Cochise County Recorder: Deeds, Official Records Search, Copies & Recording Guide
The Cochise County Recorder records and maintains official public records for Cochise County, Arizona, including many real-estate documents such as deeds, deeds of trust, releases, liens, mortgages, plats, surveys and other instruments connected with property transactions.
This guide explains how to search Cochise County recorded documents, record a deed, request an official or certified copy, avoid common rejection issues, understand Arizona Affidavit of Property Value rules, and decide when to contact the Recorder, Assessor, Treasurer, title company or attorney.
What Does the Cochise County Recorder Do?
The Cochise County Recorder performs two core functions: processing documents primarily related to real-estate transactions and maintaining voter-registration records for jurisdictions within the county. For deed and property-record users, the main tasks are recorded-document search, document recording, copy requests and recording-notification signup.
Use the Recorder For
- Searching recorded deeds and official records.
- Recording deeds, deeds of trust, liens, releases and other recordable documents.
- Ordering plain or certified copies of recorded documents.
- Searching grantor/grantee name index records.
- Signing up for recording-notification service.
Use the Assessor For
- Parcel number, APN and property-ownership records.
- Assessed value and legal classification questions.
- Property assessment maps.
- Exemptions and senior valuation protection applications.
- Owner lookup when you only have a parcel number.
Use the Treasurer For
- Property-tax bills and payments.
- Tax-due dates and receipts.
- Delinquent balances.
- Tax-lien sale information.
- Tax payment questions after ownership changes.
Photo ID Is Now Required for In-Person Document Recording
Cochise County posted a notice that, effective September 11, 2026, customers who visit the Recorder’s Office to record a document in person must provide a valid form of photo identification at the time of recording.
Driver’s License / State ID
Bring a valid driver’s license or state-issued identification card if recording in person.
Passport
The county notice lists a U.S. passport or passport card as acceptable identification.
Military ID
A U.S. military ID is listed as an acceptable option for in-person recording.
Tribal ID
The county notice also lists Tribal ID as an acceptable form of photo identification.
How to Search Cochise County Recorded Documents Online
Cochise County links to a recorded-document search through The County Recorder public-access system. Use it for recorded documents, not as a substitute for the Assessor’s parcel database, a title report, or a legal opinion.
Open the Official Recorded Document Search
Start from the Cochise County Recorder page and choose Search for Recorded Documents. The search opens through The County Recorder disclaimer page. Read the disclaimer before continuing.
Search by Grantor or Grantee Name
Cochise County’s FAQ says records in the Recorder’s Office are located by searching the grantor/grantee name index. Try the seller name, buyer name, trust name, business name, prior owner name and spelling variations.
Identify the Document Type
A search result may show deeds, deeds of trust, releases, assignments, liens, affidavits, plats, surveys or other documents. Match the document type to your task before ordering a copy or relying on the record.
Save the Recording Details
When you find the right record, save the recording number, recording date, document type, party names and any book/page or reference details shown. A precise request helps the office locate the correct copy.
Do Not Use the Recorder Index as a Title Report
The Recorder’s index helps locate documents. It does not guarantee that a property is free of liens, that a transfer is legally valid, or that ownership is clear. For a complete title search, use a title company or qualified legal help.
How to Record a Deed or Property Document in Cochise County
Cochise County accepts documents that meet form requirements, are complete, and have proper fees paid. Arizona recording rules also require items such as a caption, original signatures, legibility, page-size compliance and first-page recording space.
Basic Recording Package
- Original document, not an ordinary photocopy.
- Caption or title showing the nature of the instrument.
- Original signatures unless a law provides otherwise.
- Legible text suitable for certified copies.
- Paper no larger than 8½ inches by 14 inches when Arizona form rules apply.
- Print size not smaller than 10-point type.
- At least a 2-inch top margin on the first page for recording information.
- Return name and address on the first page or cover sheet.
- Affidavit of Property Value or exemption notation when required.
- Correct fee payable at the time of recording.
Common Rejection or Delay Reasons
- No valid photo ID for in-person recording.
- No caption or unclear document title.
- Photocopy submitted instead of an original instrument.
- Missing original signatures.
- Illegible text or unreadable pages.
- Missing notary acknowledgment where required.
- Missing legal description or parcel information for a real-property transfer.
- Missing Affidavit of Property Value or exemption code.
- No fee payment or wrong payment amount.
- Expecting staff to prepare or choose the deed form.
Cochise County Deed Recording Requirements Explained
A deed can be delayed even when the parties agree on the transfer. The Recorder reviews the document for recording requirements; legal effect, title consequences and tax consequences may require other professionals or offices.
| Requirement | Plain-English Meaning | Why It Matters | Best Check Before Recording |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caption / document title | The first page should briefly state the nature of the instrument, such as warranty deed, quitclaim deed, release or deed of trust. | The title helps the Recorder index the document correctly and know what is being presented. | Make sure the document title matches the actual legal document you intend to record. |
| Original and legible document | Arizona form rules require an original instrument that can be reproduced clearly for certified copies. | Poor print quality or a non-original document can cause rejection or create a hard-to-read public record. | Use dark ink, readable type and complete pages before signing and notarizing. |
| Original signatures | Arizona law requires original signatures unless another law allows a different format. | Missing signatures are one of the simplest ways to delay a deed or release. | Check every signature block before visiting, mailing or e-recording. |
| Page size, type and margins | Arizona rules require paper not larger than 8½ by 14 inches, at least 10-point type, ½-inch margins, and a 2-inch top margin on the first page. | The Recorder needs space to add recording information and reproduce the document. | Use a cover sheet if the first page does not leave enough recording space. |
| Affidavit of Property Value | Many deeds transferring title and contracts for sale must include the Arizona Department of Revenue affidavit. | Arizona law says the Recorder must refuse certain transfer documents if the affidavit is missing and no exemption is shown. | Use ADOR Form 82162 when required and include complete buyer, seller, sale and parcel information. |
| Exemption code | If a transfer is exempt from the Affidavit of Property Value requirement, the deed must show the exemption on its face. | Arizona law requires the specific exemption to be noted when claimed. | Confirm the correct A.R.S. 11-1134 exemption code before recording. |
Cochise County E-Recording Options
Cochise County says its Recorder’s Office provides electronic recording and lists advantages such as reduced labor, reduced postage/courier costs, a shorter gap to recordation, fewer errors and rejections, improved security and improved tracking.
CSC eRecording Solutions
One of the third-party e-recording providers listed by the Cochise County Recorder.
Data Services, Inc.
Another county-listed provider for users who qualify and set up an e-recording account.
eRecording Partners Network
Listed by the county as an available third-party e-recording option.
Simplifile
A county-listed provider commonly used by title, escrow, lender and recording professionals.
How to Get a Copy of a Cochise County Deed or Recorded Document
If you only need a deed copy, do not record a new document. First search the grantor/grantee index, save the recording details, then request a copy from the Recorder’s Office.
Find the Record First
Search by grantor or grantee name, prior owner, business name or trust name. If you know the recording number or approximate recording date, save it before requesting the copy.
Order Plain Copies
Cochise County lists copies of records at $1 per page. The FAQ says deed copies can be requested in person or by mail at the Recorder’s Office.
Add Certification if Needed
Certification of copies or records is listed at $3 per document. Use certification when a court, title company, lender, agency or legal process requires an official certified copy.
Cochise County Recorder Fee Estimator
This calculator is for planning only. Use the official fee schedule or call the Recorder at 520-432-8350 for the final amount, especially for maps, plats, e-recording provider fees, unusual instruments, mailed requests or multiple documents.
Assumptions: standard recording $30 per document; government-agency recording $15 per document; plain copies $1 per page; certification $3 per document; 11 x 17 map copy $3; 8½ x 11 map copy uses the plain $1 page estimate; plats and surveys use $24 for the first sheet and $20 for each additional sheet.
Cochise County Recorder Office Address, Phone, Hours & Map
The Recorder’s Office is listed in Building B at the Cochise County Melody Lane government campus in Bisbee. Bring photo ID for in-person recording, and call before visiting if your document has unusual recording, notary, APV, exemption-code or map/plat requirements.
Cochise County Recorder’s Office
Recorder: Billy Cloud
Address:
1415 Melody Lane
Building B
Bisbee, AZ 85603
Phone: 520-432-8350
Fax: 520-432-8368
Toll-free: 888-457-4513
Email: recorder@cochise.az.gov
Hours listed: Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM.
Open Recorder Map ↗Recorder vs Assessor vs Treasurer vs Court in Cochise County
Deed records, property values, tax bills and court orders are connected, but they are not handled by the same office. Use this table before calling or visiting.
| Your Task | Best Starting Office | Why | Ask For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Find a recorded deed, deed of trust, release, lien, affidavit or recorded notice. | Cochise County Recorder | The Recorder maintains recorded-document records and the grantor/grantee name index. | Document search, recording number, copy request, certification. |
| Record a new deed, trust document, release or other instrument. | Attorney/title company first; Recorder after the document is prepared. | The Recorder can record qualifying documents but cannot choose the correct legal form for you. | Recording requirements, fee amount, APV or exemption-code requirement, e-recording option. |
| Find owner name by parcel number or ask about APN, value or classification. | Cochise County Assessor | The Assessor maintains current ownership records, assessment maps, valuations and exemptions. | Parcel lookup, owner record, assessed value, legal classification, exemption or senior valuation option. |
| Pay property taxes or ask about a tax bill. | Cochise County Treasurer | The Treasurer handles property-tax collections, tax payments and fiscal custody. | Tax bill, payment receipt, due dates, delinquent balance, tax-lien sale information. |
| Need probate, divorce, guardianship or court order records. | Cochise County Superior Court / Clerk of Court | Court files are different from recorded land records, even when a court order later affects title. | Case number, certified court order, probate packet, court record copy. |
Official Cochise County Recorder Links
Use these official pages before paying a third-party website, mailing a deed, relying on a search result or assuming a document is ready to record. Each link below includes exactly what to do after opening it.
Cochise County Recorder Main Page
Official page for the Recorder’s role, document search, recording notification, e-recording providers, office address, phone and hours.
- Confirm the current Recorder office address and phone number.
- Use Document Search for recorded documents.
- Use Recording Notification if you want alerts about newly recorded documents.
- Scroll to Electronic Recording if you need e-recording provider options.
- Call 520-432-8350 before visiting if your document has unusual requirements.
Cochise County Recorded Document Search
Official linked recorded-document search used to find deeds and other recorded instruments.
- Read the disclaimer before continuing.
- Search using grantor or grantee names.
- Try spelling variations, initials, business names, trust names and prior owners.
- Save the recording number, date and document type.
- Order a copy or contact the Recorder if you need official certification.
Cochise County Recording Fees
Official county fee page for recording, government-agency recording, copies, certification, maps, plats and processing fees.
- Check the $30 standard recording line.
- Review copy and certification fees before ordering a deed copy.
- Check map, plat and survey-sheet fees if your document is not a normal deed.
- Call the Recorder if mailing or e-recording could add provider or processing costs.
Cochise County Recorder FAQ
Official FAQ covering forms, ownership changes, trusts, lien searches, deed copies, APV questions and document-return time.
- Read the questions under the Recorder category.
- Use the fee and copy answers before mailing payment.
- Use the title-search and ownership-change answers to decide whether you need a title company or attorney.
- Use the APV answer before trying to verify sale-price details.
Photo ID Required for In-Person Recording
County notice explaining the September 11, 2026 photo-ID requirement for customers recording documents in person.
- Read the effective date before visiting.
- Bring a listed valid photo ID if recording in person.
- Use driver’s license/state ID, U.S. passport/passport card, U.S. military ID or Tribal ID if applicable.
- Call 520-432-8350 if your identification situation is unclear.
Arizona DOR — Affidavit of Property Value
Official Arizona Department of Revenue page for Form 82162, used to record sale price, date of sale and required sale information.
- Confirm the current form and instructions date.
- Download the form only from ADOR or another official government source.
- Complete buyer, seller, tax-statement address, legal description, parcel and sale details.
- Attach the affidavit to the deed when Arizona law requires it.
Arizona Revised Statutes § 11-480
Arizona recording form rules for caption, original instrument, legibility, signatures, size, type and margins.
- Check the caption requirement before finalizing the document.
- Confirm original signatures and legibility.
- Check paper size and minimum print size.
- Verify first-page top margin and cover-sheet requirements.
Arizona Revised Statutes §§ 11-1133 and 11-1134
Arizona law for Affidavit of Property Value requirements and exemptions from that affidavit.
- Read § 11-1133 to see when the affidavit is required.
- Open § 11-1134 if you believe the transfer is exempt.
- If exempt, put the statute number and exemption code on the face of the instrument.
- Ask a title company or attorney if you are unsure which exemption applies.
Common Cochise County Recorder Mistakes
Mistakes That Delay Users
- Arriving after September 11, 2026 without valid photo ID for in-person recording.
- Using the Recorder as a parcel-number lookup office instead of contacting the Assessor.
- Submitting a deed without original signatures or proper acknowledgment.
- Forgetting the Affidavit of Property Value or exemption notation.
- Expecting Recorder staff to prepare a deed or choose the correct form.
- Assuming a grantor/grantee search proves the property has no liens.
- Sending vague copy requests without recording number, names or date details.
Better Workflow
- Search the official recorded-document system first.
- Save the recording number and document type.
- Use the Assessor when parcel number, ownership-by-parcel, assessed value or exemptions matter.
- Use legal or title help for ownership changes, trust transfers and lien searches.
- Check A.R.S. 11-480 before finalizing document format.
- Verify fees before mailing payment.
- Search later to confirm the recorded document appears in the index.
What Should You Do Next?
| Your Situation | Best Next Step | Do Not Confuse It With |
|---|---|---|
| You need a copy of your Cochise County deed. | Search the recorded-document index, save the recording number, then request a plain or certified copy. | Recording a new deed. |
| You want to add or remove someone from title. | Contact a title company, attorney or qualified legal resource before recording a prepared document. | A simple Recorder counter request. |
| You are recording a sale or transfer deed. | Check whether ADOR Form 82162 or an A.R.S. 11-1134 exemption code is required. | Only paying the $30 recording fee. |
| You want to know who owns a parcel by parcel number. | Contact the Cochise County Assessor or use assessor property records. | A grantor/grantee-only Recorder title search. |
| You want to know whether the property has liens. | Use the Recorder index as a starting point, then consider a title company for a complete title search. | A guaranteed lien-free ownership report. |
| You need to pay property taxes or check delinquency. | Use the Cochise County Treasurer application center or contact the Treasurer. | Recorder document-copy service. |
Cochise County Recorder FAQs
Where is the Cochise County Recorder office?
The Cochise County Recorder’s Office is listed at 1415 Melody Lane, Building B, Bisbee, AZ 85603. The Recorder phone number is 520-432-8350, the fax number is 520-432-8368, and the toll-free phone number is 888-457-4513.
Who is the current Cochise County Recorder?
Cochise County’s Recorder page lists Billy Cloud as Recorder. The same page’s recorder-history table shows Billy Cloud beginning in 2025 and continuing as present.
How do I search Cochise County deed records online?
Open the official recorded-document search linked from the Recorder page, read the disclaimer, then search the grantor/grantee name index. Try spelling variations, initials, prior owners, trust names and business names if the first search fails.
Can the Recorder tell me who owns property by parcel number?
No. Cochise County’s FAQ says that if you want to know the owner of property by parcel number, you must contact the Assessor’s Office at 520-432-8650.
How much does it cost to record a deed in Cochise County?
Cochise County’s recording-fee page lists standard recording at $30 per document and government-agency recording at $15 per document. Military discharge recording is listed as no charge under the applicable Arizona statute.
How much does a Cochise County deed copy cost?
Cochise County lists copies of records at $1 per page and certification at $3 per document. The county FAQ says deed copies can be requested in person or by mail at the Recorder’s Office.
Does Cochise County require photo ID to record documents in person?
Yes. Cochise County posted that, effective September 11, 2026, customers who record documents in person must provide valid photo identification. The county listed driver’s license/state ID, U.S. passport or passport card, U.S. military ID and Tribal ID as acceptable examples.
What is an Affidavit of Property Value?
The Arizona Affidavit of Property Value, also known as ADOR Form 82162, records sale price, date of sale and other required information for many transfers of real property. Arizona law requires it for many deeds unless an exemption applies.
What if my Arizona deed is exempt from the Affidavit of Property Value?
If an A.R.S. 11-1134 exemption applies, Arizona law requires the instrument to note the exemption on the face of the document at recording and identify the specific exemption claimed. Ask a title company or attorney if you are unsure which exemption code fits.
Is this website the Cochise County Recorder?
No. County-Appraisal-District.org is an independent educational resource. It is not the Cochise County Recorder, Cochise County Assessor, Cochise County Treasurer, Arizona Department of Revenue, a title company, a law firm or a consumer reporting agency.
Independent Educational Guide
County-Appraisal-District.org is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with the Cochise County Recorder, Cochise County Government, Cochise County Assessor, Cochise County Treasurer, Arizona Department of Revenue, Arizona Legislature, any title company, or any law firm.
Recorded documents, title status, property ownership, lien priority, recording acceptance, tax consequences, exemption codes, fees and legal outcomes are controlled by official offices, Arizona statutes, courts and qualified legal professionals. This page is not legal, tax, financial or title advice.
Public property records should not be used for employment screening, tenant screening, credit eligibility, insurance underwriting or other regulated consumer-reporting purposes. This website is not a Consumer Reporting Agency.