craven county public records: how to find and request them

What these records include

Craven County maintains public records that document local government activity and community life, from land transactions to board minutes. Under North Carolina’s Public Records Law, most materials are open to inspection unless a statute makes them confidential. Knowing the right office and the right terms can make your search fast and accurate.

Where to look

Start with the office that creates the record. Many collections are searchable online, while others require an in-person visit or a written request.

• Register of Deeds: deeds, plats, liens, births, deaths, and marriages.
• Clerk of Superior Court: civil, criminal, and estate/probate files.
• Sheriff’s Office: incident and accident reports, inmate information.
• Planning/GIS: maps, permits, zoning and address data.
• County Administration: agendas, budgets, contracts, and policies.

Requesting effectively

Describe the record by type, date range, names, and parcel or case numbers. Ask for copies or inspection, and note your preferred format. Reasonable fees may apply for copies or extensive data work, and certain details can be redacted by law. Turnaround times vary, but polite, specific requests usually move faster.