Lakeland Death Records Search
Lakeland death records are processed through the Polk County Health Department in Bartow. This central Florida city of over 122,000 residents relies on county vital records services. Lakeland is the largest city in Polk County and home to numerous lakes. Searching Lakeland death records supports estate settlements, insurance claims, and genealogical research. Death certificates from 2009 forward are available at the county office.
Lakeland Quick Facts
Where to Obtain Lakeland Death Certificates
Lakeland residents obtain death certificates from Polk County. The Florida Department of Health in Polk County operates the Vital Statistics office. The address is 200 Government Center Blvd, Bartow, FL 33850.
The main health department is at 2090 E. Clower St., Bartow, FL 33830. Call (863) 519-7900 for Vital Statistics. The fax number is (863) 534-7245. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
| Office | Florida Department of Health in Polk County |
|---|---|
| Vital Stats | 200 Government Center Blvd Bartow, FL 33850 |
| Phone | (863) 519-7900 |
| Fax | (863) 534-7245 |
| Website | polk.floridahealth.gov |
Lakeland is about 15 miles east of Bartow. The drive takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Free parking is available at the Government Center. Citrus Connection bus service connects the cities.
Lakeland Death Certificate Types
Polk County issues two death certificate types for Lakeland deaths. Each serves different purposes. Understanding these helps you obtain the right document.
Death certificates without cause of death are public records. Anyone aged 18 or older may obtain these. They show the decedent's name, dates, and place of death. Social Security numbers are partially hidden. This type meets most legal requirements.
Certificates with cause of death are confidential. Florida restricts access for 50 years. Only certain family members may obtain them. Spouse, parents, children, grandchildren, and siblings qualify. Others need documentation of estate interest or court orders.
The City of Lakeland website provides municipal information. This city works with Polk County on health services. Death certificates are processed through the Bartow office.
How to Request Lakeland Death Records
Lakeland residents have several options for death certificates. Online, mail, and in-person services are available. Each method suits different timelines.
VitalChek handles online orders. This is Florida's only authorized vendor. Visit vitalchek.com to start. Call 1-877-550-7330 for phone service. A $7 processing fee applies. Most orders complete in 3 to 5 business days.
Mail requests go to the Bartow office. Send to 200 Government Center Blvd, Bartow, FL 33850. Include complete decedent information. State your relationship clearly. Allow two weeks for processing.
In-person visits offer same-day service. The Bartow office accepts walk-ins during business hours. Bring valid photo ID. This is fastest for urgent needs.
Lakeland Death Certificate Application
Polk County provides a specific application form for death certificates. This form helps ensure you provide all needed information. Download it before visiting or mailing your request.
The Polk County Death Application is available online. Complete this form for all requests. It asks for decedent information and your relationship. Include payment with your submission.
Using the official form speeds up processing. It ensures you provide all required details. The form is available in PDF format. Print and complete it before your visit.
Required Information for Lakeland Death Records
Complete information ensures efficient processing. The Polk County office needs specific details. Missing items may cause delays.
Provide these details:
- Decedent's full legal name
- Sex as listed on the record
- Exact or approximate date of death
- Date of birth
- Location where death occurred
- Social Security number if known
- Your full name and relationship
Photo ID is required for confidential death records. Bring current government-issued identification. This protects sensitive health information.
Lakeland Death Certificate Fees
Contact Polk County for current fee information. Call (863) 519-7900 to verify rates. County fees may vary from state minimums.
The state Bureau of Vital Statistics charges base fees. These are $5 for search and first copy. Additional copies cost $4 each. Extra year searches are $2 per year. Maximum search fee is $50. Rush service is $10.
VitalChek adds their $7 processing fee. This is separate from certificate costs. Online orders accept credit cards. In-person offices take various payment forms.
Note: Search fees are generally non-refundable. Extra copy fees may be refunded if no record is found. Always verify information before submitting.
Polk County Death Records
Lakeland is the largest city in Polk County. This county health department serves Lakeland, Bartow, Winter Haven, and other communities. All death certificates are processed at the Bartow office. For complete county information, visit the Polk County page.