Umatilla County Property Records
What Is Umatilla County Property Records
Property records in Umatilla County are official documents that establish and track the legal ownership, transfers, and encumbrances of real property within county boundaries. These records serve as the authoritative documentation of property ownership and interests throughout the county. Pursuant to Oregon Revised Statutes § 205.130, county clerks are required to record and maintain these documents to establish legal chain of title and provide public notice of property interests.
The primary purposes of Umatilla County property records include:
- Establishing legal ownership and chain of title
- Providing public notice of property interests and encumbrances
- Protecting property rights of owners and lienholders
- Facilitating property transactions and transfers
- Supporting property tax assessment and collection
The Umatilla County Records Office maintains the official repository of property records for all real estate within county jurisdiction. These records include deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, and other documents affecting property rights and ownership.
Umatilla County Records Office
216 SE 4th Street
Pendleton, OR 97801
541-278-6270
Umatilla County Records Office
Property records in Umatilla County date back to the county's establishment in 1862, with the earliest records maintained in physical form and more recent records available in digital format. The county has undertaken significant efforts to preserve historical property records while making current records accessible through modern information systems.
Are Property Records Public Information In Umatilla County?
Property records in Umatilla County are public information and accessible to all citizens under Oregon law. The legal basis for public access to these records is established by the Oregon Public Records Law § 192.311-192.478, which mandates transparency in government records, including property documentation.
The public nature of property records serves several important functions:
- Ensuring transparency in land ownership and property transactions
- Providing notice to interested parties about property rights and encumbrances
- Supporting due diligence in real estate transactions
- Facilitating property research for various legitimate purposes
Under Oregon law, any member of the public may access property records without demonstrating a specific interest in the property or providing a reason for the 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 Umatilla County Records Office maintains these public records and makes them available for inspection during regular business hours. Additionally, many property records are now accessible through the county's online portal, though some historical documents may only be available in person at the county office.
It is important to note that while property records are public, certain personal information contained within these records may be subject to redaction under privacy provisions of Oregon law. The county follows established protocols to balance public access with privacy protections as required by statute.
How To Search Property Records in Umatilla County in 2026
Umatilla County offers multiple methods for searching property records. Members of the public may utilize the following procedures to access property information:
Online Search Method:
- Visit the Umatilla County Assessment and Taxation official website
- Navigate to the property records search portal
- Search by one of the following criteria:
- Property owner name
- Property address
- Tax lot number
- Map and tax lot
- Account number
- Review search results and select the property of interest
- Access available property record information including ownership history, tax assessment data, and property characteristics
In-Person Search Method:
- Visit the Umatilla County Records Office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays)
- Complete a records request form at the public counter
- Provide specific property information to assist staff in locating relevant records
- Review records on-site with assistance from county personnel
- Request copies of specific documents as needed (fees may apply)
Mail or Email Request Method:
- Download and complete the official records request form from the county website
- Include specific property information and requested documents
- Submit the completed form via mail or email to:
Umatilla County Records Office
216 SE 4th Street
Pendleton, OR 97801
541-278-6270
Email: records@umatillacounty.gov
For complex property research, the county recommends scheduling an appointment with records staff to ensure appropriate assistance and access to necessary resources. Currently, the county maintains a combination of digital and physical records, with ongoing efforts to expand digital accessibility.
How To Find Property Records in Umatilla County Online?
Umatilla County provides comprehensive online access to property records through its digital portal systems. The county has implemented modern database technology to facilitate public access to property information. To find property records online, follow these specific steps:
- Access the Umatilla County Tax and Assessment Reports portal
- Select the appropriate search option based on available information:
- Property Search (by address or location)
- Owner Search (by current owner name)
- Account Search (by tax account number)
- Map and Tax Lot Search (by legal description)
- Enter the search criteria in the designated fields
- Review the list of matching properties
- Select the specific property to view detailed information
- Navigate through available tabs to access different categories of property data:
- Ownership Information
- Property Characteristics
- Assessment History
- Tax Information
- Transaction History
- Related Documents
The online system provides access to records dating back to 2008, when the Assessment and Taxation Department began maintaining electronic records. For older records, users may need to contact the county office directly.
Additional online resources for Umatilla County property research include:
- GIS Mapping System - provides visual property boundaries and spatial information
- Tax Payment Portal - allows verification of tax status and payment history
- Document Index - searchable database of recorded documents affecting property
Users should note that while basic property information is freely accessible online, obtaining certified copies or accessing certain historical documents may require payment of statutory fees as established by the Oregon Revised Statutes § 205.320.
How To Look Up Umatilla County Property Records for Free?
Umatilla County provides several no-cost options for accessing property records. Members of the public may utilize these free resources to obtain basic property information without incurring fees:
Free Online Access:
The county maintains a public access terminal at the following location:
Umatilla County Assessment and Taxation Office
216 SE 4th Street
Pendleton, OR 97801
541-278-6260
Assessment and Taxation
This terminal provides free access to:
- Property ownership information
- Assessment values
- Tax status
- Basic property characteristics
- Recorded document indexes
Free Public Records Request:
Under Oregon Public Records Law, citizens have the right to inspect public records at no cost. To exercise this right:
- Visit the Umatilla County Records Office during regular business hours
- Complete a records inspection request form
- Specify the property records you wish to view
- Examine the records on-site at no charge
While inspection is free, standard fees apply for obtaining copies of documents according to the county's established fee schedule.
Free Online Resources:
The county's website offers free access to:
- Property tax information through the Tax and Assessment Reports portal
- Property ownership verification
- Tax lot identification
- Assessment values
- Tax status
For comprehensive property research without fees, the county recommends utilizing these free resources in combination. Staff at the county offices can provide guidance on navigating available resources to maximize free access to property information.
What's Included in a Umatilla County Property Record?
Umatilla County property records contain comprehensive information about real property within county boundaries. These records are maintained by multiple county departments, primarily the County Records Office and the Assessment and Taxation Department. Property records typically include the following components:
Ownership Information:
- Current property owner name(s)
- Previous owner history
- Vesting deed information
- Date of acquisition
- Type of ownership (individual, joint, trust, corporate)
Property Identification:
- Tax account number
- Map and tax lot number
- Legal description
- Property address
- Parcel identification number
Physical Characteristics:
- Land size (acreage or square footage)
- Building size and specifications
- Year built
- Construction type
- Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
- Improvement details
- Zoning classification
Financial Information:
- Assessed value (land and improvements)
- Real market value
- Tax assessment history
- Current tax status
- Tax exemptions or special assessments
- Purchase price (from deed records)
Recorded Documents:
- Deeds (warranty, quitclaim, special)
- Mortgages and trust deeds
- Satisfaction of mortgages
- Liens (tax, judgment, mechanic's)
- Easements and rights-of-way
- Covenants, conditions, and restrictions
- Plats and surveys
- Foreclosure documents
In accordance with Oregon Revised Statutes § 308.210, the county assessor maintains assessment rolls that contain detailed property information for taxation purposes. These records distinguish between real property (land and permanently attached structures) and personal property (movable items), with different recording and assessment procedures for each category.
The comprehensiveness of available information may vary based on the property's age, location, and record-keeping practices at the time of recording. More recent property records typically contain more detailed information due to improved data collection methods and digital record-keeping systems.
How Long Does Umatilla County Keep Property Records?
Umatilla County maintains property records according to retention schedules established by the Oregon State Archives under the authority of Oregon Administrative Rules 166-150-0005. These schedules mandate minimum retention periods for various categories of property records. The county often exceeds these minimum requirements, particularly for documents establishing property ownership.
Permanent Retention Records:
- Deeds and conveyances
- Plats and surveys
- Mortgage and trust deed records
- Easements and rights-of-way
- Property assessment rolls
- Tax lot boundary changes
- Original subdivision plats
Long-Term Retention Records (25+ years):
- Property tax records
- Special assessment records
- Annexation records
- Zoning change documentation
- Building permits for significant structures
Medium-Term Retention Records (7-10 years):
- Temporary tax exemptions
- Routine correspondence regarding property
- Certain building permits for minor improvements
- Temporary easements
The County Records Guide maintained by the State of Oregon indicates that Umatilla County has preserved property records dating back to its formation in 1862. Historical property records of enduring value are maintained in perpetuity, with many older records transferred to microfilm or digital formats for preservation.
For records management purposes, the county distinguishes between:
- Active records (current and frequently accessed)
- Semi-active records (occasionally needed)
- Inactive records (historical, rarely accessed)
The physical storage location and accessibility of records varies based on this classification, with active records maintained in county offices and some historical records potentially stored in archival facilities or transferred to the Oregon State Archives for permanent preservation.
How To Find Liens on Property In Umatilla County?
Liens on property in Umatilla County are public records that can be researched through established channels. These encumbrances represent legal claims against property that must be satisfied when the property is sold. To locate liens on Umatilla County property, follow these procedures:
County Records Office Search:
- Visit or contact the Umatilla County Records Office:
Umatilla County Records Office
216 SE 4th Street
Pendleton, OR 97801
541-278-6270
Umatilla County Records Office
-
Request a lien search for the specific property by providing:
- Property owner name
- Property address
- Tax lot number or legal description
-
Specify the time period for the search (current liens or historical search)
-
Review the following lien categories:
- Tax liens (property tax delinquencies)
- Judgment liens (court-ordered)
- Mechanic's liens (unpaid contractors)
- Assessment liens (special district assessments)
- Federal tax liens
- State tax liens
- Child support liens
Online Lien Search:
- Access the county's online records portal
- Search by property information or owner name
- Review recorded documents for the property
- Look specifically for documents titled:
- Notice of Lien
- Judgment
- Tax Warrant
- Lis Pendens
- Notice of Federal Tax Lien
Additional Lien Search Resources:
For comprehensive lien research, the following additional sources should be consulted:
-
Umatilla County Circuit Court
216 SE 4th Street
Pendleton, OR 97801
541-278-0341
(For judgment liens) -
Oregon Secretary of State
UCC Division
255 Capitol St. NE, Suite 151
Salem, OR 97310
503-986-2200
(For UCC financing statements) -
Oregon Department of Revenue
955 Center St NE
Salem, OR 97301
503-378-4988
(For state tax liens)
Lien searches may require payment of statutory fees for certified copies or comprehensive reports. Under Oregon Revised Statutes § 205.160, the county clerk is required to maintain indexes of liens and encumbrances affecting real property, making these records accessible to the public.
What Is Property Owner Rule In Umatilla County?
The Property Owner Rule in Umatilla County refers to the legal framework governing property ownership rights and responsibilities within the jurisdiction. This rule encompasses several key components that property owners must understand:
Ownership Recording Requirements:
Under Oregon law, specifically Oregon Revised Statutes § 93.710, all property ownership transfers must be properly documented and recorded with the county to establish legal title. The Property Owner Rule requires:
- Recording of deeds within 15 days of execution
- Proper notarization of all ownership documents
- Payment of recording fees and transfer taxes
- Disclosure of all parties to the transaction
Property Tax Responsibilities:
The Oregon Department of Revenue oversees property taxation, which is administered at the county level. Property owners must:
- Pay annual property taxes by the established deadlines
- Notify the county of address changes for tax billing purposes
- Apply for any applicable exemptions or special assessments
- Appeal assessed values through proper channels if disputing valuation
Disclosure Requirements:
When transferring property, owners must comply with disclosure requirements including:
- Completion of a Property Disclosure Statement
- Disclosure of known defects or material facts
- Disclosure of environmental issues or hazards
- Compliance with lead-based paint disclosure for pre-1978 properties
Property Use Regulations:
Property owners must adhere to:
- Zoning regulations governing permitted uses
- Building codes for any improvements or modifications
- Setback requirements and height restrictions
- Special overlay districts (historic, environmental, etc.)
Boundary and Survey Requirements:
The Property Owner Rule includes provisions for:
- Respecting established property boundaries
- Proper procedures for boundary disputes
- Requirements for surveys in certain transactions
- Recording of boundary line adjustments
Property owners should be aware that failure to comply with these rules may result in legal complications, tax penalties, or difficulties in future property transactions. The county recommends that property owners consult with legal professionals when questions arise regarding property rights and responsibilities under local regulations.
Lookup Property Records in Umatilla County
Assessment and Taxation - Umatilla County
Tax and Assessment Reports - Umatilla County
Land & Marriage Records + Passports - Umatilla County
County Records Guide - Umatilla County Records - State of Oregon
County Assessor information - Property Tax - State of Oregon