Records and Research

Austin Development Services maintains records such as permits, site plans, easements, certificates of occupancy, variances, environmental inspections, maps, reports, and other related documents for projects within the City of Austin and makes them available to the public upon request.

Search for Records Online

Many records are available online by searching within the following portals:

• Austin Build + Connect (ABC) Portal Public Search
• City of Austin Open Data Portal

How to Request Records and Files

For additional assistance in obtaining records or researching a property:

Step 1: Submit a Public Information Request

Submit a public information request (PIR) by using one of the following methods:

• City’s online Public Records Center
• Email: public.information@austintexas.gov
• US Mail: P.O. Box 689001, Austin, Texas, 78768-9001
• Hand Delivery: City Hall, 4th Floor, 301 W. 2nd Street

Step 2: Pay invoice (if required)

You will receive an email with an invoice for the cost of retrieving the archived records. You must pay the invoice before we retrieve the records.

Step 3: Receive electronic documents

Once you pay the invoice, we will retrieve the records, scan them, and email them to you.

If you do not have access to email and would like to see the physical record, please let the staff member know you would like to see the record in person. They will notify you when it arrives at the Permitting and Development Center, and you will need to make an appointment for your visit (see the Appointment section).

Appointments

Appointments are available with the Records and Research team for individuals who cannot access email, who prefer to review records in person before receiving an electronic copy, or who have been notified by staff that requested records are on-site and ready for viewing. Physical records are not stored on-site.