Saratoga County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The Saratoga County?

Public records in Saratoga County encompass a wide range of documents and information maintained by various government agencies. These records are accessible to the public under the New York State Freedom of Information Law (FOIL).

Land Records: Deeds, mortgages, and other property-related documents are maintained by the County Clerk's Office.
Court Records: Includes civil, criminal, and family court records.
Vital Records: Birth, death, marriage, and divorce records are available through the New York State Department of Health.
Business Records: Includes business certificates and assumed name filings.
Meeting Minutes and Agendas: Records of county legislative meetings.
Tax Records: Property tax assessments and payment records.
Sex Offender Registry: Information on registered sex offenders is available through the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services.

Is Saratoga County an Open Records County?

Saratoga County adheres to the principles of open government as outlined in the New York State Freedom of Information Law (FOIL). This law mandates that government records be accessible to the public, with certain exceptions for privacy and security reasons. Pursuant to FOIL, members of the public may request access to records held by the county, ensuring transparency and accountability in government operations.

How Do I Find Public Records in Saratoga County in 2026

To access public records in Saratoga County in 2026, individuals may utilize several methods:

Online Access: Many records are available online through the County Clerk's Office, which has digitized over 20 million records for public access.
In-Person Requests: Individuals may visit the relevant government office to request records. It is advisable to contact the office in advance to confirm the availability of the records and any specific procedures.
Written Requests: Written requests can be submitted to the appropriate department, specifying the records sought and any relevant details to facilitate the search.

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

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

Copy Fees: Typically, there is a nominal fee for photocopying records, often around $0.25 per page.
Certification Fees: Certified copies of records may incur additional fees.
Search Fees: Some departments may charge a fee for extensive searches or retrieval of archived records.

Does Saratoga County Have Free Public Records?

Certain public records in Saratoga County are available free of charge:

Online Records: Many records are accessible online at no cost through the County Clerk's Office.
Public Meetings: Agendas and minutes of public meetings are typically available for free.
Sex Offender Registry: The New York State Sex Offender Registry provides free access to information on registered sex offenders.

Who Can Request Public Records In Saratoga County?

Under the New York State Freedom of Information Law, any member of the public, including residents and non-residents, may request access to public records in Saratoga County. There is no requirement to state a reason for the request, and the law is designed to facilitate transparency and public access to government information.

What Records Are Confidential In Saratoga County?

Certain records are exempt from public disclosure under the New York State Freedom of Information Law to protect privacy and security:

Personal Privacy: Records that would result in an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy are confidential.
Law Enforcement: Records that could interfere with law enforcement investigations or judicial proceedings.
Security: Information that could jeopardize public safety or security.
Trade Secrets: Proprietary business information that could harm competitive positions.

Saratoga County Recorder's Office: Contact Information and Hours

Saratoga County Clerk's Office
40 McMaster Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020
Phone Number: (518) 885-2213
County Clerk's Office
Public Counter Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM