douglas county nebraska public records guide for residents and researchers

What you can find

Douglas County keeps a wide range of public records for accountability and everyday needs, from court dockets to property deeds.

• Court and criminal: case summaries, calendars, judgments.
• Property and land: assessments, ownership history, parcel maps.
• Vital records: marriage licenses and some historical birth or death indexes.
• Permits: building, zoning, and inspection results.

How to access them

Many searches are available online through county portals, while certified copies often require an in-person or mailed request to the appropriate office.

Fees, timing, and privacy

Routine lookups are frequently free, but copies and certifications carry statutory fees. Turnaround for mailed requests typically ranges from a few business days to two weeks, depending on volume.

Not everything is open: records sealed by court order, sensitive personal data, and ongoing investigations are restricted under Nebraska law to protect privacy.

For smoother results, gather exact names, dates, parcel numbers, and case identifiers. If you’re unsure which department holds a record, start with the Clerk of the District Court or the Register of Deeds-they can direct you to the right office.