Basic recording requirements

Every document must meet California recording laws before we can accept it. We check each one carefully, to ensure it meets the following requirements. 

Paper

• Use white paper that is 8.5" x 11" and at least 16 lb. bond weight.
• If any page exceeds 8.5" x 11", up to 8.5" x 14", you’ll pay an extra $3 per page for the whole document (per GC 27361.1).

First page layout

• Return address and who is requesting the recording
  • Start 2.5" from the top of the page and make sure it’s no wider than 3.5".
  • In the top left corner.
• Recorder’s use only
  • Leave a blank space in the top right corner that is 2.5" tall and 5" wide.
  • If this space is missing, you may add a cover page with an additional $3 fee.
• Document title
  • Put the title immediately below the return address and Recorder’s space.

Other requirements

• Exhibits
  • Add each exhibit on its own page.
  • Clearly labeled.
  • Reference them in the main document.
• Legibility
  • Use black ink.
  • If handwritten, write clearly.
  • Avoid light ink, small print, colored paper, or anything hard to read.
• No fasteners
  • Don’t use ribbons, rivets, seals, or any fasteners to attach pages.
• Original signatures
  • All documents must have original, wet signatures when mailed or recorded in person.