jefferson county ky public records: how to find, request, and understand them

Overview

Jefferson County is home to Louisville Metro, and many public records are split among county, court, and city offices. Knowing who holds what saves time and fees. Most materials are accessible under Kentucky’s Open Records Act, with some exemptions for privacy and security.

Where to look

Start by matching the record type to the right custodian, then check for online search tools before visiting in person.

• County Clerk: deeds, mortgages, liens, and marriage licenses.
• Circuit Court Clerk: criminal and civil case files, dockets, and judgments.
• Louisville Metro: police reports, code enforcement, permits, and administrative records.
• PVA: property assessments and parcel details.
• Vital records: birth and death certificates via the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics.

Request tips and timelines

Submit a clear written request identifying the record, dates, and names; agencies generally reply within five business days. Expect copying or certification fees and possible redactions. If a record isn’t local, ask for a referral to the correct agency.

In short, map the record to the custodian, search online first, and use precise requests to streamline access to Jefferson County information.