St. Tammany County Property Records
What Is St. Tammany County Property Records
St. Tammany Parish property records are official documents that record ownership, transfers, and encumbrances of real property (land and buildings) within the parish boundaries. These records serve as the authoritative documentation of property ownership and interests throughout St. Tammany Parish. Property records establish legal ownership through a chain of title, provide public notice of property interests, protect property rights, and facilitate real estate transactions.
Pursuant to Louisiana Civil Code § 3338, all instruments affecting immovable property must be recorded to be effective against third parties. The St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court maintains these records in accordance with state law. Property records typically include:
- Deeds and conveyances
- Mortgages and mortgage releases
- Liens and judgments
- Easements and rights-of-way
- Plats and surveys
- Tax assessments and payments
The St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court serves as the official custodian of property records for the parish. The office is responsible for recording, maintaining, and providing public access to these vital documents.
St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court
701 N. Columbia Street
Covington, LA 70433
(985) 809-8700
St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court
Are Property Records Public Information In St. Tammany County?
Property records in St. Tammany Parish are public information and accessible to all citizens under Louisiana law. The Louisiana Public Records Act (La. R.S. § 44:1 et seq.) establishes that all records used in the conduct of public business are public records and must be available for inspection by any person of the age of majority. Additionally, Louisiana Civil Code Article 3338 specifically addresses the public nature of property records by requiring their recordation to establish rights against third parties.
The legal basis for public access to property records includes:
- Property ownership is a matter of public record
- Recording statutes require public access to provide notice to interested parties
- Transparency in land ownership serves the public interest
- Anyone can access property records without demonstrating a specific interest or reason
The St. Tammany Parish Government recognizes the importance of public access to property records and has implemented systems to facilitate this access both in person and online. Members of the public may inspect property records during regular business hours at the Clerk of Court's office or access many records through the parish's online portal systems.
It is important to note that while property records are public, certain personal information may be redacted in accordance with privacy laws. However, the fundamental information regarding property ownership, transfers, and encumbrances remains fully accessible to the public.
How To Search Property Records in St. Tammany County in 2026
St. Tammany Parish offers multiple methods for searching property records. Members of the public may utilize the following procedures to access property information:
In-Person Searches:
- Visit the St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court's office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM).
- Complete a records request form available at the public counter.
- Provide specific information about the property (address, owner name, or parcel identification number).
- Staff will assist in locating the requested records.
- Pay applicable fees for copies of documents (currently $1.00 per page for certified copies).
Online Searches:
- Access the St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court's website.
- Navigate to the "Land Records" section.
- Register for an account if conducting detailed searches (basic searches may be available without registration).
- Enter search criteria such as property address, owner name, or legal description.
- Review search results and select documents for viewing.
- Pay applicable fees for document downloads if required.
Search by Tax Assessment Records:
- Visit the St. Tammany Parish Assessor's website.
- Select "Property Search" from the main navigation.
- Enter search criteria (address, owner name, or assessment number).
- Review property assessment information, which often includes ownership details, property characteristics, and valuation.
For complex searches or historical records that may not be available online, the St. Tammany Parish Planning and Development Department can provide additional assistance with property research, particularly for matters related to zoning, land use, and development history.
How To Find Property Records in St. Tammany County Online?
St. Tammany Parish provides comprehensive online access to property records through several official portals. The digital systems allow for efficient searching of property information without visiting parish offices in person. To find property records online, follow these steps:
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Clerk of Court Land Records:
- Navigate to the St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court website.
- Select "Land Records" from the main menu.
- Choose between "Public Access" for basic searches or "Subscriber Access" for more detailed research capabilities.
- Enter search parameters such as owner name, property address, or instrument number.
- Review and select documents from the search results.
- Documents may be viewed, printed, or downloaded according to the system's fee structure.
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Tax Assessment Records:
- Visit the St. Tammany Parish Assessor's website.
- Click on "Search Property Records" or "Property Search."
- Search by owner name, property address, or assessment number.
- Access detailed property information including ownership, valuation, tax status, and property characteristics.
- Property record cards often include building details, lot dimensions, and improvement information.
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GIS Mapping System:
- Access the St. Tammany Parish Geographic Information System (GIS) portal.
- Use the interactive map to locate properties visually.
- Click on parcels to view basic property information.
- Access links to related property records and documents.
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Parish Tax Records:
- Visit the St. Tammany Parish tax information portal.
- Search by property address or tax identification number.
- View current and historical tax payment information.
- Access property valuation and tax assessment details.
The Louisiana Tax Commission also maintains searchable databases that include St. Tammany Parish property information, particularly related to tax assessments and valuations.
How To Look Up St. Tammany County Property Records for Free?
St. Tammany Parish offers several options for accessing property records at no cost, though some enhanced services may require payment. Members of the public seeking free access to property records may utilize the following resources:
Free Online Resources:
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Parish Assessor's Public Search:
- The St. Tammany Parish Assessor's website provides free basic property searches.
- Access information including owner name, property address, legal description, assessment values, and property characteristics.
- No registration or fees are required for basic searches.
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Parish GIS Mapping Portal:
- The St. Tammany Parish GIS system offers free access to parcel maps and basic property information.
- View property boundaries, dimensions, and limited ownership information.
- Access zoning designations and flood zone information.
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Parish Government Website:
- The St. Tammany Parish Government website provides free access to certain property-related information.
- Review public notices, planning documents, and development applications.
- Access information about permits and inspections related to specific properties.
Free In-Person Access:
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Clerk of Court Public Terminals:
- Visit the St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court's office during regular business hours.
- Use the public computer terminals to search property records at no charge.
- Staff assistance is available for navigating the search system.
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Parish Library Resources:
- St. Tammany Parish libraries offer free internet access.
- Use library computers to access the parish's online property record systems.
- Reference librarians may provide assistance with navigating public records websites.
It is important to note that while searching records may be free, obtaining copies or certified documents typically involves fees. Currently, the Clerk of Court charges $1.00 per page for copies and additional fees for certified documents. Additionally, some advanced search features or historical document access may require subscription services that involve payment.
What's Included in a St. Tammany County Property Record?
St. Tammany Parish property records contain comprehensive information about real property within the parish boundaries. These records are maintained by multiple parish offices, each responsible for different aspects of property documentation. The distinction between real property (land and permanently attached structures) and personal property (movable items) is important, as parish property records primarily concern real property.
A complete St. Tammany Parish property record typically includes:
Ownership Information:
- Current property owner's name and contact information
- Previous owners (chain of title)
- Date of acquisition
- Purchase price or consideration paid
- Type of ownership (individual, joint tenancy, community property, etc.)
Property Description:
- Legal description of the property
- Parcel identification number
- Property address
- Lot size and dimensions
- Plat or survey references
- Subdivision information, if applicable
Structural Information:
- Building size and square footage
- Year of construction
- Number of rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms
- Construction materials and quality
- Improvements and additions
- Outbuildings or accessory structures
Financial Information:
- Assessed value for tax purposes
- Market value estimates
- Current and historical tax assessments
- Tax payment history
- Homestead exemption status
Encumbrances and Restrictions:
- Mortgages and deeds of trust
- Liens (tax, mechanic's, judgment)
- Easements and rights-of-way
- Covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs)
- Zoning designations and restrictions
Transaction History:
- Deed recordings and transfers
- Mortgage recordings and releases
- Foreclosure actions, if any
- Property divisions or consolidations
According to Louisiana Civil Code § 3346, the recorder shall maintain a comprehensive index of all recorded documents affecting immovable property, which facilitates the organization and retrieval of these detailed property records.
How Long Does St. Tammany County Keep Property Records?
St. Tammany Parish maintains property records permanently in accordance with Louisiana state law and parish record retention policies. The permanent preservation of property records ensures the continuous documentation of property ownership and interests throughout the parish's history.
The retention periods for various property-related documents are as follows:
Permanent Retention:
- Deeds and conveyances
- Mortgages and mortgage releases
- Plats and surveys
- Subdivision maps
- Easements and rights-of-way
- Property tax assessment rolls
- Judgment liens affecting real property
Extended Retention (20+ years):
- Building permits and certificates of occupancy
- Zoning variances and special use permits
- Property tax payment records
- Code enforcement actions
Limited Retention (7-10 years):
- Temporary construction permits
- Routine inspection reports
- Correspondence related to property matters
- Temporary easements
The Louisiana Public Records Law (La. R.S. § 44:36) establishes the legal framework for records retention, requiring that all public records be preserved according to formal retention schedules. The Secretary of State's Records Management program provides guidance on retention requirements for parish governments.
The St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court has implemented both physical and digital preservation methods to ensure the long-term accessibility of property records. Historical records have been digitized to protect against deterioration and to facilitate public access. The Risk Management Department of St. Tammany Parish Government assists in developing protocols for the protection and preservation of these vital records.
How To Find Liens on Property In St. Tammany County?
Liens on property in St. Tammany Parish can be identified through several official channels. A lien search is an essential component of due diligence in real estate transactions, as liens represent claims against property that may affect ownership rights or transfer of title. To conduct a comprehensive lien search in St. Tammany Parish, follow these procedures:
Clerk of Court Lien Search:
- Visit the St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court's office in person or access their online records system.
- Search under the property owner's name or the property's legal description.
- Review the following lien categories:
- Judgment liens
- Tax liens
- Mechanic's and materialmen's liens
- Mortgage liens
- Child support liens
- Federal tax liens
Tax Collector's Office Search:
- Contact the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office Tax Division, which serves as the parish tax collector.
- Request information about outstanding property tax liens.
- Verify if the property has delinquent taxes that may result in a tax sale.
Online Lien Search Options:
- Access the Clerk of Court's online records system.
- Navigate to the lien records section.
- Enter the property owner's name or property description.
- Review search results for active liens.
- Pay applicable fees for detailed lien documents.
Parish Tax Records:
- Visit the St. Tammany Parish tax information portal.
- Search by property address or tax identification number.
- Review for any tax delinquencies or liens.
Additional Lien Search Resources:
- Louisiana Secretary of State: Search for UCC filings that may affect property.
- Federal Court Records: Check for federal tax liens or bankruptcy proceedings.
- Parish Code Enforcement: Verify if any code violation liens exist against the property.
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office Tax Division
701 N. Columbia Street
Covington, LA 70433
(985) 809-8217
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office
Professional title companies operating in St. Tammany Parish can also conduct comprehensive lien searches as part of their title examination services, though these typically involve service fees.
What Is Property Owner Rule In St. Tammany County?
The Property Owner Rule in St. Tammany Parish refers to the legal framework governing property ownership rights, responsibilities, and restrictions within the parish. This rule encompasses various regulations established by state law and parish ordinances that affect how property may be owned, used, and transferred.
Key components of the Property Owner Rule in St. Tammany Parish include:
Ownership Recording Requirements:
Pursuant to Louisiana Civil Code Article 3338, all instruments affecting immovable property must be recorded in the parish where the property is located to be effective against third parties. This recording requirement is fundamental to establishing legal ownership in St. Tammany Parish.
Property Tax Obligations:
Property owners in St. Tammany Parish are required to pay annual property taxes based on the assessed value of their property. The St. Tammany Parish tax system establishes:
- Tax payment deadlines (typically due by December 31)
- Homestead exemption eligibility and application procedures
- Consequences for tax delinquency, including potential tax sales
Land Use and Zoning Regulations:
The St. Tammany Parish Planning and Development Department administers regulations that control how property may be used, including:
- Zoning districts and permitted uses
- Subdivision regulations
- Building setback requirements
- Height restrictions
- Density limitations
Building and Construction Requirements:
Property owners must comply with building codes and permit requirements administered by the St. Tammany Parish Permits and Inspections Department, including:
- Building permit requirements for new construction and renovations
- Compliance with parish-adopted building codes
- Inspection requirements during construction
- Certificate of occupancy requirements
Property Transfer Rules:
When transferring property in St. Tammany Parish, owners must adhere to specific procedures:
- Proper deed execution and notarization
- Recording of transfer documents with the Clerk of Court
- Payment of transfer taxes and recording fees
- Disclosure requirements regarding property conditions
Special District Regulations:
Some properties in St. Tammany Parish are subject to additional regulations based on their location within special districts:
- Historic district preservation requirements
- Flood zone building restrictions
- Wetland protection regulations
- Scenic river corridor restrictions
Property owners should consult with the appropriate parish departments or legal professionals to ensure compliance with all aspects of the Property Owner Rule applicable to their specific property.
Lookup Property Records in St. Tammany County
St. Tammany Parish Property Taxes
Louisiana Tax Commission Property Records
St. Tammany Parish Permits and Inspections