Keokuk County Recorder

Keokuk County Recorder Our office holds lands records and vital records for the county, as well as, DNR game licensing and recreational vehicle licensing.

The Keokuk County, the Recorder’s Office was established for the purpose of maintaining official records of documents affecting title to real estate and tracking ownership for taxation. The first document was recorded October 1, 1844, as a plat of survey for the public square for the “Town of Sigourney the Seat of Justice in and for the County of Keokuk and the Territory of Iowa.”

Since that ti

me, Keokuk County residents have utilized the Recorder’s Office to record first landowner patents from the U.S. government, deeds and contracts. Other documents recorded include mortgages, affidavits, easements, surveys, power of attorneys, trade names, military discharges and many other documents relating to land. As Iowa laws affecting land have become more complex, so has the job of indexing and storing the record. Personal property liens began in the office as chattel mortgages, which are now recorded as UCC financing statements beginning in the 1960’s. In 2001, all personal property UCC filings will be filed with the Iowa Secretary of State, except for permanent fixture lien filings needing notice in the real estate record. The sale of game licenses began in the Recorder’s Office in the 1930’s through the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Hunting, fishing, fur harvester, deer, turkey and other licenses are available to county residents through an electronic state system beginning in 2000. Boat registrations, titles and liens began in the Recorder’s Office in the 1970’s, expanding to snowmobile and ATV registrations, titles and liens for recreational and farm use. County Recorders became official U.S. Department of State passport agents in 1994. County residents may apply for passports locally with correct documentation. Although, at this time, the Keokuk County Recorder's office is not able to provide this service. County Recorders also became County Registrars, under a statutory change in 1997, recording county births, marriages and deaths. Certified copies are available to eligible applicants and assistance is provided in areas of record amendments, delayed filings, paternity affidavits, and more. Marriage records begin in 1844. Birth and death records begin in 1880 with the development of the first statewide system initiated to tract citizenship and statistics for causes of death. Vital records are now strictly regulated to protect identity, state assistance funds, and credit fraud. Keokuk County Recorder’s Office has a genealogy section developed in the 1980’s under the direction of Russell Noller, former Clerk of Court, and John Weidlein, former Keokuk County Recorder. Many local and out of state visitors utilize these records for family history research.

05/06/2026

Life’s biggest moments are recorded and protected at the county level.

From birth certificates to property records, counties keep what matters accessible and secure.

This is an FYI that a certified copy of a vital record (birth, death and marriage) will be $20.00, AND to apply for a ma...
05/06/2026

This is an FYI that a certified copy of a vital record (birth, death and marriage) will be $20.00, AND to apply for a marriage will increase to $40.00, starting July 1st. The county will still only keep $4.00 as has been in the past.

05/06/2026

🎣 Planning to fish in Iowa as a current resident? Here’s a quick guide to the different fishing licenses available through the Iowa DNR. Fishing license fees directly support conservation efforts, helping maintain Iowa’s fish populations and outdoor recreation opportunities!

Make sure you have the right license before heading out—and enjoy everything Iowa’s waters have to offer!

04/29/2026

Due to unforeseen circumstances the Keokuk County Recorder's Office will be closed Friday, May 1, 2026 and will reopen Monday, May 4, 2026. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

04/23/2026
04/23/2026

Getting married in Iowa? Here’s what you need to know!

Marriage applications must be submitted at least 4 days before your wedding date. Iowa law requires a 3-day waiting period, meaning your license is valid on the 4th day after applying.

You may apply as early as you’d like, but the license must be picked up within 6 months of applying or it will be void. Once issued, the license remains valid until it is returned.

When signing the application, both applicants and one witness must present a photo ID. The cost of a marriage application in Iowa is $35.

If you apply for a marriage license in Iowa, your ceremony must take place within the state of Iowa. After the ceremony, the signed license must be returned to the Recorder’s Office where you applied.

Once the signed license is received and processed, you’ll be issued a certified copy of your marriage certificate, which you’ll need for name changes, insurance benefits, passport applications, and more.

Stay safe paddling this springEarly spring paddling can provide solitude, exercise and an opportunity to see amazing wil...
04/14/2026

Stay safe paddling this spring
Early spring paddling can provide solitude, exercise and an opportunity to see amazing wildlife and blossoming nature. Extra precautions are needed to stay safe with unpredictable spring weather and fluctuating temperatures and river levels.
After heavy rains, water levels can rise quickly and produce strong and fast current. Stay away from strainers and sweepers—wood or branch piles—deadly hazards that can pull a paddler under or pin them underwater. These are usually found on outside river bends where currents are strongest. Review these simple safety tips before you head out on the water.
• Check your canoe or kayak for any needed repairs or maintenance after being stored for several months. Look for holes and leaks and make sure all hatch lids fit snug and securely. Check your paddle blades for signs of cracking or splitting.
• Wear a life jacket at all times while on the water, regardless of your swimming ability. Inspect your life jacket to make sure all buckles and zippers work properly. Replace the life jacket if it has damage that cannot be repaired.
• Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Air temperatures may feel warm in early spring, but the water is still dangerously cold. Wear a wetsuit or dry suit, along with layers, to help avoid hypothermia or cold water shock. Do not wear cotton clothing—it fails to insulate when wet. Choose synthetics or wool. Dress in moisture-wicking layers that you can add or remove as needed to stay comfortable.
• Always bring along a dry bag with a complete set of extra clothes you can change into if you get wet, a first-aid kit and a protected cell phone or weather radio. Get out of wet, cold clothing as soon as possible. Pack plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
• Let a friend or loved one know where you are going and when you are expected to return. It will be easier to find you if you need help.
Get tips for planning a fun and safe paddling trip on the DNR webpage at www.iowadnr.gov/planyourtrip.

Get your boat ready for the spring boating seasonIt is time to get your boat ready for fun on the water with family and ...
04/14/2026

Get your boat ready for the spring boating season
It is time to get your boat ready for fun on the water with family and friends. Follow these simple tips to ensure your boat is safe and running smoothly when boating weather arrives.
1. Inspect your boat and trailer - Start at one end and check the entire boat, including the engine and fluid levels. Inspect the hull for cracks, dents or damage. Make sure the propeller is securely attached. Check the trailer tire pressure and tread condition and vehicle-to-trailer electrical connections. Inspect the winch, winch cable, and tiedowns.
2. Safety first - Visually inspect each lifejacket looking for rips or tears and make sure all straps and buckles work properly and are not frayed. Check if your fire extinguisher is fully charged and not expired. Inspect the horn and emergency signaling devices. Restock the first aid kit.
3. Inspect for minor repairs - Put in the boat plug, attach hoses that were removed, and check for loose connections. Be sure to check for any cracks in hoses. If they are starting to become brittle, replace them before refilling anything.
4. Check Electronics and Batteries - Inspect electrical connections to ensure they are clean, tight and corrosion-free. Charge and test your battery with a voltmeter to be certain that it will hold a charge. Clean the battery terminals with a wire brush if needed. Inspect and replace worn out spark plugs.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages all boaters to enroll in a boating education course. Traditional and online courses are available. Courses are made to fit every schedule and lifestyle. Find information about course options online at www.iowadnr.gov/boated.

Need a bit of info. for driving your ORV/ATV? Here ya'go!
03/24/2026

Need a bit of info. for driving your ORV/ATV? Here ya'go!

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT PLEASE SHAREDue to the weather conditions, the Keokuk County Courthouse is closed for today!!Stay...
03/16/2026

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
PLEASE SHARE

Due to the weather conditions, the Keokuk County Courthouse is closed for today!!

Stay home and stay safe, if possible.

Address

101 S Main Street
Sigourney, IA
52591

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8am - 4:30pm
Friday 8am - 4:30pm

Telephone

+16416222540

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