Genealogy

Available Records

Generally, the Town Clerk provides uncertified copies of the following types of records for genealogy research purposes:

  • Birth certificates - if on file for at least 75 years and the person whose name is on the birth certificate is known to be deceased.
  • Death certificates - if on file for at least 50 years.
  • Marriage certificates - if on file for at least 50 years and both spouses are known to be deceased.

Time Period Waiver

The time periods are waived if the applicant is a direct-line descendant (i.e. the child, grandchild, great grandchild) and provides documentation of direct-line descent. The direct-line descendant applicant must provide:

  • Proof of their relationship to the person whose record they are requesting.
  • Proof of the death of the person whose birth certificate they are requesting.
  • Proof of the death of both spouses whose marriage certificate they are requesting.

General Instructions

  • Complete, print and sign a copy of the genealogical services application (PDF).
  • Mail the application with check or money order and a copy of any required documentation to:
    Brookhaven Town Clerk
    Attn: Registrar
    One Independence Hill
    Farmingville, NY 11738

Fees

The fee for each record is determined by the time-frame to be searched.

  • Standard search: This includes a three year search. The fee is $22 per search for each name and each type of record requested and includes one (1) uncertified copy or notification of no record. 
    • For example, if you wish to search for a death certificate and birth certificate for the same person, the total fee would be $44.
  • Long search: This includes a search of more than three years but less than 10 years. The fee is $42 per search for each name and each type of record requested and includes one (1) uncertified copy or notification of no record.
  • Requests for more than a 10 year search should be directed to:
    New York Department of Health
    Vital Records Section, Certification Unit
    P.O. Box 2602
    Albany, NY 12220-2602
  • If no record is on file, a No Record Report will be issued and the fee is not refunded.

Payment may be made by check or money order payable to “Brookhaven Town Clerk.” Payment submitted from foreign countries must be made by a check drawn on a United States bank or by international money order. Do not send cash.