San Bernardino County Public Records Open Access is the official digital gateway for residents to view, request, and download government records safely and quickly. This system gives people direct access to court files, property deeds, birth and death certificates, arrest logs, business licenses, and more. It was created to make public information easier to find while following California’s Public Records Act. The portal supports everyday needs like checking a case status, getting a certified copy of a marriage license, or researching property history. With over 250,000 transactions each year, it has become the main way people interact with county records.
The county launched this open-access model during the pandemic to reduce in-person visits and protect public health. Phone lines were cut back, and staff shifted to online services. Now, most requests go through secure websites instead of office counters. This change saved time for both residents and employees. Today, the system includes safety rules, digital tools, and clear steps for getting records fast. Whether you’re a lawyer, journalist, researcher, or just a curious resident, this platform puts vital data at your fingertips.
How to Use the San Bernardino County Public Records Portal
Using the public records portal starts with visiting the correct website. The main entry point is openaccsess.sb-court.org for court-related documents. For property, vital stats, or business records, go to arc.sbcounty.gov or open.sbcounty.gov. Each site has a search bar where you type keywords, dates, names, or document numbers. You can filter results by type—like “birth certificate” or “deed”—or narrow them by year. Most searches are free, but certified copies cost a small fee.
To request a record, fill out an online form with your name, contact info, and a clear description of what you need. Be specific: instead of “property records,” say “grant deed for 1234 Oak Street, filed in 2021.” This helps staff find it faster. After submitting, you’ll get a confirmation email. Processing takes up to ten business days. If your request is denied, you can appeal within ten days under California law.
Types of Records Available Through Open Access
The county offers many kinds of public records online. Court records include civil lawsuits, criminal cases, small claims, traffic tickets, probate files, and domestic relations. Each case has a docket number, hearing dates, and judgment summaries. You can also see if someone is in jail using the inmate roster. Property records cover deeds, liens, parcel maps, and tax assessments. Vital records include birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates—though some require ID to access.
Other available data includes business licenses, contractor permits, UCC filings, police reports (redacted), sex offender registry info, and GIS maps. The open data portal (open.sbcounty.gov) hosts over 850 datasets on traffic, air quality, crime stats, and historic tax rolls. These are great for researchers, developers, or journalists. All records follow state privacy laws, so sensitive details like Social Security numbers are hidden.
- Court case files (civil, criminal, probate)
- Property deeds and parcel maps
- Birth, death, marriage, and divorce records
- Arrest logs and inmate rosters
- Business licenses and permits
- GIS and land-use maps
- Open data: traffic, environment, crime
Where to Go for In-Person Help
Sometimes you need to visit an office in person. The main locations are the downtown San Bernardino Courthouse at 340 West Broadway, Suite 110, and the Redlands Courthouse at 101 East Citrus Avenue, Room 213. Both are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Staff can help you search files, print certified copies, or explain court procedures. Bring a photo ID and know the case or document number if possible.
The County Recorder’s Office is at 145 N. Arrowhead Avenue, Suite 300. This is where you go for deeds, marriage licenses, and official recordings. It’s also open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For help with requests, call (909) 387-8306 or email publicrecords@sbcounty.gov. If you’re unsure which office handles your request, start at the main county website: sbcounty.gov.
Fees, Timelines, and Legal Rights
Most online searches are free. But if you need a certified copy—like for a passport or loan—there’s a fee. Standard copying costs $0.10 per page. Certified copies may cost more, depending on the document. Expedited service is available for $25 extra. Payment is made online via credit card or in person with cash or check.
Under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code §§ 6250–6294), you have the right to inspect or copy any non-exempt record. Requests must be in writing and describe the record clearly. The county must respond within ten business days. If they deny your request, they must explain why. You can appeal the denial within ten days of receiving their response. Exempt records include ongoing investigations, medical files, and personal privacy data.
| Service | Cost | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Online search | Free | Instant |
| Copy (per page) | $0.10 | 1–3 days |
| Certified copy | $15–$25 | 5–10 days |
| Expedited service | +$25 | 1–2 days |
Court Operations and Safety Rules
In May 2022, the Superior Court updated its operations to keep everyone safe. Masks were required in all public areas. Sanitizing stations were added near entrances and elevators. Courtroom attendance was limited to ten people per session. These rules helped reduce crowding and spread of illness. Phone support was reduced to 8 a.m.–12 p.m. and 1 p.m.–5 p.m. to manage staffing.
Now, most people use the online portal instead of calling. Virtual hearings are available for traffic, small claims, and some civil cases. You’ll get a Zoom link after scheduling. If you must appear in person, arrive early and follow posted guidelines. Food, drinks, and large bags aren’t allowed inside courthouses. Children under 12 should not attend unless they’re part of the case.
Open Data for Researchers and Developers
The county’s open data portal (open.sbcounty.gov) gives free access to raw datasets. There are over 850 files covering traffic counts, air quality readings, crime incidents, and historic tax assessments. Each dataset includes metadata—like update frequency and collection method—so you know how reliable it is. You can preview data in a map viewer or download it as CSV, Excel, or GeoJSON.
Developers can use RESTful APIs to pull live data into apps or dashboards. For example, a city planner might track traffic trends near schools. A journalist could map crime hotspots over time. All data is public domain and can be reused without permission. Just cite San Bernardino County as the source. New datasets are added monthly based on user feedback.
How to Request Specific Records
Different records need different steps. For court files, go to openaccsess.sb-court.org and enter the case number or party name. For property deeds, use the Recorder’s Index at arc.sbcounty.gov. Search by document number or grantor/grantee names. For vital records, like birth certificates, you must prove your relationship to the person named. Parents, spouses, and legal guardians can request them.
If you’re looking for arrest logs, check the Sheriff’s Department site or the county’s public records portal. These show date, charge, and booking location—but not guilt or conviction. Business licenses are searchable by name or license number. GIS maps show parcel boundaries, zoning, and flood zones. Use the “Parcel Search” tool on the county website.
- Go to the correct portal (court, recorder, or open data)
- Use filters: date, type, name, or number
- Preview results before downloading
- Pay fees for certified copies
- Allow 5–10 days for processing
Privacy, Security, and Data Protection
All records are handled with care to protect privacy. Personal details like Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, and medical info are redacted before release. Court exhibits are stored securely with barcode tracking. Only authorized staff can move or view sensitive evidence. Audit logs record every access attempt.
The websites use HTTPS encryption and daily backups. User accounts are optional but recommended for tracking requests. Never share your login with others. If you suspect fraud or misuse, report it to the County Clerk immediately. Violations of privacy laws can lead to fines or criminal charges.
Common Problems and How to Solve Them
Sometimes records don’t appear in search results. This might be because the document hasn’t been digitized yet. Older files (before 2000) may only be available on paper. Call the Records Center at (909) 387-8306 to ask about availability. Another issue is misspelled names. Try searching with just the last name or a partial date.
If your request is denied, read the response carefully. It should cite a specific exemption under California law. Common reasons include ongoing investigations, juvenile records, or national security. You can appeal by writing to the County Clerk within ten days. Include your original request and the denial letter.
Contact Information and Office Hours
For general help, call the Public Records Hotline at (909) 387-8306 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. For court-specific questions, call (909) 745-9000. The main offices are located at:
- Superior Court Clerk’s Office: 340 West Broadway, Suite 110, San Bernardino, CA 92415
- County Recorder’s Office: 145 N. Arrowhead Avenue, Suite 300, San Bernardino, CA 92415
- Redlands Courthouse: 101 East Citrus Avenue, Room 213, Redlands, CA 92373
All locations are open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed on federal holidays. Parking is available nearby. Public transit routes serve all sites. For real-time updates, visit sbcounty.gov/openaccess.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask how to get a copy of a birth certificate, whether court records are free, or if they can search by address. Below are answers to the most common questions. Each response is based on current county policies and state law. If your question isn’t here, call the hotline or visit in person.
Can I get someone else’s birth certificate?
No, unless you’re a parent, spouse, child, or legal guardian. California law restricts access to vital records to protect privacy. You must show ID and proof of relationship. If the person is deceased, you may need a death certificate too. Requests go through the County Recorder’s Office. Processing takes 5–10 days. Fees apply for certified copies.
Are court records free to view online?
Yes, most docket entries, case summaries, and hearing notices are free on openaccsess.sb-court.org. However, downloading full PDFs or getting certified copies costs money. Some older cases aren’t digitized and require an in-person visit. Always check the case number first—it’s faster than searching by name.
How do I find property ownership by address?
The Recorder’s Index doesn’t list properties by street address. Instead, search by document number or party name. To link a deed to an address, use the GIS parcel map on the county website. Enter the address, and it will show the parcel ID. Then cross-reference that with the Recorder’s database. Staff can help if you’re stuck.
What if my request is denied?
The county must explain why in writing. Common reasons include ongoing investigations, juvenile records, or privacy exemptions. You can appeal within ten days by sending a letter to the County Clerk. Include your original request and the denial notice. The appeal will be reviewed by a higher authority. Most appeals are resolved within 30 days.
Can I download bulk data for research?
Yes, the public records portal allows CSV exports of up to 10,000 rows per download. For larger datasets, use the open data portal (open.sbcounty.gov). It offers full datasets in machine-readable formats. APIs are available for developers. Always cite San Bernardino County as the source. No license is needed for non-commercial use.
Are virtual hearings available?
Yes, for traffic, small claims, and some civil matters. After filing, you’ll receive a Zoom link by email. Test your tech beforehand. Join five minutes early. Dress professionally and mute your mic when not speaking. Recording is not allowed. If you miss the hearing, you may face penalties or default judgment.
How far back do records go?
Court records date to 2015 for electronic access. Older files exist but may require an in-person visit. Property records go back to 1888—the year San Bernardino County was founded. Vital records start in the early 1900s. The Recorder’s Office keeps original paper files for historical research.
San Bernardino County Public Records Open Access makes government transparent and accountable. Whether you need a deed, a court file, or environmental data, the system is built for speed, safety, and simplicity. Use the online portals, follow the rules, and respect privacy. For help, call (909) 387-8306 or visit 145 N. Arrowhead Avenue, Suite 300, San Bernardino, CA 92415. Office hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.