Ohio Public Records

Ohio County dates back to 1798 and was named after the Ohio River. There are many types of records available for Ohio County that are not restricted by privacy laws. Ohio County public records available include court records, vital records, military records and historic cemetery records. Vital records, like birth, death, marriage and divorce records are maintained by the Kentucky Department for Public Health.

Ohio County birth and death records start in 1911, and marriage and divorce records begin in 1958. Earlier records might be available through the Ohio County Clerk. Ohio County court records, both civil and criminal, are available online through the Kentucky Court Records Online database, or in person through the Circuit Court Clerk. Historic Ohio County military records are available through the State Archives, and cemetery records can be found through the Kentucky Historical Society.

About Ohio County Public Records

Kentucky is an open records state, meaning that access to most records is available to the public. This is good news for anyone researching family history, as there are fewer restrictions in place. Kentucky public records, including vital records, are available to anyone who wants access. Public records in Ohio County, like court records, can detail a person’s local criminal history without paying the fee for an official criminal background search.

Locating Ohio County Free Public Records

Ohio County court records, military records and cemetery records can be viewed at no cost. Ohio County free public records typically require a small fee for making copies, but viewing them is usually complementary. In order to view Ohio County military records, however, a trip to the State Archives is in order. However, both the State Archives and the Kentucky Historical Society are in Frankfort, meaning that an historic Ohio County, KY public records search can be performed in the same day.

Performing an Ohio County Public Records Search

Vital records in Ohio County require a fee, whether you make your request in person, by mail or online. A public records search in Ohio County, KY typically includes requests for vital records.  Some historic vital records are housed at the Kentucky Historical Society from the years 1852 through 1910, and these can be viewed at no charge. Those researching family histories will find a variety of records related to Ohio County.