st louis public records guide for residents and researchers

What these records cover

St. Louis keeps a wide range of documents that touch daily life and civic history. You can find property deeds, building permits, court dockets, business licenses, marriage certificates, and council minutes. Many series are searchable online, while older items may live in archives or clerk offices. Understanding the category you need helps you save time and fees.

• Vital and court files: divorces, judgments, probate, and some older births and deaths.
• Property and land: parcel data, tax assessments, and recorded deeds.
• Government operations: contracts, budgets, agendas, and open meeting records.

How to search effectively

Start with the correct agency, then narrow by date range, case number, parcel ID, or party name. If a portal turns up nothing, try variant spellings and check jurisdiction-city vs. county. For certified copies, confirm fees and processing times before you visit.

1. Identify the record series and custodian.
2. Collect exact details to avoid broad pulls.
3. Request electronic copies when available.

Be aware that some items are redacted under law, and response windows may vary during high-demand periods.