Chestertown Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Chestertown, Maryland government websites.

  About Chestertown City Government
Annual Budget $3.5 million
Regular Meetings Public Sessions

The governing body of Chestertown, Maryland, is the Chestertown Town Council, which consists of six elected members. Council members are elected at-large for a term length of four years. The current council includes Mayor David Foster and council members: Linda Kuipers, Ellsworth Tolliver, and others, with elections held every four years during the general election cycle.

For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for the Town of Chestertown is $3.5 million. This budget supports various municipal services including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.

Regular meetings of the Chestertown Town Council are held on the first and third Monday of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Chestertown Town Hall, located at 118 N. Cross Street, Chestertown, MD 21620. The public is encouraged to attend, and agendas are typically posted in advance on the town's official website.

  About Chestertown, Maryland

Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Chester River in Queen Anne's County, Chestertown, Maryland, serves as a quaint emblem of small-town charm and rich historical significance. With an estimated population of approximately 5,000 residents, this vibrant community dates back to 1706, making it one of the older settlements in the state. The town boasts several distinct neighborhoods, including the historic district, where colonial architecture and cobblestone streets invite exploration. The local economy thrives on a mix of agriculture, tourism, and small businesses that reflect Chestertown’s artistic spirit. Notable employers include Washington College, which is also a key educational and cultural hub, contributing to the town’s unique identity. Chestertown’s waterfront and active arts scene, characterized by galleries and festivals, further set it apart, making it a destination that attracts visitors and proud residents alike.

The law enforcement needs of Chestertown are served primarily by the Chestertown Police Department, which is dedicated to maintaining public safety and community well-being. Additionally, the Queen Anne's County Sheriff's Office plays a vital role in law enforcement and is responsible for the county jail and detention facility, located in nearby Centreville. For those seeking to obtain criminal records such as arrest records, mugshots, and booking information, a multi-step process can be navigated. Start by contacting the Chestertown Police Department’s records unit for local arrest reports. If broader information is needed, the Queen Anne's County Sheriff's Office can provide records related to county-level incidents. Maryland residents can also access the Criminal Justice Information System maintained by the Maryland State Police for statewide criminal history searches. Online lookup portals like the Maryland Judiciary Case Search provide a convenient resource for public access to court records and criminal information, making the process more efficient for individuals and legal professionals alike.

Chestertown is served by the Queen Anne's County Circuit Court, which handles a variety of civil and criminal cases. Those in search of court records can utilize the Maryland Judiciary Case Search online portal, which allows users to look up case information, or visit the clerk's office in person for assistance. For vital records like birth, death, and marriage certificates, individuals must contact the Queen Anne's County Clerk-Recorder’s office or the Maryland Department of Health’s Vital Statistics Administration. Property records, essential for real estate transactions and ownership verification, can be obtained from the county assessor and recorder's office, with additional online resources available for public access. Moreover, Chestertown residents can make general public records requests under the Maryland Public Information Act, which typically entails a response time of 5 to 10 business days, ensuring that citizens have access to the information they need from their local government.

  Chestertown, Maryland Public Records & Government Resources

About Chestertown

Chestertown, Maryland, is a picturesque town located along the banks of the Chester River in Kent County. With a population of 5,522 and ZIP codes 21620 and 21690, Chestertown is known for its small-town charm and rich historical significance. The town offers a variety of public records and government resources, including the Town of Chestertown, Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company, Kent County Public Library, Chestertown Police Department, and Kent County Public Schools.

Police Department & Arrest Records

Law enforcement in Kent County is provided by the Kent County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments, including the Chestertown Police Department and the Rock Hall Police Department. The Sheriff's Office covers the broader county area, while municipal departments focus on their respective towns. These agencies collaborate on major crimes and emergencies, sharing resources and information to ensure public safety. Each department has its jurisdiction but works together to address crime and community concerns effectively.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Kent County Detention Center is the primary facility for incarcerating individuals arrested in the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information. Inmate lookup is available through the detention center's online portal, allowing family members and attorneys to find information about detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, requiring visitors to schedule appointments in advance and adhere to strict security protocols.

Court Records

The Kent County Circuit Court (https://www.mdcourts.gov/circuit/kent) and the Kent County District Court (https://www.mdcourts.gov/district/kent) serve the residents of Chestertown and the surrounding area, handling a variety of civil and criminal cases.

Criminal Records

The criminal records system in Kent County includes felony, misdemeanor, traffic offenses, and the sex offender registry. The Kent County Sheriff's Office and the Maryland State Police maintain these records. Residents can conduct background checks through the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, which provides comprehensive criminal history information. The Maryland Bureau of Investigation offers additional resources for Kent residents seeking detailed criminal records, ensuring transparency and public access under state law.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Kent County are maintained by the Kent County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges filed, and personal information of the arrestee. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. Under the Maryland Public Information Act, these records are accessible to the public, although certain information may be redacted for privacy reasons. Arrest records typically include the date of arrest, charges, and the arresting officer's name.

Public Records Access

The Town of Chestertown (https://www.chestertown.gov/) provides a comprehensive range of public records, including information on local government, community events, and public services. The Kent County Public Library (https://www.kentcountylibrary.org/about-kcpl/operating-info-and-accessibility-features/) also offers access to a variety of public records, including genealogical resources, historical documents, and digital archives.

Economy & Demographics

Chestertown's economy is driven by a mix of industries, including tourism, healthcare, education, and manufacturing. The town is home to Washington College (https://www.washcoll.edu/), a private liberal arts college that serves as a major employer and economic driver for the community. The Kent County Public Schools (http://www.kent.k12.md.us/) also play a significant role in the local economy.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

The Chestertown Police Department (https://www.chestertown.gov/police-department) is the primary law enforcement agency for the town, responsible for responding to calls, investigating crimes, and maintaining public safety. The Maryland State Police also have a presence in the area, providing additional law enforcement resources and support.

Vital Records

The Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company (https://www.chestertownvfc.org/) serves as the primary provider of emergency services for the town, responding to fire, medical, and other emergency calls. The Chestertown Police Department (https://www.chestertown.gov/police-department) is responsible for maintaining public safety and enforcing local laws.

Business & Licensing Records

Chestertown is home to a diverse range of businesses, from local shops and restaurants to professional services and manufacturing companies. The town's business community is supported by the Kent County Economic Development Office, which provides resources and assistance to new and existing businesses.

Elections & Voter Records

Chestertown voters are served by the Kent County Board of Elections, located at 103 Cross Street, Chestertown, MD 21620 (phone: 410-778-7475, website: elections.kentcountymd.gov). The office handles voter registration, maintains voter rolls, administers elections, processes absentee ballots, and provides election results for all federal, state, county, and municipal elections affecting Kent County residents. Maryland offers online voter registration through the Maryland State Board of Elections at voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/OnlineVoterRegistration. Maryland residents can register online if they have a Maryland driver's license or MVA-issued ID card. The registration deadline is 21 days before any election. New registrants must provide proof of Maryland residency and be U.S. citizens at least 18 years old by the next election. Same-day registration is available during early voting and on Election Day at designated locations, though voters registering on Election Day must vote provisionally.

The Town of Chestertown holds municipal elections for Mayor and Town Council. The five Town Council members serve four-year staggered terms, with elections typically held in spring (April or May) in odd-numbered years. The next municipal election is scheduled for 2025. Information about municipal candidates, sample ballots, and local ballot measures is available through Chestertown Town Hall (410-778-0500) and the Kent County Board of Elections. Chestertown residents can locate their assigned polling place using the Maryland Voter Lookup tool at voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/PollingPlaceSearch, which requires entering name and date of birth or residential address. Early voting is available at designated Kent County early voting centers for eight days prior to Election Day, including evenings and weekends.

Maryland election records are largely public. Voter registration lists are available for inspection at the Kent County Board of Elections and can be purchased for lawful election-related purposes. Campaign finance reports for state and local candidates are available through the Maryland State Board of Elections website at campaignfinance.maryland.gov, showing contributions and expenditures. Candidate filings, including certificates of candidacy and financial disclosure statements, are public records. Precinct-level election results are published by the Kent County Board of Elections and the State Board of Elections. In the November 2024 presidential election, Kent County saw approximately 60% voter turnout, with about 11,500 votes cast from roughly 19,000 registered voters.

The November 3, 2026 election will be a gubernatorial election year in Maryland. Kent County and Chestertown voters will decide the Governor and Lieutenant Governor race (Governor Wes Moore's term expires in 2027), all Maryland statewide offices including Comptroller and Attorney General, all 188 seats in the Maryland General Assembly (47 state senators and 141 delegates), and various Kent County offices potentially including County Commissioners, Sheriff, and other county positions depending on term schedules. Maryland's U.S. Senate seats are not up in 2026 (next elections in 2024 and 2028). Voters should also expect Kent County ballot questions and possibly Chestertown municipal ballot measures if they align with the general election date. Maryland offers no-excuse absentee voting; any registered voter may request a mail-in ballot through the Maryland State Board of Elections online ballot request system at voterservices.elections.maryland.gov or by submitting a paper application to the Kent County Board of Elections. Applications must be received by the Tuesday before Election Day, though voted ballots must be received by 8:00 PM on Election Day to be counted.

Public Records Transparency Score

Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: ⚠️ Limited Online | Vital Records: ✅ Online Ordering | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.5/10 — Kent County and Maryland provide excellent online access to court records, property information, business entities, and election services, with strong state-level systems complementing local offices, though arrest logs require more direct agency contact than some jurisdictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Chestertown, Kent County, Maryland to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the Town of Chestertown, Maryland, you will be transported to the Kent County Jail 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 Kent County Court. Under Maryland 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 Maryland State Police. The Kent County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.dpscs.state.md.us/inmate/ where you can look up current detainees.
The school district for Chestertown, Kent County, Maryland is Kent County Public Schools. According to the Maryland State Department of Education, the district's performance data for the 2018-2019 school year is as follows:

- Graduation Rate: 91.2%
- Attendance Rate: 95.2%
- English Language Arts Proficiency: 68.2%
- Mathematics Proficiency: 63.2%
According to the Maryland State Police, the crime rate in Chestertown, Kent County, Maryland for 2019 was 1,845.7 per 100,000 people. This is lower than the national average of 3,274.6 per 100,000 people. The most common crimes in Chestertown were larceny/theft (1,039.3 per 100,000 people), burglary (521.2 per 100,000 people), and motor vehicle theft (285.2 per 100,000 people).
The Chestertown Public Library in Kent County, Maryland provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Maryland 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 Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA), which governs access to government documents in Maryland. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Chestertown Maryland Archives and Genealogy at https://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/01glance/html/geneal.html. Contact the Chestertown Public Library reference desk at (410) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
The Chestertown, Kent County, Maryland Library is located at 408 High Street, Chestertown, MD 21620.
Fingerprinting services for Chestertown, Maryland residents are provided at the Chestertown Police Department, which serves Kent 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 Chestertown Police Department at (410) 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 Maryland State Police for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Maryland State Police at https://www.dpscs.state.md.us/publicservs/backgroundchecks.shtml.
To obtain vital records for Chestertown, Kent County, Maryland, you must contact the Kent County Health Department.

The Health Department can provide copies of birth, death, marriage, and divorce records. To obtain a copy of a vital record, you must provide a valid photo ID, proof of relationship to the person listed on the record, and a completed application form. The application form can be obtained from the Health Department or online at the Maryland Department of Health website.

The vital records provided by the Health Department include the full name of the person listed on the record, the date and place of the event, and the names of the parents or spouse, if applicable.
Police reports from Chestertown, Maryland can be obtained from the Chestertown Police Department, located in Kent 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 Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA), most police reports are public records in Maryland, though portions related to active investigations, juvenile records, or sensitive personal information may be redacted. Contact the Chestertown Police Department Records Division at (410) for information on fees, hours, and online request options. For statewide criminal records, visit https://www.dpscs.state.md.us/publicservs/backgroundchecks.shtml.
A background check in Chestertown, Kent County, Maryland 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 Maryland. Criminal background checks are processed through the Maryland State Police, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Maryland residents. The Maryland State Police provides official criminal history checks at https://www.dpscs.state.md.us/publicservs/backgroundchecks.shtml. Under the Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA), 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.
  Nearby Cities in Kent County, Maryland

Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:

Rock Hall