Zero Trace and Data Retention

Use zero_trace, no_cache, and async choices intentionally.

SerpApi exposes request parameters for data retention and cache behavior. The Python client passes these parameters through to the API.

Zero Trace

When enabled for your account, pass zero_trace=true to request zero data retention behavior for a search:

results = client.search(
    engine="google",
    q="coffee",
    location="Austin, Texas",
    zero_trace=True,
)

Use this for workloads that require stricter data handling. Zero trace availability and behavior are account-dependent, so confirm details in the SerpApi Search API documentation and your plan.

Cache Controls

Use no_cache=true when you want SerpApi to fetch fresh results instead of using cached results:

results = client.search(
    engine="google",
    q="coffee",
    no_cache=True,
)

no_cache=true and async=true should not be used together.

Choosing Between Modes

Need	Parameter
Fresh live results	no_cache=true
Submit now and fetch later	async=true plus search_archive()
Zero data retention behavior	zero_trace=true when enabled for your account

See Async Search Archive for async search usage.