Utah County Property Records

What Is Utah County Property Records

Utah County property records are official documents that record ownership, transfers, and encumbrances of real property (land and buildings) within Utah County, Utah. These records serve as the authoritative documentation of property ownership and interests throughout the county. Property records in Utah County are maintained primarily by the Utah County Recorder's Office, which is responsible for recording, indexing, and preserving these vital documents.

The fundamental purpose of property records is to:

• Establish legal ownership and chain of title
• Provide public notice of property interests
• Protect property rights of owners and lienholders
• Facilitate real estate transactions
• Support property taxation and assessment

According to Utah Code § 57-3-101, documents affecting real property must be recorded with the county recorder to provide constructive notice to the public. This statute establishes the legal framework for Utah's recording system, which operates on a "race-notice" principle, meaning that properly recorded documents generally take priority over unrecorded documents or subsequently recorded documents.

Utah County Recorder
100 East Center Street, Room 1600
Provo, UT 84606
(801) 851-8163
Utah County Recorder

Are Property Records Public Information In Utah County?

Property records in Utah County are public information and accessible to all citizens pursuant to both state law and established legal principles. The Utah Government Records Access and Management Act (GRAMA) establishes the public's right to access government records, including property records. Additionally, Utah Code § 57-3-102 specifically requires that documents affecting real property interests be recorded to provide notice to the public.

The public nature of property records is founded on several important principles:

• Property ownership is fundamentally a matter of public record
• Recording statutes require public access to ensure transparency
• Public access to property records serves the broader public interest
• Any member of the public may access property records without demonstrating a specific interest or reason

Utah County maintains a comprehensive online land records system that allows members of the public to search and access property records electronically. This system reflects the county's commitment to transparency and public access to property information.

While property records are public, certain personal information may be redacted or protected in accordance with privacy laws and GRAMA provisions. For example, social security numbers, bank account information, and certain personal identifiers may be protected from public disclosure.

How To Search Property Records in Utah County in 2026

Members of the public seeking to search property records in Utah County have multiple options available. The county offers both online and in-person search capabilities to accommodate different needs and preferences.

To search property records online:

1. Visit the Utah County Land Records portal
2. Select the appropriate search method (name, address, parcel number)
3. Enter the required search criteria
4. Review the search results
5. Access detailed property information and available documents

For in-person searches at the Utah County Recorder's Office:

1. Visit the Recorder's Office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM)
2. Request assistance from staff at the public counter
3. Provide necessary search information (owner name, property address, etc.)
4. Review available records with assistance from staff
5. Request copies of relevant documents (fees may apply)

Utah County Recorder's Office
100 East Center Street, Room 1600
Provo, UT 84606
(801) 851-8163
Utah County Recorder

For property tax and assessment information, the Utah County Assessor's Office maintains separate records that can be searched by property address, owner name, or parcel number. These records provide valuable information about property values, tax assessments, and property characteristics.

How To Find Property Records in Utah County Online?

Utah County offers comprehensive online access to property records through several integrated systems. The primary methods for finding property records online include:

1. Property Search by Owner Name: The Real Property Owner Name Search allows users to search for properties by the owner's name. Enter the name in "LAST, FIRST MIDDLE" format (e.g., "SMITH, JOHN A") to locate all properties associated with that individual or entity.

2. Property Search by Address: The Real Property Address Search enables users to locate property records using the physical address. This method is particularly useful when the owner's name is unknown but the property location is known.

3. Property Search by Parcel Number: For those who know the unique parcel identification number, this search method provides the most direct access to specific property records. Parcel numbers can be entered in the search field on the main land records portal.

4. Interactive Parcel Map: The Utah County Parcel Map provides a geographic interface for locating properties. Users can navigate the map, click on specific parcels, and access detailed property information including ownership, valuation, and links to related documents.

When using these online systems, users should note that:

• Some historical records may not be available in digital format
• Document images may require a compatible viewer
• Certain searches may return multiple results requiring further refinement
• Some detailed document information may require payment of access fees

The Utah County Recorder's Office continually updates its online systems to improve accessibility and user experience in accordance with Utah Code § 17-21-17, which authorizes county recorders to maintain electronic records and indices.

How To Look Up Utah County Property Records for Free?

Utah County provides several free options for accessing basic property record information. These free resources allow members of the public to conduct preliminary research without incurring costs:

1. Basic Property Information: The Utah County Land Records system offers free access to basic property information including:

   • Current owner name
   • Property address
   • Parcel identification number
   • Property type and classification
   • Lot size and basic property characteristics
   • Recent sales information

2. Property Tax Information: The Utah County Treasurer's website provides free access to property tax information, including:

   • Current tax assessment values
   • Tax rates and jurisdictions
   • Payment status and history
   • Tax sale information for delinquent properties

3. GIS Mapping Resources: The interactive Utah County Parcel Map offers free geographic information including:

   • Property boundaries
   • Zoning information
   • Aerial photography
   • Surrounding properties and context
   • Links to basic property information

While basic information is available at no cost, fees may apply for:

• Certified copies of documents
• Extensive document searches
• Complete document images and downloads
• Bulk data requests
• Historical records requiring staff assistance

For in-person assistance with free property record searches, visitors may utilize the public terminals at:

Utah County Administration Building
100 East Center Street
Provo, UT 84606
(801) 851-8000
Utah County Government

What's Included in a Utah County Property Record?

Utah County property records encompass a comprehensive collection of documents and information related to real property within the county. These records are maintained by multiple county offices, primarily the Recorder, Assessor, and Treasurer, each responsible for different aspects of property documentation.

Property records in Utah County distinguish between real property (land and permanently attached structures) and personal property (movable assets). According to Utah Code § 59-2-102, real property includes "land, buildings, fixtures, and improvements," while personal property includes movable items not permanently affixed to land.

A complete Utah County property record typically includes:

1. Ownership Documents:

   • Deeds (warranty, quitclaim, special warranty)
   • Trustee's deeds
   • Tax deeds
   • Judicial deeds
   • Transfer documents

2. Encumbrance Records:

   • Mortgages and trust deeds
   • Liens (tax, mechanic's, judgment)
   • Easements and rights-of-way
   • Restrictive covenants
   • Homeowners association documents

3. Assessment Information:

   • Property classification
   • Land and improvement values
   • Square footage and acreage
   • Building characteristics
   • Property use designation

4. Tax Information:

   • Annual tax assessments
   • Tax payment history
   • Special assessments
   • Tax abatements or exemptions
   • Delinquent tax status

5. Plats and Surveys:

   • Subdivision plats
   • Boundary surveys
   • Condominium plats
   • Annexation maps
   • Lot line adjustments

6. Additional Documents:

   • Affidavits affecting title
   • Powers of attorney
   • Probate documents
   • Court orders
   • Name change documents

The Utah County Assessor maintains detailed property characteristics, while the Utah County Treasurer manages tax assessment and payment records. Together with the Recorder's ownership and encumbrance records, these offices provide a comprehensive property record system.

How Long Does Utah County Keep Property Records?

Utah County maintains property records permanently in accordance with state records retention requirements. The permanent retention of property records is mandated by the Utah Division of Archives and Records Service through established retention schedules and is supported by Utah Code § 17-21-3, which requires county recorders to "keep an entry book, a grantors' index, a grantees' index, and a tract index."

Different types of property records are subject to specific retention periods:

• Deeds and Conveyances: Permanent retention
• Mortgages and Trust Deeds: Permanent retention
• Plats and Surveys: Permanent retention
• Liens and Encumbrances: Permanent retention, even after release or expiration
• Tax Records: Permanent retention for ownership and assessment records; 7 years for payment records
• Building Permits and Inspections: Permanent retention for final documents; temporary retention for interim documents
• Property Cards and Assessment Records: Permanent retention for historical valuation data

While the original documents are retained permanently, the format may change over time. Utah County has undertaken digitization efforts to convert older paper records to electronic format for preservation and accessibility purposes. This digitization process is ongoing, with priority given to frequently accessed records and those at risk of deterioration.

Historical property records dating back to the county's formation in 1852 are maintained in the county archives. These records provide valuable historical and genealogical information and are accessible to researchers with appropriate notice to county staff.

The permanent retention of property records serves several critical purposes:

• Establishing continuous chains of title
• Protecting property rights across generations
• Supporting historical and legal research
• Providing evidence for property disputes
• Preserving the county's historical development

How To Find Liens on Property In Utah County?

Liens on property in Utah County are public records that can be searched through several methods. A lien is a legal claim against property that serves as security for a debt or obligation and may affect the transferability of property ownership. Common types of liens include tax liens, judgment liens, mechanic's liens, and mortgage liens.

To search for liens on Utah County property:

1. Online Search Through Utah County Recorder:

   • Visit the Utah County Land Records portal
   • Select "Document Search" or "Property Search"
   • Enter the property information (owner name, address, or parcel number)
   • Review the results for any recorded liens
   • Pay particular attention to document types labeled as "lien," "judgment," "notice," or "mortgage"

2. In-Person Search at Recorder's Office:

   • Visit the Utah County Recorder's Office during business hours
   • Request a title search or lien search for the specific property
   • Staff can assist with navigating records and identifying recorded liens
   • Official copies of lien documents can be obtained for a fee

3. Utah State Tax Commission:

   • For state tax liens, check with the Utah State Tax Commission
   • State tax liens are typically filed with the county recorder but may also be verified through state records

4. District Court Records:

   • For judgment liens, search the Utah Courts records
   • Judgment liens arise from court judgments and may be recorded against property

5. Federal Tax Liens:

   • Federal tax liens are recorded with the county recorder
   • These can be found through standard property searches
   • Additional verification may be available through the Internal Revenue Service

When searching for liens, it's important to note that:

• Some liens may have been released but the release might not be immediately apparent in the records
• Certain statutory liens may exist without being explicitly recorded
• The priority of liens (which lien gets paid first) is generally determined by recording date
• Some liens expire after a certain period if not renewed

For complex lien situations or when purchasing property, many individuals choose to obtain a professional title search or title insurance to ensure all liens are identified and addressed appropriately.

What Is Property Owner Rule In Utah County?

The Property Owner Rule in Utah County refers to a set of regulations and principles governing property ownership, recording requirements, and the rights and responsibilities of property owners. These rules are derived from Utah state law, county ordinances, and established legal principles.

Key components of the Property Owner Rule include:

1. Recording Requirements: Under Utah Code § 57-3-102, documents affecting real property interests must be recorded with the county recorder to provide notice to the public and establish priority. Unrecorded documents may be valid between the parties involved but may not be enforceable against subsequent purchasers who record their interests.

2. Race-Notice Doctrine: Utah follows a "race-notice" recording system, meaning that priority of interests is generally determined by the order of recording, provided the recording party did not have notice of prior unrecorded interests. This principle encourages prompt recording of property documents.

3. Ownership Verification: Property owners must be able to demonstrate their ownership through properly recorded deeds or other conveyance documents. The county maintains these records to establish clear chains of title.

4. Property Tax Responsibility: Property owners are responsible for paying property taxes assessed by the county. According to the Utah Property Tax Act, property taxes become a lien on the property as of January 1 each year.

5. Boundary Dispute Resolution: Property owners must respect established property boundaries. Disputes over boundaries may be resolved through survey evidence, recorded plats, and when necessary, legal proceedings such as quiet title actions.

6. Land Use Compliance: Property owners must comply with zoning regulations, building codes, and other land use restrictions established by county and municipal authorities. These regulations may limit how property can be used or developed.

7. Disclosure Requirements: When selling property, owners must disclose known material defects and other specified information to potential buyers in accordance with Utah real estate disclosure laws.

8. Water Rights Documentation: In Utah, water rights are separate from land ownership and must be specifically conveyed. Property owners should ensure water rights are properly documented and recorded.

The Property Owner Rule is administered primarily through the Utah County Recorder's Office, with support from the Utah County Assessor for valuation matters and the Utah County Treasurer for tax collection.

Lookup Property Records in Utah County

Web Access to Utah County Land Records

Utah County Recorder's Office

Property Owner Name Search

Utah County Interactive Parcel Map

Property Address Search

Utah County Assessor Property Information

Utah County Treasurer Property Tax Records

Online Property Tax Payment Portal

Utah State Property Tax Information