Dauphin County Recorder of Deeds - Harrisburg, PA

Land Records and Official Recording

Custodian of Real Estate Records

The Dauphin County Recorder of Deeds is the primary office responsible for maintaining the integrity of land records within the county. Since the county's founding in 1785, this office has recorded every deed, mortgage, and property transfer, creating an unbroken chain of title for real estate in Harrisburg and the surrounding municipalities. These records are vital for homeowners, real estate agents, title companies, and legal professionals to establish property ownership and identify any encumbrances.

Key Recording Services

The Recorder of Deeds processes a wide variety of documents that require public notice. The core functions include:

• Deeds and Mortgages: Recording the official transfer of property titles and the securing of loans against real estate.
• Subdivision Plans: Filing approved maps and plats that define property boundaries and development lots.
• Powers of Attorney: Recording legal documents that grant authority for one person to act on behalf of another in financial or property matters.
• Notary Commissions: Recording the bonds and commissions for Notaries Public serving in Dauphin County.
• Military Discharges (DD-214): Providing a secure and permanent record of military service documents for veterans, often free of charge.

Veteran ID Card Program

In recognition of service members, the Recorder of Deeds office typically offers a Veterans ID Discount Card program. Veterans who record their DD-214 discharge papers with the office can receive a photo ID card. This card serves as proof of service and can be used to obtain discounts at participating local businesses, acting as a token of appreciation from the community.

Public Search and Online Access

Transparency is a cornerstone of this office. While historical books are preserved onsite, the Recorder of Deeds provides robust online tools for searching land records. Users can access indices and images of recorded documents remotely, facilitating title searches and historical research without the need for a physical trip to the courthouse. For those visiting in person, staff are available to assist with locating documents, though they cannot perform title searches or provide legal advice.

Fees and Requirements

Recording documents incurs specific fees set by state and local regulations. The office generally accepts cash, checks, and money orders. Documents presented for recording must meet strict formatting standards regarding margins, signatures, and notarization to ensure they are legible and legally binding. Failure to meet these standards may result in the rejection of the document.