clarke county georgia public records resources and how to use them

Looking for information in Athens-Clarke County? The Georgia Open Records Act gives you access to a wide range of public records, from land deeds to meeting minutes. Whether you’re a homeowner, researcher, or small business owner, these files can answer practical questions and document important milestones.

What you can find

• Property and tax records for parcels, assessments, and deeds.
• Court filings including civil, criminal, and probate dockets.
• Licenses and permits such as business licenses and building permits.
• Police and incident reports, plus calls for service logs.
• Ordinances, budgets, and minutes from local boards and commissions.

How to request effectively

1. Define the record: department, date range, names, addresses, or case numbers.
2. Submit a written request online, by mail, or in person to the appropriate office.
3. Expect timelines, copying fees, and possible redactions for protected data.

Real-world examples: a buyer confirming a lien release on a Five Points home; a tenant checking past code violations before signing; a journalist reviewing a spending resolution. Clear, specific requests help staff locate the right file quickly and reduce back-and-forth.