Collier County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The Collier County?

Public records in Collier County refer to documents, files, and information 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, tax records, meeting minutes, and other official government documents maintained by Collier County offices.

The Collier County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller is the primary custodian of many public records in the county. This office maintains official records such as deeds, mortgages, liens, marriage licenses, court records, and other important documents.

Collier County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller 3315 Tamiami Trail East, Suite 102, Naples, FL 34112

Is Collier County an Open Records County?

Yes, Collier 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 created or received by Collier 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.

The Collier County government is committed to transparency and provides various methods for accessing public records, including online portals, in-person requests, and written requests.

How Do I Find Public Records in Collier County in 2025

In 2025, Collier County offers several methods to access public records:

1. Online Access: The Collier Clerk's website provides a comprehensive records search portal where you can access court records, official records, and other public documents.

2. In-Person Requests: You can visit the Collier County Clerk's office or other relevant county departments to request records in person.

   Collier County Administration Building 3299 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, FL 34112

3. Written Requests: Submit a written public records request to the specific agency that maintains the records you seek.

4. Specialized Databases: For specific records like:

   • Property records: Collier County Property Appraiser

     Collier County Property Appraiser 3950 Radio Road, Naples, FL 34104

   • Tax records: Collier County Tax Collector

     Collier County Tax Collector 2800 N. Horseshoe Drive, Naples, FL 34104

   • Vital records: Collier County Health Department

     Florida Department of Health in Collier County 3339 Tamiami Trail East, Building H, Naples, FL 34112

5. Mobile Applications: The county has developed mobile apps that provide access to certain public records and services.

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

Fees for public records in Collier County are regulated by Florida Statute 119.07 and vary depending on the type of record and format requested:

• Standard copies: $0.15 per one-sided page (letter/legal size)
• Double-sided copies: $0.20 per page
• Certified copies: Additional $1.00 per document
• Large format documents (maps, blueprints): Actual cost of reproduction
• Electronic records: Provided at no charge if available electronically and can be emailed
• Special service charges: May apply for extensive use of staff time (typically when a request requires more than 30 minutes of staff time)
• Media costs: Actual cost of CD, DVD, or other storage media if required

The Clerk's Office and other county agencies accept various payment methods including cash, check, and credit cards for these fees.

Does Collier County Have Free Public Records?

Yes, Collier County does provide some public records for free:

1. Online Access: Many records are available at no cost through the Clerk's online portal and other county department websites.

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

3. Electronic Records: If records are already in electronic format and can be emailed, they are typically provided at no cost.

4. Self-Service Terminals: Available at the Clerk's office and some county facilities for free public record searches.

   Collier County Public Library Headquarters 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples, FL 34109

However, fees may still apply for copies, certified documents, or requests requiring extensive staff time to fulfill.

Who Can Request Public Records In Collier County?

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

• Citizenship status
• Age
• Residency
• Purpose of the request

Key points about requesting public records:

• Requesters do not need to provide identification
• Requesters do not need to explain why they want the records
• Requests can be made anonymously
• Requests do not have to be in writing (though written requests help ensure accuracy)
• Government agencies cannot ask about the purpose of the request

This open access policy reflects Florida's strong commitment to government transparency and public oversight.

What Records Are Confidential In Collier County?

While Florida has broad public records laws, certain records in Collier County are exempt from disclosure or have restricted access:

1. Personal Information:

   • Social Security numbers
   • Driver's license numbers
   • Medical records
   • Bank account numbers

2. Security-Related Information:

   • Security system plans
   • Building plans for certain government facilities

3. Law Enforcement Records:

   • Active criminal investigations
   • Confidential informant identities
   • Juvenile offender records (with exceptions)

4. Family and Child Records:

   • Child abuse reports
   • Adoption records
   • Certain domestic violence records

5. Personnel Information:

   • Home addresses, phone numbers, and dates of birth for certain public employees (law enforcement, judges, etc.)
   • Employee medical information

6. Attorney-Client Communications:

   • Records related to ongoing litigation involving the county

These exemptions are defined by various Florida Statutes and are designed to protect privacy, safety, and sensitive information while still maintaining government transparency.

Lookup Public Records in Collier County

For convenient access to Collier County public records, please use these official resources:

• Records Search - Collier Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller - Access various public records including court records, official records, and other documents maintained by the Collier Clerk.

• Search Clerk's Official Records (COR) - Collier County - Search for official records such as mortgages, tax deeds, and plat maps in Collier County.

• OIG Charter (PDF) - View the charter for the Office of Inspector General in Collier County, detailing its structure and responsibilities.

These resources provide direct access to many of the public records maintained by Collier County government agencies. For specialized records or additional assistance, contact the specific county department that maintains the records you need.