County Clerk FAQ

Warren County Clerk Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

This page contains answers to questions frequently received by the Warren County Clerk’s Office. Click a question below to view the detailed response.

If you do not find the answer you are looking for, please contact our office directly:

What are your operating hours and office location?

We are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (excluding official county holidays). Recording and Filing hours are between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. We are located at the Warren County Municipal Center, 1340 State Route 9, Lake George, NY 12845.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, local checks, and money orders made payable to the Warren County Clerk. Credit and debit cards are NOT accepted at this time.

Can the County Clerk’s Office offer me legal advice or help me fill out forms?

No. By New York State law, staff in the County Clerk's Office are strictly prohibited from providing legal advice, recommending specific attorneys, or assisting in the preparation of legal documents. For legal assistance, please consult a private attorney, visit nycourts.gov, or contact the NYS Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service.

Do you have a copy of my deed or mortgage?

Yes. All deeds and mortgages recorded in Warren County are public records maintained by our office. You can obtain copies in three ways:

1. In-Person: Visit our office during normal business hours to search public terminals.
2. Online: Access recorded land records remotely via our online public records database portal. Go to warrencountyny.gov/clerk/online_records. Click “Continue”. Search Records As Guest. For more detailed instructions – Search County Clerk Records On-Line
3. By Mail: Send a written request detailing the property owner's name, approximate date of sale, town location, and tax map number (if known), along with payment, call back number and a self-addressed stamped envelope.

How do I add or remove a name on a deed?

To alter ownership names on a property, a new deed must be formally executed, notarized, and recorded in our office along with required state tax forms (TP-584 and RP-5217). Because real estate conveyances carry legal and financial liabilities, we strongly advise consulting a real estate attorney.

Are there any liens on my property?

Our office cannot perform lien or title searches over the phone or by request. Public research terminals are available in our office for self-directed searches, or you may utilize an abstract/title company or search public records online.

Where do I pay my current property taxes or check delinquent tax status?

• Current Taxes: Contact the local town tax collector, village clerk, or school district collector where the property is situated.
• Delinquent Taxes: Contact the Warren County Treasurer’s Office at (518) 761-6375.

Can I get a copy of my Birth or a Death Certificate from your office?

No. The County Clerk's Office does not maintain birth or death records. In New York State, vital statistics are held by the Town, Village, or City Clerk / Registrar where the birth or death physically took place, or through the New York State Department of Health.

Here is a list of Town/City Clerks for Warren County:

Where do I obtain a Marriage License or Marriage Certificate copy?

1. Marriage Licenses: Issued by any Town or City Clerk in NYS.
2. Marriage Certificates (Past Copies): Must be obtained directly from the specific Town or City Clerk who originally issued the license.

Here is a list of Town/City Clerks for Warren County:

I can't afford an attorney; how can I file for divorce?

Divorce filings are legal Supreme Court actions. While the County Clerk's office files the official index and legal papers, staff members are legally prohibited from providing legal advice or assisting in filling out legal forms. If you are proceeding without an attorney (pro se):

• Self-Help Forms: Official Uncontested Divorce Packets and step-by-step instructions are available on the NYS Unified Court System website.
• Legal Aid: You may contact Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York (LASNNY) or Warren County Legal Hand Call-In Center.

How do I get a copy of my Divorce Decree?

Divorce records are strictly confidential sealed files under NYS law. Copies can only be issued to the original parties involved or their attorneys of record upon presenting a valid photo ID.

• In-Person: Present valid government photo identification at our counter.
• By Mail: Submit a notarized written request including party names, approximate year of divorce, index number (if available), photo ID copy, fee payment, and a return self-addressed stamped envelope.

How do I apply for a Passport?

U.S. Passport applications are accepted at the Warren County Clerk's Office (or designated local Post Offices).

• First-Time Applicants / Children (Form DS-11): Must apply in person. You will need to bring:
  1. A completed, unsigned DS-11 Application.
  2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship (Original Birth Certificate with raised seal or previous Passport).
  3. Valid Photo ID (Driver's License).
  4. One official Passport Photo (2x2 inches).
  5. Two Separate Payments: One check/money order made out to the U.S. Department of State (application fee) and a separate payment to the Warren County Clerk (execution fee).
• Renewals (Form DS-82): If you meet the criteria to renew an adult passport issued within the last 15 years, you can renew directly by mail using Form DS-82 without visiting the office.

I did not receive my notary renewal form; how do I renew without it?

Effective July 1, 2023, New York State law changed how notary commissions are renewed. County Clerk offices no longer process notary renewals. All notary public renewals are now processed entirely online directly through the New York State Department of State via the NY Business Express portal.

To renew your commission online without a paper form:

1. Go to businessexpress.ny.gov.
2. Sign in with or create your NY.gov account.
3. Search for your notary record, navigate to My Dashboard, and launch your renewal.

Where do I get probate or Will information for a deceased relative?

Wills and probate filings are maintained by the Warren County Surrogate's Court, located within the Warren County Municipal Center complex. Their contact information is (518) 480-6360 and [email protected].

Where do I pay my traffic ticket?

Traffic tickets cannot be paid at the County Clerk's Office or the DMV. Traffic and parking citations must be paid directly to the specific local court (Town, Village, or City Court) listed on the ticket. Contact information and court hours are located on the ticket itself or can be found on the local town or city municipality's website.

How do I file a Business Certificate / DBA ("Doing Business As")?

Under NYS General Business Law, individuals operating a business under a name other than their legal name must file a Certificate of Assumed Name (DBA) in the County Clerk's Office.

1. Obtain and complete a DBA form (available in office or on our forms page).
2. Sign the document in the presence of a Notary Public (available in office for free).
3. Submit the form with the $25 filing fee plus statutory fees for certified copies ($5 per certified copy; at least one certified copy is required for business banking).

Does your office have a Notary Public available?

Yes. Staff members are commissioned Notaries Public available during standard business hours to notarize documents. Please bring a valid government-issued photo ID and leave documents unsigned until you are in the presence of the notary.

Where do I file for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) or Sales Tax ID?

• EIN / Federal Tax ID: Issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) online at irs.gov.
• NYS Sales Tax Certificate of Authority: Issued by the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance online at tax.ny.gov.

Where do I get a Pistol Permit application?

Applications can be obtained directly from the Warren County Clerk’s Office for $10.

What is required to apply for a Pistol Permit?

Applicants must submit a completed application packet, pass a comprehensive criminal background check, provide local character references, complete mandatory NYS 16+2 hour concealed carry firearm safety training, and submit electronic fingerprints via IdentoGO. To schedule an appointment through IdentoGO, call 1-877-472-6915 or online at https://www.identogo.com/locations. Our ORI number is NY056013J; Service Code is 1562TB.

How do I recertify my Pistol Permit?

Pistol permit recertifications are processed directly by the New York State Police, not the County Clerk. Recertifications must be completed online every three years at troopers.ny.gov/firearms

How long does the application process take?

Processing times vary depending on the length of the background investigation, reference verification, and judicial review. Applicants can generally expect the process to take anywhere from 4 to 8 months.

Do law enforcement or active military members need to take the 16+2 safety course?

Active or retired law enforcement officers and military personnel with documented firearm training may request a waiver by submitting a formal letter along with proof of training to the Judge (e.g., DD-214 or agency qualification records). Waivers are granted at the sole discretion of the Licensing Officer (Judge).

What should I do if I change my address, name, or employment for my Pistol Permit?

NYS law requires you to notify the County Clerk's Office within 10 days of any change in residence, mailing address, legal name, or occupation. You must visit the County Clerk’s office to process an amendment and receive an updated physical card.

What do I do if I lose or damage my physical permit card?

Visit the Warren County Clerk's Office to request a duplicate card. A fee applies for reprinting duplicate physical permit cards.

How do I add or remove a handgun (Amendment)?

To add or remove a firearm from your permit:

1. Bring a signed Bill of Sale / Receipt from a Federally Licensed Firearms Dealer (FFL) or seller showing the make, model, caliber, and serial number.
2. Submit a completed Pistol Permit Amendment Form at the County Clerk's Office.
3. Pay the standard amendment fee ($3.00 per transaction).

Do I need a purchase coupon before picking up a weapon?

Yes. In New York State, you cannot take physical possession of a handgun from a dealer or seller until the weapon has been registered to your permit at the County Clerk’s Office and a purchase coupon/permit transfer voucher has been issued.

Can I co-register a handgun with a family member?

Yes. Handguns can be co-registered between immediate family members holding valid NYS pistol permits. Both permit holders must complete and sign a co-registration form, which must be submitted to the County Clerk along with the applicable amendment fee.

How do I transfer my pistol permit record to or from another NYS county?

• Moving Out of Warren County: Visit the Warren County Clerk's Office to execute a transfer request to your new county of residence.
• Moving Into Warren County: Initiate a transfer request with the County Clerk in your former county. Once Warren County receives your official file, it will undergo local processing and judicial approval.

How do I file a FOIL request?

Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests for public records maintained by Warren County can be submitted electronically or by mail:

• Online Portal (Fastest): Submit your public records request directly using the Warren County FOIL Portal at warrencountyny.nextrequest.com.
• By Mail / Email: Send a written request detailing the specific records you are seeking to the Warren County Records Access Officer / County Administrator's Office at:
  • Address: Warren County Municipal Center, 1340 State Route 9, Lake George, NY 12845
  • Email: Accessible via the contact options on warrencountyny.gov.

Important Note on County Clerk Records: County Clerk records—such as land/property deeds, mortgages, court files, and civil filings—are public records by law and are governed by Judiciary Law § 255 and Real Property Law. Because these documents are already directly open for public inspection and copying at the County Clerk’s Office, they do not require a FOIL request to access. You may inspect or request copies of public clerk/court records directly at the Warren County Clerk's Office or online at https://www.searchiqs.com/NYWAR without going through the FOIL process.

I want to build a porch on my house, make home renovations, or apply for a business permit. Who do I contact?

Construction permits, zoning regulations, and local business permits are handled by the Warren County Building Code Enforcement department. Visit the Warren County Building & Code Enforcement Website to view permit applications, local code requirements, and contact information for building inspectors. For specific municipal zoning laws, you may also need to check with your local Town or City Building Department within Warren County.

How do I safely dispose of old paint, chemicals, or other household hazardous materials?

Household hazardous waste and paint should not be placed in regular trash collection. Disposal is managed by the Warren County Department of Public Works (DPW). You can call them at (518)761-6556. For general transfer station hours, recycling guidelines, and disposal site locations, visit the Warren County Resident Waste Services Page.

How do I begin the legal process to change my name?

The process depends on whether your name change is due to a divorce or a general (non-marital) request:

1. For Name Changes Due to Divorce or Marriage: Get a certified copy of your Judgment of Divorce from the Warren County qID.
2. For Non-Marital / Adult Legal Name Changes: If you are changing your name outside of marriage or divorce, you must petition the Court. Use the official NYS Courts DIY Adult Name Change Petition Program to generate the necessary court forms and step-by-step filing instructions.

How do I report an issue with a local roadway?

To report a roadway issue in Warren County, New York, contact the specific agency responsible for that road based on its jurisdiction. Report maintenance issues like potholes on local town roads to your specific Town Highway Department, county road issues to the Warren County Department of Public Works, and state highway concerns (like Route 9 or Route 149) to the NYS Department of Transportation.

Who to Contact by Road Type

• State Roads (e.g., Routes 9, 9L, 149): Call the New York State Department of Transportation at 18001-800-POTHOLE (1-800-768-4653).
• County Roads: Contact the Warren County Department of Public Works at 518-761-6501.
• Local Town/City Roads (Potholes, maintenance): Contact your local town highway superintendent (for example, the Town of Queensbury Highway Department if local).
• Traffic Safety Concerns (Speeding, reckless driving): Use the Warren County Sheriff’s online Safe Pace Traffic Safety Reporting Form.
• Emergencies: Always dial 911 for immediate road hazards or accidents.