Burlington County Property Records

What Is Burlington County Property Records

Burlington County property records constitute official documentation that records ownership, transfers, and encumbrances of real property within the county's jurisdiction. These records serve as the authoritative source for establishing legal ownership of land and buildings throughout Burlington County, New Jersey.

Property records in Burlington County fulfill several essential functions:

• Establish legal chain of title and ownership history
• Provide public notice of property interests and transactions
• Protect property rights of owners and interested parties
• Facilitate real estate transactions and property transfers
• Create permanent documentation of property boundaries and characteristics

Pursuant to New Jersey Statutes Annotated § 46:26A-1, all instruments affecting real property in Burlington County must be recorded with the County Clerk's Office to provide constructive notice to third parties. The recording system ensures transparency in property ownership and protects the interests of property owners, potential buyers, and creditors.

The Burlington County Clerk maintains the official repository of property records, which includes deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, and other documents affecting real property interests. These records date back to the county's establishment in 1694, making it one of the oldest continuous property record collections in New Jersey.

Burlington County Clerk's Office
49 Rancocas Road
Mount Holly, NJ 08060
609-265-5122
Burlington County Clerk

Are Property Records Public Information In Burlington County?

Property records in Burlington County are public information and accessible to all citizens under New Jersey law. The public nature of these records is established by the New Jersey Open Public Records Act (OPRA), codified at N.J.S.A. § 47:1A-1 et seq., which guarantees the public's right to access government records.

The legal basis for public access to property records includes:

• Property ownership is fundamentally a matter of public record
• Recording statutes require public accessibility to provide constructive notice
• Transparency in land ownership serves the public interest
• Public access facilitates property transactions and protects property rights

Any member of the public may access Burlington County property records without demonstrating a specific interest in the property or providing a reason for the request. This open access policy reflects the principle that property ownership information should be transparent and available to all citizens.

The New Jersey Supreme Court has consistently upheld the public's right to access property records, noting in Burnett v. County of Bergen that "the public's right to know is not outweighed by the individual's right to privacy" when it comes to property ownership information that has historically been available in the public domain.

Currently, Burlington County provides multiple avenues for accessing property records, including in-person visits to county offices, mail requests, and online search tools. The county has implemented digital systems to enhance public access while maintaining the integrity and security of these vital records.

How To Search Property Records in Burlington County in 2026

Members of the public seeking to search Burlington County property records may utilize several methods to access this information. The County maintains comprehensive systems for property record searches that accommodate various research needs.

To conduct a property records search in Burlington County:

1. Identify the specific property information needed (deed, mortgage, lien, etc.)
2. Gather identifying information about the property (address, block and lot number, owner name)
3. Select the appropriate search method based on information needs and time constraints
4. Submit the search request through the chosen method
5. Pay any applicable fees for certified copies or extensive searches

The primary methods for searching Burlington County property records include:

In-Person Search: Individuals may visit the Burlington County Clerk's Office during regular business hours to conduct searches using public terminals. Staff members are available to provide assistance with navigating the records system.

Online Search: The Burlington County Property Records Portal provides 24/7 access to digitized property records. Users can search by name, property address, or document type. The system currently contains records dating back to 1983, with older records being progressively added to the digital archive.

Mail Request: For those unable to visit in person or use online services, search requests may be submitted by mail to the County Clerk's Office using the Official Records Request Form. Requests must include specific search criteria and appropriate fees.

Professional Search Service: Title companies and legal professionals offer property search services for those requiring comprehensive title searches or complex property research.

Under the provisions of N.J.S.A. § 22A:2-29, the Burlington County Clerk may charge statutory fees for certified copies of property records and extensive search services. Current fee schedules are available on the County Clerk's website.

How To Find Property Records in Burlington County Online?

Burlington County offers comprehensive online access to property records through several digital platforms maintained by county departments. These systems allow for efficient research without requiring in-person visits to county offices.

The primary online resources for accessing Burlington County property records include:

1. Burlington County Clerk's Property Records Search

   • Access at Burlington County Clerk's Records Search
   • Search by grantor/grantee name, property address, or document type
   • View and print non-certified copies of recorded documents
   • Access records dating back to 1983, with older records being progressively digitized

2. Burlington County Property Tax Information System

   • Access through the NJ Transparency Center
   • Search by property address, block and lot, or owner name
   • View assessment information, tax history, and property characteristics
   • Access current and historical property tax data

3. Burlington County GIS Parcel Viewer

   • Access at Burlington County GIS Portal
   • View interactive maps of property boundaries
   • Access property data including ownership, zoning, and land use information
   • Generate custom property reports with parcel information

To conduct an effective online search:

• Ensure you have accurate identifying information (exact property address, correct spelling of names)
• Select the appropriate database based on the type of information needed
• Use advanced search filters to narrow results when searching common names
• Be aware that some older records may only be available through in-person searches

The Burlington County online systems are regularly updated to reflect new property transactions, typically within 2-3 business days of recording. Users should note that while online copies are suitable for informational purposes, only certified copies obtained from the County Clerk's Office serve as official documents for legal proceedings.

How To Look Up Burlington County Property Records for Free?

Burlington County provides several no-cost options for accessing property records, ensuring that essential property information remains accessible to all residents regardless of financial resources. These free services are available both online and in person.

Free property record access options include:

Public Access Terminals: The Burlington County Clerk's Office maintains public computer terminals that provide free access to the property records database. These terminals are available during regular business hours at:

Burlington County Clerk's Office
49 Rancocas Road
Mount Holly, NJ 08060
609-265-5122
Burlington County Clerk

Online Basic Property Information: Basic property information is available at no cost through several online platforms:

• The Burlington County Tax Board provides free access to property assessment data, including owner information, property classification, and assessed value.
• The Burlington County Office of the Tax Assessor maintains records of property assessments and tax information accessible without charge.
• The Burlington County Tax Collector provides property tax payment history and current tax status information.

Municipal Websites: Many Burlington County municipalities maintain their own property information databases that can be accessed for free through their official websites. These typically include basic ownership information and property characteristics.

Public Libraries: Burlington County Library System locations offer free internet access where residents can utilize the county's online property record systems without charge.

While basic property information is available at no cost, fees may apply for:

• Certified copies of documents
• Extensive research assistance
• Copies of large-format documents (maps, surveys)
• Expedited search services

Pursuant to N.J.S.A. § 47:1A-5, government agencies may charge reasonable fees to cover the actual costs of document reproduction, but basic inspection of records must be provided without charge.

What's Included in a Burlington County Property Record?

Burlington County property records encompass a comprehensive collection of documents and information related to real property within the county's jurisdiction. These records are maintained by multiple county offices and contain detailed information about property ownership, characteristics, and encumbrances.

Property records in Burlington County distinguish between:

• Real Property - Land and permanently attached structures, including residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural properties
• Personal Property - Movable assets not permanently affixed to land (not typically included in county property records)

The primary components of Burlington County property records include:

Ownership Documents:

• Deeds (warranty, quitclaim, special warranty)
• Property transfer declarations
• Certificates of title
• Executor's deeds and administrator's deeds
• Tax sale certificates and redemption records

Financial Encumbrances:

• Mortgages and mortgage assignments
• Construction liens and mechanics' liens
• Tax liens and municipal assessments
• Judgment liens affecting real property
• Lis pendens (pending litigation notices)

Property Characteristics:

• Legal description and boundary information
• Property dimensions and acreage
• Building specifications and improvements
• Zoning classification and permitted uses
• Historical property information

Tax and Assessment Information:

• Current assessed value
• Property tax history
• Tax exemptions and abatements
• Special assessment districts
• Tax appeal records

Additional Documents:

• Easements and rights-of-way
• Restrictive covenants and deed restrictions
• Condominium master deeds and amendments
• Subdivision plats and land development plans
• Environmental declarations and notices

In accordance with N.J.S.A. § 46:26A-8, all recorded documents must meet specific formatting requirements and contain essential information to be accepted for recording. This ensures consistency and completeness of the county's property records.

The Burlington County property records system integrates information from multiple county departments, including the County Clerk, Register of Deeds, Tax Assessor, and Tax Collector, providing a comprehensive view of each property's legal and financial status.

How Long Does Burlington County Keep Property Records?

Burlington County maintains property records in perpetuity, preserving the continuous chain of title for all real property within its jurisdiction. This permanent retention policy ensures that complete property histories remain available for legal, historical, and research purposes.

The retention of property records in Burlington County is governed by:

• New Jersey Statutes Annotated § 46:26A-12, which mandates the permanent preservation of recorded instruments
• The New Jersey Division of Archives and Records Management retention schedules for county governments
• Burlington County's records management policies and procedures

Different types of property records are subject to specific retention requirements:

Permanently Retained Records:

• Deeds and property transfer documents
• Mortgages and mortgage satisfactions
• Liens and lien releases
• Easements and rights-of-way
• Subdivision plats and surveys
• Condominium declarations and amendments
• Historical property maps and atlases

Long-Term Retention Records (75+ years):

• Property tax assessment rolls
• Tax sale certificates
• Building permits for significant structures
• Historic preservation documentation
• Environmental impact statements

Medium-Term Retention Records (15-20 years):

• Building inspection reports
• Zoning variance applications
• Temporary easements
• Construction permits for minor improvements

Burlington County employs multiple preservation strategies to ensure the longevity of property records:

1. Climate-controlled archival storage for original documents
2. Digital imaging and microfilming of records for redundancy
3. Regular migration of electronic records to current formats
4. Disaster recovery protocols and off-site backup systems

The County Clerk's Office maintains the oldest property records in Burlington County, with documents dating back to the county's establishment in 1694. These historical records provide valuable insights into the county's development and are preserved as part of New Jersey's documentary heritage.

Researchers seeking historical property records may need to consult with the New Jersey State Archives, which maintains some of Burlington County's earliest property records that have been transferred for permanent preservation.

How To Find Liens on Property In Burlington County?

Identifying liens and encumbrances on Burlington County properties requires a systematic search of records maintained by multiple government offices. Liens represent legal claims against property that must be satisfied before clear title can be transferred.

To conduct a comprehensive lien search on Burlington County property:

1. County Clerk's Office Search

   • Visit or access online the Burlington County Clerk's records
   • Search by property owner name and property address
   • Review for judgment liens, mechanics' liens, and lis pendens
   • Check for federal and state tax liens filed against the property owner

2. Tax Collector's Office Search

   • Contact the municipal tax collector where the property is located
   • Request a tax status certificate showing any delinquent taxes
   • Verify if any tax sale certificates have been issued
   • Check for municipal utility liens (water, sewer, etc.)

3. Special Assessment Search

   • Contact the municipal clerk's office
   • Inquire about special assessments for infrastructure improvements
   • Verify if any municipal code enforcement liens exist
   • Check for environmental cleanup liens

4. Homeowners Association Verification

   • If the property is within a community association, contact the HOA
   • Request verification of any outstanding association dues or assessments
   • Check for notices of claim filed by the association

The most common types of liens found on Burlington County properties include:

• Tax Liens - Claims for unpaid property taxes
• Judgment Liens - Court-ordered claims resulting from lawsuits
• Mechanics' Liens - Claims by contractors for unpaid work
• Mortgage Liens - Lender's security interest in the property
• Municipal Utility Liens - Claims for unpaid water, sewer, or other services
• Federal Tax Liens - IRS claims for unpaid federal taxes
• Child Support Liens - Claims for unpaid court-ordered support

Professional title searchers and title insurance companies typically perform comprehensive lien searches as part of real estate transactions. These professionals have expertise in navigating the various record systems and identifying potential encumbrances that might not be immediately apparent to the general public.

Under N.J.S.A. § 46:8B-21, certain liens, such as condominium association liens, have priority status and should be carefully identified during any property search.

What Is Property Owner Rule In Burlington County?

The Property Owner Rule in Burlington County refers to a set of regulations and legal principles that govern property ownership rights, responsibilities, and restrictions within the county. These rules are derived from New Jersey state law, county ordinances, and municipal regulations.

Key components of the Property Owner Rule include:

Ownership Recording Requirements:

• All property transfers must be recorded with the Burlington County Clerk
• Deeds must comply with N.J.S.A. § 46:15-1.1 formatting requirements
• Recording must occur within a reasonable time after property transfer
• Failure to record may affect priority of ownership claims

Property Tax Obligations:

• Property owners are responsible for timely payment of property taxes
• Tax bills are issued quarterly by municipal tax collectors
• Unpaid taxes become liens against the property
• Properties with delinquent taxes may be subject to tax sale

Disclosure Requirements:

• Sellers must complete property condition disclosure statements
• Environmental hazards must be disclosed to potential buyers
• Known material defects must be communicated during property transfers
• Failure to disclose may result in legal liability

Property Use Restrictions:

• Properties must comply with zoning ordinances and land use regulations
• Historic district properties may have additional preservation requirements
• Wetlands and environmentally sensitive areas have special protections
• Deed restrictions and covenants may limit property use

Boundary and Survey Requirements:

• Property boundaries must be clearly established through surveys
• Boundary disputes are resolved through civil court proceedings
• Adverse possession claims must meet strict legal requirements
• Encroachments may create legal liabilities for property owners

Inheritance and Transfer Rules:

• Property may pass through probate or by operation of law
• Joint tenancy with right of survivorship bypasses probate
• Transfer on death deeds may be used for simplified estate planning
• Estate tax considerations apply to high-value property transfers

Burlington County property owners should be aware that municipalities within the county may have additional regulations affecting property rights. Local ordinances regarding property maintenance, rental properties, and development standards vary by municipality and should be verified with the appropriate local government office.

The Burlington County Board of Taxation oversees property assessment appeals and ensures uniform application of property tax laws throughout the county's municipalities, in accordance with N.J.S.A. § 54:3-1.

Lookup Property Records in Burlington County

NJ Transparency Center

Burlington County Clerk's Office Records

Burlington County Tax Board Information

Burlington County Tax Assessment Records