Wichita County Public Records

What Are Public Records in Wichita County?

Public records in Wichita County encompass a wide array of documents and information maintained by government agencies. These records include:

Birth and death certificates
Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
Property records, including deeds and mortgages
Court records, such as civil and criminal case files
Business licenses and permits
Tax records, including property tax assessments
Voter registration records
Police reports and accident reports
Meeting minutes and agendas from government bodies

These records are maintained by various departments and are accessible to the public in accordance with state and local laws.

Is Wichita County an Open Records County?

Wichita County adheres to the Texas Public Information Act, which ensures that government records are accessible to the public. Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552, the Act mandates that governmental bodies must make records available to the public unless there is an exception that justifies withholding the information. This commitment to transparency allows citizens to request and obtain public records, thereby promoting accountability and openness in government operations.

How Do I Find Public Records in Wichita County in 2026

To find public records in Wichita County in 2026, individuals may utilize several methods:

Online Access: Many records are available online through the Wichita Falls Official Website. The Public Records Center provides electronic access to various documents.
In-Person Requests: Individuals may visit the City Clerk's office to request records in person. The office is located at 1300 7th Street, Room 104, Wichita Falls, TX 76301.
Mail Requests: Written requests can be mailed to the appropriate department. It is advisable to include specific details about the records being requested to expedite the process.
Phone Inquiries: For assistance, individuals may contact the relevant department by phone to inquire about the availability and process for obtaining records.

How Much Does It Cost to Get Public Records in Wichita County?

The cost of obtaining public records in Wichita County varies depending on the type and volume of records requested. Generally, there may be fees for:

Copies of Documents: A standard fee per page is charged for photocopies.
Certification of Documents: Additional fees apply for certified copies.
Research and Retrieval: If extensive research is required, there may be charges for staff time.

Specific fee schedules can be obtained by contacting the relevant department or visiting the Public Information Request page.

Does Wichita County Have Free Public Records?

Certain public records in Wichita County may be accessed free of charge, particularly those available online. The Records Division provides access to some criminal records and accident reports without a fee. Additionally, meeting minutes and agendas from government bodies are often available at no cost on the county's official website.

Who Can Request Public Records in Wichita County?

Any member of the public, including residents and non-residents, has the right to request public records in Wichita County. The Texas Public Information Act does not restrict access based on residency or citizenship status. Requests can be made by individuals, businesses, and organizations seeking information for various purposes.

What Records Are Confidential in Wichita County?

While many records are accessible to the public, certain records are deemed confidential under state and federal laws. These include:

Personal Identifiable Information (PII): Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and other sensitive personal information.
Juvenile Records: Records involving minors are typically confidential to protect their privacy.
Medical Records: Protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
Law Enforcement Records: Certain investigative records may be exempt from disclosure to protect ongoing investigations or the safety of individuals.

Confidential records are withheld from public access to safeguard privacy and security.

Wichita County Recorder's Office: Contact Information and Hours

The Wichita County Recorder's Office is responsible for maintaining property records and other official documents. Contact information and hours are as follows:

Wichita County Recorder's Office
600 Scott Avenue, Suite 103
Wichita Falls, TX 76301
Phone Number: (940) 766-8100
Wichita County Tax Office

Public counter hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays.