Knox County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The Knox County?

Public records in Knox County refer to documents, files, and information created or maintained by government agencies that are accessible to the public. These records include property records, court documents, vital records, business filings, and various other official documents. The Tennessee Public Records Act governs access to these records, ensuring transparency in government operations while balancing privacy concerns.

Knox County maintains these records through various departments including the County Clerk's Office, Register of Deeds, and Circuit Court Clerk.

Knox County Clerk's Office: 300 Main Street, Suite 218, Knoxville, TN 37902

Is Knox County an Open Records County?

Yes, Knox County is an open records county. In accordance with Tennessee's Public Records Act (T.C.A. § 10-7-503), most government records in Knox County are available for public inspection. The county follows the state's commitment to government transparency, allowing citizens to request and access a wide range of public documents.

The Knox County government maintains a dedicated records request process through the County Clerk's office and other departments. While most records are accessible, certain exemptions exist to protect personal privacy, ongoing investigations, and confidential information as specified by state law.

Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury: 505 Deaderick Street, Suite 1700, Nashville, TN 37243

How Do I Find Public Records in Knox County in 2025

Finding public records in Knox County in 2025 can be accomplished through several methods:

Online Portal: Knox County's official website offers a comprehensive records search portal where many documents can be accessed digitally.
In-Person Requests: Visit the specific department that maintains the records you seek.
- For property records: Knox County Register of Deeds
- For court records: Knox County Circuit Court Clerk
- For marriage/business licenses: Knox County Clerk
Written Requests: Submit a formal public records request in writing to the appropriate department.
Third-Party Services: Various online services aggregate public records from Knox County, though these may charge fees.

Knox County Register of Deeds: 400 Main Street, Suite 225, Knoxville, TN 37902

Knox County Circuit Court Clerk: 400 Main Street, Suite 223, Knoxville, TN 37902

How Much Does It Cost To Get Public Records In Knox County?

The cost of obtaining public records in Knox County varies based on the type of record and format requested:

Standard document copies: $0.15-$0.50 per page
Certified copies: Additional $1-5 per document
Research fees: Some departments charge $25-50 per hour for extensive searches
Electronic records: Often lower fees than paper copies

Knox County follows Tennessee state law regarding reasonable fees for record reproduction. The county may waive fees if the request is deemed in the public interest. For large requests, you may receive a cost estimate before processing begins.

Knox County Finance Department: 400 Main Street, Suite 402, Knoxville, TN 37902

Does Knox County Have Free Public Records?

Knox County does offer some public records at no cost:

Basic online searches through the county's public portal
In-person inspection of non-confidential records
Certain vital statistics for research purposes
Some property information through the Assessor's online database

While inspection is typically free, reproduction costs apply as outlined in the fee schedule. The county balances public access with the resources required to maintain and provide records. For individuals with financial hardship, fee waivers may be available upon demonstration of inability to pay.

Knox County Property Assessor: 400 Main Street, Suite 204, Knoxville, TN 37902

Who Can Request Public Records In Knox County?

In Knox County, public records access is broadly available to:

Any Tennessee citizen
Media organizations
Businesses and corporations
Non-profit organizations
Out-of-state requesters (with some limitations)
Legal representatives

Tennessee law specifically grants records access rights to state citizens, though Knox County generally processes requests regardless of residency. Requesters may need to provide identification for certain records. Government agencies, law enforcement, and authorized researchers may have enhanced access to some restricted records.

Knox County Law Director's Office: 400 Main Street, Suite 612, Knoxville, TN 37902

What Records Are Confidential In Knox County?

Knox County maintains confidentiality for several categories of records in accordance with state and federal laws:

Medical and mental health records
Juvenile court proceedings (with exceptions)
Ongoing law enforcement investigations
Records protected by attorney-client privilege
Personal identifying information (SSNs, bank accounts)
Certain personnel and employment records
Adoption records
Records specifically exempted by Tennessee statute

The county balances transparency with privacy protection. Even with confidential records, redacted versions may be available in some cases. The Tennessee Office of Open Records Counsel provides guidance on exemptions and confidentiality requirements.

Tennessee Office of Open Records Counsel: 505 Deaderick Street, Suite 1600, Nashville, TN 37243