StJohns County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The StJohns County?

Public records in St. Johns County are documents, files, recordings, and other materials created or maintained by government agencies that are accessible to the public according to Florida's Public Records Law (Chapter 119, Florida Statutes). These records include court documents, property records, marriage licenses, birth certificates, death certificates, tax records, meeting minutes, and various other official documents.

The St. Johns County Clerk of Courts maintains many of these public records, including court cases, official records, and historical documents. These records are available for inspection and copying during regular business hours.

St. Johns County Clerk of Courts: 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Is StJohns County an Open Records County?

Yes, St. Johns 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 ensure government transparency and public access to most government records.

Under Florida Statute Chapter 119, most records made or received by St. Johns County government agencies in the course of official business are considered public records and must be made available for inspection and copying upon request, with certain exemptions for confidential or sensitive information.

St. Johns County government actively maintains a public records system that allows citizens to access various documents through both in-person visits and online portals.

St. Johns County Administration Building: 500 San Sebastian View, St. Augustine, FL 32084

How Do I Find Public Records in StJohns County in 2025

In 2025, St. Johns County offers multiple methods to access public records:

1. Online Access: The St. Johns County Clerk of Courts website provides a comprehensive search portal for court records and official documents. Many records can be accessed 24/7 through their online system.

2. In-Person Requests: Visit the St. Johns County Clerk of Courts office during business hours to request records in person.

3. Public Records Request Form: Complete the county's public records request form available on the county website or in person.

4. Sheriff's Office Records: For law enforcement records, the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office maintains a dedicated public records request system.

5. Property Records: Search property records through the Property Appraiser's office online portal or in person.

6. County Departments: Contact specific county departments directly for specialized records they maintain.

St. Johns County Sheriff's Office: 4015 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084

St. Johns County Property Appraiser: 4030 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084

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

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

• Standard Copies: $0.15 per one-sided page (8.5 x 11 inches)
• Double-sided Copies: $0.20 per page (8.5 x 11 inches)
• Certified Copies: Additional $1.00 per document
• Large Format Documents: Varies based on size and type
• Electronic Records: May include a charge for the actual cost of the storage medium
• Special Service Charges: For requests requiring extensive use of information technology resources or clerical assistance (typically when the time exceeds 30 minutes), a reasonable service charge based on the cost of the personnel providing the service may be applied

Payment methods include cash, check, or credit card, depending on the department and request method.

Does StJohns County Have Free Public Records?

St. Johns County does provide some public records at no cost:

1. Online Access: Many records can be viewed for free through the county's online portals, though downloading or printing may incur fees.

2. Public Inspection: You can inspect public records at no charge during regular business hours at the appropriate county office.

3. Self-Service Research: Using public terminals at county facilities to view records is typically free.

4. Limited Free Copies: Some departments may provide a small number of copies free of charge before applying standard copy fees.

5. Electronic Records: In some cases, if you provide your own storage device, you may only be charged for the labor involved in copying electronic records.

St. Johns County Public Library: 6670 US 1 South, St. Augustine, FL 32086 (offers free public computers for online record searches)

Who Can Request Public Records In StJohns County?

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

• Citizenship status
• Age (though minors may face some practical limitations)
• Residency (you don't need to be a Florida resident)
• Purpose or reason for the request (requestors are not required to explain why they want the records)
• Identity (anonymous requests are permitted, though providing contact information is necessary if you want to receive the records)

The law specifically states that access to public records is a right of each person, and agencies cannot require you to disclose your identity or purpose when making a request, except in specific circumstances where certain exemptions might apply.

What Records Are Confidential In StJohns County?

While St. Johns County maintains an open records policy, certain records are exempt from public disclosure under Florida law:

1. Personal Information: Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, credit card numbers, and certain personal information of specific government employees (like law enforcement officers)

2. Medical Records: Health and medical information protected under HIPAA and state law

3. Juvenile Records: Many records related to juvenile offenders

4. Active Investigations: Records pertaining to ongoing law enforcement investigations

5. Security Information: Building security plans, security system information

6. Child Abuse Records: Information identifying victims of child abuse

7. Attorney-Client Communications: Legal communications between the county and its attorneys

8. Sealed Court Records: Records that have been sealed by court order

9. Certain Personnel Records: Employee medical information, performance evaluations in some cases

10. Examination Questions: Test questions and answer sheets for licensing, employment, or academic examinations

Florida Attorney General's Office: The Capitol PL-01, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1050 (provides guidance on public records exemptions)

Lookup Public Records in StJohns County

St. Johns County offers several resources for accessing public records:

• Records - Saint Johns County Clerk of Courts - Access various public records maintained by the St. Johns County Clerk of Courts, including court records, official records, and more.

• Official Records - St. Johns County Clerk of Court - Information on how to access official records in St. Johns County, including search options and recording information.

• Public Records - St. Johns County - Outlines the process for requesting public records from St. Johns County, including links to request forms and contact information.

• Public Records Request - St. Johns County Sheriff's Office - Information on how to request public records from the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office, including online portal access and request procedures.

• Public Records Request Form - A PDF form for submitting public records requests to St. Johns County, providing a structured way to request access to government records.

• Public Records Overview - A PDF document providing an overview of open government laws and public records access in St. Johns County.