About Clearfield County
Clearfield County is located in the north-central region of Pennsylvania, covering approximately 1,154 square miles of diverse terrain that includes forests, mountains, and river valleys. The county seat is Clearfield County, situated along the West Branch Susquehanna River. Established in 1804 from parts of Huntingdon and Lycoming counties, Clearfield County has a population of approximately 80,000 residents as of recent estimates. The county is named for the clearfields that early settlers found along the river bottoms.
- The Register of Wills and Clerk of Orphans' Court manages estate and probate matters.
Major communities include DuBois, the largest county, along with Curwensville, Houtzdale, and Philipsburg. The county is home to significant natural landmarks including Moshannon State Forest, Parker Dam State Park, and S.B. Elliott State Park.
Historically, Clearfield County's economy was built on lumber, coal mining, and clay production, with the region once being a major supplier of fire clay and bituminous coal. The this jurisdiction Courthouse, located at 230 East Market Street in the local community, PA 16830, serves as the administrative center. The Recorder of Deeds office handles property transactions and land records, while the Prothonotary serves as the clerk for civil court matters.
The Assessment Office, also located in the courthouse complex, maintains property valuations and tax assessment records. What makes this jurisdiction unique is its blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and its historical significance in Pennsylvania's lumber and mining industries, combined with its ongoing transition to more diversified economic activities including healthcare, education, and tourism.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
The Clearfield County Sheriff's Office is responsible for law enforcement duties across the county, particularly in unincorporated areas. The office handles the service of legal documents, security for the courthouse, and the transportation of prisoners. The Sheriff's Office also plays a crucial role in maintaining criminal records and processing arrests. Notable programs include community outreach initiatives and a focus on drug enforcement. The office works closely with local police departments to ensure public safety.
Police Departments
Clearfield County is served by several law enforcement agencies, including the Clearfield County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments such as the DuBois City Police Department and the Clearfield County Police Department. Each department has jurisdiction over its respective area, handling local law enforcement duties. These agencies coordinate on major crimes and emergencies, often collaborating on investigations and sharing resources. The sheriff's office provides additional support for areas without a dedicated police department.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
The Clearfield County Sheriff's Office, located at 650 Leonard Street, Clearfield, PA 16830, is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for court security, warrant service, and operating the Clearfield County Prison. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at (814) 765-2631. The the county Prison, a county-operated detention facility located at 650 Leonard Street, houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. Inmate lookup services are available by contacting the prison directly at (814) 765-1647 or through the county's administrative offices.
- §§ 67.101-67.3104, arrest records are generally considered public information and can be requested from the arresting agency or the area Sheriff's Office.
- Requesters should submit written requests identifying the specific records sought.
- Processing times for arrest record requests vary but must be fulfilled within five business days under the statute, with possible extensions for complex requests.
Municipal police departments operating within this jurisdiction include the DuBois City Police Department, Clearfield area County Police Department, Curwensville County Police Department, Houtzdale County Police Department, and Philipsburg County Police Department. Pennsylvania State Police Troop C also maintains barracks in the local community at 9989 Steele Hollow Road, providing coverage for unincorporated areas and smaller municipalities without local police forces. Under Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law, 65 P.S.
Booking photos and mugshots are typically available through the detention facility, though some restrictions may apply for ongoing investigations. The Pennsylvania State Police also maintains an online database of criminal history information that may include the region arrests, though certified criminal background checks require formal application and fingerprinting through approved channels.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in Clearfield County encompasses felony, misdemeanor, and traffic offenses, as well as a sex offender registry. These records are maintained by the Clearfield County Sheriff's Office, local police departments, and the county courthouse. Residents can conduct background checks through the Pennsylvania State Police's PATCH system, which provides access to statewide criminal history information. The Pennsylvania Bureau of Investigation offers additional resources for Clearfield residents seeking comprehensive criminal background checks.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Clearfield County are maintained by the Clearfield County Sheriff's Office and local police departments. These records can be requested by residents and attorneys through formal applications, adhering to the Pennsylvania Right to Know Law. An arrest record typically includes the individual's personal details, the nature of the offense, and the arresting agency. The process for obtaining these records involves submitting a request to the appropriate law enforcement agency, with some records accessible online.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Clearfield County Jail, located in Clearfield, is the primary detention facility for the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the arrestees. Inmate lookup is available through the county's official website, providing information on current detainees. Visitation rules are specific, requiring prior scheduling and adherence to security protocols. The bond and bail process follows Pennsylvania state guidelines, allowing for cash, property, or bail bondsmen to secure release.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Clearfield County are taken and retained by the Clearfield County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the public record and can be accessed through the sheriff's website or by request. Pennsylvania does not have specific mugshot removal laws, but individuals can petition for removal under certain circumstances, such as expungement of the related charges. Third-party websites may also host these images, but official records are best obtained directly from the sheriff's office.
Courts & Case Records
The Clearfield County Court of Common Pleas, located at 230 East Market Street, Clearfield, PA 16830, serves as the general trial court with jurisdiction over civil, criminal, family, and orphans' court matters. The court can be reached at (814) 765-2641. The Prothonotary's Office handles civil case filings and records, while the Clerk of Courts manages criminal case records.
- Certified copies of court documents can be obtained from the appropriate court office with fees typically ranging from $6 to $10 for certifications plus per-page copying costs.
Clearfield County has Magisterial District Courts (also known as District Justice Courts) that handle preliminary hearings, minor criminal offenses, traffic violations, civil claims up to $12,000, and landlord-tenant disputes. Multiple district courts serve different geographical sections of the county, including locations in DuBois, Clearfield County, Curwensville, and other municipalities. The Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System provides online access to docket sheets through the Web Docket Sheets portal at https://ujsportal.pacourts.us, which covers both Common Pleas and Magisterial District Court cases throughout this county.
This free service allows users to search by participant name, docket number, or other case identifiers. Under Pennsylvania's Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System, most court records are publicly accessible unless sealed by court order or protected by specific confidentiality provisions. The county also participates in the statewide e-filing system for attorneys and parties, streamlining document submission.
For genealogical research or historical records, older court files may be archived and require advance notice for retrieval.
Property & Public Records
The Clearfield County Recorder of Deeds Office, located at 230 East Market Street, Suite 202, Clearfield, PA 16830, maintains land and property records for the entire county. The office can be contacted at (814) 765-2642. Available records include property deeds, mortgages, mortgage satisfactions, liens, easements, right-of-way agreements, plat maps, and various other instruments affecting real property.
- Recording fees are established by Pennsylvania statute and vary by document type, with standard deeds typically costing around $150 to record.
- Certified copies of recorded documents cost approximately $6 for the first page and $2 for each additional page.
- The Clearfield County Assessment Office, located at 230 East Market Street, the local community, PA 16830 (phone: 814-765-2641 ext.
The Recorder's Office has digitized many recent records, and an online property document search is available through the county's website, allowing users to search by grantor/grantee name, date range, or document type. Some online access may be provided through third-party vendors with subscription services. 5030), maintains property tax assessment records, including property valuations, ownership information, parcel identification numbers, and assessment histories.
The county offers an online GIS mapping system and parcel viewer that allows the public to search properties by owner name, parcel number, or address, viewing assessment data, property characteristics, and mapped boundaries. This service is typically available free of charge through the county website. Property tax bills and payment status can be checked through the County Tax Claim Bureau and individual municipal tax collectors.
For historical property research, deed indices dating back to the county's formation in 1804 are available, though older records may require in-person research at the courthouse.
Vital Records
Vital records for Clearfield County residents are maintained by multiple agencies depending on the record type and date. Birth and death certificates from January 1906 forward are available from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Division of Vital Records, P.O. Box 1528, New Castle, PA 16103, or by calling (724) 656-3100. Birth certificates cost $20 for the first copy and $6 for each additional copy ordered simultaneously; death certificates cost $20 for the first copy and $6 for additional copies.
- Processing time for mail requests is typically 4-6 weeks, though expedited service is available for an additional fee.
- Online ordering is available through the VitalChek service at www.health.pa.gov/vitals, with additional processing fees.
- For birth and death records prior to 1906, researchers should contact the Clearfield County Register of Wills and Recorder of Deeds at the county courthouse, as early vital records were maintained at the county level.
- Marriage licenses are issued by the area Clerk of Orphans' Court, located at 230 East Market Street, Clearfield, PA 16830 (phone: 814-765-2641 ext.
- Couples must apply in person, and the license costs approximately $60.
5050). There is a three-day waiting period after application before the license is issued, unless waived by court order. Marriage records and certified copies are available from the same office.
Divorce decrees are obtained through the Prothonotary's Office at the county Courthouse, as divorce cases are civil matters filed in the Court of Common Pleas. Pennsylvania vital records law is codified at 23 Pa.C.S. § 1701 et seq.
Applicants must provide valid photo identification and demonstrate direct and tangible interest in the record being requested, as Pennsylvania restricts vital record access to eligible individuals to protect privacy.
Business & Licensing
Business licensing and registration in Clearfield County involves both county-level and state-level requirements depending on the business type and activities. The Pennsylvania Department of State, Corporation Bureau maintains the official registry of business entities including corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, and fictitious name registrations.
- Fictitious name registrations (doing business as or DBA filings) may also be filed with the Prothonotary's Office at Clearfield County Courthouse, 230 East Market Street, Clearfield, PA 16830 (phone: 814-765-2641).
- The the county Planning Commission, located at 650 Leonard Street, Clearfield area, PA 16830, provides planning assistance and reviews subdivision and land development plans.
The free online business entity search is available at https://www.corporations.pa.gov/search/corpsearch, allowing users to search by business name or entity number to verify registration status, view entity details, and access filed documents. Professional and occupational licenses are regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs, with online verification available at www.pals.pa.gov. Sales tax licenses and employer accounts are administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.
Local business licenses and permits vary by county within Clearfield County; businesses should contact their local county or township office regarding specific requirements. Building permits, zoning approvals, and land development applications are handled by individual municipal governments, as Pennsylvania is a home-rule state where most land use regulation occurs at the local level. The this county Chamber of Commerce, serving the greater Clearfield County area, can be contacted for business development assistance and local economic information.
The DuBois Area Chamber of Commerce serves businesses in the western portion of the county. These chambers provide networking opportunities, business advocacy, and connections to local resources for entrepreneurs and established companies.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Clearfield County are administered by the Clearfield County Bureau of Elections, located at 230 East Market Street, Suite 105, Clearfield, PA 16830. The Elections Office can be reached at (814) 765-2642 ext. 5060, and information is available on the county website at www.clearfieldco.org. Voter registration in Pennsylvania can be completed online through the Pennsylvania Department of State at www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/pages/VoterRegistrationApplication.aspx, by mail using a paper application, or in person at the Elections Office.
- Registered voters can verify their registration status, find their polling place, and view sample ballots at www.pavoterservices.pa.gov.
- In the November 2024 general election, this county voter turnout was approximately 65-68% of registered voters, consistent with typical presidential election cycles in Pennsylvania rural counties.
- Mail-in voting is available to all registered Pennsylvania voters without requiring an excuse under Act 77 of 2019.
- Voters can request mail-in or absentee ballots through the Pennsylvania Department of State online portal at www.pavoterservices.pa.gov or by submitting a paper application to the area Elections Office.
The registration deadline is 15 days before any election. Pennsylvania also offers same-day voter registration during the early voting period at designated locations. the county typically operates approximately 70-80 polling places throughout its various boroughs and townships on Election Day.
Public election records include voter registration lists (available for purchase for legitimate purposes under 25 P.S. § 2621), candidate filings, campaign finance reports for county-level candidates, and certified election results by precinct. Election results are posted on the county website following certification and are maintained as permanent public records.
The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, and will include races for U.S. House of Representatives (Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District covers this jurisdiction), Governor of Pennsylvania (though 2026 will be a gubernatorial off-year), and various state legislative seats including Pennsylvania House and Senate districts. Mail-in ballot applications must be received by 5:00 PM the Tuesday before Election Day, and completed ballots must be received by 8:00 PM on Election Day.
Under Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law and election transparency provisions, citizens can request copies of voter rolls, precinct results, poll books, and other election administration records, promoting accountability and public confidence in election integrity.
Economy & Demographics
Clearfield County's economy has undergone significant transformation from its historical base in extraction industries to a more diversified economic structure. Major employers include Penn Highlands Healthcare, the largest healthcare system in the region with facilities in DuBois and Clearfield, employing over 2,000 people. Educational institutions including Penn State DuBois and Clearfield County Career & Technology Center are also significant employers.
- Census data, the median household income in the area is approximately $48,000 to $52,000, somewhat below the Pennsylvania state median.
The manufacturing sector remains important with companies such as NACCO Materials Handling Group (which manufactures Hyster-Yale lift trucks) operating a major facility in the county. The retail and service sectors have grown, centered primarily around DuBois and the local community. According to U.S.
The county's economy historically depended on bituminous coal mining, lumber, and fire clay production; while these industries have declined, natural resource extraction including natural gas development has provided some economic activity. Tourism and outdoor recreation contribute to the economy, with visitors attracted to state parks, forests, and hunting seasons. The unemployment rate in this jurisdiction typically tracks slightly above the state average, ranging between 5% and 7% in recent years depending on seasonal factors.
Economic development efforts have focused on diversifying the employment base, improving infrastructure, and supporting small business growth. The this county Economic Development Corporation works to attract new businesses and support existing industries. Challenges include population decline in some areas, an aging workforce, and competition from larger metropolitan regions.
Notable economic assets include available industrial sites, affordable real estate, proximity to Interstate 80, and quality of life factors that attract remote workers and retirees.
Transparency Score
Court Records: Yes: Online (PA UJS Portal) | Property: Yes: Online GIS/Search Available | Arrest/Jail: Limited: Phone/In-Person | Vital Records: Limited: State Office/Mail Required | Business: Yes: Online (PA State Portal) | Elections: Yes: Online Voter Tools | Overall Score: 7/10 — Clearfield County provides solid online access to court and property records through state systems, though some local records require direct contact with county offices.
Official Government Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
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Cities & Towns in Clearfield County
Explore public records for 48 cities and communities in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania.