Maricopa County Property Records
What Is Maricopa County Property Records
Maricopa County property records are official documents that record ownership, transfers, and encumbrances of real property within the county's jurisdiction. These records serve as the authoritative source of information regarding land and buildings located in Maricopa County, Arizona. Property records establish legal ownership through a documented chain of title, provide public notice of property interests, protect property rights, and facilitate real estate transactions.
Pursuant to Arizona Revised Statutes § 11-461, the Maricopa County Recorder is responsible for maintaining these vital records. The statute mandates that "the recorder shall record all deeds, patents, certificates of sale, judicial decrees, judgments, mortgages, leases, assignments, and other instruments of writing which by law are required to be recorded."
Property records in Maricopa County include:
- Deeds (warranty, quitclaim, special warranty)
- Mortgages and deeds of trust
- Liens (tax, mechanic's, judgment)
- Easements and covenants
- Plat maps and surveys
- Property tax records
- Building permits and certificates of occupancy
The Maricopa County Assessor's Office maintains property valuation records, while the Maricopa County Recorder maintains ownership and encumbrance records. Together, these offices provide a comprehensive system of property documentation that serves both governmental and public interests.
Maricopa County Recorder's Office
111 S. 3rd Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85003
602-506-3535
Maricopa County Recorder
Are Property Records Public Information In Maricopa County?
Property records in Maricopa County are public information and accessible to all citizens under Arizona law. The legal foundation for this public access is established in the Arizona Public Records Law (A.R.S. § 39-121), which states that "public records and other matters in the custody of any officer shall be open to inspection by any person at all times during office hours."
Additionally, A.R.S. § 11-461 specifically addresses property records, requiring that instruments affecting real property be recorded and made available to the public. This transparency serves several important public interests:
- Establishes clear property ownership rights
- Provides notice of encumbrances and restrictions
- Prevents fraud in real estate transactions
- Facilitates property taxation and assessment
- Enables market research and analysis
Members of the public may access property records without demonstrating any specific interest in the property or providing a reason for their request. This open access policy reflects the fundamental principle that property ownership is a matter of public record in the United States legal system.
The county maintains these records in both physical and digital formats, with an increasing emphasis on electronic accessibility to improve public convenience while maintaining record integrity.
How To Search Property Records in Maricopa County in 2026
Maricopa County offers multiple methods for searching property records. The county has modernized its systems to provide efficient access while maintaining record security. Members of the public may utilize the following methods to search property records:
Online Search Portal:
- Visit the Maricopa County Recorder's Office website
- Select the appropriate search option (name, document number, recording date)
- Enter the relevant search criteria
- Review the results list and select specific documents to view
- Download or print documents as needed (fees may apply)
In-Person Research:
- Visit the Recorder's Office during regular business hours
- Complete a records request form at the public terminal
- Provide specific search criteria to staff
- Review documents on-site
- Request copies of relevant records (fees apply)
Mail or Email Requests:
- Download and complete the records request form from the county website
- Specify the documents needed and provide search criteria
- Include payment for applicable fees
- Submit request via mail or email to the Recorder's Office
- Receive documents via mail or electronic delivery
Maricopa County Recorder's Office
111 S. 3rd Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85003
602-506-3535
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Maricopa County Recorder
For property valuation and tax assessment records, the Maricopa County Assessor's Office maintains a separate database that can be searched by parcel number, address, or owner name.
How To Find Property Records in Maricopa County Online?
Maricopa County has developed comprehensive online resources for accessing property records digitally. The county's commitment to technological advancement has resulted in user-friendly interfaces that facilitate efficient property research. To find property records online, follow these steps:
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Access the Maricopa County Recorder's Document Search for ownership and transaction records
- Search by name, recording date, or document number
- Results provide document type, recording information, and parties involved
- View and download document images (subscription or per-document fees may apply)
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Use the Maricopa County Assessor's Parcel Viewer for property characteristics and valuation
- Search by address, parcel number, or owner name
- View property details including assessed value, square footage, and year built
- Access property maps and aerial photographs
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Check the Maricopa County Treasurer's Property Tax Information for tax status
- Search by parcel number or address
- View current and historical tax information
- Access tax payment history and current balances
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Explore GIS Mapping Applications for spatial property data
- Access interactive maps showing property boundaries
- View zoning information and land use designations
- Examine flood zones, environmental factors, and other geographic data
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Review Interactive Parcel Maps for comprehensive property visualization
- Navigate property boundaries and subdivisions
- Access measurement tools and property dimension data
- View neighboring properties and community features
These online resources are available 24/7, providing convenient access to property information without visiting county offices in person.
How To Look Up Maricopa County Property Records for Free?
Maricopa County provides several options for accessing property records at no cost to the public. While some enhanced services or document copies may require payment, basic property information is available without charge. The following free resources are currently available:
Free Online Resources:
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Maricopa County Assessor's Property Search
- Provides basic property information including owner name, property address, parcel number, and assessed value
- Shows property characteristics such as square footage, year built, and construction type
- Displays property classification and tax area code
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- Offers interactive maps showing property boundaries
- Provides aerial imagery of properties
- Displays basic property information on map interface
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- Shows current tax rates and assessment information
- Provides tax payment status
- Explains valuation methodology
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Public Access Terminals
- Located at the Recorder's Office and Assessor's Office
- Provide free on-site access to property records
- Staff assistance available for research guidance
Maricopa County Assessor's Office
301 W. Jefferson Street
Phoenix, AZ 85003
602-506-3406
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Maricopa County Assessor
While basic property information is available at no cost, fees may apply for:
- Certified copies of documents
- Bulk data requests
- Research assistance beyond standard inquiries
- Document printing or reproduction
Pursuant to A.R.S. § 11-475, the county recorder may charge reasonable fees for copies of records, but must provide public access to records for inspection without charge.
What's Included in a Maricopa County Property Record?
Maricopa County property records contain comprehensive information about real property within the county's jurisdiction. These records distinguish between real property (land and permanently attached structures) and personal property (movable items). Multiple county offices maintain different aspects of property records, creating a complete documentation system. A typical property record includes:
Ownership Information:
- Current property owner name(s)
- Previous owner history (chain of title)
- Dates of ownership transfers
- Type of ownership (individual, joint, trust, corporate)
- Deed information and recording dates
Property Identification:
- Assessor's Parcel Number (APN)
- Legal description
- Property address
- Subdivision or plat information
- Lot size and dimensions
Property Characteristics:
- Land use classification
- Zoning designation
- Building size and specifications
- Year built
- Construction type and materials
- Number of rooms/bedrooms/bathrooms
- Amenities and improvements
Valuation and Taxation:
- Full Cash Value (FCV)
- Limited Property Value (LPV)
- Assessment ratio
- Tax area code
- Annual tax amounts
- Tax payment history
Encumbrances and Restrictions:
- Mortgages and deeds of trust
- Liens (tax, mechanic's, judgment)
- Easements and rights-of-way
- Covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs)
- Homeowners association information
Building and Development:
- Building permits
- Certificates of occupancy
- Code enforcement actions
- Variance approvals
- Conditional use permits
The Maricopa County Planning and Development Department maintains records related to land use regulations and building permits for unincorporated areas of the county, while the Recorder's Office maintains the official ownership and encumbrance records pursuant to A.R.S. § 11-461.
How Long Does Maricopa County Keep Property Records?
Maricopa County maintains property records permanently in accordance with Arizona state law and county records retention schedules. The permanent preservation of these records ensures the continuity of property rights and provides an unbroken chain of title documentation. The retention periods for various property-related documents are as follows:
Permanently Retained Records:
- Deeds and conveyances
- Mortgages and deeds of trust
- Easements and rights-of-way
- Subdivision plats and surveys
- Condominium declarations
- Covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs)
- Annexation and incorporation documents
- Zoning ordinances and amendments
Long-Term Retention Records (25+ years):
- Building permits and certificates of occupancy
- Property tax assessment rolls
- Variance approvals and conditional use permits
- Environmental impact reports
- Historic designation documentation
Medium-Term Retention Records (7-25 years):
- Property tax payment records
- Code enforcement actions
- Temporary easements
- Construction inspection reports
- Temporary use permits
The Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records division establishes retention requirements through the General Records Retention Schedule for All Public Bodies, which Maricopa County follows. Additionally, A.R.S. § 11-461(C) mandates that "The recorder shall keep a permanent record of all papers filed for record."
The county has implemented digital preservation strategies to ensure the long-term accessibility of property records, including:
- Digitization of historical paper records
- Electronic recording of new documents
- Redundant backup systems
- Climate-controlled storage for original documents
- Disaster recovery protocols
These preservation efforts ensure that property records remain available for future generations and maintain the integrity of the county's land records system.
How To Find Liens on Property In Maricopa County?
Liens on property in Maricopa County are recorded as public documents and can be researched through several official channels. A lien search is an essential component of property due diligence, as liens represent claims against property that may affect ownership rights. To conduct a comprehensive lien search, follow these procedures:
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Search the Recorder's Office Records:
- Access the Maricopa County Recorder's Document Search
- Search by property address, owner name, or parcel number
- Filter results by document type (select "lien" categories)
- Review documents for active liens, including:
- Tax liens
- Mechanic's liens
- Judgment liens
- Homeowners association liens
- Child support liens
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Check Tax Records:
- Visit the Maricopa County Treasurer's Property Tax Information
- Search by parcel number or property address
- Review for delinquent property taxes
- Check for tax lien sales certificates
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Review Court Records:
- Search Maricopa County Superior Court Records
- Look for judgments against the property owner
- Check for pending litigation that may result in liens
- Verify if judgment liens have been recorded against the property
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Request a Professional Title Search:
- Contact a title company for a comprehensive title search
- Request a preliminary title report or ownership and encumbrance report
- Professional searches may identify liens not readily apparent in public records
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Check Municipal Records:
- Contact the city or town where the property is located
- Inquire about utility liens or special assessment liens
- Check for code enforcement liens or unpaid municipal fees
Maricopa County Recorder's Office
111 S. 3rd Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85003
602-506-3535
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Maricopa County Recorder
Liens in Arizona are governed by various statutes, including A.R.S. § 33-992 for mechanic's liens and A.R.S. § 42-17153 for property tax liens. These statutes establish the requirements for creating valid liens and the procedures for their enforcement.
What Is Property Owner Rule In Maricopa County?
The Property Owner Rule in Maricopa County refers to a set of regulations governing property ownership, development rights, and land use within the county's jurisdiction. These rules establish the legal framework for property ownership and define the rights and responsibilities of property owners. Key aspects of the Property Owner Rule include:
Ownership Rights and Restrictions:
- Fee simple ownership conveys the most complete bundle of rights
- Property rights are subject to government regulations and private restrictions
- Owners must comply with Maricopa County Ordinances, Regulations and Codes
- Deed restrictions and covenants may impose additional limitations
Zoning and Land Use Regulations:
- Properties are subject to zoning classifications that determine permitted uses
- The Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance establishes development standards
- Special use permits may be required for certain activities
- Variances may be granted for hardship situations
Development Rights:
- Building permits are required for new construction and significant renovations
- Development must comply with building codes and safety standards
- Environmental regulations may restrict development in sensitive areas
- Historical preservation designations may limit property modifications
Property Tax Obligations:
- Owners are responsible for paying annual property taxes
- Tax rates are determined by the property's assessed value
- Tax exemptions may apply to certain property types or owner categories
- Failure to pay taxes can result in tax liens and potential foreclosure
Water Rights:
- Arizona follows the doctrine of prior appropriation for water rights
- Groundwater rights are regulated by the Arizona Department of Water Resources
- Surface water rights are separate from land ownership
- Water rights may be transferred separately from property
The legal foundation for these rules is established in Arizona state law, including A.R.S. Title 33 governing property rights and A.R.S. Title 11, Chapter 6 addressing county planning and zoning authority. The Maricopa County Planning and Development Department administers many of these regulations for unincorporated areas of the county.
Property owners seeking to understand specific regulations affecting their property should consult with the appropriate county department or seek legal advice from a real estate attorney familiar with Maricopa County regulations.
Lookup Property Records in Maricopa County
Maricopa County Assessor's Office