Removing Broward County public records requires following specific legal procedures set by the Florida Public Records Law and Broward County’s Records, Taxes & Treasury Division. This process applies only to certain types of information that qualify for removal under state statutes, such as outdated personal data, erroneous entries, or sensitive details protected by privacy laws. The county does not allow removal of official documents like deeds, liens, or court judgments unless a court order mandates it. Instead, individuals can request redaction or confidentiality marking for sensitive portions. All requests must be submitted using the official form, include proper identification, and follow strict submission guidelines. Processing takes 5–10 business days, and fees may apply depending on the reason for removal.
Official Removal Request Form and Submission Options
To start the removal process, you must complete the Request to Remove Information from Official Records form (Form 404-64, revised July 2017). This PDF document requires your full name, contact information, exact record details including page number and document title, and a clear explanation for why the information should be removed. Valid reasons include identity theft protection, outdated employment verification, clerical errors, or statutory privacy rights under Florida law. The form must be signed by the requester or an authorized representative with notarized proof if acting on behalf of someone else.
You can submit the completed form in five ways: in person at 115 South Andrews Avenue, Room 114, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301; by mail to the same address; via email to the division’s protected inbox; by fax to 954-357-9031; or through the county’s secure online portal. Each method ensures your request is logged and reviewed by trained staff. Always keep a copy of your submission and tracking number if using the online system.
Eligibility Criteria for Record Removal
Not all public records can be removed. Florida Statutes Chapter 119 and Broward County policies limit removal to specific cases. Eligible requests typically involve personal information that poses a security risk, such as Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, or financial account details mistakenly included in a public filing. Employment verification documents may also qualify if they contain private health or salary data. However, core legal documents—like property deeds, mortgage records, liens, marriage licenses, or court rulings—are permanent unless a judge orders otherwise.
Erroneous entries due to clerical mistakes are reviewed case by case. For example, if your name was misspelled on a recorded document or a parcel number is incorrect, the county may correct or redact the error. Always attach supporting evidence, such as a corrected deed copy, court order, or identity verification (like a driver’s license or passport). Without documentation, requests are denied.
Fees, Processing Time, and Confirmation
Processing a removal request usually takes 5–10 business days after the county receives all required materials. If your request is based on statutory privacy protections—such as protecting victims of domestic violence or identity theft—the $25 processing fee is waived. Otherwise, non-exempt cases incur this charge, payable by cash, check, credit card, or county voucher at submission.
Once processed, the record is no longer searchable on the public online portal. However, it remains in the official archive for legal and historical purposes. You’ll receive written confirmation via mail or email indicating whether the request was approved, denied, or needs additional information. If denied, you can appeal within 10 business days by contacting the Public Records Coordinator at 954-831-4000 ext. 212.
How to Search Broward County Public Records Before Requesting Removal
Before submitting a removal request, verify the record exists and locate its exact details. Use the Broward County Records, Taxes & Treasury Division’s online search tool, which covers documents from January 1, 1978, to today. You can search by grantor/grantee name, parcel number, document type (e.g., deed, lien, permit), or recording date. Each result shows a unique record number, book/page reference, and filing date.
For environmental or development-related records, use the former Environmental Protection and Growth Management Department’s archive, accessible through the same portal. Researchers can download PDF copies instantly or request physical copies by phone (954-357-9030) or in person. Accurate search terms—like exact names or parcel IDs—speed up retrieval and reduce errors in your removal request.
Marking Records as Confidential Instead of Full Removal
In many cases, full removal isn’t possible, but you can request confidentiality. This limits access to authorized personnel only and adds a confidentiality stamp to the file. To do this, send a sealed envelope containing the original document, a detailed list of records to be marked confidential, and your contact info (phone or email) to the Search & Copy Section at 115 S. Andrews Ave., Room 114, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. Alternatively, email the same details to the protected address listed on the county’s confidentiality page.
Common uses include shielding employment verification forms, medical-related filings, or sensitive financial data. Once marked, only government officials with a legitimate need can view the information. This option is faster than removal and often sufficient for privacy concerns.
Broward County Records Division: Contact and Office Details
The Broward County Records, Taxes and Treasury Division handles all official filings, including deeds, liens, marriage licenses, and removal requests. Located at 115 S. Andrews Avenue, Room 114, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, the office operates Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Staff process about 250,000 documents yearly, with standard copy requests completed in 3–5 business days.
For questions, call 954-357-9030 during business hours. Email inquiries go to the protected address on the county website, and faxes are accepted at 954-357-9031. The division follows Florida Statutes Chapter 289, which defines the County Recorder’s duties, including maintaining land ownership maps and ensuring accurate public records.
Public Records Law in Florida: Your Rights and Limits
Florida Statutes Section 119.01 guarantees public access to government records. Broward County agencies must provide records for inspection or copying upon request. You can submit requests by phone, email, or the county’s online form. The agency must acknowledge receipt within three business days and provide non-exempt documents after fees are paid—typically $0.10 per page.
However, this right isn’t absolute. Certain records are exempt, such as active criminal investigations, personal medical data, or trade secrets. The county won’t create new records to fulfill a request—only existing documents can be provided. If you need data in a special format (like XML), a service fee may apply.
Frequently Asked Questions About Record Removal
Many people ask whether they can remove criminal records, divorce decrees, or property liens. Generally, no—these are permanent legal documents. Only specific personal data or errors qualify. Others wonder if removal hides the record from background checks. While it’s removed from the public portal, law enforcement and licensed agencies may still access archived versions.
Processing delays happen if forms are incomplete or lack notarization. Always double-check requirements before submitting. If your request is denied, you have 10 business days to appeal. The County Attorney’s Office reviews appeals and issues a final decision within 15 days.
Broward County Clerk of Courts: Additional Record Services
The Clerk of Courts manages civil, criminal, and family law records. Located at the West Regional Courthouse, 100 North Pine Island Road, Plantation, FL 33324, the office offers same-day service for expedited requests (extra $30 fee). After-hours calls go to the Women in Distress hotline at 954-761-1133. Fax filings use 954-831-6025.
Filings after 2 p.m. must go to the Central Courthouse in Fort Lauderdale or be submitted electronically via the eFiling Portal. This ensures timely processing and avoids delays.
Electronic Recording and Customer Feedback
Broward County supports electronic recording through approved vendors. Call 954-831-4000 for vendor details. After using recording services, complete the online satisfaction survey to share feedback on turnaround time, staff courtesy, and document clarity. Results help improve county processes and guide budget decisions.
Recording Fees and Document Requirements
When recording a new document, count every page. The first page costs $10.00; each additional page is $8.50. Pages over 14 inches long or 8½ inches wide incur extra fees—$8.50 per additional segment, rounded up. Pay by cash, credit card, or county voucher. After payment, the clerk stamps each page with a recording number and date, then stores the original in a climate-controlled vault for at least 30 years.
Contact Information and Office Hours
Address: 115 S Andrews Ave, Room 114, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Phone: 954-357-9030 (Records Division)
Fax: 954-357-9031
Email: Use the protected address on the official website
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Website: https://www.broward.org/RecordsTaxesTreasury/Records/Pages/Default.aspx
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove my criminal record from Broward County public records?
No. Criminal records, including arrests and convictions, are permanent legal documents under Florida law. They cannot be removed by the Records Division. Only a court-ordered expungement or sealing through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement can restrict access. The county only handles removal of non-judicial records like administrative errors or sensitive personal data mistakenly published. Always consult a lawyer for criminal record relief.
How long does it take to remove information from Broward County records?
Processing takes 5–10 business days after the county receives a complete request. Delays occur if the form is unsigned, lacks notarization, or omits required documents like ID copies or court orders. Weekend and holiday submissions add extra days. You’ll get written confirmation once processed. Track your request online if submitted digitally.
What happens if my removal request is denied?
You’ll receive a denial letter explaining the reason, such as insufficient evidence or ineligibility under state law. You may appeal within 10 business days by contacting the Public Records Coordinator at 954-831-4000 ext. 212. The County Attorney’s Office reviews appeals and responds in writing within 15 days. Consider consulting a legal expert before reapplying.
Can I redact part of a document instead of full removal?
Yes. If only certain details (like a Social Security number) need hiding, request redaction or confidentiality marking. Send the document with highlighted sections to the Search & Copy Section. The county will stamp it “confidential” and limit access. This is faster and often sufficient for privacy protection without altering the core record.
Are there fees to remove public records in Broward County?
Most privacy-based requests are free. However, non-exempt cases—such as correcting minor clerical errors without legal backing—cost $25. Fees are paid at submission via cash, check, credit card, or county voucher. Waivers apply for victims of identity theft, domestic violence, or statutory privacy protections. Always ask about fee exemptions when submitting.
Will removing a record hide it from background checks?
Not completely. While the record disappears from the public online portal, it remains in the official archive. Licensed background check companies and government agencies may still access it with proper authorization. Full privacy requires additional legal steps, such as court-ordered sealing or expungement, handled outside the Records Division.