Courthouse Main Entrance closed for remodeling starting September 3rd until further notice - The public will need to use the door on the Southwest corner of the courthouse.
Real Estate Records
Are abstracts recorded or stored in the Recorder's Office?
No, the Recorder’s Office does not record or store abstracts. Usually, the abstract is given to the property owner to keep in a safe place at the time of purchasing the property.
Are wills recorded in the Recorder’s Office?
No. Wills are generally filed at the Clerk of Court’s office:
220 N. Washington Ave. (2nd floor)
Mason City, IA 50401
Phone: 641-424-6431
How do I add or remove a name from my property?
The Recorder’s Office cannot assist property owners in preparing documents. It is wise to contact an attorney for advice on adding or removing names to property records.
How do I change the mailing address of my property tax bill?
The County Auditor’s Office can update the mailing address where your tax bill is mailed. Please call 641-421-3028.
What is the current real estate transfer tax for real estate sales?
This calculation is based on a $1.60 tax per thousand and the first $500 is exempt.
Where can I get a replacement abstract?
Cerro Gordo Abstract Company
305 N. Federal Ave # 2
Mason City, IA 50401
Phone: 641-423-1145
Vital Statistics
How can I obtain a certified copy of a death certificate?
If the death occurred between 1954 and the present you can obtain the record at any County Recorder’s Office in the State of Iowa. Prior to 1954, please contact the county office where the death occurred.
Requesting Death Records
How can I obtain a certified copy of a marriage certificate?
If the marriage occurred between 1954 and the present you can obtain the record at any County Recorder’s Office in the State of Iowa. Prior to 1954, please contact the county office where the marriage application was filed.
Requesting Marriage Records
How can I obtain a certified copy of my birth certificate?
Cerro Gordo County Recorder
220 N. Washington Ave.
Mason City, IA 50401
Phone: 641-421-3056
Please call with any questions.
Requesting Birth Records
How does an officiant register to perform marriages in Iowa?
There is no formal “registration” of Officiants in Iowa. You are authorized to solemnize marriage ceremonies in Iowa if you are:
- An Iowa judge, magistrate, or associate judge serving on the Iowa supreme court, court of appeals, or district court; or
- An individual ordained or designated as a leader of the person’s religious faith, regardless of the state of residence or service (595.10)
Is there a fee to get married at the courthouse?
There is no fee to get married at the courthouse in front of a Magistrate Judge. Please contact the Clerk of Court to set up an appointment by calling 641-424-6431.
Is there a fee to record military discharge records or to get certified copies of them?
No. We will record your military documents at no fee and provide certified copies at no fee.
Request a Record
Once we pick up our marriage license, how long is it valid?
Once it is picked up from the Recorder’s Office, it is good until you are married. The Recorder’s Office will hold the paperwork for six months. If not picked up before the expiration of six months, it will expire and be unusable.
What do I need to bring in to get a marriage license?
- Both parties need a current government-issued photo ID (driver’s license) or passport.
- $35 fee, cash or credit card only accepted (3% fee applies for credit card).
- One witness,18 years of age or older. They must know both parties.
What is the fee for a certified copy of a birth, death or marriage record?
$15 per certified copy. Cash, checks, and credit cards are accepted (fee applies to credit card transactions).
Where can I get a copy of my military discharge papers?
Military discharge records are not available to anyone who cannot prove they are entitled to the record. Identification must be given to prover entitlement (unless the record is 62 years or older).
Request a Record
Where can I obtain a divorce record?
Divorce records are court actions, so they are kept at the Clerk of Court: 641-424-6431.
Where do I get a marriage license?
Who can request a birth, marriage, or death certificate?
Entitlement to a record includes the person named on the record, or the person’s spouse, children, legal parents, grandparents, grandchildren, siblings, or legal representative or guardian (legal guardians and representatives must provide proof of guardianship or representation). Applicant must be 18 years old or older.
Other Questions
Where can I get a passport?
