Find Public Services in San Diego County

Find information about San Diego County court cases, public records, property taxes, benefits and local services. This website explains search options, request procedures and where to ask for help. Use the service links and frequently asked questions below to find information for your task.

Court cases and jail information: Find case search options, court documents, hearing information and jury services. For someone in custody, use the inmate search and jail information to check facility details, visiting procedures and contacts. Court records and custody records answer different questions, so choose the search that matches what you need.

Certificates and applications: Find out how to request a birth certificate, apply for a marriage license or prepare a passport application. Requirements differ by request, including identification, supporting documents, appointments and mail options.

Property records and taxes: Look up assessment information, parcel maps and recorded documents, or find help with tax bills and payments. An assessed-value notice is not a tax bill. Questions about property values, recorded deeds and payment records follow different procedures.

Benefits and community services: Find application and contact information for food assistance, Medi-Cal, cash aid, IHSS, child support and housing programs. Other topics include library services, planning and development, environmental health and water services. For an existing case, check your latest notice for document requests, deadlines and contact details.

Pets and animal services: Find help with lost and found pets, adoption, licensing, surrender and animal concerns. The County Department of Animal Services and San Diego Humane Society have different service areas. Confirm which organization serves the location before reporting a concern or arranging a shelter visit.

Before calling or visiting, have any relevant notices and reference numbers available. Confirm current hours, appointment requirements, fees and accepted documents with the service provider. Keep copies of submissions and payment confirmations for follow-up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions about finding records, arranging visits, requesting reports and making payments.

Browse all frequently asked questions

All Services

Browse public services by topic.

Public Service Contacts

Selected office and service phone numbers.

Assessor
619-236-3771
Recorder/County Clerk
619-237-0502
Treasurer-Tax Collector
877-829-4732
Self-Sufficiency Services: ACCESS
866-262-9881
Sheriff’s Office: non-emergency dispatch
858-868-3200
Animal Services: shelter and non-emergency services
619-767-2675
Aging & Independence Services
800-339-4661
Child Support Services
866-901-3212
Planning & Development Services
858-694-2960
Primary Public Defender: downtown
619-338-4700

For an existing case or account, use the contact shown on your notice or provided by the assigned office. Telephone hours and service areas vary.

View the departments directory