Kings Public Records

Kings County shares the same boundaries as Brooklyn in New York City and is considered the most populated county in New York State. The county was first settled in 1634 and played an instrumental role during the Revolutionary War. During the early part of the 19^th century, the county grew exponentially, both in population and influence. Today, Kings County boasts a total population of around two-and-a-half million New York residents. With so many records to choose from, a Kings County public records search may seem like an intimidating process at the outset. However, there are many good options for finding Kings public records to trace family roots or for other reasons.

Tips for ensuring a fast and accurate Kings County, NY public records search include:

Kings County Public Records Offer Variety of Sources

Kings County, NY public records may come from a variety of sources and archives, depending on the type of records searched for and the year in which the event (birth, death, marriage) took place. Some of the public records for Kings County can be located through the County Clerk’s office, while others are available through the office of the City Clerk. Still other Kings County government public records are held at the county courts and more are located through the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

Kings County Public Records Locations Vary by Date

The date on the public records in Kings County, New York will also determine where the document is held. Kings County birth and death certificates prior to 1910 and 1949 respectively are located at the New York City Municipal Archives. Certificates dated later are kept on file at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

While the City Clerk holds of the marriage records for Kings County, public records older than 50 years must be requested through the Record Room Division. Divorce records for this county are found through the Kings County Clerk’s Office.

Finding Online King County Public Records

The good news for archivists and other requesting public records from Kings County is that there are online options available today. Birth, death and marriage records at the New York City Municipal Archives can be searched for online, and certified copies can be requested online as well. The Vital Records Office of the New York City Department of Health also offers an online New York public records search option for birth and death certificates.