Miami-Dade Public Records provide instant online access to property deeds, court cases, liens, permits, and official documents through secure county portals. Residents and businesses can submit, search, and verify records digitally using approved systems like the Miami-Dade Electronic Recording Service (MDERS) and the Clerk of Courts’ online databases. The county posts most digital images to public indexes by 4 p.m. the next business day, with fees starting at $10.00 per document. All services operate under Florida Statutes and include free basic searches, fee-based document retrieval, and formal request options for non-public files.
How to Submit Documents Electronically in Miami-Dade County
Miami-Dade County allows residents and businesses to submit official documents for recording through county-approved vendors such as MDERS and DocuSign Florida. This electronic recording (eRecord) process lets you keep your original paper document while the county creates and publishes a digital copy. Once the vendor uploads your file, the county processes it overnight and posts the image to the public index by 4 p.m. the following business day. You’ll receive an email receipt with a unique tracking number for verification and future reference.
The standard fee is $10.00 for the first page and $8.50 for each additional page. Payment can be made by credit card, debit card, or cash directly at the vendor’s office. No registration is required to use these services, and all transactions are secure and legally binding under Florida law. This system reduces mailing costs, speeds up processing, and ensures your documents become part of the official public record quickly and reliably.
Searching Official Property Records Online
The County Recorder’s Official Record Search offers a free “Standard Search” tool that requires no user registration. It returns property deeds, mortgages, liens, and other land records dating back to 1970. Each search result displays key details including parcel numbers, recording dates, grantor and grantee names, and document type. A “Download PDF” button lets you save or print any record instantly.
To use this service, visit the official Miami-Dade Clerk website and enter a property address, legal description, or party name. The system updates daily, ensuring you see the most current information. If you need help, call the Clerk’s office at 305-275-1155. The office is located at 73 W. Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33130, and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Accessing Court Records and Case Files
The Miami-Dade Clerk of the Courts maintains multiple online portals for criminal, civil, family, probate, juvenile, dependency, and child-support cases. The free Case Summary Search shows docket numbers, filing dates, and party names without charge. For full documents like motions, judgments, or pleadings, use the fee-based Advanced Document Retrieval system, which provides PDF copies dating back to 1995.
Licensed attorneys can use the Attorney Wheel Position Search to filter cases by attorney name. The Central Depository/Child Support portal aggregates all child-support orders issued since 2000, making it easy to track payments and enforcement actions. Most records are available immediately online, but some—like sealed juvenile files or recent probate inventories—require a formal request.
Requesting Non-Public or Sealed Records
When records aren’t posted online—such as sealed court files, recent probate inventories, or sensitive juvenile cases—you must submit a Public Records Request form. This form can be mailed to Records Management, P.O. Box 14695, Miami, FL 33101, or emailed to the protected address listed on the Clerk’s website. Within two business days, the office will acknowledge receipt and assign a control number.
Standard requests typically take five to ten business days to process. If you need faster service, expedited processing is available for a $25 surcharge. The Clerk’s team reviews each request carefully to ensure compliance with Florida’s public records laws while protecting privacy rights. You’ll receive an email update once your documents are ready for pickup or electronic delivery.
Property Appraiser and Code Enforcement Tools
In addition to court and recording services, Miami-Dade offers free tools through the Property Appraiser’s website. You can look up parcel-level data including assessed value, building square footage, zoning classification, and last sale price. These records help with real estate transactions, tax appeals, and neighborhood research.
The Code Enforcement portal provides searchable records of property-code violations such as illegal construction, zoning non-compliance, and unsafe structures. Each entry includes the address, violation date, description, and status. This helps homeowners, buyers, and inspectors verify compliance before making decisions. Both tools are updated regularly and require no login.
Electronic Permit System for Tree Removal and Building Recertification
The Electronic Permit System (EPS) streamlines applications for tree removal and building recertification in Miami-Dade County. For tree removal, applicants must upload a certified arborist report, a site plan showing the tree’s location, and a mitigation plan for replanting. The system only accepts trees not exempt under Chapter 24-49 of the County Code.
For building recertification—required for structures 40 years or older—applicants submit PDFs of structural engineer reports, fire-safety inspections, and a completed Recertification Checklist. Once submitted, the system routes the application to the correct department and sends an electronic receipt with a tracking number within two hours. Most permits are reviewed within five to seven business days.
Privacy Protections and Record Removal Requests
Under Florida Statutes § 28.2221 (5)(b), any record posted on a public website before June 5, 2002, must be removed if the affected party identifies it and formally requests deletion. This law protects individuals from outdated or sensitive information, such as early-life criminal filings or expired property liens.
The County Recorder’s compliance team reviews each removal request within ten business days. They verify the claimant’s identity and either delete the digital file or provide a written explanation if the record is exempt under subsection (a). Annual compliance reports are published on the Clerk’s transparency portal to maintain accountability and public trust.
Verifying Information and Avoiding Third-Party Errors
While many third-party websites claim to offer Miami-Dade public records, some display outdated or inaccurate data. Always cross-check information with official county portals like the Clerk of Courts, Property Appraiser, or Recorder’s Office. These primary sources are updated daily and legally recognized.
For example, property ownership details from unofficial sites may lag by weeks or contain errors. Similarly, court case statuses on aggregator platforms might not reflect recent filings or dismissals. Using official tools ensures you get reliable, current information for legal, financial, or personal decisions.
Contact Information and Office Hours
For questions about Miami-Dade Public Records, contact the Clerk of the Courts at 305-275-1155. The main office is located at 73 W. Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33130. It is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding federal holidays. Staff can assist with search queries, fee payments, and request status updates.
You can also visit the official websites for direct access:
- Official Records Search: https://onlineservices.miami-dadeclerk.com/officialrecords/
- Court Records Portal: https://www.miamidade.gov/clerk/records.page
- Public Records Request Form: https://www.miami-dadeclerk.com/clerk/public-records-requests.page
- Electronic Permit System: https://wwwx.miamidade.gov/apps/rer/epsportal/planreview/tracking/3022161508
Frequently Asked Questions About Miami-Dade Public Records
Miami-Dade Public Records are essential for property transactions, legal research, background checks, and government transparency. Whether you’re a homeowner, attorney, journalist, or business owner, knowing how to access and verify these records saves time and prevents errors. Below are common questions with clear, actionable answers based on current county policies and Florida law.
How do I get a copy of a property deed in Miami-Dade County?
You can download a free PDF of any property deed recorded since 1970 using the County Recorder’s Official Record Search. Go to the Clerk’s website, enter the property address or owner name, and click “Download PDF” next to the relevant entry. If the deed was recorded after 1970 and doesn’t appear, it may be held offline—submit a Public Records Request form by mail or email. Processing takes 5–10 business days. There’s no fee for viewing, but printed copies from the office cost $1 per page. Always verify the parcel number and recording date to ensure accuracy.
Can I search court cases by name in Miami-Dade?
Yes. Use the free Case Summary Search on the Clerk of Courts website to find criminal, civil, family, and probate cases by party name. The results show docket numbers, filing dates, and case types. For detailed documents like motions or judgments, use the Advanced Document Retrieval system for a fee. Attorneys can also filter cases by lawyer name using the Attorney Wheel Position Search. Note that sealed or juvenile cases won’t appear in public searches—you’ll need to submit a formal request with proof of eligibility.
What fees apply when submitting documents for recording?
The standard fee is $10.00 for the first page and $8.50 for each additional page. This applies to deeds, mortgages, liens, and most legal instruments. Payment is made at the time of submission via credit card, debit card, or cash at an approved vendor office like MDERS or DocuSign Florida. You’ll receive an email receipt with a tracking number. Expedited services or certified copies may incur extra charges. All fees are set by Florida Statute and posted on the Clerk’s website.
How long does it take to process a public records request?
Standard requests are processed within five to ten business days after the Clerk’s office acknowledges receipt and assigns a control number. Expedited service is available for a $25 surcharge and typically completes within 48 hours. Requests for large volumes or complex records may take longer. You’ll receive email updates throughout the process. If your request is denied due to exemptions (e.g., ongoing investigations), you’ll get a written explanation citing the applicable Florida Statute.
Are juvenile court records available online?
No. Juvenile court records are sealed by law and not posted online. To request access, you must submit a Public Records Request form with valid identification and a justified reason (e.g., legal representation or parental rights). The Clerk’s office reviews each case individually and may require court approval before releasing any information. This protects minors’ privacy under Florida Statute § 985.04. Always consult an attorney if you’re unsure about eligibility.
Can I remove an old record from the public index?
Yes, if the record was posted before June 5, 2002, and meets criteria under Florida Statute § 28.2221 (5)(b). Submit a formal removal request to the County Recorder’s office with proof of identity and a description of the record. The compliance team reviews it within ten business days and either deletes the file or explains why it’s exempt (e.g., active lien or criminal conviction). Annual reports on removal actions are published for transparency.
Where do I apply for a tree removal permit in Miami-Dade?
Use the Electronic Permit System (EPS) to apply online. Upload a certified arborist report, site plan, and replanting mitigation plan. The system only accepts applications for trees not exempt under Chapter 24-49 of the County Code. Once submitted, you’ll get an electronic receipt with a tracking number within two hours. Approval usually takes five to seven business days. For emergencies, call the Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources at 305-375-4000.
Official Resources and Direct Links
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always use official Miami-Dade County websites. Below are direct links to key services:
- Official Records Search: https://onlineservices.miami-dadeclerk.com/officialrecords/
- Court Case Search: https://www.miamidade.gov/clerk/records.page
- Public Records Request: https://www.miami-dadeclerk.com/clerk/public-records-requests.page
- Property Appraiser Database: https://www.miamidade.gov/global/property/search.page
- Code Enforcement Violations: https://www8.miamidade.gov/global/service.page?Mduid_service=ser1496928970374152
Phone: 305-275-1155 | Address: 73 W. Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33130 | Hours: Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.