Wildwood Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Wildwood, Florida government websites.
About Wildwood City Government
Annual Budget
$12.5 million
Regular Meetings
Public Sessions
The governing body of Wildwood, Florida, is the Wildwood City Commission, which consists of five elected members. Each commissioner is elected at-large for a term of four years. The current mayor, who is also a member of the commission, is Ed Wolf, with other commissioners including the likes of John E. "Jack" D. McGowan, and others whose names may vary with elections.
For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for the City of Wildwood is $12.5 million. This budget supports various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives, reflecting the city's commitment to growth and sustainability.
The Wildwood City Commission holds regular meetings on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Wildwood City Hall, located at 100 N Main St, Wildwood, FL 34785. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding city governance and community issues.
About Wildwood, Florida
The law enforcement needs of Wildwood are served primarily by the Wildwood Police Department, which is responsible for maintaining public safety and community policing in the area. In addition, the Sumter County Sheriff's Office plays a crucial role in broader law enforcement efforts throughout the county, including Wildwood. For those seeking criminal records, the process begins with the Wildwood Police Department’s records unit, which can provide arrest records, mugshots, and booking information. Individuals can also contact the Sumter County Sheriff's Office, where records of arrests and incidents are maintained. For more comprehensive criminal history checks, residents may reach out to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, which oversees the state’s criminal repository. The online portal on the agency's website allows users to conduct searches for criminal history, although fees may apply for detailed reports. It is advisable to have as much information as possible, such as full names, dates of birth, and relevant details, to streamline the process.
The judicial arm serving the Wildwood area is the Sumter County Circuit Court, which handles a variety of civil and criminal cases. In requesting court records, residents can utilize the online portal provided by the Sumter County Clerk of Courts, where many documents are accessible electronically. For those who prefer in-person interactions, the clerk’s office is available to assist with requests for court records and provides guidance on how to obtain them. Vital records, including birth, death, and marriage certificates, can be obtained from the Sumter County Clerk-Recorder’s office or through the Florida Department of Health's Vital Records section. Property records are maintained by the county assessor and recorder, with online portals facilitating easy access to up-to-date property information. Further, residents looking to request general public records under Florida's Sunshine Law can submit their requests to the appropriate office. The typical response time for these public records requests ranges from 5 to 10 business days, ensuring that residents can obtain important information in a timely manner. Wildwood’s commitment to transparency and accessibility is evident in its public records processes, reflecting the city’s dedication to serving its community.
Wildwood, Florida Public Records & Government Resources
Wildwood Florida Property Records
Florida Department of Revenue property records for Wildwood.
Wildwood Florida Archives and Genealogy
Florida Department of State archives and genealogy for Wildwood.
Wildwood Florida Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court Middle District of Florida for Wildwood.
Florida Courts – Wildwood Case Information
Florida Courts public information for Wildwood court records.
Wildwood Florida Vital Records
Florida Department of Health vital records and certificates for Wildwood.
Wildwood Florida Inmate Search
Florida Department of Corrections offender search for Wildwood.
Wildwood Florida Missing Persons
Florida Missing Child Information Clearinghouse for Wildwood.
Wildwood Florida Most Wanted
Florida FDLE most wanted persons for Wildwood.
Wildwood Florida Sex Offender Registry
Florida Sexual Offender / Predator search for Wildwood area.
Wildwood Florida Criminal Records
Florida Department of Law Enforcement criminal history records for Wildwood.
City of Wildwood
Wildwood city records and information
Wildwood City Clerk
Official records of the city
Wildwood Police Department
Law enforcement services, monthly statistic Sumter Fire Rescue in Wildwood Station 31 227 Hall St. Wildwood, FL 34785 P
Wildwood Public Library
Access online catalog, library hours
Wildwood Building Services Department
Building services for the city of Wildwood
Sumter District Schools
School services for the city of Wildwood
Sumter County Times Newspaper
Local news, obituaries, opinion
Leesburg International Airport
Ground transportation, airport data and businesses
Sumter County Chamber of Commerce
Wildwood business directory
Wildwood U.S. Census Bureau Information
Male and female population in Wildwood Directory of Contacts Florida department of law enforcement commonly requested c
Wildwood Florida Criminal Records Search and Depository
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Mailing Address P.O. Box 1489 Tallahassee, FL 32302-1489
Wildwood Florida Official Criminal History Background Check
Florida Department of Law Enforcement User Services Bureau Criminal History Services PO Box 1489 Tallahassee FL 32302 (8
Center for Missing and Exploited Children
Quick search for missing children, sex offenders, Amber alerts, records and more public information.
Inmate Search and Community Corrections
2601 Blair Stone Road Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2500 (850) 488-5021 1-888-558-6488 or citizens.services@mail.dc.state.f
Law Enforcement
Law enforcement in the area operates through a coordinated network of municipal departments and county-level services. The Wildwood Police Department handles calls and investigations within city limits, while the Bushnell Police Department does the same for its jurisdiction. Beyond these municipal boundaries, the Sumter County Sheriff's Office covers unincorporated areas throughout the county. Regular coordination between these agencies is standard practice, particularly when major crimes demand joint efforts and pooled resources.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Sumter County Detention Center serves as the primary jail facility for the area, processing everyone arrested within Sumter County through its booking procedures. Arrestees are photographed and fingerprinted at the facility before being classified and housed. The Sheriff's Office website maintains a searchable database of current detainees, allowing the public to locate inmates and check their status. Visitation at the detention center operates by appointment, with specific rules requiring advance scheduling.
Arrest Records
The Sumter County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records for the county, including those made within city limits by municipal departments. Residents and attorneys can request these records either in person at the Sheriff's Office or through the official website. A typical arrest record includes personal identifying information, circumstances of the arrest, charges filed, and which agency made the arrest.
The Florida Sunshine Law — the state's public records statute — guarantees transparency and public access to these documents, ensuring that residents can obtain information about arrests in their community.
Court Records
Legal proceedings and court cases for the Wildwood area can be researched through the Florida Courts website, which offers a comprehensive case lookup tool covering civil, criminal, and appellate matters. The system allows users to search records within the jurisdiction that serves this community. For bankruptcy matters, residents fall under the jurisdiction of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida, which maintains a local presence and oversees filings and related legal proceedings.
Criminal Records
The criminal records ecosystem in Sumter County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Sumter County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, while the Florida Department of Law Enforcement provides statewide background checks. Residents can request background checks through the FDLE's online portal, which includes information on criminal history and sex offender status.
Public Records Access
Property records and land information for the area are accessible through the Florida Department of Revenue's property records website, which maintains a comprehensive database covering ownership details, assessments, and tax information. Those interested in historical research and genealogy can turn to the Florida Division of Library and Information Services, which preserves archives documenting the city's past and family ancestry.
For development-related matters, the Wildwood Building Services Department manages zoning records, permits, and other documentation essential for construction and land use projects. Together, these resources serve residents and businesses seeking everything from property histories to building approvals.
Vital Records
Individuals in need of vital records, such as birth certificates, death records, and marriage licenses, can turn to the Florida Department of Health's vital records office. This state-level resource serves the residents of Wildwood and the surrounding Sumter County region. Whether researching family history or obtaining official documentation, the vital records office provides a centralized hub for accessing these important documents.
Business & Licensing Records
The City of Wildwood's Finance Department, which houses the City Clerk's office, serves as the primary resource for businesses operating within city limits. This office handles business licenses, permits, and the regulatory documents required to establish and maintain commercial operations. Entrepreneurs looking to start or expand in the area consult the Finance Department to ensure compliance with local regulations and obtain the documentation necessary for lawful operation. The office provides guidance on municipal requirements and processes applications for various business-related permits.
Economy & Demographics
Wildwood's diverse economy is a reflection of its strategic location and growing population. The city's proximity to major highways and tourist destinations, such as The Villages, has made it an attractive hub for retail, healthcare, and tourism-related industries. Top employers in Wildwood include regional healthcare providers, national retail chains, and businesses catering to the needs of the nearby retirement community.
The city's economic development efforts, combined with its welcoming atmosphere and historical charm, continue to attract new residents and businesses, contributing to the overall prosperity of this Sumter County community.
Elections & Voter Records
ELECTION HUB for Wildwood, Florida voters:
The Sumter County Supervisor of Elections serves Wildwood voters from the office at 900 N. Main St., Bushnell, FL 33513. Residents can reach the office at (352) 569-1540 or visit www.sumterelections.org. Voter registration is available online at registertovoteflorida.gov, with a deadline of 29 days before any election. Registration requires a valid Florida driver's license or state ID card. As an unincorporated community, Wildwood doesn't hold municipal elections for mayor or city council.
The Sumter County Supervisor of Elections serves Wildwood voters from the office at 900 N. Main St., Bushnell, FL 33513. Residents can reach the office at (352) 569-1540 or visit www.sumterelections.org. Voter registration is available online at registertovoteflorida.gov, with a deadline of 29 days before any election. Registration requires a valid Florida driver's license or state ID card. As an unincorporated community, Wildwood doesn't hold municipal elections for mayor or city council.
Instead, residents vote in Sumter County elections for county-level positions, including the Board of County Commissioners. Candidate information and upcoming race details appear on the Supervisor of Elections website. To find your polling place, use the 'Voter Information Lookup' tool at www.sumterelections.org. Florida law treats election records — including voter registration, early voting, and vote-by-mail data — as public records accessible through the Supervisor of Elections office. Sumter County saw approximately 77% voter turnout in the 2024 general election. The next major election cycle arrives in November 2026, featuring races for County Commission, Sheriff, and other local offices. Florida offers no-excuse absentee and mail-in voting. Ballots can be requested through the Supervisor of Elections website or by contacting the office directly. All completed ballots must be received by 7 PM on Election Day.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: 4/5 | Property: 5/5 | Arrest Logs: 4/5 | Vital Records: 4/5 | Business: 4/5 | Elections: 5/5 | Overall: 4.5/10 — Wildwood and Sumter County, Florida have generally good public records access, with election data being particularly transparent.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What are the school district and education performance data for Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida?
The school district for Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida is Sumter County School District. According to the Florida Department of Education, the district's overall grade for the 2019-2020 school year was a B. The district's graduation rate was 87.2%, and the district's average SAT score was 1020.
2 What are the crime statistics for Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida?
The most recent crime statistics for Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida are from the year 2019. In 2019, there were a total of 1,845 reported crimes in Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida. Of those reported crimes, there were 1,717 property crimes and 128 violent crimes. The property crime rate was 4,845.7 per 100,000 people and the violent crime rate was 348.3 per 100,000 people.
3 What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida Library?
The Wildwood Public Library in Sumter County, Florida provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Florida 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 Florida Public Records Law (Chapter 119, F.S.), which governs access to government documents in Florida. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Wildwood Florida Archives and Genealogy at https://dos.myflorida.com/library-archives/genealogy/. Contact the Wildwood Public Library reference desk at (352) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
4 Where is the Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida Public Library located?
The Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida Library is located at:
Wildwood Public Library
100 Bay Street
Wildwood, FL 34785
Phone: (352) 748-1158
Wildwood Public Library
100 Bay Street
Wildwood, FL 34785
Phone: (352) 748-1158
5 Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida?
Fingerprinting services for Wildwood, Florida residents are provided at the Wildwood Police Department, which serves Sumter 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 Wildwood Police Department at (352) 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 Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) at https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/Criminal-History-Records.
6 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida, and what information is provided in the records?
To obtain vital records for Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida, you will need to contact the Sumter County Clerk of Court. The Clerk of Court is responsible for maintaining vital records such as birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees.
7 How do I register to vote in Wildwood, Florida?
ELECTION HUB for Wildwood, Florida voters:
Wildwood voters are served by the Sumter County Supervisor of Elections, located at 900 N. Main St., Bushnell, FL 33513. The office can be reached at (352) 569-1540, and the website is www.sumterelections.org.
Voters in Wildwood can register to vote online at registertovoteflorida.gov. The registration deadline is 29 days before an election. To register, you'll need a valid Florida driver's license or state ID card.
Wildwood is an unincorporated community, so municipal elections for mayor and city council do not apply. However, Sumter County holds
Wildwood voters are served by the Sumter County Supervisor of Elections, located at 900 N. Main St., Bushnell, FL 33513. The office can be reached at (352) 569-1540, and the website is www.sumterelections.org.
Voters in Wildwood can register to vote online at registertovoteflorida.gov. The registration deadline is 29 days before an election. To register, you'll need a valid Florida driver's license or state ID card.
Wildwood is an unincorporated community, so municipal elections for mayor and city council do not apply. However, Sumter County holds
8 How do I look up property records in Wildwood, Florida?
For those seeking property records and land information in Wildwood, the Florida Department of Revenue's property records website provides a comprehensive database. Residents can access details on property ownership, assessments, and tax information. The Florida Division of Library and Information Services also maintains the Wildwood archives and genealogy resources, allowing individuals to explore the city's rich history and ancestry. Additionally, the Wildwood Building Services Department oversees zoning, permitting, and other development-related records, making it a valuable resource for re
9 How do I get a birth or death certificate in Wildwood, Florida?
Individuals in need of vital records, such as birth certificates, death records, and marriage licenses, can turn to the Florida Department of Health's vital records office. This state-level resource serves the residents of Wildwood and the surrounding Sumter County region. Whether researching family history or obtaining official documentation, the vital records office provides a centralized hub for accessing these important documents.
10 How do I find business license records in Wildwood, Florida?
The City of Wildwood's Finance Department, which includes the City Clerk's office, is the go-to resource for businesses operating within the city limits. This office oversees the issuance of business licenses, permits, and other regulatory documents essential for establishing and maintaining commercial activities. Entrepreneurs and business owners can consult the Finance Department to ensure compliance with local regulations and access the necessary information to start or expand their operations in Wildwood.
11 Vital Records Procedures
To obtain vital records for Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida, you will need to contact the Sumter County Clerk of Court. The Clerk of Court is responsible for maintaining vital records such as birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees.
The address for the Sumter County Clerk of Court is:
Sumter County Clerk of Court
209 N Florida Street
Bushnell, FL 33513
Phone: (352) 569-6600
Fax: (352) 569-6607
Email: clerk@sumterclerk.org
The records included in the vital records maintained by the Clerk of Court are:
* Birth Certificates
* Death Certificates
* Marriage Licenses
* Divorce Decrees
The address for the Sumter County Clerk of Court is:
Sumter County Clerk of Court
209 N Florida Street
Bushnell, FL 33513
Phone: (352) 569-6600
Fax: (352) 569-6607
Email: clerk@sumterclerk.org
The records included in the vital records maintained by the Clerk of Court are:
* Birth Certificates
* Death Certificates
* Marriage Licenses
* Divorce Decrees
12 School District & Education Data
The school district for Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida is Sumter County School District. According to the Florida Department of Education, the district's overall grade for the 2019-2020 school year was a B. The district's graduation rate was 87.2%, and the district's average SAT score was 1020.
13 Crime Statistics
The most recent crime statistics for Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida are from the year 2019. In 2019, there were a total of 1,845 reported crimes in Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida. Of those reported crimes, there were 1,717 property crimes and 128 violent crimes. The property crime rate was 4,845.7 per 100,000 people and the violent crime rate was 348.3 per 100,000 people.
14 Library Public Records Access
Yes, you can find public records in the Wildwood Public Library in Sumter County, Florida. The library offers access to a variety of public records, including birth, death, marriage, and divorce records, as well as property records, court records, and other government documents.
15 Public Library Location
The Wildwood, Sumter County, Florida Library is located at:
Wildwood Public Library
100 Bay Street
Wildwood, FL 34785
Phone: (352) 748-1158
Wildwood Public Library
100 Bay Street
Wildwood, FL 34785
Phone: (352) 748-1158
16 Fingerprinting Services
The Sumter County Sheriff's Office provides fingerprinting services. The office is located at 7375 Powell Road, Wildwood, FL 34785. The office can be contacted at (352) 793-0222.
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