Our Mission
The Ottawa County Register of Deeds Office is dedicated to safeguarding the county's permanent land records and delivering accurate, timely, and dependable recording services. Through integrity, innovation, and exceptional public service, we are committed to preserving the past, serving the present, and protecting the future of Ottawa County.
Public Records
The Register of Deeds Office operates in accordance with the Kansas Open Records Act. Most records maintained by our office are available for public inspection during regular business hours.
The only exceptions are:
- Kansas Real Estate Sales Validation Questionnaires
- Military discharge records
These records are confidential and may only be accessed by individuals authorized by law.
Recording Documents
To be accepted for recording, documents must meet the following requirements:
- Be properly signed by all required parties.
- Be notarized when required by law.
- Be clear and legible to ensure a high-quality permanent record.
- Include a complete and accurate legal description of the property.
The Register of Deeds Office reserves the right to reject documents that contain incomplete or incorrect legal descriptions.
For platted property, legal descriptions generally include the lot, block, subdivision, and city. For unplatted property, legal descriptions typically include the section, township, and range.
Recording Fees
Recording fees are established by Kansas statute and are subject to change. For the most current fee schedule or questions regarding recording costs, please contact the Ottawa County Register of Deeds Office. We are happy to assist you.
Protect Your Property with Property Fraud Alert
Your home and property are among your most valuable investments. While property fraud is uncommon, it can have serious financial and legal consequences if it occurs. That's why the Ottawa County Register of Deeds Office is proud to offer Property Fraud Alert—a free service that helps property owners stay informed and protect their real estate records.
Links
- Kansas Secretary of State
- Kansas Register of Deeds Association
- Kansas Real Estate Sales Validation Questionnaires (PDF)
- Notary Fraud Alert
- Property Fraud Alert
Search Platforms
Important Information
The Ottawa County Register of Deeds Office serves as the official recording office for land records and other documents authorized by Kansas law.
Please note:
We do not perform title searches. If you need a title search or ownership research, please contact a licensed title company or an attorney.
We cannot provide legal advice. Our staff is happy to answer questions about recording procedures and public records, but we are prohibited from offering legal advice or interpreting legal documents.