el dorado county public records: access, search, and tips

El Dorado County maintains a broad range of public records to support transparency and everyday tasks like due diligence, genealogy, and permitting. Knowing which department holds what can save time and reduce fees.

What you can find

Core record sets are split across the Recorder-Clerk, Assessor, Superior Court, and law enforcement. Typical requests include:

• Property and land deeds, liens, maps, and parcel data.
• Court civil, criminal, probate, and traffic indexes.
• Vital records birth, death, and marriage certificates (with eligibility rules).
• Permits and planning building, code enforcement, and environmental files.
• Public safety incident logs and arrest information, where releasable.

How to search efficiently

Start with the exact parcel number, case number, or full legal name; add date ranges to narrow results. Many indexes are searchable online, while certified copies usually require an application and payment.

1. Identify the custodian agency before submitting a request.
2. Use clear keywords and one subject per request.
3. Ask for electronic copies to reduce costs and delays.

Fees, timelines, and privacy

Expect copy and certification fees and processing time. Some data may be redacted to protect privacy or ongoing investigations; refine your scope if you receive an exemption notice.