Marriage records in Butte County, California, are available through several channels. ButteCourt.us can help you find publicly available marriage record information for the county. You can also request records directly from the Butte County Clerk-Recorder's office, visit in person at the county offices in Oroville, or submit a request by mail. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) maintains statewide vital records and offers an additional path for obtaining certified marriage certificates.
Butte County Marriage Records Search
The Butte County Clerk-Recorder is the local custodian of marriage records. Under California law, the county clerk issues marriage licenses and, once a completed marriage certificate is returned by the officiant, records and files it. The Clerk-Recorder's collection includes:
- Marriage licenses issued in Butte County
- Marriage certificates filed after ceremonies performed within the county
- Confidential marriage licenses and certificates (access restricted to the parties named on the record)
- Historical marriage records dating back to the county's early recording years
Both public and confidential marriages are recorded by this office. Confidential marriage records are not open to the general public — only the spouses named on the certificate, or their authorized representative, may obtain copies.
Certified Marriage Record Copies and Fees in Butte County
Fees for marriage record copies in Butte County follow the schedule set by California Government Code and the county's own fee policy. The table below reflects standard county clerk-recorder fees for marriage records:
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Certified copy of marriage certificate | $15 |
| Each additional certified copy (same order) | $15 |
| Informational (uncertified) copy | $15 |
| Confidential marriage certificate (authorized parties only) | $15 |
These fees are established under California Health and Safety Code §103625. Payment methods accepted in person typically include cash, check, or money order. For mail requests, personal checks and money orders payable to "Butte County Clerk-Recorder" are generally accepted. Processing for in-person requests is usually same-day; mail requests may take two to four weeks depending on volume.
You can also order certified copies through the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) for marriages recorded statewide. CDPH charges $18 per certified copy. Orders placed through the state may take several weeks for standard processing.
Order Marriage Certificates Online or In Person in Butte County
Online
The California Department of Public Health offers an online ordering portal for certified copies of marriage certificates recorded anywhere in the state. Visit the CDPH Vital Records page to place an order. You will need:
- Full names of both spouses
- Date of marriage
- County where the marriage license was issued
- Payment by credit or debit card
Some third-party vendors are authorized by the state to process online orders, but always confirm you are using an official state-approved service.
In Person
Walk-in requests are handled at the Clerk-Recorder's office in Oroville. Bring a valid photo ID and be prepared to provide the names of both spouses and the approximate date of the marriage. No appointment is required for routine copy requests.
By Mail
To request a marriage certificate by mail, send the following to the Clerk-Recorder's office:
- A written request including the full names of both spouses, date of marriage, and your relationship to the parties (for confidential records)
- A copy of your valid photo ID
- A check or money order for $15 per copy, payable to "Butte County Clerk-Recorder"
- A self-addressed stamped envelope
Mail to:
Allow two to four weeks for processing. If the record cannot be located, the office will typically notify you and may refund the fee or apply it toward an extended search.
Under the California Public Records Act, non-confidential marriage records are generally accessible to the public. Confidential marriage certificates, however, are restricted — only a party named on the record, a parent or legal guardian of a minor party, or someone with a court order may obtain a copy. If you need a marriage record for legal proceedings in Butte County Superior Court, check with the court clerk about any additional documentation requirements. The court's form packets page includes resources for family law matters, including minor marriage requests.