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Utah Public Records

The Utah Government Records Access Act is a state statute granting public access to government records. It mandates that all government records are accessible to the public, except those designated as private by state law. This law uniquely allows non-Utah residents to request records, unlike some other open records laws.

Included in government records are all forms of information generated, preserved, or held by state or local government bodies, encompassing emails, memos, reports, and various other documents.

Furthermore, the act obliges state and local agencies to allot a reasonable timeframe for the public to examine and replicate records.

How to request Utah Public Records?

Each agency in Utah is responsible for keeping and maintaining its records.

Table of Contents

To request public records in Utah, you can follow these steps:

Where to find Public Records in Utah

Depending on the type of record you are seeking, there are numerous options for where you can find public records in Utah.

Vital Records (Birth, Death, Marriage, Divorce):

The Utah Office of Vital Records and Statistics provides these records. You can order a vital record certificate, amend a record, or access birth and death records through their website at vitalrecords.utah.gov.

Property Records:

Access to property records can be found at the Utah County website, which offers a search by parcel serial number, property information, and appraisal information at Utah County Land Records. The Salt Lake County Assessor’s Office also provides property valuation information, compliant with Utah laws, on their website SLCo - Salt Lake County, Utah. Statewide tax parcel data and GIS mapping layers are accessible at Utah Parcels.

Business Records:

Business entity searches, certificates of existence, and filed documents can be accessed through the Utah government portal at Utah Business Search.

Court Records:

The Utah State Archives houses judicial/court records, including those from the Utah State Supreme Court and county district courts. Access these at Utah Courts.

Driving Records:

The Utah Driver License Division releases Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) showing citations, arrests, suspensions, and revocations. Access this service at TDPS – Driver License.

Professional Licenses

The Division of Professional Licensing in Utah offers services for license application, renewal, and verification.

Utah State Archives:

For older historical records, you can search the Utah State Archives website.

Are Utah Public Records Available Online?

Access to certain public records in Utah is provided online, though not all documents are accessible in this way.

For court records, the Utah Courts’ website hosts an online tool called MyCase, enabling individuals to review their case histories and documents filed in court.

Several county-level online tools for public records searches, such as those offered by Salt Lake County and Utah County, provide access to diverse records, including property, court, and vital records.

It’s important to recognize that while online availability is convenient, it doesn’t encompass all records. In cases where a record isn’t found online, contacting the relevant agency directly to request the information is necessary.

Additionally, third-party websites can serve as a valuable tool for locating public records. These platforms aggregate data from various sources, potentially simplifying the search process. However, caution is advised to ensure the use of trustworthy sites like InfoTracer to avoid fraudulent activities.

State Public Records Law

The Utah Government Records Access Act governs the public’s access to state public records in Utah. Except for certain exceptions and limitations, the Act aims to promote transparency and hold government bodies accountable by allowing individuals the right to access public records. Here are some key aspects:

Which records are public in Utah?

Which Records are Not Public in Utah?

In Utah, certain records are not considered public and are exempt from disclosure under the state’s Government Records Access and Management Act (GRAMA).

Utah Background Checks

Utah background checks are investigative processes used to gather information about an individual’s history, primarily for employment, tenancy, or other official purposes. These checks can access various public records and compile information to provide a comprehensive view of an individual’s background.

What Can Be Included In a Background Check Report?

Criminal Records

Records of any criminal offenses, including misdemeanors, felonies, arrests, convictions, and incarcerations.

Court Records

Information from civil and criminal court cases, including judgments, court orders, and case status.

Driving Records

Details from an individual's driving history, such as traffic violations, accidents, DUI records, and driver's license status.

Employment History

Verification of past employment, including dates of employment, job titles, and reasons for leaving previous jobs.

Education Verification

Confirmation of educational achievements, degrees, and certifications from accredited institutions.

Education Transcripts

To ensure accuracy in applications and resumes, a simple verification of school transcripts can provide the actual information about grade averages and degrees earned.

Credit History

Financial information that can include credit scores, loan history, bankruptcies, and payment history. This is generally used for positions that require financial responsibility.

Professional Licenses

Verification of professional licenses, certifications, and any disciplinary actions related to the professional conduct.

Sex Offender Registry Information

Checking whether the individual is listed on state or national sex offender registries.

Personal References and Character Verification

Information gathered from personal or professional references provided by the individual.

Public Records and Social Media

Review of public records and, in some cases, an examination of social media profiles for additional insights into character and behavior.

Utah Court Records

Overview of the Utah court system and its Structure

The Utah court system is structured to handle various legal matters ranging from minor infractions to complex legal cases. It is organized into several levels, each with distinct roles and responsibilities:

  • Supreme Court: At the apex of the Utah court system, the Supreme Court is primarily an appellate court. It reviews decisions made by lower courts, particularly those from the Court of Appeals, and handles cases involving significant legal or constitutional questions. It’s the final arbiter on matters of state law.
  • Court of Appeals: This intermediate appellate court reviews decisions from the trial courts. It handles a wide range of cases, including civil, criminal, juvenile, and family law appeals. The Court of Appeals helps reduce the caseload of the Supreme Court by handling many of the appeals filed from lower courts.
  • District Courts: The district courts are the state’s primary trial courts with general jurisdiction. They handle a wide array of cases, including civil matters (such as contract disputes, personal injury claims, and property disputes), criminal cases (including felonies), domestic relations cases (like divorces and child custody), probate, mental health, and juvenile matters.
  • Juvenile Courts: These courts specialize in cases involving minors under the age of 18. Juvenile courts handle matters like delinquency, child welfare (including abuse, neglect, and dependency cases), and some matters related to custody and support.
  • Justice Courts: Located in various municipalities and counties, justice courts handle class B and C misdemeanors, violations of ordinances, small claims, and infractions committed within their territorial jurisdiction. They do not have jurisdiction over most civil cases, juvenile matters, or serious felonies.

Types of Utah Court Records

Utah Civil and Small Claims Records

  • Civil Court Records for matters that exceed $11,000
  • Small Court Records for matters below $11,000

Utah Criminal Records

  • Arrest records
  • Court case records and proceedings

Utah Family Records

  • Divorce records
  • Child custody and support records
  • Information about court hearings and decisions, including orders issued by the judge
  • Financial information
  • Evidence presented by both parties

Utah Probate Records

  • Estate records
  • Guardianship and conservatorship records

Utah Traffic Records

  • Traffic violations and citations

Restrictions, Limitations, and Confidentiality

In Utah, while court records are generally accessible to the public, there are notable restrictions, limitations, and confidentiality clauses in place to protect sensitive information and the privacy of individuals involved in legal proceedings. Firstly, records that contain personally identifiable information such as social security numbers, financial account details, and personal health information are typically redacted or sealed to prevent identity theft and protect personal privacy.

Juvenile court records are another area of restriction, where proceedings involving minors are often confidential to safeguard the interests of the youth involved. In cases of family law, particularly those involving child custody or abuse, certain details may be sealed to protect the identities and well-being of minors and vulnerable parties. Additionally, records pertaining to ongoing criminal investigations or certain civil cases may be temporarily sealed to ensure the integrity of the investigation or the fairness of the trial.

Protective orders, which often involve sensitive situations, may also have limitations on public access. Furthermore, Utah law allows for the expungement of certain criminal records, which, once expunged, are no longer accessible to the general public. These restrictions and limitations in the Utah court system underscore a balance between the public’s right to information and the need to maintain confidentiality and privacy in sensitive legal matters.

What do these records contain

  • Case Files: Detailed documentation of each case, including the case number, names of the parties involved, and the nature of the case (criminal, civil, family law, etc.).
  • Pleadings and Filings: Documents filed by the parties in a case, including complaints, answers, motions, and other legal documents outlining the arguments and requests made to the court.
  • Court Orders and Judgments: Official decisions, orders, and judgments issued by the judge, which may include rulings on motions, final judgments, and sentencing information in criminal cases.
  • Dockets and Case Summaries: Chronological listings of all the proceedings and filings in a case, providing an overview of the case's progress through the court system.
  • Evidence and Exhibits: Records of evidence presented during the trial, which can include physical evidence, witness testimonies, expert reports, and other materials used to argue the case.
  • Transcripts: Verbatim transcripts of what was said during court hearings and trials, usually prepared by a court reporter.
  • Financial Records: Details of financial transactions related to the case, including fines, fees, restitution orders, and other financial judgments.
  • Case History and Appeals: If a case is appealed, the court record would include notices of appeal, appellate briefs, and decisions from appellate courts.
  • Jury Information: In cases that involve a jury trial, records may include details about the jury selection process and the jury's verdict.
  • Settlement Agreements: If a case is settled out of court, the settlement agreement document may be included in the court record.

Courts in Utah

  • Trial Courts of Utha
  • Federal Court of Utah
  • Juvenile Courts
  • Probate Courts
  • Family Courts

Utah Public Vital Records

Marriage and Divorce Records: In Utah, marriage and divorce records are maintained by the Office of Vital Records and Statistics. These records provide official documentation of marriages and divorces that have taken place in the state. The public can access these records for marriages and divorces that occurred within a specific time frame. To obtain marriage and divorce records, visit the Office of Vital Records and Statistics website at vitalrecords.utah.gov.

Birth and Death Records: The Office of Vital Records and Statistics also manages birth and death records in Utah. These records are essential for legal, personal, and genealogical purposes, documenting every birth and death in the state. Eligible individuals can request certified copies of birth and death records. For more information and to request these records, individuals can visit the Office of Vital Records and Statistics website at vitalrecords.utah.gov.

Utah Public Criminal Records

Definition and Types of criminal records in Utah

Utah criminal records, often referred to as rap sheets, are official documents detailing an individual’s criminal history within the state. These records are compiled from various sources and typically contain a range of information:

  • Personal Information: This includes the individual’s full name, aliases, date of birth, nationality, and physical characteristics like height, weight, and distinguishing marks or tattoos.
  • Arrest Records: Details of arrests including the date, location, the law enforcement agency involved, and the reasons for the arrest. It may also include mugshots and fingerprints taken at the time of arrest.
  • Charges and Convictions: Comprehensive information on the charges an individual has faced, the outcomes of those charges (convictions, acquittals, or dismissals), and details of the corresponding court cases.
  • Sentencing Information: If convicted, the record will detail the sentence handed down, which could include jail or prison time, probation details, fines, or community service requirements.
  • Incarceration History: Details about any time spent in a Utah state correctional facility, including the duration of incarceration, the facility where the individual was held, and behavior or progress while incarcerated.
  • Probation or Parole Details: For individuals placed on probation or parole, the record will include information about the terms of their supervision, duration, and compliance status.

Utah criminal records are maintained by the Utah Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI). To access these records, individuals or entities can request them from the BCI, subject to certain eligibility criteria and legal restrictions. For more information or to request criminal records, visit the BCI website at Utah Department of Public Safety. These records are crucial for various purposes, including employment background checks, housing applications, legal proceedings, and personal record reviews.

Police Records and Reports

Police records and reports in Utah include details of incidents, arrests, and investigations conducted by law enforcement agencies across the state. These records can be requested from the specific police department that handled the incident or investigation. The Utah Department of Public Safety offers access to certain police records and provides guidance on how to request them.

Booking Records and Reports

Booking records and reports in Utah detail an individual's processing into jail, including personal information, charges, and booking photos. These records are maintained by the respective county jail or detention center where the booking took place.

DUI Records

DUI records in Utah document instances of driving under the influence, encompassing arrest reports, court proceedings, and any resulting convictions. These records are maintained by the Utah Department of Public Safety and the courts. Individuals can request DUI records or find related court records through the Utah State Courts website.

Felony and Misdemeanor Records

Felony and misdemeanor records in Utah provide details about criminal convictions and charges at these levels, including court proceedings and outcomes. These records are accessible through the Utah State Courts system.

Parole Records

Parole records in Utah contain information about individuals released from prison under parole supervision, including terms of parole, compliance, and any violations. The Utah Board of Pardons and Parole manages these records.

Probation Records

Probation records in Utah detail the supervision of individuals sentenced to probation, including terms, compliance status, and violations. These records are managed by the Utah Department of Corrections and the respective county probation departments. Information on probation services and related records can be found on the Utah Department of Corrections.

Warrant Search

Warrant searches in Utah allow the public to check for active arrest warrants. These records are maintained by county courts and law enforcement agencies.

Inmate And Jail Records

Inmate and jail records in Utah provide information about individuals incarcerated in county jails and state prisons, including details of their offenses and incarceration periods. The Utah Department of Corrections manages these records.

What you can find

When conducting an inmate search in Utah, you can expect to find the following information:

  • Inmate Location and Facility Details: An inmate search provides information about the specific correctional facility where the inmate is currently housed, including the facility’s name, address, and contact information.
  • Booking Information and Charges: An inmate search allows you to access details about the inmate’s initial booking into the facility, such as the date of booking, booking number, and the specific charges brought against them.
  • Sentence Length and Release Dates: An inmate search provides information about the length of the inmate’s sentence, including the start date and anticipated release date, which helps understand the duration of their incarceration.
  • Parole Eligibility and Parole Board Decisions: An inmate search may indicate the inmate’s eligibility for parole and provide information on parole board decisions, including the outcome of parole hearings and any conditions imposed.

How to Perform an Inmate Search in Utah

Utah inmate and jail records provide comprehensive information about individuals who are incarcerated in the state’s correctional facilities. These records typically include:

  • Personal Information: This includes the inmate’s name, date of birth, gender, and sometimes physical characteristics like height, weight, and any distinguishing marks or tattoos.
  • Inmate Identification Number: Each inmate is assigned a unique identification number used for tracking within the correctional system.
  • Incarceration Details: Information regarding the inmate’s current location, incarceration date, and the estimated release date.
  • Offense Information: Detailed information about the crime(s) for which the inmate was convicted, including the nature of the offense, case number, and court details.
  • Sentencing Information: Details of the sentence imposed, including length of sentence, any fines or restitution ordered, and the sentencing court.
  • Custody Status: Information on the inmate’s current custody level or classification within the facility, which can indicate the security level and privileges.
  • Disciplinary Records: Records of any disciplinary actions taken against the inmate while in custody, if applicable.
  • Parole Eligibility: Information regarding the inmate’s eligibility for parole, including parole hearing dates and decisions, if applicable.
  • Transfer Information: Details of any transfers between facilities, including dates and reasons for transfer.
  • Photograph: A current photograph or mugshot of the inmate.

Jails & Prisons in Utah

State Prisons:

County Jails:

Can I look up mugshots in Utah?

In Utah, whether you can look up mugshots depends on the context and the source of the mugshot. Generally, mugshots taken during the booking process are considered public records and can be accessed through certain channels:

  • Law Enforcement Agencies: Many law enforcement agencies in Utah may provide mugshots upon request, particularly if they pertain to individuals who have been arrested and booked. You can contact the specific police department or sheriff’s office that handled the arrest.
  • Online Inmate Searches: The Utah Department of Corrections and some county jails offer online inmate search tools, which often include mugshots. These are typically available for individuals currently incarcerated or recently released.
  • Publicly Available Websites: Some third-party websites compile and display mugshots from various sources. However, the reliability and legality of these sites can vary, and in some cases, they may charge fees for removal of information.

Utah Arrest Records

Utah arrest records are official documents that provide details about an individual’s arrests within the state. These records are created by law enforcement agencies when a person is taken into custody or detained on suspicion of having committed a crime.

What Do These Records Contain:

Typically, Utah arrest records contain the following information:

  • Personal Information: This includes the arrested individual’s name, date of birth, physical description (like height, weight, eye and hair color), and sometimes a photograph or mugshot.
  • Arrest Details: Information about the arrest itself, such as the date, time, and location of the arrest, the law enforcement agency that made the arrest, and the name of the arresting officer.
  • Charges: Details of the charges brought against the individual at the time of arrest. It should be noted that charges listed in an arrest record may not always reflect final charges or convictions.
  • Bail/Bond Information: If applicable, the record may include information about bail or bond set and whether it was posted.
  • Case Information: Arrest records may also contain a case number, which can be used to look up further court proceedings related to the arrest.
  • Fingerprint Information: Typically, arrest records include the fingerprints of the arrested individual.

Utah Property and Asset Records Online

Finding Utah property and asset records online can be done through various county and state resources. 

To find unclaimed property in Utah, the state operates an online system managed by the Utah State Treasurer’s Office. Unclaimed property can include things like forgotten bank accounts, stocks, uncashed checks, and safe deposit box contents. The Utah Unclaimed Property Division maintains a database where individuals can search for and claim their lost assets. You can conduct a free search for unclaimed property by visiting the official website MyCash.Utah.gov. If you discover unclaimed property belonging to you, the website provides instructions on how to file a claim and verify your identity to retrieve your assets. This service is an essential resource for Utah residents to recover lost or forgotten property without any fees.

Driving Records

To find driving records in Utah, you need to request a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) from the Utah Department of Public Safety, Driver License Division. These records provide a history of your driving, including violations, suspensions, and other driver’s license-related information. You can request your MVR online through the Utah Driver License Division’s website at Utah Driver License Division. Additionally, you can make the request in person at a Driver License Division office or by mail, following the instructions provided on their website.

Civil Driving Infractions

In Utah, civil driving infractions, also known as traffic violations or citations, are non-criminal offenses related to the operation of a vehicle. These infractions are generally considered less serious than criminal traffic offenses (like DUIs) and include:

  • Speeding: Driving over the posted speed limit or too fast for conditions.
  • Failure to Stop: Not stopping at a stop sign or red traffic light.
  • Seat Belt Violations: Not wearing a seat belt while the vehicle is in motion.
  • Equipment Violations: Issues related to vehicle maintenance and safety standards, such as broken lights, faulty brakes, or illegal window tinting.

Utah White Pages - Find People, Addresses, and Other Non-Official Information

Address Search ​

Address search in Utah allows individuals to find specific information about a property or location within the state. This can include details like property owner, tax information, property value, and zoning details. These searches are often conducted through county assessor websites, such as the Salt Lake County Assessor’s portal at Salt Lake County Assessor, where users can input an address to access relevant property records. Additionally, online mapping services and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) tools provided by Utah counties offer detailed maps and property information based on addresses.

People Search​

People search in Utah is a process of finding information about individuals, often for purposes like reconnecting with old friends, verifying identities, or conducting background checks. This can be done through various online directories, social media platforms, and public records search portals. The Utah Department of Public Safety offers services for background checks, accessible at Utah Department of Public Safety, where individuals can request information on Utah residents. Additionally, the Utah State Courts provide a public access system for court records, which can be used to find information about individuals involved in legal proceedings in the state.

Can I Search By a Phone Number and Identify The Owner?

In Utah, as in most places, it is possible to search by a phone number to try to identify the owner, although the success and accuracy of this process can vary. There are a few methods to conduct such a search:

  • Online Reverse Phone Lookup Services: Numerous websites offer reverse phone lookup services. These platforms can provide details about the owner of a phone number, including their name and address. However, the accuracy of the information can vary, and some services may require payment.
  • Caller ID and Phone Apps: Many smartphones and caller ID services can display the name associated with a phone number when you receive a call. Additionally, various phone apps offer caller identification and reverse lookup capabilities.
  • Search Engines: Simply entering the phone number into a search engine like Google can sometimes yield results, especially if the number is associated with a business or public listing.
  • Social Media Platforms: Occasionally, searching for the phone number on social media platforms might reveal profiles linked to the number.

License Plate Lookup in Utah

Conducting a license plate lookup in Utah to obtain information about a vehicle or its owner is a process that is typically restricted due to privacy laws and regulations. However, there are some legitimate ways to perform a license plate search:

  • Law Enforcement or Legal Reasons: If you have a valid legal reason or need for the information (such as a hit-and-run accident), law enforcement agencies can conduct a license plate lookup. It’s necessary to report the incident and provide the plate number to the authorities.
  • Utah Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): While the DMV does maintain records associated with license plates, access to these records by the general public is usually restricted due to privacy concerns. In certain cases, such as for legal proceedings or insurance claims, access may be granted with proper documentation and authorization.
  • Third-Party Services: There are online third-party services that offer license plate lookups. These services may provide limited information like vehicle make, model, and year. However, they generally cannot provide personal information about the vehicle’s owner due to privacy laws. It’s important to use reputable services and be aware that some may charge fees.
  • Private Investigators: If you have a legitimate need to identify a vehicle owner and it’s not a police matter, hiring a private investigator is another option. Private investigators have access to certain databases and resources for conducting such searches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who and why can request public records?

In Utah, any member of the public can request public records. There are no requirements for residency or citizenship to access these records.

Are there fees associated with requesting public records?

While accessing public records in Utah, fees may be charged to cover the costs of copying, compiling, and, in some cases, researching the requested records.

Are public records Free to access?

Public records in Utah are often free to view or inspect, but there may be charges for physical copies or extensive searches.

What is the response time for public records requests?

Under Utah’s Government Records Access and Management Act (GRAMA), agencies are required to respond to public records requests within 10 business days or explain the need for an extension.

Can my request be rejected?

Yes, your request for public records in Utah can be rejected if it falls under specific exemptions, such as records involving personal privacy, security, protected health information, or ongoing investigations.

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Facsnet.org is not a “consumer reporting agency” under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (“FCRA”), and does not provide “consumer reports” under the FCRA. Facsnet expressly prohibits the use of information you obtain from search results (a) to discriminate against any consumer; (b) for the purpose of considering a consumer’s eligibility for personal credit or insurance, employment, housing, or a government license or benefit; or (c) otherwise to affect a consumer’s economic or financial status or standing.

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