Mail requests to:

Register of Deeds
PO Box 133
Portage WI 53901

Use the application form (a PDF file) and include all information listed below. Please enclose a self-addressed, stamped, business-sized envelope. You must also enclose the necessary fees (see below). Upon receipt in our office, mailed requests are generally completed in 1-5 working days.

In-person requests may be made at the Register of Deeds Office. It is located at the Columbia County Courthouse, 400 DeWitt St. in Portage. The office is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Identification is required for all records that are picked up. You may wish to complete the application form (a PDF file) before you visit our office.

Fees:  The fee for the first copy of any birth record is $20.00.  Additional copies of the same record, ordered at the same time, are $3.00 each.  Therefore, two copies of the same record would be $23.00. NO PERSONAL CHECKS.  Please send money order payable to Register of Deeds.

Information needed to request a copy of a birth record:

1. The relationship between the person named on the record and the person making the request.  Example:  my own, my child's, etc.  Only the person named on the record, the immediate family of that person or anyone with written permission from the person named on the record or the person's family may get a "certified" copy of a birth certificate.  Note:  A "non-certified" copy of a birth certificate is available to anyone who applies.
2. The reason for needing the record;
3. The full name listed on the birth record;
4. The date of birth;
5. The city and county of birth;
6. The parent's names including mother's maiden name;
7. Your signature.