Multnomah County Public Records

Multnomah County Public Records are official documents maintained by local government agencies that are available for public inspection. These records provide transparency and ensure that citizens have access to the information used in government operations.

Public records in Multnomah County include documents created or received by county offices, covering a broad range of information from legal filings to administrative reports. Access to these records supports accountability and allows residents to stay informed about governmental decisions and actions. The county’s commitment to transparency helps maintain trust between officials and the public.

How to Search Multnomah County Public Records

To search Multnomah County Count public records, use the county’s official online databases for property, recorded documents, and other public files or submit a public records request through the county portal. For court records, access the Oregon Judicial Department resources or contact the Multnomah County Circuit Court Records Department directly.

Start With the Public Records Request Center

Official Public Records Request Portal:
https://multco.us/services/public-records-requests

This tool lets a person request records not already searchable online or get copies of official files. It’s the core place to begin if the record isn’t in the county’s databases.

Steps to Public Records Request

• Open https://multco.us/services/public-records-requests.
• Choose “Submit a Records Request.”
• Create an account or log in to the portal.
• Select the department most likely to have the record (e.g., Recorder, Assessor, Sheriff’s Office).
• Enter clear search details (person’s full name, case number, property ID, date range).
• Submit the request and monitor its status online.
• Once processed, the county will provide access electronically or mail copies.

Online Recorded Documents Search

Recorded Documents Search Website:
https://multco.us/services/recorded-documents-website

This database (via MultcoRecords.com) lets people find recorded deeds, liens, mortgages, and other official filings.

Recorded Documents Lookup

• Visit https://multco.us/services/recorded-documents-website.
• Click the link or button for the MultcoRecords.com search tool.
• Choose how you want to search:
  • By name (example: last name of a person).
  • By date range (for recording date).
  • By document type (deed, lien, mortgage, etc.).
• Review returned items that show:
  • Document number
  • Recording date
  • Party names
  • Legal description
• If you need copies:
  • Add results to the online cart.
  • Follow the checkout process for downloads or certified copies.

Property Records & Land Info Search

Property Search Portal:
https://multcoproptax.com/Property-Search

This tool lets a user find tax, property owner details, and parcel info.

Property Search Steps

• Go to https://multcoproptax.com/Property-Search.
• Enter a Situs Address (property street address) or Property ID.
• Explore results showing:
  • Owner’s name
  • Parcel details
  • Tax info

Multnomah County Circuit Court Records

• Official court info page: https://www.courts.oregon.gov/courts/multnomah/records/pages/default.aspx
• This page shows options for searching case information and requesting certified copies.

Online Case Info

https://www.courts.oregon.gov/services/online/pages/ojcin.aspx

Steps to Search Court Cases:

• Visit the OJCIN OnLine page at the Oregon Judicial Department site.
• If you want deeper access, create an account (this may involve a fee).
• Use search fields for case number, party name, or filing date.
• Review summary case information or obtain certified documents when needed.

In‑Person & Mail Options

If online tools don’t return what you need:

• Visit the Public Research Room at 501 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland to use public terminals for older property and recorded documents.
• Send a written records request by mail using forms from the Public Records Request Center page.
• Call or email departments such as the Recorder’s Office (503‑988‑2273 / clerk@multco.us)

What is Multnomah County Public Records

Multnomah County maintains a wide range of official documents that the public can review, depending on their type and legal status. These documents are available under Oregon’s transparency laws, but some are limited due to privacy or legal restrictions.

What Qualifies as a Public Document in Multnomah County

Official documents maintained by Multnomah County include civil, criminal, property, court, marriage and divorce records, and government contracts. Civil records include filings such as lawsuits, judgments, and liens. Criminal records cover arrests, convictions, and case outcomes. Property records track deeds, titles, and tax assessments. Court records document proceedings in both civil and criminal cases. Marriage and divorce records provide information about legally recognized unions, while government contracts and agreements show spending and administrative decisions.

Some records are classified as restricted or confidential. For example, juvenile criminal records, adoption files, certain medical records, and sensitive personnel files are protected by law. Access to these documents requires specific permissions or court orders, ensuring that personal privacy is preserved.

Key Categories of Public Documents

Records That Are Restricted or Confidential

While most official documents are available to the public, certain records are protected due to sensitivity. Juvenile criminal cases, adoption records, medical files, and some personnel documents cannot be released without proper authorization. These restrictions prevent misuse of personal data and maintain compliance with state privacy laws.

Transparency and Disclosure Laws

Multnomah County operates under strict transparency and disclosure rules, ensuring public access aligns with Oregon regulations. Individuals can request copies of most documents, either in person or online. The county provides forms and instructions for submitting record requests, making it easier to locate specific files efficiently.

Why Public Documents Matter

By maintaining organized, accessible records, Multnomah County promotes accountability in government operations. Citizens, journalists, researchers, and legal professionals rely on these official documents to:

• Confirm legal facts
• Track property ownership
• Review case outcomes
• Monitor government contracts and spending

Multnomah County Record Categories

Multnomah County maintains a broad range of government records that are accessible to the public in accordance with Oregon’s transparency laws. These records are organized into specific categories, each containing detailed information that can serve legal, research, or personal needs.

Court Records

Court records in Multnomah County include filings from civil, criminal, family, and traffic cases. Civil cases cover disputes between individuals or organizations, such as lawsuits, judgments, and liens. Criminal records document arrests, charges, convictions, and case outcomes. Family court records include custody arrangements, guardianship filings, and divorce proceedings. Traffic court records cover violations, fines, and related proceedings.

Access to court records can be obtained online through the Multnomah County court portal or in person at the courthouse. Some records, like juvenile cases or sealed proceedings, are restricted. Fees for obtaining certified copies vary based on the record type, typically ranging from $5 to $25 per document.

• Use case numbers, party names, or filing dates to locate court filings efficiently.
• Public terminals are available at the courthouse for on-site research.
• Certain documents may require a formal request or authorization for release.

Marriage and Divorce Records

Marriage and divorce records are maintained as part of the county’s vital records system. These documents include marriage licenses, certificates, and divorce decrees. Marriage records provide official verification of legal unions, while divorce records detail the legal termination of those unions.

To access these records, individuals can submit requests through the Multnomah County Recorder’s Office. Standard copies may require a small processing fee, generally around $20 per certificate. Some records may be restricted if requested by parties seeking privacy or if legal limitations apply.

• Certified copies are often required for legal, insurance, or personal matters.
• Non-certified copies may be available for research purposes.
• Requests can usually be submitted online, by mail, or in person.

Property and Land Records

Property and land records include deeds, titles, liens, tax assessments, and transaction histories. These records provide a detailed account of property ownership, transfers, and financial obligations associated with land and real estate. They are essential for buyers, sellers, legal professionals, and researchers.

These documents are typically accessible through the Multnomah County Recorder’s Office or online property portals. Fees for copies vary depending on the type of document and the format requested (digital or paper). Public access ensures transparency in real estate transactions and allows individuals to verify ownership or encumbrances.

• Search by property address, parcel number, or owner name.
• Historical property records may be archived and require special requests.
• Certified copies are often necessary for official purposes like mortgage processing.

Government and Administrative Records

Multnomah County also maintains a wide array of government and administrative records, including contracts, budgets, meeting minutes, ordinances, and departmental reports. These documents allow residents and organizations to track county operations, spending, and decision-making processes.

Access to these records can be requested through the County Clerk or specific department offices, often at little or no cost. Some records may be posted online as part of the county’s transparency initiatives, while others may require formal requests under public disclosure laws.

• Budget and financial reports show county revenue, expenditures, and allocations.
• Meeting minutes provide summaries of decisions made by county boards or committees.
• Public contracts outline agreements with vendors, service providers, or contractors.

What is Oregon Public Records Law

The Oregon Public Records Law, sometimes referred to as the Oregon open records act, mandates that government agencies make records available upon request unless specifically exempted. The law covers a wide range of documents, including emails, reports, contracts, budgets, and meeting minutes. Its primary goal is to promote transparency, accountability, and trust in government operations.

Counties like Multnomah are required to respond to public records requests promptly and provide clear guidance on how to access or obtain copies of requested documents. Agencies may charge reasonable fees to cover administrative costs, such as printing or staff time, but these charges must be disclosed upfront.

County Responsibilities for Transparency

County offices are responsible for maintaining organized records and ensuring compliance with Oregon’s disclosure requirements. This includes:

• Keeping accurate and up-to-date records for public access.
• Responding to requests within the legal timeframe.
• Notifying requesters of any exemptions or restrictions that may apply.
• Providing guidance on how to obtain certified copies of official documents.

Exemptions and Restricted Records

Although Oregon law promotes openness, certain records are exempt from disclosure to protect personal privacy, public safety, or proprietary information. Common exemptions include:

• Private information: Social Security numbers, personal addresses, and medical records.
• Law enforcement records: Certain investigative files, confidential informant details, or ongoing case information.
• Records involving minors: Juvenile court documents and adoption records.
• Trade secrets or proprietary business data: Financial or strategic information that could impact competitive interests.

Requesting Public Records in Multnomah County

Residents and organizations in Multnomah County can submit public information requests to access government-maintained documents. Requests can be made online, by email, or in person at the relevant county office. Clear procedures and proper formatting help ensure faster processing and accurate results.

How to Submit a Public Records Request

Multnomah County provides multiple methods for submitting an open records request:

Online: The county maintains a web portal where users can submit requests directly. This method is often the fastest, allowing requesters to track the status of their submission.
Email: Requests can be emailed to the County Clerk Office or the department holding the records. Include specific details such as record type, date ranges, and parties involved to avoid delays.
In Person or Mail: Physical requests can be submitted at the county office. Hand-delivered requests may allow for immediate clarification if additional information is needed. Mail submissions are accepted, but processing times may be longer due to postal delays.

Processing Times and Fees

Multnomah County typically responds to public information requests within five business days, although complex requests or large document sets may take longer.

• Fees: Requesters may be charged reasonable costs for copying, printing, or staff time. Standard fees range from $0.25 per page for photocopies to higher amounts for certified copies.

Fees and Processing Times

Accessing Multnomah County public records may involve certain fees, depending on the type of document and how it is delivered. Understanding these costs helps requesters plan ahead and avoid unexpected charges.

Standard Fees for Public Records

Fees for document requests typically cover copying, certification, and staff time spent locating records. Common charges include:

• Photocopies: Approximately $0.25 per page for standard black-and-white copies.
• Certified Copies: Usually $5–$25 per document, depending on the record type.
• Research or Staff Time: Some requests requiring extensive retrieval or redaction may incur hourly fees, typically calculated in 15–30 minute increments.

Processing Times

Standard requests are generally processed within five business days, though complex or large-volume requests may take longer. Processing time can be affected by:

• The number of documents requested.
• Redactions required to protect sensitive or exempt information.
• The method of delivery, with online or email requests typically processed faster than mailed or in-person submissions.

Location of Multnomah County Public Records

Residents and researchers can access Multnomah County public records at designated county offices and courthouses. Knowing the correct location and operating hours ensures a smooth visit and helps avoid delays.

Main Public Records Office

The primary office for public records is located at:

Multnomah County Clerk’s Office
501 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214

This office houses a wide variety of official documents, including court filings, property records, marriage and divorce certificates, and government contracts. Visitors can request copies, review documents on-site, or obtain guidance on submitting formal requests.

Hours of Operation:

• Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
• Closed on weekends and county holidays

Frequently Asked Questions

Multnomah County public records are generally available to the public, though some requests may include fees. Anyone can submit a request, and the time to receive records varies depending on the document type and format.

This FAQ section addresses common questions regarding public records in Multnomah County, helping residents and researchers navigate document requests efficiently.

Are public records free in Multnomah County?

Public records are not always free in Multnomah County. While some records can be viewed at no cost, obtaining copies—whether in paper, certified, or electronic form—typically requires payment of administrative fees. The amount depends on the document type and the number of pages requested. County offices provide information on applicable fees before completing a request, ensuring transparency. For individuals who prefer submitting requests online, estimated costs are often displayed, while in-person visitors can consult staff for fee details.

Can anyone request court documents?

Yes, anyone can request court documents, though access to certain records may be restricted due to privacy or legal protections. Publicly accessible documents include case files, judgments, and other official court records. Some sensitive records, such as juvenile cases or sealed documents, are not available to the general public. Typically, the requester must provide identification and specific details about the document, such as a case number or names of involved parties, to ensure accurate retrieval.

How long does it take to receive a record?

The processing time for public records depends on the type and volume of documents requested. Simple requests submitted online may be completed within one to five business days, while larger or more complex requests could take several weeks. The requested format, whether electronic or paper copies, also affects timing. County offices often notify requesters when documents are ready, and some offer priority processing for urgent requests, which may involve additional fees.

What if there are issues with document retrieval?

Occasionally, requests encounter delays due to incomplete information or misfiled documents. Providing accurate identifiers, such as case numbers or personal details, can reduce these issues. If a document cannot be located, contacting the records office directly helps clarify the status and allows staff to resolve common retrieval problems. Many departments also use tracking systems to ensure timely responses and provide updates to requesters.

Are there restrictions on public record requests?

Certain records are protected by law and cannot be released without authorization. Restricted records often include adoption files, custody cases, sealed criminal records, and juvenile court documents. Requests for these types of records usually require legal permission or a court order. Requesters should always verify with the relevant office whether the document they seek can be released and if additional steps are needed to access restricted information.

Can records be requested online?

Yes, many Multnomah County public records can be requested online through official county portals. Online requests allow users to submit details about the document type, parties involved, and preferred format, which often speeds up the process. Some online systems also provide estimated fees and tracking features to monitor the status of the request, making the process more convenient and transparent for the requester.