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Bay County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The Bay County?

Public records in Bay County refer to all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, tapes, photographs, films, sound recordings, data processing software, or other material, regardless of physical form or characteristics, made or received in connection with the transaction of official business by any agency. These records are maintained by the Bay County Clerk of Court, who serves as the official recorder of all instruments required or authorized by law to be recorded in Bay County.

The Bay County Clerk of Court maintains various types of public records including:

  • Land records (deeds, mortgages, liens)
  • Court records and case files
  • Marriage records
  • Final judgments
  • Official government documents

These records are available for public inspection and copying under Florida's Public Records Law (Chapter 119, Florida Statutes), which provides that all state, county, and municipal records are open for personal inspection by any person.

Bay County Clerk of Court, 300 E 4th Street, Panama City, FL 32401

Is Bay County an Open Records County?

Yes, Bay County is an open records county. Florida has some of the most comprehensive open records laws in the United States, often referred to as "Sunshine Laws." Under Florida Statute 119.01, most government records in Bay County are considered public and must be made available to citizens upon request.

The Bay County Clerk of Court maintains a commitment to transparency by providing:

  • Online access to many public records
  • In-person access to physical records
  • Procedures for requesting copies of records not available online

While Bay County operates under open records laws, certain exemptions do exist to protect sensitive information such as social security numbers, medical records, and certain personal information of specific government employees.

How Do I Find Public Records in Bay County in 2025

Finding public records in Bay County in 2025 can be accomplished through several methods:

  1. Online Search Systems:

    • The Bay County Clerk of Court offers an Official Records Search system for records dating back to January 1, 1987
    • Court case information can be accessed through the Court Docket Search system

  2. In-Person Requests:

    • Visit the Bay County Clerk of Court office during business hours
    • Visit the Bay County Sheriff's Office for law enforcement records

  3. Written Requests:

    • Submit a written request to the appropriate agency
    • For marriage records, use the Request for Marriage Record form

  4. Agency-Specific Portals:

    • The Bay County Sheriff's Office has its own public records request process
    • Property records can be searched through the Property Appraiser's office

For the most current and comprehensive access, the Landmark Web Official Records Search system provides a user-friendly interface to search deeds, mortgages, and other land records.

Bay County Sheriff's Office, 3421 N Highway 77, Panama City, FL 32405

Bay County Property Appraiser, 860 W 11th Street, Panama City, FL 32401

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

The cost to obtain public records in Bay County varies depending on the type of record and the format requested:

  1. Standard Copying Fees:

    • One-sided copies: $0.15 per page (letter/legal size)
    • Two-sided copies: $0.20 per page (letter/legal size)
    • Certified copies: $1.00 per document plus copying fees

  2. Special Service Charges:

    • May apply for extensive use of clerical or supervisory assistance
    • Typically calculated based on the lowest paid employee capable of performing the work
    • Hourly rate may apply for requests requiring more than 30 minutes of staff time

  3. Electronic Records:

    • CD/DVD: $1.00 per disc
    • Email delivery: Often provided at no cost for small files
    • USB drive: Actual cost of the storage device

  4. Specialized Records:

    • Marriage license copies: $3.00 per copy
    • Certified court documents: $2.00 per document plus $1.00 per page

Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card. For credit card payments, the Recording/Marriage License Department provides a Credit Card Payment Authorization form.

Does Bay County Have Free Public Records?

Bay County does offer some free access to public records:

  1. Online Access:

    • Basic searches of the Official Records database are available at no cost
    • Court case information can be viewed online for free
    • The Landmark Web Official Records Search system provides free viewing of document images

  2. In-Person Inspection:

    • Florida law allows for free inspection of public records during regular business hours
    • You can visit the Bay County Clerk of Court office to view records without charge

  3. Limitations on Free Access:

    • While viewing is free, obtaining copies typically incurs fees
    • Some specialized databases may require registration or subscription
    • Extensive research assistance may trigger special service charges

For those seeking to minimize costs, the Bay County Clerk's office provides instructions on using their search page through a downloadable guide, helping citizens efficiently navigate the free online resources.

Who Can Request Public Records In Bay County?

Under Florida's Public Records Law, virtually anyone can request public records in Bay County:

  1. Eligible Requesters:

    • Florida residents
    • Non-Florida residents
    • Foreign nationals
    • Organizations and businesses
    • Media representatives
    • Anonymous requesters

  2. No Justification Required:

    • Requesters do not need to explain why they want the records
    • Requesters do not need to identify themselves
    • Requests can be made verbally or in writing

  3. Special Considerations:

    • Some specialized records may require verification of identity
    • Certain confidential records may only be accessible to specific individuals
    • Access to some records may require a secure login and Bay County Access Agreement

The Bay County Clerk's office and other agencies cannot legally ask you why you want a record or require you to identify yourself unless a specific exemption applies to the record you're requesting.

What Records Are Confidential In Bay County?

While Bay County operates under Florida's open records laws, certain records are confidential and exempt from public disclosure:

  1. Personal Information:

    • Social security numbers
    • Bank account numbers
    • Credit card numbers
    • Medical and health information
    • Information about minors

  2. Security-Related Records:

    • Building security system plans
    • Security system technical information
    • Emergency evacuation plans

  3. Law Enforcement Records:

    • Active criminal investigation information
    • Confidential informant identities
    • Surveillance techniques

  4. Personnel Records:

    • Home addresses, phone numbers, and photos of certain public employees
    • Employee medical information
    • Performance evaluations for some positions

  5. Court Records:

    • Records sealed by court order
    • Juvenile records (with some exceptions)
    • Mental health proceedings

  6. Other Protected Records:

    • Adoption records
    • Certain domestic violence records
    • Trade secrets and proprietary business information

When requesting records, be aware that confidential information may be redacted from documents before they are provided to you.

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