record needed. Different agencies hold different types of records.
- Identify the agency in charge: Determine which agency generates and maintains the desired record. For example, divorce records can be obtained from county courts, while property records are available from the county assessor’s or recorder’s office.
- Write a Request: According to the GRAMA (UT Code § 63G-2-204(1)), requests must be submitted in writing, describing the record with reasonable specificity and including the requester’s contact information.
- Submit the request: Written requests can be submitted in person, by mail, fax, phone, or email. Some agencies may prefer specific methods depending on the record type. Payment for copies may be required, with options including cash, cheque, or money order. Online requests may incur additional processing fees for card payments.
Utilizing Third-Party Resources for Utah Public Records Obtaining
City Records
Third-party websites may offer access to public city records. These platforms often feature user-friendly tools for expansive searches. Users may need to provide details such as:
- Name of the subject involved in the record
- Address of the requestor
- Case number or file number (if known)
- Location of the document or person involved
- Last known or current address of the registrant
Public Records
Third-party public records websites can provide search services that are not limited geographically, making searches expansive and straightforward. Users must provide sufficient information to assist with the search, such as the name of the subject, provided they are not a juvenile.
These third-party sites are not government-sponsored, and the availability and accuracy of results can vary.
How To Look Up Public Records in Utah for Free?
Free access to Utah public records is possible through inspection requests. Although agencies may charge fees for physical copies, they cannot charge for inspecting records (UT Code § 63G-2-203(5)).
Some Utah agencies offer online databases with free copies of records. For instance, residents can conduct a free Salt Lake County public records search for property records via the assessor’s search database.
Agencies may also waive request fees under certain conditions (UT Code § 63G-2-203(4)), such as when disclosure benefits the public or the requester is the subject of the record.
Search Public Records in Utah
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