Oregon PUBLIC RECORDS SEARCH

Oregon State Public Records Search Online

Oregon's dedication to transparency is evident in its public records laws, which grant citizens access to a broad spectrum of government documents. Established in 1973, the Oregon Public Records Law ensures that government records are available to the public, with specific exceptions to protect sensitive information and ongoing investigations.

Access to public records is essential for both personal and professional purposes. These records enable researchers and journalists to examine government activities, monitor public spending, and gather important information.

Oregonians can also make informed decisions and hold their government accountable through these records, whether investigating property histories, conducting background checks, or verifying credentials. In most cases, the identity and motive of individuals requesting public records are considered irrelevant under the law.

What Records are Public in Oregon?

In Oregon, a "public record" is any document or information related to government operations. Records can refer to court records, property deeds, and mortgage documents.

Records are considered public regardless of their format, whether they're on paper, in an email, or stored electronically, as long as they are prepared, owned, used, or kept by a government agency.

What is Considered Public Information in Oregon?

In Oregon, state laws grant the public access to a broad array of government documents and information, which includes:

• Documents detailing the policies, procedures, and decision-making processes of state and local agencies
• Information related to budgets, expenditures, contracts, and the use of taxpayer funds
• Records concerning the hiring, promotion, and discipline of public employees
• Agendas, minutes, and recordings from public meetings held by government bodies
• Data on real estate ownership, deeds, and property assessments.

While most of these records are accessible, certain exceptions exist to protect privacy, confidential information, or the integrity of ongoing investigations.

Oregon Public Records Laws

Oregon's public records are governed by the Oregon Public Records Law, modeled after the federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). These regulations outline the types of information accessible to the public and the conditions under which records can be requested.

What is the Oregon Public Records Law?

Oregon's Public Records Law, codified in the Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 192.311 to 192.513, reflects the state's strong commitment to government transparency and openness. The law emphasizes that government activities should be open to public scrutiny.

Significant changes were introduced in 2017 to improve the efficiency of public records requests. Under these updates, government agencies must acknowledge receipt of a request within five business days ( ORS 192.324) and provide a response or an estimated completion date within 15 business days ( ORS 192.329).

The Oregon Department of Justice oversees the Public Records Law through its Public Records Advocate. The Oregon Secretary of State also manages certain records and upholds the state's transparency standards.

What is the FOIA?

FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) is a federal law that allows public access to the records of federal government agencies. It covers a broad range of federal records but also sets out specific exemptions to protect certain types of information.

Some of FOIA's exemptions include:

• Records related to national security or foreign policy that are classified to protect national interests
• Information that could intrude on personal privacy, such as medical or financial records
• Records that might disrupt law enforcement activities or reveal confidential sources
• Information that could damage a business's competitive edge or disclose trade secrets

Although FOIA is sometimes cited in records requests, Oregon public bodies are not obligated to adhere to its deadlines or other specific provisions.

Who Can Access Public Records in Oregon?

Under Oregon's Public Records Law, anyone can request and view public records from government agencies, provided the records are not exempt from disclosure. This right extends to individuals, businesses, organizations, and members of the Legislative Assembly.

However, government bodies cannot use this law to obtain records from other government bodies. Additionally, public officials (except legislators) cannot use the law to access records while performing their official duties, although they can do so in a personal capacity.

Oregon Public Records Search

Oregon residents can access public records through multiple online and offline methods. The process for obtaining these records varies depending on the type of record and the specific agency's policies.

How To Find Oregon Public Records Online

When searching for public records in Oregon online, several reliable methods and resources can be utilized for accurate and comprehensive results:

Government Websites

Official government websites are among the most trustworthy sources. For instance, the Oregon Secretary of State's websiteprovides access to business registrations, election information, and state archives. At the same time, the Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) offers an online system for requesting different types of public records.

Online Databases

State-maintained online databases also offer aggregated information across various categories, including vital statistics and professional licenses.

Third-Party Sites

While third-party sites may compile records from multiple sources and offer additional search features, these platforms may not always have the most up-to-date or accurate information. Often, third-party sites rely on public data that isn't regularly updated.

They can also charge fees for accessing records that are available for free on government platforms. Due to less stringent data protection standards, they may also pose privacy risks.

How To Find Oregon Public Records Offline

The following guide outlines the process in detail for those who prefer or need to access public records in Oregon through offline methods.

In-Person Visits

Visiting government offices in person can provide direct access to records and immediate assistance from staff. Individuals can initiate a request through the following steps:

• Identify the appropriate office that holds the needed records.
• Check office hours and location. Some offices may also require appointments for certain types of requests.
• Gather the necessary information, such as case numbers, names, and dates.
• Visit the office. Identification may be required, and any necessary forms should be completed to request the records.
• Review and copy records on-site.
• Pay any applicable fees. Checking in advance which payment methods are accepted is recommended.

Mail-In Requests

Mailing in requests can be a convenient option for those who cannot visit offices in person due to time constraints. To begin the request process, individuals should follow these steps:

• Locate the correct address of the office or agency that holds the records.
• Complete a request form. Many offices provide specific forms for mail-in requests.
• Include payment according to the agency's online posted payment schedule.
• Mail the request form, payment, and a self-addressed stamped envelope, if necessary.
• Wait for processing. Processing times can vary depending on the office and the complexity of the request.

Phone Requests

Requesting records by phone provides a quick and direct way to get information. The following steps outline how individuals can start their request:

• Call the appropriate office.
• Provide detailed information such as names, dates, and documents needed.
• Follow-up with a written request.
• Receive the records. The office may send the records by mail or email or arrange for them to be picked up in person.

Fax requests can also offer a faster alternative to retrieving records than traditional mail.

Types of Public Records in Oregon

Public bodies in Oregon carefully manage various records ranging from public school budgets and decisions by the Oregon Medical Board to environmental reports and land use permits. Among the most frequently requested records in the state are:

State of Oregon Public Court Records

The Oregon Judicial Department (OJD) offers access to a variety of court records, including documents such as case files, dockets, briefs, and judgments that are created or received during legal proceedings.

Access to these records is governed by a range of statutes and regulations. Alongside the Oregon Public Records Law, the Oregon Rules of Civil Procedure regulate the handling of civil cases, including aspects of document accessibility and confidentiality.

Additionally, the Oregon Uniform Trial Court Rules (UTCR) specify the procedures for trial court operations and may cover aspects of record-keeping and access policies.

To obtain a court record in Oregon, individuals need to identify the court where the case was filed. The state's judicial system encompasses several trial courts, including Circuit Courts, which manage the majority of cases, and appellate courts like the Oregon Supreme Court and the Oregon Court of Appeals. The requester should then contact the clerk's office.

Some records may also be accessible online through the Oregon Judicial Department's public access portals, such as OJD Records and Calendars Search. Certain information relating to violence against women, juvenile matters, adoption, and mental health cases is not available through this service as they are protected by federal or state laws and policies.

Requesters can also access the Oregon Judicial Case Information Network (OJCIN) online. This subscription-based service provides access to court case information from Tax and Appellate courts and circuit courts in Oregon. It supports searches for various case types, including civil, small claims, tax, domestic, and criminal cases.

Oregon Public Bankruptcy Records

Bankruptcy records in Oregon are publicly accessible and include detailed financial information about entities that have filed for bankruptcy. Requesters typically need to provide specific details, such as the bankruptcy case number, which can be retrieved from the court's automated voice information system or public access terminals at the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Oregon.

Bankruptcy case information can also be accessed through the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) system and the Voice Case Information Service (VCIS).

Certain users are eligible for no-cost access to PACER, including researchers from academic, low-income individuals, non-profit organizations, and pro bono attorneys. To use VCIS, individuals can dial 1-866-222-8029 toll-free to perform a bankruptcy case search.

County Court Records in Oregon

Each county in Oregon operates its court system and maintains its records. As such, there are variations in how these records are accessed. Some counties charge fees for copies or searches, while others may provide access at no cost. The Oregon Association of County Clerks has a Clerk's Directory available.

In some counties, court records are readily available online through websites or public access portals. These online systems allow users to search for and view case information, including dockets, filings, and judgments.

In other counties, accessing court records may require a visit to the county courthouse. Users may need to request records in person, fill out forms, and provide specific details such as case numbers or names of involved parties. Some counties have dedicated record-keeping departments or clerks' offices that handle requests.

Oregon Criminal Records

In Oregon, criminal records provide comprehensive information about an individual's legal history, including details such as arrest records, conviction information, mugshots, and birth dates. The Oregon State Police (OSP) manages these records through its Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division.

While criminal records are generally available to the public, access may be restricted in certain cases, particularly when records pertain to active investigations. This restriction helps to safeguard ongoing cases and protect the safety of individuals involved.

Individuals can use several methods to access criminal records. The most efficient way is to search online via the Open Records portal, which allows for name-based searches of both personal and third-party records.

Records can also be requested in person at the CJIS office or through the mail by completing the appropriate request forms provided by CJIS. These forms are distinct for personal and third-party searches. For those who face financial difficulties, it is possible to request a fee waiver from the record custodian to obtain records without charge.

Oregon Public Arrest Records

The public can usually access arrest records in Oregon, though certain restrictions apply to ongoing investigations or records sealed for the sake of public safety or personal privacy. Arrest records are part of the broader category of police records but do not include all details from the full set of police records. Arrest records are not evidence of guilt.

Oregon arrest records provide a summary of an individual's arrest history, including whether they have been taken into custody, detained, investigated, or questioned in connection with any offenses. The records include general details such as the arrestee's full name, the filing date for charges, the case number, the name of the court, and the charges or offenses.

Typically, obtaining an arrest record involves a small fee for copying the documents. It is possible to obtain a free arrest record by requesting a fee waiver from the record custodian if an individual cannot pay.

Oregon Vital Records

In Oregon, vital records are initially restricted and accessible only to specific individuals during a designated confidentiality period. Once the confidentiality period ends, these records become publicly accessible for informational or genealogical purposes.

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) manages these vital records but does not provide a direct online search option. Instead, it partners with VitalChek for online requests of interested individuals. Individuals can order records through VitalChek's website or choose to process the request in person, by mail, or through phone.

In-person requests can be made at the Oregon State Vital Records office, 800 NE Oregon Street, Portland, OR 97232. Appointments can be scheduled online, but individuals need to check in 10 minutes early on the day of the appointment.

To request records by phone, individuals can call 1-888-896-4988, available 24 hours a day. Payments can only be made by credit or debit card. Meanwhile, those opting to make the request by mail should complete the order form and enclose a money order or check. Further instructions are available on the form.

Oregon Public Birth Records

Oregon birth records are not considered public records until 100 years after the birth date, as stated in ORS (Oregon Revised Statutes) 432.380 (2)(c)(B)(ii). Until then, access to these records is limited to certain individuals, including:

• The person named on the record (if they are 15 years or older)
• The registrant's parents or legal guardian
• The registrant's spouse
• Other immediate family members
• Government agencies, legal representatives, and any court-approved parties

To obtain a birth certificate, requesters must fill out an Oregon Birth Record Order Form (also available in Spanish) or submit a written request with the necessary details. The request should include payment via check or money order and a government-issued photo ID.

Oregon Public Death Records

Oregon death records are kept confidential for 50 years after the date of death. During this time, access is restricted to certain individuals, including the deceased's parent, guardian, immediate family members, next of kin, or legal representative. To obtain death records from the state agency, requesters must complete the Oregon Death Record Order Form.

Death records contain the following information:

• Basic details of the deceased
• Date and location of death and birth
• Age of the deceased
• Place of residence
• Cause of death

After the 50-year confidentiality period expires, death records become available through the State Archives and the Oregon Historical County Records Guide. They can be viewed for free. Vital records are preserved in their original format, as publications, or as microfilm. State Archives visitors can access microfilm and publications on their own in the Reference Room.

Oregon Public Marriage Records

In Oregon, marriage records include key details such as the names of the married parties, the date and location of the marriage, and the officiant's name. These records are restricted for the first 50 years after the marriage, during which time only specific individuals can access them.

Eligible persons include the individuals named on the record, their parents or legal guardians, descendants aged 18 or older, legal representatives, court-appointed representatives, and authorized government agencies or third parties. After the 50-year confidentiality period, the records become public information.

Marriage license indexes are available through the Vital Records Office of the OHA (Oregon Health Authority). Certified copies of marriage records can be obtained from the local county clerk's office where the marriage license was issued.

Oregon Public Divorce Records

By law, Oregon divorce records are confidential for 50 years after the divorce. Otherwise, they can be obtained by contacting the court clerk where the divorce was finalized or by requesting them from the Vital Records Office.

To access these records, eligible individuals can simply submit a written request or fill out the Oregon Divorce Record Order Form. Access is limited to the individuals named in the record, immediate family members, legal representatives, and those with a court order.

In Oregon, divorce records are also known as dissolution of marriage or Oregon Registered Domestic Partnership (ORDP) records. The State Vital Records Office can provide a certificate that can be used as proof of divorce, but it does not include all the details found in the actual divorce decree.

Oregon Property Records

Oregon property records provide detailed information about real estate properties within the state. These records typically include property deeds, building sketches, tax assessments, property maps, and legal descriptions of the land.

Under state law, most property records are accessible to the public. In Oregon, property records are maintained by several county offices, including the Register of Deeds, the County Clerk and Recorder, and the County Tax Assessor. The Oregon Department of Revenue (ODOR) also oversees tax-related property documents at the state level.

To search for property records, individuals typically need a specific address, property tax account number, or parcel number.

Oregon Inmate Records

Oregon inmate records offer detailed information about an offender's current and past incarceration status, including their name, incarceration dates, anticipated release date, convicted offenses, and photos. These records are available through an online offender search database managed by the Oregon Department of Corrections (ODOC).

While the department strives to keep this information accurate, it does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness and assumes no legal responsibility for any discrepancies. The data is updated periodically and may change, so it should not be considered an official record by law enforcement agencies or other entities.

Individuals can also request certified records. To do this, they need to specify the type of records they are seeking, including the adult in custody (AIC) and their SID (State Identification) number, if applicable, the subject matter, and the dates of record creation. Requests for court documents related to an AIC should be directed to the county.

The department also offers the Victim Information System in Oregon (VISOR), a free, anonymous telephone service available 24/7, year-round. VISOR allows crime victims to receive updates on criminal case information and notifications regarding changes in an offender's custody status.

Oregon Traffic Records

Oregon traffic records provide detailed information about an individual's driving history and vehicle-related activities. The types of information contained in these records include:

• Traffic violations, accidents, and enforcement actions taken against a driver
• Any points added to a driver's license due to infractions
• Vehicle's registration status, including ownership history, vehicle identification number (VIN), and registration renewals
• Documentation of traffic accidents involving the individual or vehicle
• Status of the driver's license, including whether it is valid, suspended, or revoked
• Court proceedings related to traffic violations, including fines, penalties, or court order
• Insurance coverage

These records are maintained by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and are typically accessible by the individual named in the record, law enforcement agencies, and other authorized entities. Access may require a formal request or specific authorization, and certain details may be redacted or restricted based on privacy laws and regulations.

License Plate Lookup in Oregon

In Oregon, license plates are crucial components of traffic records, enabling vehicle and owner identification and tracking driving histories.

To perform a license plate lookup in Oregon, individuals can start by using the Driver & Motor Vehicle (DMV) Servicesof the ODOT (Oregon Department of Transportation) or visiting a DMV office.

By providing the vehicle's license plate number and selecting Oregon as the issuing state, individuals can access basic information about the vehicle, such as its make, model, and year. The lookup may also reveal other important details, such as any existing liens, accident history, and repair records.

Third-party services may also be available. A person seeking Oregon license plate information through third-party websites selects a service, creates an account, and enters the plate number. After paying a fee, they receive a report with available vehicle data. Users should verify critical information with official DMV sources, as third-party data may be limited.

What Information is Exempt from the Public Records Law in Oregon?

In Oregon, several types of information and records are exempt from public access to protect privacy, security, and sensitive information. The following are some of the records not available to the general public:

• Personal information that could invade an individual's privacy
• Active criminal investigation records
• Juvenile records
• Security records of public facilities
• Trade secrets and confidential business information
• Law enforcement records, such as internal investigations and personnel files
• Individual medical records
• Preliminary drafts, notes, and working papers

Oregon law has over 500 exemptions that limit the disclosure of public records. The Attorney General offers a publicly accessible catalog that lists these exemptions. This searchable resource provides detailed information for each exemption, including the full text, a summary, affected agencies, and notable cases and public records orders.

Other Public Records in Oregon

Other types of public records available in Oregon include:

• State health records: Data on health statistics, disease surveillance, and public health reports
• Student wellness survey: Information on the behavioral health of students in the state
• Environmental quality reports: Records related to air and water quality
• Geographical maps: State and local maps, including topographical, cadastral, and zoning maps
• Land use records: Information on zoning changes managed by the Department of Land Conservation and Development
• Water Right Information Search (WRIS): Information on water rights, usage permits, and other details
• Legislative history records: Legislative proceedings, including bills, amendments, and session laws
• Employment records: Records related to unemployment claims, labor market statistics, and workforce development

Frequently Asked Questions

For more information about public records in Oregon, refer to the frequently asked questions below:

Recent Articles

What Is a Verdict and What Happens After a Jury Delivers a Guilty or Not Guilty Decision?

Noise Ordinances: Quiet Hours, Complaint Laws, and How to File a Noise Complaint

What Is Harboring a Fugitive and What Are the Penalties and Jail Time for It?

Are Written or Verbal Contracts Legally Binding and When Should You Use Each?