Procedures Governing the 
Inspection of Vital Records Documents


Office hours for inspection of records vary from county to county. We suggest you call in advance for inspection hours. There is a limit of two people who may do research at a time.

Kent County Clerk's Office
300 Monroe Avenue NW
Grand Rapids, MI  49503
Inspection Hours 8:00 AM - 4:30
Tuesday - Thursday

1.) Researchers requesting copies of death, or marriage records may purchase certified copies. The fee is $7.00 for the first copy and $3.00 for each additional copy of the same record.

2.) Researchers are not allowed to search birth records.

3.) Researchers will be required to provide identification when inspecting vital records, and must register each time.

4.) Researchers will use the area designated by the County Clerk's Office.

5.) Records and indexes must be handled with care: They must not be leaned upon, marked, altered, folded or otherwise handled in any way likely to cause damage to the record or index.

6.) Copy machines, cameras or tracing over vital records is prohibited.

7.) Researchers are prohibited from using ink pens when viewing records.

8.) Parents are encouraged to teach their children research techniques; however all office equipment must be operated by an adult over 18 years of age.

9.) Researchers may only have one pad of paper with them when viewing records. All other items may be stored in coat closet.

10.) Smoking, eating and drinking are prohibited when viewing vital records.

11.) Younger children must be carefully supervised by an adult to ensure their safety.

12.) The county clerk, or staff will determine any unusual request or circumstance.

 

 

Last updated:  10 March 1999.