logo
CharlestonRecords.org
Search Public Records

Charleston County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The Charleston County?

Public records in Charleston County refer to documents, files, and information created or maintained by government agencies that are accessible to the public. These records include court documents, property records, vital records, tax information, and various other official documents. The South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) governs public access to these records, ensuring transparency in government operations.

Charleston County maintains various types of public records through different departments, including the Clerk of Court's Office (101 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401), Register of Deeds (101 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401), and other county offices. These records serve as official documentation of government activities, property ownership, legal proceedings, and other matters of public interest.

Is Charleston County an Open Records County?

Yes, Charleston County is an open records county. South Carolina's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requires that most government records be available to the public. The Charleston County Government adheres to these transparency laws, making most county records accessible to citizens upon request.

The county provides multiple avenues for accessing public records, including online portals, in-person requests at the Charleston County Government offices (4045 Bridge View Drive, North Charleston, SC 29405), and written requests. While some records may have restrictions due to privacy laws or ongoing investigations, the general policy is one of openness and accessibility.

How Do I Find Public Records in Charleston County in 2025

Finding public records in Charleston County in 2025 can be accomplished through several methods:

  1. Online Access: Charleston County offers extensive online services for accessing public records:

    • The Public Index Search portal provides access to court records
    • The Register of Deeds website allows searches for property records
    • The Charleston County Government website offers various online services for different types of records

  2. In-Person Requests: Visit the appropriate county office:

    • Clerk of Court's Office (101 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401) for court records
    • Register of Deeds (101 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401) for property records
    • Charleston County Government offices (4045 Bridge View Drive, North Charleston, SC 29405) for other records

  3. Written Requests: Submit a FOIA request to the specific department that maintains the records you seek. The Charleston County FOIA Officer (4045 Bridge View Drive, North Charleston, SC 29405) can help direct your request to the appropriate department.

  4. Phone Requests: Contact the relevant department directly to inquire about record availability and request procedures.

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

The cost of obtaining public records in Charleston County varies depending on the type of record and the method of delivery:

  1. Search and Retrieval Fees: Charleston County may charge for the time spent searching for and retrieving records. The first hour of search and retrieval time is typically free, with subsequent hours charged at the lowest paid employee capable of performing the task.

  2. Copying Fees:

    • Black and white copies: $0.25 per page
    • Color copies: $0.50 per page
    • Large format documents: Actual cost of reproduction

  3. Electronic Records: $10-$25 per CD/DVD or USB drive, depending on the size and complexity of the data.

  4. Specialized Records: Some records may have statutorily defined fees, such as:

    • Certified copies of vital records: $12-$15
    • Deed recordings: Varies based on document length

The Charleston County FOIA Fee Schedule, available through the county's website, provides detailed information on current fees. The county may require payment in advance for requests exceeding $100.

Does Charleston County Have Free Public Records?

Charleston County does offer some public records free of charge:

  1. Online Access: Many records are available at no cost through the county's online portals:

    • The Public Index Search provides free access to basic court record information
    • The Register of Deeds offers limited free searches of property records
    • The Charleston County Government website provides various free public information

  2. In-Person Inspection: You can view public records in person at the appropriate county office without paying copying fees. The Charleston County Clerk of Court's Office (101 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401) and other departments allow on-site inspection of public records during regular business hours.

  3. Fee Waivers: Charleston County may waive or reduce fees if the request is determined to be in the public interest or if the requester demonstrates financial hardship.

However, while inspection may be free, fees typically apply for copies, certified documents, or extensive searches requiring significant staff time.

Who Can Request Public Records In Charleston County?

In Charleston County, public records are generally available to:

  1. Any Individual: South Carolina's FOIA does not restrict who can request public records. Any person, regardless of citizenship or residency status, can submit a request.

  2. Organizations: Businesses, non-profit organizations, media outlets, and other entities can request public records.

  3. Legal Representatives: Attorneys or other representatives can request records on behalf of clients.

  4. Government Agencies: Other government departments or agencies may request records for official purposes.

The requester does not need to provide a reason for wanting the records, though some specific types of records (such as vital records) may have restrictions on who can access them. For example, birth certificates may only be available to the person named on the certificate, immediate family members, or legal representatives.

What Records Are Confidential In Charleston County?

Despite Charleston County's commitment to transparency, certain records remain confidential under state and federal laws:

  1. Personal Privacy Protected Records:

    • Social Security numbers
    • Medical and health records
    • Personnel records
    • Financial account information
    • Driver's license numbers

  2. Law Enforcement Records:

    • Active criminal investigations
    • Records that would interfere with prospective law enforcement proceedings
    • Records that would deprive a person of a fair trial
    • Confidential informant identities

  3. Juvenile Records: Most records related to juvenile offenders are confidential.

  4. Attorney-Client Privileged Communications: Legal advice and communications between the county and its attorneys.

  5. Security Information: Records related to security measures, emergency response plans, or infrastructure vulnerabilities.

  6. Trade Secrets: Proprietary business information submitted to the county.

  7. Sealed Court Records: Records that have been sealed by court order.

The determination of confidentiality is made on a case-by-case basis, with the county required to provide specific reasons for denying access to requested records.

Lookup Public Records in Charleston County

For convenient access to Charleston County public records, utilize these official resources:

Categories

Criminal RecordsCourt RecordsInmate RecordsArrest recordsWarrant SearchProperty RecordsDivorce Records