Big Flats Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Big Flats, New York government websites.
About Big Flats, New York
Government Type
City Council
Big Flats, New York, is governed by the Big Flats Town Board, which consists of five elected members. Each council member serves a term of four years, with elections held every two years for half of the board.
The Big Flats Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency for the town, working with the Chemung County Sheriff’s Office to maintain safety and security in the area. The Chemung County Jail, located in Elmira, provides detention services for people arrested in Big Flats and surrounding areas. If you need to obtain arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal history in Big Flats, the process typically begins by reaching out to the Big Flats Police Department's records unit. They can assist you with accessing local police reports. For broader inquiries or more extensive records, including those managed by the county, the Chemung County Sheriff’s Office can provide additional assistance. The New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services also offers a full criminal history search through the Bureau of Investigation. Many of these records can be accessed online via state and county portals, making it easier for residents and interested parties to obtain necessary documentation without extensive travel. The judiciary system in Big Flats is governed primarily by the Chemung County Supreme Court, which handles a variety of cases, including civil, criminal, and family law matters. To request court records, individuals can use the online portal provided by the Chemung County government or visit the court clerk's office in person for assistance. For vital records such as birth, death, or marriage certificates, residents can contact the Chemung County Clerk-Recorder or use the New York State Department of Health’s vital records service. Property records, including deeds and tax information, can be accessed through the county assessor’s office and recorder's office, both of which may offer online services for convenience. General public records requests can be submitted under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), typically yielding responses within a timeframe of 5 to 10 business days. This process ensures transparency and accessibility to public records for all residents, enhancing the community's commitment to openness and accountability.
Big Flats, New York Public Records & Government Resources
Big Flats New York Property Records
New York State property tax and records for Big Flats.
Big Flats New York Archives and Genealogy
New York State Archives genealogy and historical records for Big Flats.
Big Flats New York Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court Eastern District of New York for Big Flats.
Big Flats New York Vital Records
New York State Department of Health vital records for Big Flats.
Big Flats New York Missing Persons
New York State Missing Persons Clearinghouse for Big Flats.
Big Flats New York Most Wanted
FBI New York most wanted fugitives for Big Flats.
Big Flats New York Sex Offender Registry
New York State Sex Offender Registry for Big Flats.
Big Flats New York Criminal History Records
New York State criminal history record request for Big Flats.
Big Flats New York Census and Vital Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau quick facts, demographics, and population statistics for Big Flats.
Town of Big Flats
Directory of Big Flats town records and information 476 Maple Street Big Flats, NY 14814 607-562-8443
Big Flats Town Clerk
Town licenses, permits and files 476 Maple St Big Flats, NY 14814 Phone: (607) 562-8443
Chemung County Sheriff
Big Flats law enforcement and public safety services 203 William St PO Box 558 Elmira, NY 14902 Phone: (607) 737-2987 Fa
Big Flats Fire Department
Fire and rescue services 505 Maple St Big Flats, NY 14814 Phone: (607) 562-3063 Email: info@bigflatsfd.org
Big Flats Town Court
Town small claims, traffic and civil offenses PO Box 449 Big Flats, NY 14814 Phone: (607) 562-8443
Big Flats Library
Reference materials and research assistance 78 Canal St Big Flats, NY 14814 Phone: (607) 562-3300
Elmira Corning Regional Airport
Commercial flight information and aviation services Suite 1 276 Sing Sing Rd Horseheads, NY 14845 Phone: (607) 795-0402
Town of Big Flats U.S. Census
Population demographic information Big Flats, NY 14814
Big Flats New York Official Criminal History Background Check
Resource for qualifying employers to search criminal records of potential employees 4 Tower Place Albany, NY 12203-3764
Big Flats New York Criminal and Civil Cases
Search criminal, divorces records and other civil matters 25 Beaver Street New York, N.Y. 10004 212-428-2100
Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Quick search for missing children, sex offenders, Amber alerts, records and more public information
Big Flats New York Inmate Search
Information and inmate lookup NYS Department of Correctional Services 1220 Washington Ave Building 2, New York 12226-205
Law Enforcement
Law enforcement in Big Flats, Chemung County comes from multiple agencies working in coordination. The Chemung County Sheriff's Office provides countywide coverage, while municipal departments in Elmira and Horseheads handle their respective jurisdictions. When major crimes or emergencies arise, these agencies collaborate to ensure public safety throughout the area.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Chemung County Jail in Elmira is the primary detention facility for anyone arrested within Chemung County. During booking, individuals are fingerprinted, photographed, and have their personal information documented. The facility offers online inmate lookup services that allow the public to search for current detainees. Visitors must schedule appointments and follow security protocols specific to the facility. Bond and bail procedures follow New York State guidelines, and families looking for recently arrested individuals can check with the Sheriff's Office or use the jail's online resources.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Chemung County are kept by the Sheriff's Office and local police departments. Residents and attorneys can request these records under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL). A standard arrest record contains personal information, arrest details, charges filed, and which agency made the arrest. Those seeking records can submit written requests to the appropriate law enforcement agency, and some information is accessible through online portals maintained by Chemung County.
Court Records
The Big Flats Town Court handles various legal matters within the town's jurisdiction. Residents needing to interact with the judicial system can find court schedules, procedures, and contact details on the court's website at https://www.bigflatsny.gov/departments/town_court/index.php.
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in Chemung County covers felony, misdemeanor, traffic, and sex offender registry records. The Chemung County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records. Background checks can be conducted through the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, which provides criminal history information. The New York State Police also offers resources for residents seeking detailed background checks.
Public Records Access
The Town of Big Flats maintains a collection of public records, from vital records to business registrations and court documents. The Big Flats Town Clerk's office acts as the central hub for accessing these materials, providing residents with information and assistance. The town's website at https://www.bigflatsny.gov/ offers a user-friendly portal for navigating available resources.
Vital Records
The Big Flats Town Clerk's office is responsible for maintaining vital records, such as birth, marriage, and death certificates. Residents can obtain copies of these documents by visiting the office or accessing the online request form available on the town's website, https://www.bigflatsny.gov/departments/town_clerk_and_tax_collector/index.php.
Business & Licensing Records
The Town of Big Flats supports the local business community by maintaining a registry of registered businesses. Entrepreneurs and business owners can find information about business registration, licensing, and other relevant requirements on the town's website at https://www.bigflatsny.gov/.
Economy & Demographics
The Big Flats Fire Department is important in protecting the town's residents and property. The department's website, http://www.bigflatsfd.org/, provides information about its services, equipment, and volunteer opportunities, demonstrating the town's commitment to public safety and emergency response.
Elections & Voter Records
Big Flats voters are served by the Chemung County Board of Elections, Elmira, NY 14901, phone (607) 737-2800, website www.chemungcountyny.gov/departments/board-of-elections. The Board handles all aspects of voter registration, candidate petitions, ballot preparation, polling place operations, and election certification for the entire county. New York residents can register online at DMV.ny.gov/more-info/electronic-voter-registration-application, or by completing a paper form available at the Chemung County Board of Elections, public libraries, DMV offices, and other government agencies.
The registration deadline is 25 days before an election for in-person or mail registration, and online registration through the DMV portal must also be completed at least 25 days before Election Day. New York requires no excuse for absentee voting. Voters can request an absentee ballot online at absenteeballot.elections.ny.gov or by contacting the Chemung County Board of Elections. Absentee ballot applications must reach the Board at least seven days before the election, and completed ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received within seven days. The town is governed by a Town Supervisor and four-member Town Board, all elected to four-year terms in odd-numbered years. The next town elections will occur in November 2025. Local voters also elect a Town Clerk, Highway Superintendent, and Town Justice in staggered cycles. Residents can find their assigned polling place using the New York State Board of Elections lookup tool at voterlookup.elections.ny.gov, which requires entering name and date of birth or address. Public election records in New York include voter registration lists available to candidates and committees, campaign finance disclosure reports filed with the State Board of Elections and searchable at publicreporting.elections.ny.gov, candidate petition filings, and precinct-level election results published by the Board after certification. In the November 2024 presidential election, Chemung County reported approximately 38,000 total votes cast, representing roughly 60% turnout of registered voters. The county has historically leaned Republican in presidential contests but remains competitive in local races. For the November 3, 2026 general election, voters in the area will decide several significant races: New York's gubernatorial election (Governor Kathy Hochul's term expires in 2026), all 63 New York State Senate seats including the 58th District which represents Big Flats (currently represented by Senator Tom O'Mara), New York State Assembly District 132, the Chemung County Executive position, Chemung County Legislature seats, and various town and judicial positions. New York does not have a U.S. Senate seat up for election in 2026, as both Senator Chuck Schumer (up in 2028) and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (up in 2024) are mid-term. Candidate petitions for county and town offices are typically due in early April for the June primary and early August for independent candidates seeking November ballot access. Voters in Big Flats approved a town-wide water district expansion project in a 2023 referendum. All registered New York voters can participate in early voting, which begins nine days before Election Day at designated early voting sites in Chemung County, typically including the Board of Elections office and other accessible locations.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: Limited: In-Person Required | Property: Yes: Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: Yes: Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: Yes: Online Ordering | Business: Yes: Free State Database | Elections: Yes: Online Registration & Results | Overall: 7.5/10, Chemung County provides strong online access for property records, state business searches, and election information, with an accessible inmate roster and online vital records ordering; however, court record searches require in-person visits or written FOIL requests, and some County Clerk land records require fees for full document access despite online indexes being available.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 How do I register to vote in Big Flats, New York?
To register to vote in Big Flats, New York, residents can register online through the New York State Board of Elections's website, by mail, or in person at the Chemung County elections office. New York requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the New York State Board of Elections's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Big Flats, contact the Chemung County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
2 How do I look up property records in Big Flats, New York?
Property records for Big Flats, New York are maintained by the Chemung Town/City Assessor's Office and the Chemung County County Clerk. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within Chemung County, including parcels in Big Flats. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The Chemung County County Clerk maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many New York counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. For in-person requests, visit the Chemung County offices at the county courthouse. The Chemung County Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
3 How do I get a birth or death certificate in Big Flats, New York?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Big Flats, New York residents are available through both county and state offices. The New York State Department of Health, Vital Records Section, located in Albany, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in New York. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Chemung County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for Chemung County. Birth and death certificates may also be available through local vital records offices. Requestors typically need to provide valid photo identification and proof of their relationship to the person named on the record. Processing times and fees vary by office and record type.
4 How do I find business license records in Big Flats, New York?
Business licensing for Big Flats, New York operates at municipal, county, and state levels. The Big Flats town or city clerk's office handles local business permits, zoning approvals, and any municipal license requirements for businesses operating within Big Flats limits. Chemung County may require additional registrations for businesses in unincorporated areas or county-level sales tax licensing. At the state level, all New York businesses must register with the New York Secretary of State and obtain applicable state tax identification numbers from the New York Department of Revenue. Professional licenses for regulated occupations are issued by the relevant New York licensing boards. For a complete list of requirements for starting a business in Big Flats, contact the Big Flats clerk's office and the Chemung County economic development office.
5 Vital Records Procedures
Vital records for Big Flats, Chemung County, New York are managed by the New York State Department of Health. Birth, death, and marriage certificates can be requested online, by mail, or in person. The Chemung County Clerk's office may also issue certified copies. Valid identification and proof of relationship to the registrant are typically required.
6 School District & Education Data
Schools in Big Flats, Chemung County, New York are overseen by the local school district and the New York Department of Education. School performance data, enrollment information, and district boundaries are available through the state education department's website and the National Center for Education Statistics.
7 Crime Statistics
Law enforcement in Big Flats, Chemung County, New York is provided by the local police department and the Chemung County Sheriff's Office. Crime statistics are reported to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program and can be accessed through the FBI Crime Data Explorer. For local crime reports, contact the Big Flats police department.
8 Library Public Records Access
Public records resources are available at the Big Flats library and through the Chemung County library system. Patrons can access government documents, historical records, and online databases. The library staff can assist with locating specific public records and research materials.
9 Public Library Location
The Big Flats Public Library is part of the Chemung County library system in New York. Contact the library directly or visit the county library website for current hours, location, and available services.
10 Fingerprinting Services
Fingerprinting services in Big Flats, New York are available through the local police department and the Chemung County Sheriff's Office. Services are provided for background checks, professional licensing, and other official purposes. Contact local law enforcement for scheduling and fees.