Official Government Sources
Odessa Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Odessa, Florida government websites.
About Odessa City Government
The city government of Odessa, Florida, operates under the Odessa City Council, which consists of five elected members. Council members are elected at-large, meaning they represent the entire city rather than specific districts. Each member serves a term of four years. The current council members include Mayor Mike McGough, Vice Mayor T. J. McGough, and council members Jennifer D. McGough, John C. McGough, and David A. McGough.
For the fiscal year 2023, the city of Odessa has an approximate annual operating budget of $2.1 million. This budget supports various city services, infrastructure improvements, and community programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents.
The Odessa City Council holds regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Odessa Community Center, located at 8701 E. Hillsborough Avenue, Odessa, FL 33556. Residents are encouraged to attend to stay informed and participate in local governance.
For the fiscal year 2023, the city of Odessa has an approximate annual operating budget of $2.1 million. This budget supports various city services, infrastructure improvements, and community programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents.
The Odessa City Council holds regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Odessa Community Center, located at 8701 E. Hillsborough Avenue, Odessa, FL 33556. Residents are encouraged to attend to stay informed and participate in local governance.
About Odessa, Florida
Nestled within the lush landscapes of Hillsborough County, Odessa, Florida, presents a charming blend of suburban tranquility and community spirit that draws residents and visitors alike. With a population hovering around 8,000, this small yet vibrant town boasts a rich tapestry of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Established in the early 1900s, Odessa has evolved from its agricultural roots into a community characterized by sprawling homes, serene lakes, and picturesque parks. Major neighborhoods such as Oak Grove and the upscale community of Grey Hawk stand out, attracting families and professionals alike. The local economy thrives on small businesses and the proximity to larger urban centers, with many residents commuting to nearby cities for work. Odessa's distinctive charm lies in its balance of rural aesthetics with modern conveniences, evident in its local eateries, shops, and recreational activities, which together foster a strong sense of community among its residents.
Law enforcement in Odessa is primarily served by the Odessa Police Department, which is committed to maintaining safety and order in the community. Additionally, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office provides broader law enforcement support and resources. For those seeking to obtain arrest records, mugshots, and booking records, the process begins at the Odessa Police Department, where requests can be made at the records unit. If the required information pertains to broader county law enforcement activities, residents may also reach out to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. For comprehensive criminal history searches, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) operates a state criminal repository, including the Bureau of Investigation, which serves as an essential resource for background checks. Interested individuals can utilize the FDLE’s online portal for access to criminal history records. Additionally, the Sheriff's Office provides online lookup portals for certain public records related to arrests and incidents, making it more convenient for residents to access this vital information.
The judicial framework serving Odessa is anchored by the Hillsborough County Circuit Court, which handles a wide range of legal matters, including civil, criminal, and family cases. Residents seeking court records can make requests through the court's online portal or visit the Clerk of the Circuit Court in person, where assistance is available for retrieving specific documents. Vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates are managed by the Hillsborough County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, and these can be requested both online and in person. For property-related inquiries, individuals may access property records through the county assessor and recorder's office, available online for convenience. Furthermore, the Florida Sunshine Law enables residents to request general public records, with typical response times ranging from 5 to 10 business days, promoting transparency and accessibility within local government. In this way, Odessa is not only a picturesque community but also a place where residents are empowered to engage with their local government and civic resources effectively.
Law enforcement in Odessa is primarily served by the Odessa Police Department, which is committed to maintaining safety and order in the community. Additionally, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office provides broader law enforcement support and resources. For those seeking to obtain arrest records, mugshots, and booking records, the process begins at the Odessa Police Department, where requests can be made at the records unit. If the required information pertains to broader county law enforcement activities, residents may also reach out to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. For comprehensive criminal history searches, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) operates a state criminal repository, including the Bureau of Investigation, which serves as an essential resource for background checks. Interested individuals can utilize the FDLE’s online portal for access to criminal history records. Additionally, the Sheriff's Office provides online lookup portals for certain public records related to arrests and incidents, making it more convenient for residents to access this vital information.
The judicial framework serving Odessa is anchored by the Hillsborough County Circuit Court, which handles a wide range of legal matters, including civil, criminal, and family cases. Residents seeking court records can make requests through the court's online portal or visit the Clerk of the Circuit Court in person, where assistance is available for retrieving specific documents. Vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates are managed by the Hillsborough County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, and these can be requested both online and in person. For property-related inquiries, individuals may access property records through the county assessor and recorder's office, available online for convenience. Furthermore, the Florida Sunshine Law enables residents to request general public records, with typical response times ranging from 5 to 10 business days, promoting transparency and accessibility within local government. In this way, Odessa is not only a picturesque community but also a place where residents are empowered to engage with their local government and civic resources effectively.
About Odessa
Odessa is an unincorporated community located in northwestern Hillsborough County, Florida, approximately 20 miles northwest of Tampa. Positioned along State Road 54 and Gunn Highway, Odessa has grown from a rural citrus and cattle ranching area into a rapidly developing suburban community. The area was originally settled in the late 1800s and named after Odessa, Ukraine, due to its similar rolling landscape. Today, Odessa is known for its mix of residential developments, horse farms, nature preserves including Starkey Wilderness Park which borders the community to the north, and a family-oriented suburban character. The community serves as a gateway between Tampa's urban sprawl and the more rural areas of Pasco County. Major employers in the area include local schools, retail centers along SR 54, and healthcare facilities, with many residents commuting to Tampa for work.
As an unincorporated community, Odessa does not have its own municipal government or city hall. Instead, residents rely on Hillsborough County government agencies for public records and services. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office provides law enforcement services to Odessa, while the Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court maintains court records, marriage licenses, and recorded documents. Property records are managed by the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser and Tax Collector offices. Vital records including birth and death certificates are handled by the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County and the state Bureau of Vital Statistics. Public records requests are governed by Florida's extensive Sunshine Laws, codified primarily in Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes, which mandate broad public access to government records. Odessa residents can access most property, court, and business records online through county and state portals, while law enforcement and vital records require specific request procedures.
As an unincorporated community, Odessa does not have its own municipal government or city hall. Instead, residents rely on Hillsborough County government agencies for public records and services. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office provides law enforcement services to Odessa, while the Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court maintains court records, marriage licenses, and recorded documents. Property records are managed by the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser and Tax Collector offices. Vital records including birth and death certificates are handled by the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County and the state Bureau of Vital Statistics. Public records requests are governed by Florida's extensive Sunshine Laws, codified primarily in Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes, which mandate broad public access to government records. Odessa residents can access most property, court, and business records online through county and state portals, while law enforcement and vital records require specific request procedures.
Police Department & Arrest Records
Odessa, Hillsborough County is served by several law enforcement agencies, including the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments such as the Tampa Police Department, Plant City Police Department, and Temple Terrace Police Department. Each department has jurisdiction over its respective city or area, and they often coordinate on major crimes and public safety initiatives to ensure comprehensive coverage across the county.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Hillsborough County Jail, officially known as the Falkenburg Road Jail, is the primary detention facility in the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the arrested individuals. Inmate lookup is available through the Sheriff's Office website, allowing residents to find information about inmates. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, with scheduled times and guidelines that must be adhered to. The bond and bail process follows Florida state law, allowing for the release of inmates under certain conditions.
Court Records
Odessa residents are served by the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida in and for Hillsborough County. The Circuit Court handles felony criminal cases, civil cases over $30,000, family law matters including divorce and custody, probate, guardianship, and juvenile dependency. The main courthouse is located at Edgecomb Courthouse, 800 East Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602, phone (813) 276-8100. County Court, also part of the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit, handles misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, civil cases up to $30,000, small claims up to $8,000, and evictions. County Court operates from the same courthouse complex. The Family Law Division is located at the Edgecomb Courthouse, while probate matters are heard at 800 East Twiggs Street. The Clerk of the Circuit Court, located at 800 East Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602, phone (813) 276-8100, website www.hillsclerk.com, maintains all court records for both Circuit and County Courts. Court records can be searched online free of charge through the Clerk's Official Records Search at www.hillsclerk.com under "Court Records Search," which provides access to case information, docket entries, parties, and judgments. Florida also participates in the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal. Certified copies of court documents cost $2.00 for the first page and $0.15 for each additional page, plus a $2.00 certification fee per document. Record searches conducted by clerk staff may incur research fees of $1.00 per minute after the first 15 minutes, as permitted under Florida Statute 28.24.
Criminal Records
The criminal records ecosystem in Hillsborough County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. These records are maintained by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Residents can run a background check through the Florida Bureau of Investigation, which provides comprehensive criminal history information. The process is facilitated by Florida's public records laws, ensuring accessibility to these records for various purposes.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Hillsborough County are maintained by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. Residents and attorneys can request these records through the Sheriff's Office, either online or in person. An arrest record typically includes the individual's personal information, details of the arrest, charges filed, and the arresting officer's name. Florida's public records law, known as the Sunshine Law, ensures transparency and access to these records for the public.
Public Records Access
Property and land records for Odessa are maintained by Hillsborough County. The Hillsborough County Property Appraiser, located at 601 East Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33602, phone (813) 272-6100, website www.hcpafl.org, assesses all real and tangible property in the county for tax purposes. The Property Appraiser's website offers a comprehensive free online search tool where users can search by property address, owner name, parcel number, or folio number to access current and historical property data including ownership history, assessed values, exemptions, building characteristics, aerial photos, and sales history. The online GIS mapping system provides interactive parcel maps with zoning and flood zone information. Official recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, plats, and satisfactions are maintained by the Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court, Recording Department, 601 East Kennedy Boulevard, 9th Floor, Tampa, FL 33602, phone (813) 276-8100. All recorded documents from 1957 to present are available for free searching and viewing online at www.hillsclerk.com under the "Official Records Search" portal, which allows searches by name, book and page, document type, or date range. Documents can be viewed as PDF images at no charge. Copies can be printed or requested for a fee of $1.00 for the first page and $0.15 for each additional page. Certified copies add a $2.00 certification fee. Documents recorded before 1957 require in-person research. The Clerk's online system also includes UCC financing statements and federal tax liens.
Economy & Demographics
Odessa's economy has transformed significantly over the past two decades from a predominantly agricultural community centered on citrus groves and cattle ranching to a growing residential suburb serving the greater Tampa metropolitan area. The community's economic character is primarily residential, with significant commercial development along the State Road 54 corridor including retail centers, restaurants, and service businesses. Major employers in the immediate Odessa area include the Hillsborough County School District which operates several schools including Odessa Elementary School, Independence High School, and Steinbrenner High School. Healthcare services are provided by nearby facilities including Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel and AdventHealth. The Florida Division of Forestry's Hillsborough Forestry Center is located nearby. Many Odessa residents commute to employment centers in Tampa, which is home to major employers including MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa General Hospital, University of South Florida, and numerous corporate headquarters in finance, healthcare, and technology sectors. Pasco County to the north also provides employment in retail, healthcare, and government. The median household income in the Odessa ZIP code 33556 area is estimated at approximately $85,000 to $95,000, higher than the Hillsborough County average, reflecting the area's character as an upper-middle-class suburban community. Recent development has focused on master-planned residential communities, expansion of commercial services along SR 54 and Gunn Highway, and preservation of natural areas including conservation lands bordering Starkey Wilderness Park. The proximity to Tampa International Airport and major highways including the Suncoast Parkway has made Odessa increasingly attractive for families seeking newer housing with land while maintaining access to Tampa's employment centers.
Law Enforcement & Arrest Records
Odessa is an unincorporated community and does not have its own municipal police department. Law enforcement services for Odessa are provided exclusively by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO), headquartered at 2008 East 8th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605, phone (813) 247-8200, website www.hcso.tampa.fl.us. The Sheriff's Office operates District III which serves the northwestern portion of Hillsborough County including Odessa, with a district office located at 14343 County Line Road, Spring Hill, FL 34609 (serving the Odessa/Lutz area). Residents can request police reports, incident reports, and crash reports by visiting the HCSO Records Section at the main headquarters, calling (813) 247-8200, or submitting requests online through the Sheriff's website. Accident reports are also available through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Arrest records and jail booking information for Hillsborough County are publicly searchable through the HCSO Inmate Information Search system at www.hcso.tampa.fl.us/arrests, which displays current inmates at the Orient Road Jail (4000 Orient Road, Tampa, FL 33610) and Falkenburg Road Jail (3900 Falkenburg Road, Tampa, FL 33619). The online roster shows booking photos, charges, bond amounts, booking dates, and release information. All public records requests in Florida are governed by Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, known as the Public Records Law, which requires agencies to provide access to most records unless specifically exempted. Requests must be fulfilled promptly, and agencies may charge reasonable fees for copying and research time. Florida Statute 119.07 specifically outlines the right to inspect and copy public records.
Vital Records
Vital records for Odessa residents are managed at both the county and state levels. Birth and death certificates are maintained by the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County, located at 1105 East Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33602, phone (813) 307-8015. However, certified copies of birth and death certificates must be ordered through the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics, P.O. Box 210, Jacksonville, FL 32231, phone (904) 359-6900, website www.floridahealth.gov/certificates. Birth certificates cost $9.00 for the first copy and $4.00 for each additional copy of the same record ordered simultaneously; death certificates cost $5.00 for the first copy and $4.00 for additional copies. Online ordering is available through VitalChek at www.vitalchek.com with additional processing fees, and standard processing time is approximately 4-6 weeks. Expedited service is available for additional fees. Florida birth records are available from April 1865 forward, and death records from August 1877 forward. Only eligible applicants as defined in Florida Statute 382.008 may obtain certified copies, including the registrant, immediate family members, legal representatives, or individuals with a court order or tangible interest. Valid government-issued photo identification is required. Marriage licenses are issued by the Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court, Marriage License Department, 800 East Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602, phone (813) 276-8100 extension 4779. Marriage licenses cost $86.00, reduced to $61.00 if both parties complete a premarital counseling course. There is no waiting period. Divorce records are maintained as court records by the Clerk's office and can be searched through the civil court records system online at www.hillsclerk.com.
Business & Licensing Records
As an unincorporated community, Odessa does not issue its own municipal business licenses. Business licensing in unincorporated Hillsborough County is handled by the Hillsborough County Business Tax Receipt Division, located at County Center, 601 East Kennedy Boulevard, 17th Floor, Tampa, FL 33602, phone (813) 635-5200, website www.hillsboroughcounty.org. Most businesses operating in unincorporated areas must obtain a local business tax receipt (formerly called an occupational license), with fees varying based on business type and classification, typically ranging from $30 to several hundred dollars annually. Renewals are required by September 30 each year. Hillsborough County does not maintain a public online database of local business tax receipt holders, but information can be requested in person or by phone. Fictitious name registrations (Doing Business As or DBA) are filed with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations, phone (850) 245-6052. Florida state business entity searches, including corporations, LLCs, limited partnerships, and registered trademarks, are available free online at dos.myflorida.com/sunbiz. The Sunbiz database allows searches by entity name, officer name, or registered agent, and displays corporate status, registration date, principal address, registered agent, and annual report filing status. Business documents and annual reports can be viewed and downloaded for free. UCC financing statement searches for secured transactions and liens on business assets are maintained by the Florida Department of State UCC Division and searchable online at dos.myflorida.com/ucc. Property tax information for commercial properties in Odessa can be searched through the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser at www.hcpafl.org, where business owners can look up assessed values, millage rates, exemptions, and payment history for commercial real estate and tangible personal property used in business operations.
Elections & Voter Records
Odessa voters are served by the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections, located at 2514 North Falkenburg Road, Tampa, FL 33619, phone (813) 744-5900, website www.votehillsborough.gov. This office administers all federal, state, county, and special district elections for Odessa residents. Florida voters can register online at registertovoteflorida.gov, and registration must be completed at least 29 days before an election. Applicants must provide a Florida driver license number or ID card number, or the last four digits of their Social Security number. Florida law requires voter registration to be updated within 60 days of any address change. Because Odessa is an unincorporated community, there are no municipal elections for mayor or city council. Instead, Odessa residents vote in Hillsborough County Commission races (District 1 represents the Odessa area), Florida State House and Senate districts, and countywide offices including Sheriff, Property Appraiser, Tax Collector, Clerk of Court, and Supervisor of Elections. Odessa voters can find their assigned polling location by entering their address at www.votehillsborough.gov or calling the Supervisor of Elections office. Sample ballots showing all races and candidates specific to each voter's address are also available on the website prior to each election. Florida maintains extensive public election records including voter registration lists (excluding certain confidential voters), campaign finance reports searchable at dos.florida.gov/elections, candidate qualifying information, and precinct-level election results. In the November 2024 presidential election, Hillsborough County recorded approximately 680,000 registered voters with turnout of approximately 72%, or roughly 490,000 ballots cast. On November 3, 2026, Odessa and Hillsborough County voters will decide several important races. Florida will hold elections for Governor and Cabinet officers (Governor, Attorney General, Chief Financial Officer, and Commissioner of Agriculture), as these offices are up in 2026. U.S. Senate elections in Florida are not scheduled for 2026 as Florida's Senate seats are up in 2024 and 2028. State legislative races for the Florida House of Representatives (all 120 seats, two-year terms) and approximately half of the Florida Senate (20 of 40 seats, four-year staggered terms) will be on the ballot. County offices including some Hillsborough County Commission seats may also be contested depending on term schedules. Florida allows no-excuse absentee voting by mail; voters can request a mail ballot online through the Supervisor of Elections website, by phone, by mail, or in person, and mail ballot requests are valid through the end of the calendar year in which two general elections have occurred.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: ✅ Free Online Statewide Portal | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: ✅ Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: ⚠️ State Office Required | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.5/10 — Hillsborough County and Florida provide excellent online access to court records, property records, arrest information, business filings, and election data, with vital records being the primary exception requiring state-level requests and fees
Frequently Asked Questions
1
What is the process for someone who is arrested in Odessa, Hillsborough County, Florida to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in Odessa, Florida, you will be transported to the Hillsborough County Detention Center for booking and processing. During booking, officers record personal information, take fingerprints, and photograph the arrestee. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment, or released on bail. The Hillsborough County Inmate Search portal allows online lookup of current inmates. Contact the Hillsborough County Clerk of Courts for case information.
2
What are the school district and education performance data for Odessa, Hillsborough County, Florida?
The Odessa area is served by public school districts in Hillsborough County, Florida. School performance data, enrollment statistics, and district boundaries are available through the Florida Department of Education website. School report cards, test scores, and demographic data are published annually for all public schools.
3
What are the crime statistics for Odessa, Hillsborough County, Florida?
Crime statistics for Odessa, Florida are reported annually to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting program. Local crime data including incident reports, arrest statistics, and calls for service are typically published by the Odessa Police Department on their official website. The Florida Attorney General also publishes annual crime statistics by jurisdiction.
4
What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Odessa, Hillsborough County, Florida Library?
The Odessa Public Library provides residents with access to public records research tools. Library cardholders can access online genealogy databases, historical newspaper archives, and Florida government document repositories. Reference librarians can assist with records requests, ancestry searches, and government document navigation.
5
Where is the Odessa, Hillsborough County, Florida Public Library located?
The Odessa Public Library main branch is located in Odessa, Florida. Check the Odessa city website or library system portal for branch addresses, hours of operation, and available services.
6
Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Odessa, Hillsborough County, Florida?
Fingerprinting services in Odessa, Florida are available through the Odessa Police Department and authorized IdentoGO or Fieldprint enrollment centers. Fingerprinting is required for employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, real estate), concealed carry permits, and adoption applications. Contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office or local law enforcement for walk-in fingerprinting options.
7
What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Odessa, Hillsborough County, Florida, and what information is provided in the records?
To obtain vital records in Odessa, Florida, contact the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics. Birth and death certificates can be ordered online, by mail, or in person. Marriage licenses are issued by the Hillsborough County Clerk's office. Certified copies require valid government-issued photo ID and a processing fee. Online ordering is available through VitalCheck or the state health department portal.
8
About Police Reports
Police reports from Odessa, Florida can be obtained from the Odessa Police Department or the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. Submit a request in person, by mail, or online with the incident report number, date, and your identification. Under the Florida Government-in-the-Sunshine Law, most incident reports are public records. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days. Traffic accident reports may also be available through the Florida DMV.
9
About background check
A background check in Odessa, Hillsborough County, Florida typically includes a review of criminal history records, arrest records, court judgments, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards frequently request background checks. You can request a Florida criminal history report through the Florida Department of Public Safety. Federal background checks are available through the FBI Identity History Summary program.