LaSalle County Recorder: Search Deeds, Mortgages, Liens & Recorded Documents
Need a deed for a property in Ottawa, La Salle, Peru, Streator, Mendota or another LaSalle County community? The LaSalle County Recorder of Deeds maintains the county’s recorded land documents. You can search a free index, pay for occasional document-image access, or research older records at the Ottawa office.
This guide explains how to choose between DirectSearch, Tapestry EON and Laredo, search correctly by name or recording number, order a certified copy and prepare a document for recording using the county’s current published fees.
Where Can You Search LaSalle County Deeds?
The official LaSalle County Records Online page lists three search systems. The important difference is whether you need only recording details or the actual scanned document.
DirectSearch — Free Index
Best for checking names, document types and recording dates without paying. The county says the searchable index goes back to July 1982, but it does not display document images.
Use free search →Tapestry EON — Occasional Use
Designed for occasional searches. It charges per search, includes image viewing, and charges separately to print images. No subscription agreement is needed.
See paid search steps →Laredo — Regular Research
Account-based system with name, date, document number, address and legal-description search options. Contact the Recorder for subscription pricing.
See Laredo details →LaSalle County Online Land Records: DirectSearch vs. Tapestry vs. Laredo
| Feature | DirectSearch | Tapestry EON | Laredo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Access cost | Free | Pay per search | Subscription; ask office for price |
| Document images | No | Yes, included with search viewing | Yes, with account access |
| Name search | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Recording date range | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Document number | Not listed as a supported search field by county | Yes | Yes |
| Address search | Not listed | Not listed | Yes |
| Legal description | Not listed | Yes | Yes |
| Indexed record coverage | From July 1982 | Check available historical coverage | County describes indexing back to about 1967 |
| Best for | Quick free record checks | Occasional deed-image research | Frequent professional searches |
How to Search LaSalle County Deeds by Owner Name
The county gives unusually useful search-format tips. Follow them before assuming a deed was never recorded.
Open the Official Records Online Page
Visit LaSalle County Records Online. Scroll to DirectSearch and select the county’s DirectSearch website.
Search Last Name First
The Recorder recommends a format such as Smith, Ch for Charles Smith. Entering the last name, a comma and the first few letters of the given name can reduce missed matches caused by indexing variations.
Use a Wider Recording Date Range
If you know approximately when a property was bought, search a range surrounding the closing date. Remember that the deed’s signing date and its official recording date may differ.
Filter by the Document Type
Choose a relevant category, such as a deed, mortgage or release, where the interface provides it. If a narrow filter returns nothing, repeat the search with fewer restrictions.
Check Names and Recording Details
Compare the grantor, grantee, recording date and indexed details. Save the document number. A name match alone does not establish that the result concerns your parcel.
Open an Image Through Another Service
DirectSearch provides basic index information, not deed images. Return to the official Records Online page and use Tapestry EON, Laredo or the copy request service when you need to examine the document itself.
How to Find a LaSalle County Deed Image in Tapestry EON
Choose Tapestry From the County Page
Open the official portal directory and click Tapestry EON, rather than searching for an unrelated third-party records site.
Select LaSalle County, Illinois
Tapestry covers multiple participating counties. Confirm the jurisdiction before purchasing a search.
Choose Your Search Reference
Use a party name, document number, recorded date range or legal-description field. If a free DirectSearch result supplied the document number, begin with that reference where the platform permits.
Review the Cost Before Continuing
Tapestry charges per search by credit card. The county states that image viewing is included, while printing has an additional fee. Review the live checkout terms instead of relying on an unverified fixed price.
Inspect and Save the Correct Deed Information
Compare the legal description, parties and recorded number. Order a certified copy separately if an official certification is required.
When LaSalle County Laredo Is the Better Choice
Laredo is the county’s subscription-based land-records system for researchers who need repeated searches. Unlike DirectSearch, its listed search options include address and legal description, alongside name, document number, recording date and document type.
Good Uses for Laredo
- Repeated deed and mortgage searches.
- Checking a series of instruments tied to a property.
- Working with subdivision or legal-description information.
- Research requiring available scanned images.
Before Subscribing
The county does not provide a universal Laredo subscription price on its public explanation. Call 815-434-8226 to ask about account setup, price and access conditions.
For a single deed, Tapestry or an official copy request may be simpler.
LaSalle County Document Number and Subdivision Search Examples
The Recorder publishes specific examples to help searchers avoid common formatting errors. These are particularly useful when a number copied from a deed does not match the search system’s expected format.
| Search Problem | What the Recorder Recommends | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Document number begins with R and a four-digit year | Remove the R and keep the full year. | R2003-67890 → 2003-67890 |
| Document number uses a two-digit year | Expand to the full year and remove the R. | R95-67890 → 1995-67890 |
| Personal name returns too few matches | Last name, comma, first few letters. | Charles Smith → Smith, Ch |
| Subdivision name fails | Remove plural indicators or prefixes/initials. | States Addition → State |
| Subdivision with initials fails | Try the identifying surname instead of initials. | J.D. Byers Addition → Byer |
What Does the LaSalle County Recorder Keep?
Deeds and Conveyances
Warranty deeds, quitclaim deeds, deeds in trust, executor/administrator deeds and other recorded conveyance instruments.
Mortgages and Releases
Mortgages, trust deeds, modifications, extensions and recorded releases. Search related instruments when researching the status of a security interest.
Liens and Court-Related Notices
Mechanics liens, tax liens, judgments and lis pendens, including certain foreclosure-related notices. Their legal effect depends on the underlying facts and law.
Plats and Land Restrictions
Subdivision plats, surveys, easements, agreements and other instruments involving property use and legal descriptions.
Searching Deeds From the 1800s Through the Modern Index
The Recorder reports that surviving records extend to the early 1830s. Older books through 1983 can be searched by names and legal descriptions at the office; computerized and online systems offer varying periods of coverage. Some microfilmed records can also be inspected in person.
Early 1830s Onward
Historic documents remain in the Recorder’s collection, but coverage is not complete because of a courthouse fire in 1880.
Books Through 1983
Older deed books and indexes can be searched in the office, typically using names or legal descriptions.
Modern Indexes
DirectSearch indexes records from July 1982; the county describes Laredo coverage back to approximately 1967. Availability varies by platform.
LaSalle County Deed Recording Fees and Certified Copy Charges
LaSalle County’s amended predictable fee schedule was approved under Ordinance 25-36 and took effect May 9, 2025. These are the published county amounts; confirm that no newer fee amendment applies before submitting a document.
| Service or Document | County-Published Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard recording document | $100 | Usual standard document class, including a qualifying ordinary deed. |
| Standard exempt recording | $81 | Only where exemption from RHSP-related fees properly applies. |
| Nonstandard document | $125 | When standard formatting or classification requirements are not met. |
| Nonstandard exempt recording | $106 | Subject to applicable exemption. |
| More than five PINs/document references | $125 + $6 per additional reference | Under the county’s posted multi-reference schedule. |
| Subdivision or survey plat | $140 | Subject to requirements of the plat class. |
| In-office copies | $1.50/page | Ordinary copy charge. |
| Copy sent by mail or email | $4/document + $1.50 per additional page | Published remote copy schedule. |
| Certified copy | $14.50 + in-office copy charge | Confirm total based on pages. |
| Military discharge copy | No charge | Access restrictions still apply to DD-214 records. |
How to Record a Deed With the LaSalle County Recorder
If you are transferring ownership rather than searching an existing record, prepare the document carefully. The Recorder accepts qualifying instruments under Illinois recording laws but does not prepare legal documents or advise which deed you should use.
Confirm the Property Is in LaSalle County
Check the existing deed, tax record and legal description. Properties near county borders should be verified before recording.
Identify Every Required Parcel PIN
LaSalle County adopted a requirement effective November 12, 2018, for documents presented for recording to include tax parcel identification numbers associated with the legal descriptions shown.
Check the Standard Document Format
The county’s published requirements generally call for letter-size white paper, legible printing, suitable margins and a blank recording space measuring at least 3 by 5 inches at the upper-right corner of the first page. Standard documents should not have attachments stapled to pages.
Check Signatures, Acknowledgments and Transfer Documents
Make sure the deed has the signatures and notarization or acknowledgment required for that instrument. Determine whether Illinois transfer-tax declarations, exemptions or municipal requirements apply. An attorney or title professional can help establish what is legally necessary.
Choose an Accepted Submission Method
Submit the instrument to the Recorder’s Office or use one of the approved electronic recording services listed on the county’s Records Online page. Check the provider’s account rules and service charges before eRecording.
Pay the Required Fee in Advance
The Recorder states that recording fees must be paid before the document is recorded. Confirm the applicable standard or nonstandard class and payment arrangements before sending originals.
Allow for Indexing and Return of the Document
The county reports that documents are normally retained for about two days for entry and review before being mailed to the return address on the instrument. Documents received after 4 PM do not begin the recording process until the next business day.
How to Obtain a Certified LaSalle County Deed Copy
A copy downloaded from an online viewer is not automatically certified. For legal, court, estate or lending purposes, ask whether the receiving organization requires the Recorder’s formal certification.
Request a Copy at the Recorder’s Office
- Find the recording number or identify the parties and approximate date.
- Visit the Recorder’s office at 707 E. Etna Road in Ottawa.
- Specify whether you need a regular copy or a certified copy.
- Confirm the number of pages and payable copy charges.
Order a Certified Copy Online
- Open Records Online.
- Find the Certified Copies section.
- Choose the county-linked online ordering service.
- Provide the record details and review charges and delivery options.
LaSalle County Recorder of Deeds Address, Phone and Hours
Recorder of Deeds — Ottawa
LaSalle County Recorder of Deeds
707 E. Etna Road
Ottawa, Illinois 61350
Phone: (815) 434-8226
Email: recorder@lasallecountyil.gov
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM, excluding official closures.
The county’s FOIA information also identifies Suite 269 for the Recorder’s office.
Get Directions ↗Before Visiting the Etna Road Complex
If you are traveling from La Salle, Peru, Streator or Mendota, confirm that the document or historical collection you need can be accessed during your visit.
- Ask about historical deed books or microfilm if your search predates computerized indexes.
- Bring the recording reference and identification of the relevant parties.
- Check accepted payment methods before submitting a new document.
- Call before visiting near holidays or with time-sensitive recording needs.
The map points to the Etna Road Complex. Confirm building access and any special accessibility arrangements directly with the county.
Recorder vs. Assessment Office vs. Treasurer in LaSalle County
| Your Task | Correct Office | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Search a deed, mortgage, lien or recorded document | Recorder of Deeds | 815-434-8226 |
| Record a new deed or release | Recorder of Deeds | 815-434-8226 |
| Ask about assessed value or a homestead exemption | Assessment Office | 815-434-8233 |
| Ask about property-tax payment or collection | County Treasurer | 815-434-8219 |
| Request a tax-related county clerk service | County Clerk | 815-434-8202 |
| Investigate clear title or deed validity | Qualified title professional or Illinois real-estate attorney | Contact your chosen professional |
Department responsibilities and numbers are based on the county’s official Who to Contact directory.
LaSalle County Property Fraud Alerts and Notary Alerts
LaSalle County offers a free property-fraud alert service that can notify registered subscribers when a document is recorded under their name. This is especially useful if you want notice of an unexpected deed or mortgage recording.
Property Fraud Alert
The Recorder’s page says property owners may subscribe free of charge and choose email or telephone notification. You can register personal or business names, subject to service limits.
- Open the official Property Fraud Alert page.
- Follow its registration link.
- Enter the name to monitor and choose a contact method.
- Review any unfamiliar recording alerts.
Notary Fraud Alert
The county also publishes a notary-specific alert program. Registered notaries can receive notices when recorded LaSalle County documents include their name as the notary.
This service is intended to help detect possible misuse of a notary’s name or credentials.
Review Notary Alert ↗Why a LaSalle County Deed May Not Appear Online
Wrong Name or Date Format
- Try surname, comma and abbreviated given name.
- Expand a two-digit recording year to four digits.
- Remove the initial R from applicable document numbers.
- Search a broader recording-date period.
- Check former owners and business or trust names.
Historic or Misidentified Record
- Check whether the document predates the online index.
- Consider an in-office book or microfilm search.
- Verify the land is actually in LaSalle County.
- Compare the legal description, not only the street address.
- Remember that some pre-1880 records were lost in a courthouse fire.
LaSalle County Recorder Search, Fees, Copy Requests and Forms
1. LaSalle County Recorder of Deeds
Office contacts, recording process and historical-record information.
- Read the office’s recording-process instructions.
- Check the posted fee-schedule notice.
- Use Records Online for search services or call the office about historical records.
2. Records Online — DirectSearch, Tapestry and Laredo
The official directory for the county’s different online-search services.
- Choose DirectSearch for free basic record indexing.
- Choose Tapestry if you need occasional image viewing.
- Call the Recorder about Laredo if you require subscription access.
3. Current Recorder Fees
The amended predictable fee schedule approved in 2025.
- Open the linked Predictable Fee Schedule PDF.
- Find the standard, nonstandard or applicable exempt document class.
- Confirm special PIN-reference, copy and certification charges.
4. Documents the Recorder Maintains
County-published categories of deeds, mortgages, liens, plats and other instruments.
- Locate the document category that matches your task.
- Check whether the office records that type of instrument.
- Use the online index or contact the Recorder for access questions.
5. LaSalle County Recorder Notices
Local announcements about PINs, transfer declarations, fee changes and recording practices.
- Check fee and parcel-PIN announcements.
- Review the notice about transfer declarations not being scanned with deeds since November 1, 2022.
- Confirm any newer change before preparing a recording.
What Should You Do After Finding a LaSalle County Record?
You Found the Correct Deed
Save the document number and recording date. If you need an official copy, follow the certified-copy process rather than relying only on an online image.
A Mortgage Still Appears
Search for a corresponding release, modification or other later instrument. A recorded original mortgage alone does not confirm the present balance or legal status.
A Deed Appears Incorrect
Compare it with your closing documents and consult the preparer, title company or qualified attorney about whether a corrective instrument is needed.
You Cannot Find an Older Deed
Call the Recorder and ask about book indexes or microfilm. Provide former owners’ names, approximate dates and legal-description information.
LaSalle County Recorder FAQs
1. Where is the LaSalle County Recorder of Deeds located?
The LaSalle County Recorder of Deeds is located at 707 E. Etna Road, Ottawa, IL 61350. The office phone number is 815-434-8226, and listed office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
2. Can I search LaSalle County deeds online for free?
Yes. The county’s DirectSearch service provides free basic index information from July 1982 onward. It does not display scanned document images.
3. Which LaSalle County online portal provides deed images?
Tapestry EON and Laredo provide document-image access. Tapestry charges per search, while Laredo is subscription-based. The county links both from its Records Online page.
4. How do I search a LaSalle County deed by owner name?
The Recorder recommends entering the surname, a comma and the first few letters of the given name, such as Smith, Ch. Use available date or document-type filters to narrow the results.
5. How much does LaSalle County charge to record a deed?
The county’s amended fee schedule effective May 9, 2025 lists $100 for a standard recording document and $125 for a nonstandard document. Special exemptions and additional-reference rules may alter the amount.
6. Can I order a certified copy of a LaSalle County deed online?
Yes. The county’s Records Online page links to an online certified-copy ordering service. Certified copies can also be obtained from the Recorder’s office.
7. Does LaSalle County require a parcel PIN on a deed?
Yes. The county adopted an ordinance effective November 12, 2018 requiring parcel identification numbers associated with the legal descriptions in documents presented for recording.
8. How far back do LaSalle County deed records go?
The Recorder describes surviving records dating to the early 1830s. However, some older records were lost in an 1880 courthouse fire, and online index coverage is more limited than the office’s historical collection.
9. Does the LaSalle County Recorder offer electronic recording?
Yes. The Recorder’s Records Online page lists accepted eRecording services, including eRecording Partners, Indecomm, CSC/Ingeo, Nationwide Title Clearing, Simplifile and Hopdox. Users should check current provider availability and charges.
10. Can the LaSalle County Recorder confirm clear property title?
No. The office records and maintains public instruments but does not maintain abstracts of title or provide legal title opinions. A qualified title professional or Illinois real-estate attorney should evaluate title questions.
Sources and Independent Editorial Notice
Reviewed: October 22, 2026.
Primary sources include the official LaSalle County Recorder of Deeds, Records Online, Records Filed, Fees, Important News & Notices and Property Fraud Alert pages. Fee amounts reflect the county’s published amended schedule effective May 9, 2025.
This is an independent informational article, not the LaSalle County Recorder’s official website. It does not record deeds, certify documents or provide legal advice. For final fees, submission requirements and record access, verify directly with the Recorder.
Public land-record information should not be used as an unauthorized substitute for employment, tenant, credit, insurance or other regulated consumer-reporting checks.