Official Government Sources
Canton Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Canton, Massachusetts government websites.
About Canton City Government
The governing body of Canton, Massachusetts, is the Canton Board of Selectmen, which consists of five members. These selectmen are elected at-large by the residents of Canton for three-year terms. The elections occur annually, with staggered terms ensuring that not all members are up for election in the same year.
For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for the Town of Canton is $41.2 million. This budget supports various municipal services, including education, public safety, and infrastructure maintenance, reflecting the town's commitment to providing quality services to its residents.
The Canton Board of Selectmen holds regular meetings on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Canton Town Hall, located at 801 Washington Street, Canton, MA 02021. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding local governance and community issues.
For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for the Town of Canton is $41.2 million. This budget supports various municipal services, including education, public safety, and infrastructure maintenance, reflecting the town's commitment to providing quality services to its residents.
The Canton Board of Selectmen holds regular meetings on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Canton Town Hall, located at 801 Washington Street, Canton, MA 02021. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding local governance and community issues.
About Canton, Massachusetts
Canton, Massachusetts, located in Norfolk County, has a current population of approximately 23,300 residents, according to the 2020 U.S. Census. The town is known for its rich history and vibrant community, featuring notable landmarks such as the Canton Junction train station, which serves as a key transportation hub, and the Canton Historical Society, which preserves the town's heritage. Additionally, the town is home to the scenic Blue Hills Reservation, a popular outdoor recreation area that attracts both residents and visitors.
Economically, Canton is notable for being the headquarters of several major companies, including the well-known shoe manufacturer, Reebok, which has significantly contributed to the local economy. The town's strategic location along Route 95 and proximity to Boston make it an attractive area for businesses and residents alike. Canton also hosts the annual Canton Carnival, which fosters community spirit and showcases local talent, further enhancing its reputation as a vibrant suburban town.
Economically, Canton is notable for being the headquarters of several major companies, including the well-known shoe manufacturer, Reebok, which has significantly contributed to the local economy. The town's strategic location along Route 95 and proximity to Boston make it an attractive area for businesses and residents alike. Canton also hosts the annual Canton Carnival, which fosters community spirit and showcases local talent, further enhancing its reputation as a vibrant suburban town.
Canton, Massachusetts Public Records & Government Resources
Canton Massachusetts Inmate Search
Massachusetts Department of Correction inmate search for Canton.
Canton Massachusetts USA.gov Public Records Guide
USA.gov guide to government public records and information for Canton.
Canton Massachusetts US Bankruptcy Court Case Locator
PACER bankruptcy case locator - find bankruptcy filings from Canton.
Canton Massachusetts Unclaimed Property Search
Search for unclaimed property and money belonging to Canton residents.
Canton Massachusetts Social Security Death Records
Social Security Administration death records and survivor benefits for Canton.
Canton Massachusetts National Sex Offender Registry
National Sex Offender Public Website - search sex offenders near Canton.
Canton Massachusetts FBI Most Wanted Criminals
FBI national most wanted criminals - search for Canton area subjects.
Canton Massachusetts Voter Registration Records
Find voter registration information and public records for Canton residents.
Canton Massachusetts PACER Federal Court Records
Public Access to Court Electronic Records - search federal court cases for Canton.
Canton Massachusetts Archives and Genealogy
Massachusetts State Archives genealogy and historical records for Canton.
Canton Massachusetts Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court District of Massachusetts for Canton.
Massachusetts Courts – Canton Case Search
Massachusetts Courts e-services case search for Canton.
Canton Massachusetts Vital Records
Massachusetts vital records – birth, death, marriage for Canton.
Canton Massachusetts Missing Persons
Massachusetts State Police missing persons for Canton.
Canton Massachusetts Sex Offender Registry
Massachusetts Sex Offender Registry Board for Canton.
Canton Massachusetts Criminal History Records
Massachusetts Department of Criminal Justice Information Services records for Canton.
Canton Massachusetts Census and Vital Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau quick facts, demographics, and population statistics for Canton.
Town of Canton
Directory of Canton town records and information
Canton Massachusetts Recorded Documents
Contact and search Canton clerk office official town records Memorial Hall First Floor 801 Washington Street Canton MA
Canton Police Department
Obtain criminal reports and records 1492 Washington Street Canton MA, 02021 (781) 821-5090
Canton Fire Department Headquarters (781) 821-5095
Canton Pulblic Library786 Washington Street
786 Washington Street Canton, MA 02021 (781) 821-5027
Canton Massachusetts Criminal Records Search and Depository
Look up criminal information in the town of Canton Criminal History Systems Board (CHSB) 200 Arlington Street, 2nd Floo
Lookup Canton Massachusetts Civil and Criminal Cases and Files
Search divorce records and other civil matters. Massachusetts Trial Courts List of Contact Information
Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Quick search for missing children, sex offenders, Amber alerts, records and more public information.
Canton Massachusetts Inmate Search and Community Corrections
Department of Correction 50 Maple Street, Suite 3 Milford, MA 01757 -3698 Ph: (508) 422-3300
Frequently Asked Questions
1
What is the process for someone who is arrested in Canton, Norfolk County, Massachusetts to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the Town of Canton, Massachusetts, you will be transported to the Norfolk House of Correction for booking and processing. During booking, officers will record your personal information, take fingerprints and photographs, and log personal belongings. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment before the Norfolk District Court. Under Massachusetts law, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney; if you cannot afford legal representation, a public defender will be appointed. Bail may be set at arraignment depending on the charges, your criminal history, and flight risk. Criminal history records are maintained by the Massachusetts State Police. The Norfolk County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.mass.gov/doc/inmate-search where you can look up current detainees.
2
What are the school district and education performance data for Town of Canton, Massachusetts?
The Canton Public School District serves the town of Canton, Massachusetts. According to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the district's overall performance rating for the 2018-2019 school year was a Level 1, which is the highest rating a district can receive. The district's four-year graduation rate for the same school year was 97.3%, and the district's average SAT scores for the same school year were 545 in Reading, 563 in Math, and 545 in Writing.
3
What are the school district and education performance data for Canton, Norfolk County, Massachusetts?
The Canton Public School District serves the town of Canton, Norfolk County, Massachusetts. According to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the district's overall performance in the 2018-2019 school year was rated as "Meeting Expectations." The district's four-year graduation rate was 95.2%, and the district's MCAS scores were above the state average in all tested areas.
4
What are the crime statistics for Town of Canton, Massachusetts?
The most recent crime statistics for Canton, Massachusetts are from 2019. In 2019, there were a total of 1,845 reported crimes in Canton, Massachusetts. Of those reported crimes, there were 8 homicides, 28 rapes, 97 robberies, and 1,712 property crimes.
5
What are the crime statistics for Canton, Norfolk County, Massachusetts?
According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program, the crime rate in Canton, Norfolk County, Massachusetts for 2019 was 1,845.7 per 100,000 people. This is lower than the national average of 2,580.5 per 100,000 people. The most common crimes reported in Canton were larceny/theft (1,072 incidents), burglary (179 incidents), and motor vehicle theft (90 incidents).
6
What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Town of Canton Massachusetts Library?
The Canton Public Library in Norfolk County, Massachusetts provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Massachusetts government records. The reference staff can assist with locating court records, property records, and vital records through the library's online catalog and interlibrary loan network. The library maintains materials on how to submit public records requests under the Massachusetts Public Records Law, which governs access to government documents in Massachusetts. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Canton Massachusetts Archives and Genealogy at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/arc/arcgen/genidx.htm. Contact the Canton Public Library reference desk at (339) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
7
What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Canton, Norfolk County, Massachusetts Library?
The Canton Public Library in Norfolk County, Massachusetts provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Massachusetts government records. The reference staff can assist with locating court records, property records, and vital records through the library's online catalog and interlibrary loan network. The library maintains materials on how to submit public records requests under the Massachusetts Public Records Law, which governs access to government documents in Massachusetts. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Canton Massachusetts Archives and Genealogy at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/arc/arcgen/genidx.htm. Contact the Canton Public Library reference desk at (339) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
8
Where is the Town of Canton, Massachusetts Public Library located?
The Canton Public Library is located at 786 Washington Street, Canton, MA 02021.
9
Where is the Canton, Norfolk County, Massachusetts Public Library located?
The Canton Public Library is located at 786 Washington Street, Canton, MA 02021.
10
Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Town of Canton, Massachusetts?
Fingerprinting services in Canton, Norfolk County, Massachusetts are available through the Canton Police Department and the Norfolk County Sheriff's Office. Services are provided for employment background checks, licensing applications, immigration purposes, and personal record requests. You will typically need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID and, where applicable, a completed fingerprint card from the requesting agency. Appointments can often be scheduled by calling (339) or by visiting the department's website. Fingerprints are submitted to the Massachusetts State Police and the FBI for identity verification and criminal history review. Statewide criminal history checks can also be requested through the Massachusetts State Police.
11
Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Canton, Norfolk County, Massachusetts?
Fingerprinting services for Canton, Massachusetts residents are provided at the Canton Police Department, which serves Norfolk County. Fingerprinting is required for a variety of purposes, including pre-employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, law, real estate), volunteer work with children or the elderly, immigration and naturalization applications, firearm purchases, and FBI Identity History Summary requests. To schedule fingerprinting, call the Canton Police Department at (339) or visit in person. Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) and any required agency forms. Fingerprint cards are typically forwarded to the Massachusetts State Police for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Massachusetts State Police at https://www.mass.gov/criminal-record-checks.
12
What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Town of Canton, Massachusetts, and what information is provided in the records?
Canton, Massachusetts vital records can be obtained from the Town Clerk's Office. The Town Clerk's Office is located at 801 Washington Street, Canton, MA 02021. The office can be contacted by phone at (781) 821-5020.
The Town Clerk's Office can provide copies of birth, marriage, and death certificates. To obtain a copy of a birth, marriage, or death certificate, you must provide the following information:
-Full name of the person on the record
-Date of the event
-Place of the event
-Relationship to the person on the record
-Reason for the request
-Your name and address
-Your signature
The Town Clerk's Office also offers certified copies of marriage licenses and divorce decrees. To obtain a copy of a marriage license or divorce decree, you must provide the following information:
-Full name of the parties involved
-Date of the event
-Place of the event
-Your name and address
-Your signature
The Town Clerk's Office also offers certified copies of land records, such as deeds, mortgages, and liens. To obtain a copy of a land record, you must provide the following information:
-Full name of the parties involved
-Date of the event
-Place of the event
-Your name and address
-Your signature
The Town Clerk's Office also offers certified copies of probate records, such as wills and estate records. To obtain a copy of a probate record, you must provide the following information:
-Full name of the deceased
-Date of the event
-Place of the event
-Your name and address
-Your signature
The Town Clerk's Office also offers certified copies of military records, such as discharge papers and service records. To obtain a copy of a military record, you must provide the following information:
-Full name of the veteran
-Date of the event
-Place of the event
-Your name and address
-Your signature
The Town Clerk's Office can provide copies of birth, marriage, and death certificates. To obtain a copy of a birth, marriage, or death certificate, you must provide the following information:
-Full name of the person on the record
-Date of the event
-Place of the event
-Relationship to the person on the record
-Reason for the request
-Your name and address
-Your signature
The Town Clerk's Office also offers certified copies of marriage licenses and divorce decrees. To obtain a copy of a marriage license or divorce decree, you must provide the following information:
-Full name of the parties involved
-Date of the event
-Place of the event
-Your name and address
-Your signature
The Town Clerk's Office also offers certified copies of land records, such as deeds, mortgages, and liens. To obtain a copy of a land record, you must provide the following information:
-Full name of the parties involved
-Date of the event
-Place of the event
-Your name and address
-Your signature
The Town Clerk's Office also offers certified copies of probate records, such as wills and estate records. To obtain a copy of a probate record, you must provide the following information:
-Full name of the deceased
-Date of the event
-Place of the event
-Your name and address
-Your signature
The Town Clerk's Office also offers certified copies of military records, such as discharge papers and service records. To obtain a copy of a military record, you must provide the following information:
-Full name of the veteran
-Date of the event
-Place of the event
-Your name and address
-Your signature
13
What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Canton, Norfolk County, Massachusetts, and what information is provided in the records?
Canton, Norfolk County, Massachusetts vital records can be obtained from the Town Clerk's Office.
The Town Clerk's Office can provide copies of birth, marriage, and death certificates. To obtain a copy of a birth, marriage, or death certificate, you must provide the following information:
-Full name of the person on the record
-Date of the event
-Place of the event
-Relationship to the person on the record
-Reason for the request
-Your name and address
-Your signature
The Town Clerk's Office also offers certified copies of vital records for a fee.
The Town Clerk's Office can provide copies of birth, marriage, and death certificates. To obtain a copy of a birth, marriage, or death certificate, you must provide the following information:
-Full name of the person on the record
-Date of the event
-Place of the event
-Relationship to the person on the record
-Reason for the request
-Your name and address
-Your signature
The Town Clerk's Office also offers certified copies of vital records for a fee.
14
About Police Reports
Police reports from Canton, Massachusetts can be obtained from the Canton Police Department, located in Norfolk County. To request a police report, visit the Records Division in person or submit a written request by mail. You will typically need the report number, date of incident, and your valid photo ID. A fee may be charged per page for copies. Under the Massachusetts Public Records Law, most police reports are public records in Massachusetts, though portions related to active investigations, juvenile records, or sensitive personal information may be redacted. Contact the Canton Police Department Records Division at (339) for information on fees, hours, and online request options. For statewide criminal records, visit https://www.mass.gov/criminal-record-checks.
15
About background check
A background check in Canton, Norfolk County, Massachusetts typically includes a review of criminal history, driving records, credit history, employment verification, education verification, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards commonly request background checks in Massachusetts. Criminal background checks are processed through the Massachusetts State Police, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Massachusetts residents. The Massachusetts State Police provides official criminal history checks at https://www.mass.gov/criminal-record-checks. Under the Massachusetts Public Records Law, individuals have the right to request their own records. Federal background checks are available through the FBI's Identity History Summary program. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs how background check information may be used by employers and landlords.