Department of Health
vital records
35 Woodfin
Asheville, NC 28801
(828)-250-5000
The Deputy Registrar/Vital Statistics position processes certificates for all births and deaths that occur in Buncombe County. Deaths are collected from sources such as newspaper obituaries, news reports of accidents involving death, and notifications from hospitals and funeral homes.
Most births occur at Mission Hospitals', which is presently the only hospital in the county providing delivery care. It is the responsibility of the parent to apply for a birth certificate when a home birth/delivery has occurred in Buncombe County.
The Deputy Registrar is responsible for obtaining and preserving documents of all births and deaths in Buncombe County. This evidence protects the legal rights of individuals and provides a sound statistical basis for health and social planning. These records (except fetal death reports) are filed permanently in the NC Division of Public Health Vital Records, Raleigh, NC, and are certified or verified when requested.
Vital Records Services include:
- Help with preparing birth certificates
- Help with preparing death certificates
- Help with preparing paperwork needed for children born out of wedlock. This is referred to as an “Affidavit of Parentage” (DHHS 1660).
Hours of Operation:
Monday - Friday:
8:00am - 5:00pm
How to get an appointment at Vital Records?
No appointment is necessary, however calling ahead is recommended. (828) 250-5213
What to bring with you
Driver's license or other picture identification and Social Security Card.
How are services paid for?
There is no charge for Vital Record's services.
Certified copies of Birth & Death Certificates can be obtained through:
Buncombe County Register of Deeds
Buncombe County Courthouse
Asheville, N.C. 28801
(828) 250-4300There is a fee of $10.00 cash or check for certified copies. Credit cards are not accepted.
Certificates from other counties or states must be requested from the place of birth.
Contact Information
Ralph A. Fossett, Deputy Registrar
Phone 828-250-5213
Ralph.fossett@buncombecounty.org
For a listing of county-wide programs & services offered by Buncombe County Government, please visit our Services For Adults section.
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