Walton County Property Records
What Is Walton County Property Records
Walton County property records constitute the official documentation of real estate ownership, transactions, and characteristics within Walton County, Florida. These records are maintained by several county departments in accordance with Florida Statutes Chapter 119, which governs public records. Property records serve as the authoritative source for determining ownership rights, property boundaries, tax obligations, and land use restrictions.
The primary custodians of property records in Walton County include:
Walton County Clerk of Court
571 US Highway 90 East
DeFuniak Springs, FL 32433
(850) 892-8115
Walton County Clerk of Court
Walton County Property Appraiser's Office
571 US Highway 90 East
DeFuniak Springs, FL 32433
(850) 892-8123
Walton County Property Appraiser
Walton County Tax Collector's Office
49 South 7th Street
DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435
(850) 892-8121
Walton County Tax Collector
Property records typically encompass deeds, mortgages, liens, plats, surveys, tax assessments, and other documents that affect real property interests. These records establish chain of title and provide essential information for real estate transactions, property development, and taxation purposes.
Are Property Records Public Information In Walton County?
Property records in Walton County are public information pursuant to Florida's Public Records Law (Chapter 119, Florida Statutes) and Article I, Section 24 of the Florida Constitution. These legal provisions establish the public's right to access government records, including those pertaining to real property.
The following principles govern public access to property records in Walton County:
- All records made or received by Walton County agencies in connection with official business are considered public records unless specifically exempted by law.
- Members of the public may inspect and copy these records during regular business hours.
- Requestors are not required to provide identification or state a purpose for accessing public records.
- Certain personal information may be redacted from public records pursuant to §119.071, Florida Statutes, including social security numbers and certain information pertaining to current or former law enforcement officers.
Walton County maintains multiple access points for property records:
- In-person inspection at the appropriate county office
- Online access through the county's official website
- Written requests submitted to the records custodian
While the records themselves are public, fees may apply for copies or certified documents in accordance with §119.07(4), Florida Statutes. Standard copying fees are $0.15 per one-sided page and $0.20 per two-sided page for documents not exceeding 8.5 x 14 inches.
How To Search Property Records in Walton County in 2025
Walton County offers multiple methods for searching property records in 2025, accommodating various research needs and technological preferences. The county has implemented enhanced search capabilities while maintaining traditional access methods.
To conduct a property records search in Walton County, individuals may utilize the following approaches:
-
Online Property Search Portal: The county's integrated property search system allows users to search by owner name, property address, parcel identification number, or legal description. This system is accessible 24 hours per day through the Walton County website.
-
Geographic Information System (GIS): The county's GIS portal provides map-based property searches with layers displaying ownership, zoning, flood zones, and other relevant data. Users may download certain datasets for offline analysis through the GIS Data portal.
-
In-Person Research: Records not yet digitized or requiring certified copies may be accessed at:
Walton County Clerk of Court - Official Records Division
571 US Highway 90 East
DeFuniak Springs, FL 32433
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
(850) 892-8115 -
South Walton Annex
31 Coastal Centre Boulevard
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
(850) 267-3066
When conducting searches, users should be prepared with specific information about the property of interest. Search parameters may include:
- Property owner's name (current or previous)
- Physical address
- Parcel identification number
- Legal description
- Subdivision name and lot number
Pursuant to Florida Statute §28.24, fees may apply for certain search services and document reproduction.
How To Find Property Records in Walton County Online?
Walton County provides comprehensive online access to property records through several digital platforms maintained by county departments. These resources enable remote research of property information in accordance with Florida's commitment to government transparency.
The primary online resources for accessing Walton County property records include:
-
Property Appraiser's Online Database: This searchable database contains property assessment information, ownership details, structural characteristics, and valuation history. Users may search by owner name, property address, or parcel ID through the Property Appraiser's website.
-
Clerk of Court's Official Records Search: This system provides access to recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and plats. Documents are typically available within 3-5 business days after recording. The search interface allows queries by name, recording date, or document type.
-
Tax Collector's Property Tax Portal: This platform displays current and historical tax information, payment status, and tax certificates. Users may search by owner name, property address, or parcel ID.
-
GIS Map Viewer: The interactive mapping application displays property boundaries, zoning designations, flood zones, and other geographic data layers. Users can identify properties visually and access associated record information through the County Maps portal.
To effectively utilize these online resources, users should:
- Enable pop-up windows in their browser settings
- Have specific search criteria prepared
- Be aware that some older records may not be available in digital format
- Note that certified copies still require in-person requests
Online access is available 24 hours per day, though system maintenance may occasionally limit availability. Technical support for online services is available during regular business hours by contacting the respective department.
Can You Look Up Walton County Property Records for Free?
Walton County provides free access to basic property record information in compliance with Florida's Public Records Law. However, certain specialized services and document reproduction may incur fees as authorized by Florida Statutes §119.07 and §28.24.
The following property record services are available at no cost:
- Basic online searches through the Property Appraiser's database
- Standard GIS map viewing through the county's mapping portal
- In-person inspection of public records during regular business hours
- Self-service computer terminals at county offices
Services that may incur fees include:
- Certified copies of documents ($2.00 per document plus $1.00 per page)
- Extensive research assistance requiring more than 30 minutes of staff time
- Specialized data extractions or custom reports
- Bulk data downloads or specialized GIS data layers
- Document reproduction exceeding 25 pages
Fee schedules are established pursuant to Florida law and are posted at each county office. Payment methods accepted include cash, check, and major credit cards. Fee waivers may be available for certain governmental entities or in cases of demonstrated financial hardship.
For efficient free access to property records, members of the public are encouraged to:
- Utilize online resources when possible
- Have specific search criteria prepared before requesting assistance
- Visit county offices during non-peak hours
- Bring personal devices for capturing digital images of records when permitted
What's Included in a Walton County Property Record?
Walton County property records contain comprehensive information about real estate parcels within county boundaries. These records are maintained across several departments and collectively provide a complete profile of each property.
Standard components of Walton County property records include:
-
Ownership Information: Current and historical property owners, including names, acquisition dates, and transaction details.
-
Legal Description: The official description of the property boundaries as recorded in legal documents, often referencing plats, surveys, or government land divisions.
-
Parcel Identification: The unique numerical identifier assigned to each property for taxation and record-keeping purposes.
-
Valuation Data: Current and historical assessed values, including:
- Just (market) value
- Assessed value
- Taxable value
- Exemption information
-
Structural Information: Details about improvements on the property, including:
- Building size and dimensions
- Construction type and quality
- Year built
- Number of rooms and fixtures
- Special features
-
Land Characteristics: Information about the physical attributes of the land, such as:
- Acreage or lot size
- Topography
- Soil type
- Flood zone designation
- Environmental features
-
Tax Information: Current and historical tax assessments, payment status, and tax sale information if applicable.
-
Recorded Documents: Instruments affecting title or interests in the property, including:
- Deeds
- Mortgages and satisfactions
- Liens and releases
- Easements
- Restrictions
- Plats and surveys
These records are maintained in accordance with Florida Statutes Chapter 695 (Recording) and Chapter 197 (Tax Collection).
How Long Does Walton County Keep Property Records?
Walton County maintains property records in perpetuity in accordance with Florida's records retention schedules established by the Division of Library and Information Services pursuant to Chapter 119, Florida Statutes. These retention policies ensure the preservation of the county's property history for legal, administrative, and historical purposes.
The retention periods for specific property record types include:
-
Deeds and Transfer Documents: Permanently maintained in the Official Records of the Clerk of Court. These documents establish ownership rights and chain of title.
-
Tax Rolls and Assessment Records: Permanently maintained by the Property Appraiser and Tax Collector. Historical assessment data is preserved to document valuation changes over time.
-
Plats and Surveys: Permanently maintained in both paper and digital formats. These documents establish legal boundaries and subdivisions.
-
Building Permits and Inspections: Maintained for the life of the structure plus 10 years, in accordance with Florida Administrative Code 1B-24.003.
-
Zoning and Land Use Records: Permanently maintained to document authorized property uses and development restrictions.
-
Property Tax Payment Records: Maintained for a minimum of 5 years after payment or settlement, though summary information is retained permanently.
Walton County implements the following preservation measures for long-term records:
- Climate-controlled storage for physical documents
- Digital conversion of historical records
- Regular backup of electronic records
- Disaster recovery protocols
- Archival-quality storage materials for critical documents
Records dating back to the county's establishment in 1824 are available, though the format and completeness of very early records may vary. The most comprehensive records date from the early 20th century forward.
How To Find Liens on Property In Walton County?
Liens on property in Walton County are public records that can be researched through several official channels. These encumbrances may include tax liens, judgment liens, construction liens, and other claims against property that affect title.
To locate liens on Walton County property, interested parties may utilize the following methods:
-
Official Records Search: The Walton County Clerk of Court maintains the official index of recorded liens. This database can be searched by:
- Property owner name
- Property legal description
- Recording date range
- Document type (specify "lien" or specific lien types)
Walton County Clerk of Court
571 US Highway 90 East
DeFuniak Springs, FL 32433
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
(850) 892-8115
Walton County Clerk of Court -
Tax Collector's Office: For tax liens and certificates, contact:
Walton County Tax Collector's Office
49 South 7th Street
DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
(850) 892-8121
Walton County Tax Collector -
Title Search: Professional title companies can conduct comprehensive lien searches for a fee. These searches typically include liens filed at both county and state levels.
-
Florida Secretary of State: For Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings that may affect fixtures or other property components.
When searching for liens, researchers should be aware that:
- Some liens expire after specific time periods if not renewed
- Federal tax liens are recorded with the Clerk of Court
- Construction liens must be filed within 90 days of last furnishing labor or materials pursuant to Florida Statute §713.08
- Judgment liens are valid for 10 years and may be renewed for an additional 10 years
Lien searches are commonly conducted during real estate transactions, refinancing, or when establishing clear title to property.
What Is Property Owner Rule In Walton County?
The Property Owner Rule in Walton County refers to the legal principles governing property ownership rights and responsibilities as established by Florida law and local ordinances. This framework defines the scope and limitations of property ownership within the county.
Key components of the Property Owner Rule include:
-
Bundle of Rights: Property owners in Walton County possess specific rights pursuant to Florida law, including:
- Right to use and enjoy the property
- Right to exclude others
- Right to transfer ownership
- Right to possess the property
- Right to control the property within legal limitations
-
Ownership Verification: Legal ownership is established through properly executed and recorded deeds in accordance with Florida Statute §695.01. The Walton County Clerk of Court maintains these official records.
-
Property Boundaries: Property lines are legally defined by recorded plats, surveys, and legal descriptions. Boundary disputes are adjudicated through civil proceedings in accordance with Florida Statute §95.16 regarding boundary by acquiescence.
-
Use Restrictions: Property use is subject to:
- Walton County Land Development Code
- Zoning regulations
- Deed restrictions and covenants
- Easements and encumbrances
- State and federal environmental regulations
-
Taxation Authority: All real property in Walton County is subject to ad valorem taxation unless specifically exempted by law. The Property Appraiser determines value, and the Tax Collector collects levied taxes pursuant to Florida Statute §197.
-
Homestead Protections: Primary residences in Walton County may qualify for homestead exemptions and protections under Article X, Section 4 of the Florida Constitution, providing tax benefits and creditor protections.
Property owners seeking information about their specific rights and responsibilities may contact:
Walton County Planning Department
842 State Highway 20 East, Suite 110
Freeport, FL 32439
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
(850) 267-1955
Walton County Government
Lookup Property Records in Walton County
Walton County Government Website