Standard Recording Requirements

Florida Statutes require that all documents submitted for recording meet the following standard requirements:

  • Be an original or certified copy; Photocopies are not accepted.
  • Be no larger than 8.5” x 14” in size, unless the document is a plat.
  • Leave a 3” x 3” space in the upper right corner of the first page for the Clerk’s recording stamp, and a 1” x 3” space in the upper right corner of each subsequent page. See Example: Stamp Template for Recorded Documents(PDF, 116KB)
  • Be legible, with black print or typing. Images, signatures, and seals must be clear and readable.
  • Contain signature(s) that match the name(s) in the body of the instrument; Signatures should be legible and correctly spelled.
  • Include a Sarasota County legal description, instrument number or case number.
  • Include payment of statutory Recording Fees and Taxes.
  • Documents presented for recording must meet all statutory requirements, be fully executed, and include any referenced attachments.
  • If a document is not in English, it must be presented with an original certified translation.

There may be additional requirements or fees for certain documents. Please see Specific Recording Requirements by Type of Document.

Documents that do not meet all recording requirements will be returned to the requester.

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