FAQ Page

What are public records?

Public records are defined by Alabama Code § 41-13-1 as "all written, typed or printed books, papers, letters, documents and maps made or received in pursuance of law by the public officers of the state, counties, municipalities and other subdivisions of government in the transactions of public business and shall also include any record authorized to be made by any law of this state belonging or pertaining to any court of record or any other public record authorized by law or any paper, pleading, exhibit or other writing filed with, in or by any such court, office or officer."

What law governs access to public records in the State of Alabama?

Alabama Code § 36-12-40 

Is there a fee for copies made pursuant to a request?

Yes. The current fee schedule adopted in 2003 can be found here. Additionally, staff time and other expenses may be applicable for some requests per the policy found here. Payment should be made to the department producing the document before the request is fulfilled.

Is there any way I can search public records online without completing a public records request?

Yes! We encourage you to try these methods first!

You may search for documents including Warranty Deeds, Mortgages, Releases, Powers of Attorney, Liens, Plats, Amendments and other miscellaneous documents designated by state law to be recorded by the Probate Court Recording department on Probate Court's Landmark Web.

Records maintained by the Tax Collector, Tax Assessor, and Board of Equalization relating to real and personal property may be found on E-Ring.

Current solicitations, bid awards and renewals, and bid tabulations.made by the Purchasing Division of the Finance Department/Purchasing Association of Central Alabama (PACA) can be found on their "Solicitations" page. You can search these here: http://jeffcobids.jccal.org/Search.aspx

Records for upcoming Jefferson County Commission meeting agendas, past agendas, meeting minutes and backup documentation.can be found on MinuteTraq.

More portals will be available in the future!

If I have question about a public records request, who can I call?

The Jefferson County Manager's Office at 205-731-2880.