Marriage records in Lee County, Florida, are available through several channels — online tools, the office of the county clerk of court, an in-person visit, or a mail request. LeeCourt.us can help find public information about county marriage records. Additionally, the Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller issues marriage licenses and maintains the corresponding documents. Residents and applicants can also contact the Florida Department of Health for certified copies of marriage certificates at the state level.
Lee Marriage Records Search
In Lee County, marriage records are maintained by the Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller. This office is responsible for issuing marriage licenses, registering returned marriage certificates, and storing historical records. The collection includes marriage licenses issued in the county, marriage certificates filed after the ceremony, and archival documents from previous decades.
The clerk operates within the 20th Judicial Circuit of Florida, which serves Lee County along with several neighboring counties. To search records, you can use the clerk's online portal or visit the office in person.
Marriage records in Florida are public documents according to the Florida Public Records Law (Chapter 119). Anyone can request an informational copy, although there may be additional requirements for obtaining a certified copy.
Certified Marriage Record Copies and Fees in Lee
The cost of services depends on whether you contact the county clerk's office or the Florida Department of Health. Typical fees are listed below.
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Certified copy of marriage certificate (Clerk of Court) | $5.00 for the first page; $4.00 for each additional page |
| Record search (Clerk of Court) | $2.00 per year searched |
| Certified copy via Florida Department of Health | $5.00 |
| Additional copy (same order, via DOH) | $4.00 |
Fees are set according to Florida Statutes, specifically Chapter 28 (clerk fees) and Chapter 382 (vital records fees). The processing time for a request at the clerk's office is usually one to several business days for in-person requests. Mail requests through the Department of Health may take four to six weeks.
Order Marriage Certificates Online or In Person in Lee
There are several ways to order a copy of a marriage certificate, depending on your needs and convenience.
Online
Certified copies of marriage certificates can be ordered through the official portal of the Florida Department of Health. The system allows you to apply and pay fees online. The copy will be mailed to the specified address. Additionally, LeeCourt.us provides links to relevant resources for record searches.
In Person
Visit the clerk's office in Fort Myers. A walk-in visit is usually sufficient with a valid photo ID. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or credit card.
By Mail
To order by mail through the Florida Department of Health, you need to:
- Complete an application for a record copy (form available for download from the DOH website).
- Include a copy of a valid photo ID.
- Enclose a money order or check for the appropriate amount, payable to "Vital Statistics."
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
- Send the package to the address:
You can also send a request directly to the Lee County clerk's office. Include the full names of both spouses, the approximate date of marriage, and the purpose of the request in the letter. Add the appropriate payment and a copy of your ID.
For more information on county court resources, visit the Lee County page on the Florida Courts portal or contact the Lee County Law Library for self-research.