Horry County Public Records

Horry County public records are official documents maintained by local government offices, including court cases, property deeds, and vital records. These records are used for legal matters, research, genealogy, and verifying property or personal information. They provide transparency and a reliable way to confirm important details about people, properties, and legal proceedings. Accessing these records enables residents, businesses, and researchers to make informed decisions and comply with local regulations.

Public records in Horry County cover land and property ownership, birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates, as well as court filings, criminal records, and other official documents. This page explains how to locate these records through government offices such as the Clerk’s Office, Register of Deeds, and local courts, while also mentioning third-party sources that provide aggregated public record information. People access these records for legal purposes, genealogical research, property verification, and other informational needs, making accurate guidance essential for efficient searching.

What Constitutes Public Records in Horry County

Public records in Horry County are official documents created or maintained by government agencies that are available for public review. These include vital statistics, property documents, court records, and other government records used for legal, research, or personal purposes.

Public records, also called government records or public data, provide a formal record of activities, transactions, and decisions. They are maintained to ensure transparency, support legal processes, and serve as a historical record. Horry County organizes these records across multiple departments, making them accessible for various needs such as property transactions, genealogical research, or legal verification.

Types of Public Records

Horry County maintains a wide range of public records, each serving specific purposes:

• Vital Records: Birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees. These are essential for legal identification, family history research, and inheritance matters.
• Property and Real Estate Records: Deeds, mortgages, liens, plats, and tax records. These documents are crucial for real estate transactions, title verification, and property tax assessments.
• Court and Legal Records: Civil, criminal, probate, and traffic case documents. These records are used by attorneys, researchers, and citizens checking case status or legal history.
• Probate and Estate Records: Wills, estate inventories, and guardianship documents. These support legal proceedings and family estate management.
• Official Government Data: Licenses, permits, tax liens, and municipal filings. These provide transparency in public administration and regulatory compliance.

Use Cases for Public Records

Different types of public records serve specific purposes for residents, researchers, and professionals:

1. Property Transactions: Buyers and sellers rely on deeds, liens, and tax records to ensure legal ownership and assess property value.
2. Genealogical Research: Vital records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, help trace family histories.
3. Legal Research and Verification: Court records and probate documents support lawyers, judges, and citizens in legal matters.
4. Business and Compliance: Licenses, permits, and tax data assist businesses in maintaining regulatory compliance.

Table: Key Horry County Public Records

How to Search Public Records

Searching for Horry County public records requires using the right tools and following a correct search method. Knowing how to search effectively helps users locate court, property, and land records quickly and accurately.

How to Search Court Records

To find court records efficiently, follow these steps:

1. Use full legal names or case numbers for accurate results.
2. Set the correct date range to narrow search results.
3. Select the appropriate record type, such as civil, criminal, traffic, or family court.
4. Combine multiple searches across portals to ensure a complete result.

Tips for accuracy:

• Some older records may only be available in person at the courthouse.
• Keep parcel numbers, book/page numbers, or case numbers ready.
• Cross-check results with multiple portals for accuracy.

Where to View Records and Online Search Portals

Horry County offers several official portals for public records. The following table summarizes their uses, search methods, and costs:

These portals allow public data search and efficient record access. Official sources are the most reliable, while third-party aggregators can be convenient but sometimes less complete or accurate.

Using the Tools Effectively

• Begin with the official public index for court cases.
• Cross-reference property data with the Register of Deeds and GIS tools.
• Be aware of document download fees for certified copies.
• Combine multiple search parameters to reduce irrelevant results.

Searching a Property Deed

1. Go to https://www.horrycounty.org/departments/Register-of-Deeds
2. Enter the property owner’s full legal name.
3. Review search results and select the correct book/page or document type.
4. Download the document, noting the $1–$5 per-document fee.

For a court case:

1. Visit https://www.horrycountysc.gov/courts/public-index
2. Enter case number or party names.
3. Filter results by filing date or case type.
4. Access case documents, paying $0.50–$2 per page if downloading.

Following this method ensures a Horry County public records search is accurate, efficient, and clear about the costs and document access.

Property & Land Records

Property and land records in Horry County provide official information on who owns a property, any liens or mortgages, and the legal history of the land. They can be accessed online, in person, or by mail for research, real estate, or legal purposes.

Role of the Register of Deeds

The Horry County Register of Deeds is responsible for maintaining accurate public records for all property transactions in the county. This office ensures deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, and other property-related documents are officially recorded and accessible. The Register of Deeds plays a central role in preserving property ownership history and legal documentation.

Documents recorded at this office include:

• Deeds – transfers of property ownership
• Mortgages and liens – claims on property for unpaid debts
• Plats and surveys – maps detailing property boundaries
• Easements – legal rights for land use
• Condominium liens – financial claims on shared property
• UCC filings – liens on personal property used as collateral

Maintaining these records ensures that property transactions are legally recognized, protects ownership rights, and supports legal and financial transactions across Horry County. This office operates under the Horry County Government and provides transparency in property ownership and land records.

How to Search / Access Property Records

Property records in Horry County are publicly available through multiple channels, allowing residents, homebuyers, and professionals to retrieve detailed land information. Quick access can be obtained online or in person.

Online Access:

• The official Horry County land records portal: acclaimweb.horrycounty.org
• Public index search for deeds, mortgages, and plats using Book/Page numbers, owner name, date, or legal description
• Secondary resources for property lookup: publicofficelocator.com

In-Person and Other Methods:

• Visit the Horry County Register of Deeds office
• Phone, fax, or mail requests for records
• Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• Phone: (843) 915-5430
• Fax: (843) 915-6430
• Mailing address available on the Horry County Government website

Fees and Payment:

• Fees vary depending on document type or copy requested
• Acceptable payment methods include debit and credit cards (convenience fees may apply)

Information Returned in Searches:

When performing a property or parcel search, users can access:

• Owner names
• Parcel details (size, location, boundaries)
• Liens and easements
• Transfer history/title history
• Legal description and Book/Page numbers

Why Perform a Property Search / Use Cases

Property records are essential for anyone dealing with real estate, finance, or legal matters in Horry County. They provide clear and official insight into ownership and property history.

Common Uses Include:

1. Homebuyers and real-estate investors: Verify ownership, liens, and transfer history before purchase.
2. Legal and financial due diligence: Ensure properties are free from claims or encumbrances.
3. Genealogy research: Trace family land ownership over time.
4. Lien searches: Identify unpaid taxes, mortgages, or condominium assessments.

Using official property records ensures accurate information. Relying on incomplete third-party data can lead to errors in purchase decisions or legal disputes. Public records provide a trustworthy source for confirming real estate transactions, parcel history, and property rights.

Vital Records: Birth, Death, Marriage, Divorce

Vital records in Horry County include official documents of births, deaths, marriages, and divorces. These records are maintained by county and state offices and can be requested by eligible individuals.

What Are Vital Records

Vital records are official documents that record key life events, such as births, deaths, marriages, and divorces, forming part of Horry County’s vital statistics. Birth records list the child’s name, birth date, place of birth, and parent information, while death records show the date, cause, and location of death. Case Search tools can also help residents locate specific records or verify information efficiently. Marriage records contain the names of the couple, the date of the ceremony, and the issuing authority, and divorce records provide legal proof of marital dissolution. These records serve legal, historical, and genealogical purposes and are often required for identification, benefits, or family research.

Where to Obtain Vital Records in Horry County

Vital records in Horry County are obtained through different offices depending on the record type and date. Birth and death records from 1915 onward can be requested at the Horry County Vital Records Office in Conway, while older or archived records are maintained by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) or state archives. Marriage licenses are generally filed with the Horry County Probate Court, and divorce records are maintained by the Clerk of Court. Historical records may also be accessed online through genealogy databases such as southcarolina.thepublicindex.org, making research easier for family history or legal purposes.

Request Process, Eligibility & Fees

Access to vital records is restricted to eligible individuals such as the person named on the record, parents or legal guardians, close relatives, or authorized representatives. Requests can be made in person, by mail, or through authorized online vendors, and applicants must provide valid identification along with proof of eligibility. Fees for certified copies of birth, death, marriage, or divorce records typically range from $10 to $25 per copy, with additional costs for extra copies. Processing times vary depending on whether the record is current or archived, and some historical documents may take several weeks to retrieve.

When Records Are Restricted, Sealed, or Not Public

Some vital records are restricted due to privacy laws and may not be accessible to the general public. This includes recent birth and death records, divorce records from ongoing cases, or sensitive historical documents. If access is denied, researchers can turn to archived records, genealogy databases, or state archives to find historical information. Understanding these limitations ensures that eligible individuals follow the proper procedures and avoid delays when requesting records in Horry County.

Combining & Navigating Different Record Types

Searching multiple types of public records in Horry County can save time and prevent missed information. Knowing how records overlap and which sources to trust helps ensure a thorough search.

Overlap Between Record Types

Public records often intersect. For example:

• Property Records vs Court Liens: A property may appear clean in the deed records, but still have liens filed in court documents.
• Deeds vs Mortgages: Deeds show ownership, while mortgages reflect financial obligations tied to the property.
• Property vs Tax vs Liens: Tax records indicate outstanding taxes, while lien records reveal claims against a property.

Cross-checking all related records gives a fuller picture of ownership, debts, and legal claims. Professionals, such as real estate agents or legal representatives, often review multiple sources to avoid surprises during property transfers or legal proceedings.

Best Practices for Record Search

Accurate searches depend on precise information. Collecting key details reduces errors and prevents missed records:

• Full Names: Include middle names or suffixes if available.
• Parcel Numbers & Legal Descriptions: Especially useful for property and tax records.
• Book/Page Numbers & Dates: Critical for deeds, mortgages, and court filings.
• Date Ranges: Narrow searches for probate, court cases, or historical records.

Using complete information improves search efficiency and ensures that all relevant documents are located.

Using Third‑Party Aggregators vs Official Sources

Many people rely on record aggregators to combine public data in one place. These services can save time but may have limitations:

Aggregators are useful for preliminary searches, but verifying through official channels is recommended for legal, financial, or official purposes. Using both sources together often yields the most comprehensive results.

When You Might Need Certified Copies or Certified Records

Certain situations require certified records for legal validity:

• Legal Proceedings: Certified court records or deeds may be required in lawsuits.
• Real Estate Transactions: Transfers often need certified property or mortgage records.
• Genealogical Research: Birth, death, or marriage records with certification are accepted as proof.
• Probate and Estate Matters: Certified wills, probate filings, or estate inventories confirm authenticity.

Certified copies are issued by official offices, such as the Horry County Clerk of Court, and carry legal weight that standard copies do not.

Steps How to Request/Access Records in Horry County

To request records in Horry County, first identify the right office (property, vital, or court). Then choose whether to request online, in person, or by mail — and gather the required information and fees to complete your request.

Property / Land Records Lookup

To view property or land records, users can use the county’s online record search or visit the land records office in person. Certified copies are available for purchase when needed.

Online method

• The Horry County Register of Deeds provides a searchable system for deeds, mortgages, plats, liens, and more.
• Users can enter a name, parcel number, or address to view available documents.

In‑person / Mail method

• Office Address: 1301 Second Avenue, Conway, SC 29526. Phone: 843‑915‑5430. Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:45 p.m.
• Mail Requests: Send requests to P.O. Box 470, Conway, SC 29528. Include details of the property and the record needed.

Certified copies

• The Register of Deeds can supply certified copies for a fee. Copy fees vary: small copies cost around $5, larger plats may cost more.
• Payment methods include debit or credit cards, though a small convenience fee may apply.

Vital Records (Birth / Death / Marriage / Divorce) Request Procedure

Requests for vital records follow specific rules for eligibility, fees, and processing.

Who can request

• Typically, only the person named on the record (if old enough), a parent/legal guardian, spouse, or authorized legal representative may obtain certified copies.

Where to request

• The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control maintains statewide vital records. Their main office is in Columbia, SC.
• For recent county-level records, the Horry County Register of Deeds also provides copies.

Forms, fees, and method

• Standard search fees are around $12 and usually include one certified copy. Extra copies cost a few dollars more.
• For marriage licenses, applicants use the Horry County Probate Court in Conway. Fees: $50 for Horry County residents, $75 for other SC residents, and $115 for out-of-state residents.

Turnaround time / What to expect

• Processing through state vital records offices usually takes 5–7 business days.
• Direct requests to the county may yield same-day or quick turnaround.

Court / Official Records Request / Search Procedure

Court records, divorce filings, case documents, and other official records follow different procedures.

Public index search online

• Non-confidential court docket and case information can be searched using the public index portal provided by the South Carolina court system, filtered by county and case type.

In‑person search or copy request

• The main Horry County Clerk of Court office handles Circuit and Family Court records. Address: 1301 Second Avenue, Conway, SC 29526. Phone: 843‑915‑5080. Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• South Strand office in Myrtle Beach is also available: 9630 Scipio Lane, Myrtle Beach, SC 29588. Phone: 843‑915‑5082.

Requesting copies or certified copies

• Copies of case filings, motions, judgments, or verdicts are available through the Clerk’s office.
• Certified copies require a specific request and may incur additional fees.
• For records not maintained by the Clerk or Register of Deeds, requests can be made to the Horry County Public Information Office under the state’s public records law (FOIA).

Contact Info & Office Hours

Users often ask: “Which office should I contact for my record request, and when are they open?” Each office in Horry County has specific responsibilities and set hours, so it helps to know who handles property, court, or vital records before visiting or calling.

Horry County Register of Deeds

• Address: 1301 Second Ave, Conway, SC 29526
• Phone: 843‑915‑5430
• Fax: 843‑915‑6430
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:45 p.m.
• Purpose: Property and land records, certified copies

Horry County Clerk of Court

• Address: 1301 Second Ave, Conway, SC 29526
• Phone: 843‑915‑5080
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• Purpose: Circuit and Family Court records, case documents

Horry County Clerk of Court

• Address: 9630 Scipio Lane, Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
• Phone: 843‑915‑5082
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• Purpose: Circuit and Family Court records for the South Strand area

Horry County Probate Court

• Address: Judicial Complex, 1301 Second Ave, Conway, SC 29526
• Phone: Same as Clerk of Court
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
• Purpose: Marriage licenses, probate records, vital records

Horry County Public Information Office

• Address: 1301 Second Ave, Conway, SC 29526
• Phone: 843‑915‑5390
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• Purpose: FOIA requests, other public records not maintained by the Clerk or Deeds

South Carolina State Vital Records

• Address: 2600 Bull Street, Columbia, SC 29201
• Phone: 803‑898‑3630
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Wednesday: 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• Purpose: Birth, death, marriage, and divorce records

(FAQ) About Public Records

Horry County residents often have questions about public records, who can request them, and how to get copies. This FAQ provides quick, clear answers to common concerns.

Are Horry County public records really public?

Yes, many Horry County public records are available to the public, although some have restrictions. Official documents such as property deeds, court filings, and certain government records can be accessed in person at county offices or through online portals. While transparency is a priority, sensitive records like adoption cases, juvenile court files, or sealed legal documents remain protected to safeguard privacy and comply with state laws.

Who is eligible to request vital records (birth/death)?

Immediate family members and legal representatives are generally eligible to request certified birth or death records in Horry County, while others may only obtain informational copies. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) manages these requests, requiring valid identification and proof of relationship for certified copies. Informational copies are often used for research or personal reference, whereas certified copies are necessary for legal, financial, or governmental purposes.

Are there fees for copies? How much?

Yes, requesting certified copies of Horry County public records requires payment, and costs vary depending on the type of record. For example, certified birth and death certificates typically cost around $15 each, while marriage licenses are usually $10–$15 per copy. Court documents often charge per page, commonly $0.50–$1 per page, and additional fees may apply for expedited service or mailing. Payment methods accepted include cash, check, or credit card, depending on the office handling the request.

Can I search online for free?

Some Horry County records can be searched online at no cost, offering residents access to property records, court dockets, and tax information. However, availability varies by record type, and free online databases may provide only summary details rather than full documents. For more comprehensive or certified copies, in-person requests or paid services are often required, but free online searches are useful for preliminary research and basic information.

What if a record is sealed or restricted?

Sealed or restricted records in Horry County cannot be accessed without proper legal authorization, such as a court order or an attorney’s request. This typically includes adoption records, juvenile court cases, and certain sensitive legal files. Attempting to access restricted documents without permission may violate state law, and individuals must demonstrate legal interest or follow the proper legal channels to obtain these protected records.