Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do you prepare the deed for us?
A: We do not prepare the deeds for you. However, a Title Company, or an attorney can prepare deeds and other documents.

Q: What is the function of the Recorders Office?
A: We keep an accurate record of all property changes. We are the first step in the taxing cycle. It is very important that work is done in a timely manner.

Q: Do we need to record our deed?
A: Yes. It is in your best interest to put your deed of record. This insures that the notice is public, also that the tax notice will go to the rightful owner.  To record your deed, please come to the office, located at 734 North Center Street in Duchesne, Utah, or mail your document with the correct fees and a stamped self-addressed return envelope to Duchesne County Recorder, P.O. Box 916, Duchesne, Utah 84021.

Q: Why didn't I get my tax notice?
A: There could be several reasons why you may not be receiving your tax notice, please call our office, 435-738-1166, and we will be glad to help you.

Q: Would you search the records for us?
A: We do not search records for the public. Our office is open to the public. If you would like a search done, come to our office and we will acquaint you with our records to do the research for yourself, or contact a Title Company.

Q: How do I add/remove a name to/from my property?
A: All name changes must be done with a recorded document. A title company or an attorney may assist you with these documents.

Q: Where can I obtain forms for recording?
A: Most office supply stores carry blank deed forms. The Recorder's office does not supply forms of any kind. Please be aware that you are dealing with legally binding documents. You may wish to seek legal advice.

Q: What are the fees for recording?
A: Please see the fee schedule.

Q: How can I find out what liens are on a property?
A: You may do a title search yourself, or contact a title company to perform the research for you. You should be aware that there may be other liens and judgments or encumbrances affecting your property that will not be found in the Recorder's records.

Q: What can I do to protect myself from a lien or what do I do if there is a lien on my property?
A: In 1994, the Residence Lien Restriction and Lien Recovery Fund Act established a means for the protection of homeowners. The homeowner must comply with the specific requirements of the Act. Questions about the Act may be answered by reviewing the Act found in Title 38-11 of the Utah Code and the corresponding Rules found in Title R156-38 of the Utah Administrative Code. If questions still exist, contact representatives of the Residence Lien Recovery Fund Program at (801) 530-6104 or (801) 530-7632. http://www.dopl.utah.gov

Q: How do I do a title search?
A: If you have a specific document you are looking for, it can be found easily with our various indexes (see Searching the Records), however it is advised that you consult with a Title Company if you need a thorough search of your property.

Q: How can I obtain a copy of my deed?
A: You may request a copy of your current fee simple/surface ownership vesting deed from our office in person, or contact a Title Company.

Q: How do I find the dimensions for my property?
A: If your property is part of a subdivision, the dimensions are found on a copy of the survey plat. If your property is not part of a recorded subdivision, then you may find your dimensions by looking at your vesting deed. Your deed contains a legal description of your property. Be aware that changes may be made to your original dimensions by boundary line agreements, and/or other recorded documents.  You may find images of your property online. From here, return to the Home page, choose "GIS" under "Quick Links", or go to the Duchesne County Surveyor site under "Government".

Q: Why do I need to stand in line when recording a document?
A: Documents are recorded in the order in which they are received. Some documents are received by mail or delivery services, or by online filing, or by personal delivery.

Q: What happens to my document when it is presented for recording?
A: If the document meets the proper requirements and the proper fees have been paid, we accept the document and record it. It is first given a recording validation stamp. Then the document is optically scanned and microfilmed and a copy is made for use in our department. If the document was delivered in person, it is recorded then handed back to that person. If it was mailed, then it will be returned in the envelope provided to us for the return, or to the address on the deed, or as otherwise requested. The data entry department then types pertinent information to create indexes and cross-references to locate the digital copy of the document. The document is checked for proper vesting, legal description, and valid parcel number.  The mapping department checks each document and updates the ownership maps.  The document is then returned to the entry department to create a current tax-roll listing and an abstract history for each parcel of land.

Q: Can I verify a property owner by address?
A: No. Not every parcel of property in the County has an address. Only properties with a building have an address.  Contact the Planning and Zoning Office for official County addresses.

Q: Do you accept remote notary?
A: Yes, for more information go to https://notary.utah.gov/

Q: How to look up old documents on the online subscription system?
A: While we have been uploading the older documents in Onbase, we have found a few hints:

1. If you are looking for documents less than 6 digits, including pre-1915 you need to put an asterisk sign (e.g. *5321) in front of the number.
2. If want to see a group of documents that have sequential numbers e.g. 435920-435929 replace the last number with an * asterisk it should pull them all.