About Colquitt County
Colquitt County is located in the southwestern region of Georgia, bordered by Thomas, Cook, Tift, Worth, and Mitchell counties. Established on February 25, 1856, from parts of Lowndes and Thomas counties, it was named after Walter T. Colquitt, a U.S. Senator and Georgia Supreme Court Justice. Colquitt County seat is Moultrie, which is the primary governmental and commercial center. Colquitt County includes approximately 552 square miles and has a population of around 46,000 residents according to recent census estimates. Colquitt County is known as the 'Tomato Capital of the World' due to its significant agricultural production, particularly tomatoes, tobacco, and cotton. Major landmarks include Reed Bingham State Park, which offers recreational opportunities around a 375-acre lake, and the Sunbelt Agricultural Expo, one of North America's largest farm shows held annually in October. Colquitt County's economy has historically been rooted in agriculture but has diversified to include manufacturing and distribution. Key governmental offices include Colquitt County Tax Assessor located at 120 East Central Avenue in Moultrie, Colquitt County Clerk of Superior Court at 155 East Main Street in Moultrie, and Colquitt County Tax Commissioner's office. Colquitt County maintains various departments that handle public records requests, property records, court filings, and vital statistics under Georgia Open Records Act requirements.
- Colquitt County maintains various departments that handle public records requests, property records, court filings, and vital statistics under Georgia Open Records Act requirements.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
Colquitt County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order in Colquitt County's unincorporated areas. This office, led by the elected sheriff, oversees Colquitt County Jail, manages the processing of arrests, and maintains criminal records. The sheriff's office is also involved in community outreach programs and crime prevention initiatives, which are tailored to address the specific needs of Colquitt County residents.
Police Departments
In addition to Colquitt County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement in Colquitt County is provided by municipal police departments, including the Moultrie Police Department. Each agency has jurisdiction over its respective area, with the sheriff's office covering unincorporated regions and the city police handling matters within city limits. These agencies collaborate on major crimes and emergencies, making sure of full coverage and response throughout Colquitt County.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Colquitt County Sheriff's Office, located at 155 East Main Street, Moultrie, GA 31768, is the primary law enforcement agency for unincorporated areas of Colquitt County. The agency operates Colquitt County Jail, which houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. Inmate information can be obtained by calling the detention center or through online inmate search portals that may be available through third-party vendors.
- Requests should specify the individual's name and approximate date of arrest.
- Mugshots and booking photos are typically part of arrest records and may be available through direct requests to the detention facility or online booking databases.
- Fees for copying records are established by Georgia law and typically include a base retrieval fee plus per-page copying charges.
Municipal law enforcement is provided by the Moultrie Police Department, which serves the city of Moultrie and can be contacted for Smaller municipalities like Norman Park, Riverside, and Ellenton may have limited police services or rely on county law enforcement. Arrest records in Colquitt County are considered public records under the Georgia Open Records Act (§ 50-18-70 et seq.), and citizens may request these records by submitting written requests to the Sheriff's Office or appropriate police department.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in Colquitt County includes a variety of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. Residents can request criminal records through the Georgia Crime Information Center, operated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, which provides statewide access to criminal history information.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Colquitt County are maintained by Colquitt County Sheriff's Office. These records include details such as the date of arrest, charges, and personal information of the arrestee. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the sheriff's office directly, following the procedures outlined under the Georgia Open Records Act. Arrest records provide crucial information for legal proceedings and background checks, and they are accessible to the public unless sealed by a court order.
Jail & Inmate Records
Colquitt County Jail, also known as Colquitt County Detention Center, is the primary facility for housing individuals who have been arrested in Colquitt County. The booking process at this facility involves photographing, fingerprinting, and recording personal information of the detainees. Inmate lookup services are available online, allowing family members and legal representatives to find information about current inmates. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, requiring visitors to schedule appointments and adhere to security protocols.
- The bond and bail process follows Georgia state guidelines, enabling detainees to secure release pending trial under certain conditions.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Colquitt County are taken and retained by Colquitt County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These photographs are part of the public record and can be accessed through the sheriff's office or online databases that compile booking photos. While Georgia does not have specific laws for mugshot removal, individuals seeking to have their mugshots removed must typically demonstrate that the charges were dropped or that they were acquitted. The availability of mugshots online can vary, and some third-party websites may charge fees for removal services.
Courts & Case Records
Colquitt County's judicial system includes several courts with different jurisdictions. Colquitt County Superior Court, located at 155 East Main Street, Moultrie, GA 31768, has general jurisdiction over felony criminal cases, civil cases exceeding $15,000, divorce and family matters, real property disputes, and equity cases. The Superior Court Clerk's office can be reached through the office maintains case records, land records, and vital statistics. The court is part of the Tifton Judicial Circuit, which also includes Tift, Turner, Irwin, Ben Hill, Wilcox, and Worth counties.
- Colquitt County Magistrate Court handles civil claims up to $15,000, dispossessory (eviction) proceedings, county ordinance violations, and preliminary hearings for criminal cases.
- Fees for certified copies of court documents are typically $2.50 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page, plus a $2.00 certification fee.
Colquitt County Probate Court, located at 142 East Main Street, handles estate matters, guardianships, involuntary commitments, traffic citations, and weapons carry license applications. The Probate Court phone number is unlisted. The Magistrate Court is located at 155 East Main Street and can be contacted for Municipal courts in Moultrie and other incorporated cities handle traffic violations and city ordinance violations.
Court records are generally public under Georgia law (§ 50-18-70), though certain records involving juveniles, adoptions, and mental health proceedings may be sealed. Many case searches can be conducted in person at the Clerk of Superior Court's office, with staff assistance available during business hours. Online case access may be available through the Georgia Court Automation Program (GCAP) or eFile Georgia systems.
Property & Public Records
Property and land records for Colquitt County are maintained by Colquitt County Clerk of Superior Court, which is the official recorder of deeds. The office is located at 155 East Main Street, Moultrie, GA 31768, and can be contacted through the office’s website. Available records include warranty deeds, quit claim deeds, security deeds (mortgages), liens, Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings, easements, right-of-way documents, plat maps, and subdivision records. The Clerk's office maintains a Grantor-Grantee index that allows researchers to trace property ownership chains.
- Colquitt County Tax Assessor's office, located at 120 East Central Avenue, Moultrie, GA 31768 (phone: 229-890-5510), maintains property tax records, assessment values, exemption information, and ownership data.
- Property tax bills and payment histories are maintained by Colquitt County Tax Commissioner's office at 138 East Main Street, Moultrie (phone: 229-890-5500).
- Certified copies of recorded documents can be obtained from the Clerk of Superior Court for a statutory fee of $2.50 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page.
- Recording fees for new documents vary based on the number of pages and type of instrument.
Real property records in Georgia are public and accessible under the Open Records Act. The Tax Assessor provides an online property search tool through Colquitt County website at colquittcountyga.org, where users can search by owner name, parcel number, or property address to view current assessments, tax digest information, and property characteristics. Colquitt County also offers a Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping portal that displays parcel boundaries, ownership, zoning, and other spatial data.
Online access to historical deed images may be available through subscription services or direct county portals.
Vital Records
Vital records for Colquitt County, including birth and death certificates, are maintained by both Colquitt County Probate Court and the Georgia Department of Public Health. Colquitt County Probate Court, located at 142 East Main Street, Moultrie, GA 31768 (phone: 229-616-7420), can issue certified copies of birth certificates for births occurring in Colquitt County and death certificates for deaths occurring in Colquitt County.
- The current fee for a certified birth or death certificate is typically $25 for the first copy and $5 for each additional copy ordered at the same time.
- Processing times vary but are generally available within a few business days for in-person requests.
- The Georgia Department of Public Health Vital Records office in Atlanta maintains statewide records and can be accessed online at dph.georgia.gov or by mail at 1680 Phoenix Boulevard, Suite 100, Atlanta, GA 30349.
- Online ordering is available through VitalChek at a higher fee (approximately $35-40 including processing fees).
- The fee for a marriage license is approximately $56, though this may be reduced for couples who complete a premarital education program.
Birth certificates are restricted records under Georgia law (§ 31-10-25), available only to the individual (if 18 or older), parents listed on the certificate, legal guardians, or legal representatives with proper authorization. Death certificates are generally public records with some restrictions on cause of death information. Marriage licenses are issued by Colquitt County Probate Court, with both parties required to appear in person with valid photo identification and Social Security numbers.
There is no waiting period in Georgia, and the marriage license is valid for up to six months. Divorce records (final divorce decrees) are maintained by the Clerk of Superior Court at 155 East Main Street, Moultrie. Applicants must provide valid government-issued photo identification and complete appropriate application forms demonstrating their eligibility to receive restricted vital records.
Business & Licensing
Business records and licensing in Colquitt County are handled by multiple agencies depending on the type of business activity. Colquitt County Clerk of Superior Court maintains trade name (DBA - 'Doing Business As') registrations filed at Colquitt County level. These filings are public records and can be searched in person at the Clerk's office at 155 East Main Street, Moultrie, or by calling.
- This free online tool allows users to search by business name, registered agent, or control number to verify business registration status, view registered agents, and access annual registration information.
- The chamber maintains a directory of member businesses and provides information on starting and operating businesses in Colquitt County.
For full business entity searches including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and nonprofit organizations, the Georgia Secretary of State Corporations Division maintains an online searchable database at ecorp.sos.ga.gov. Professional and occupational licenses are typically issued by state boards rather than county offices, with information available through the Georgia Secretary of State Professional Licensing Boards Division. Local business licenses and occupation taxes are administered by the City of Moultrie Business License Department for businesses operating within city limits, and by Colquitt County for businesses in unincorporated areas.
Building permits, construction permits, and zoning compliance are handled by Colquitt County Building Inspection Department and Colquitt County Planning and Zoning Department. These offices review plans for compliance with building codes, zoning ordinances, and land use regulations. The Moultrie-Colquitt County Chamber of Commerce, located at 11 1st Avenue SE, Moultrie, GA 31768 (phone: 229-985-2131, website: moultrie-colquitt.com), is a business resource providing networking opportunities, economic data, and business development assistance.
Official Government Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I register to vote in Colquitt County, Georgia?
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Cities & Towns in Colquitt County
Explore public records for 7 cities and communities in Colquitt County, Georgia.
Economy & Demographics
Colquitt County's economy is substantially rooted in agriculture, with Colquitt County known nationally as a leading producer of tomatoes, cotton, tobacco, peanuts, and pecans. The Sunbelt Agricultural Expo, held annually in October at Spence Field near Moultrie, is one of North America's largest farm shows and draws over 200,000 attendees, generating significant economic impact. Major agricultural employers include various farming operations, processing facilities, and agribusiness support companies.
- Manufacturing has grown as an economic sector, with companies like Millennium Specialty Chemicals, a chemical manufacturing facility, and various food processing operations providing employment.
- The median household income in Colquitt County is approximately $45,000 to $50,000, which is below the Georgia state median but reflects the rural agricultural character of Colquitt County.
Healthcare is a significant employer, with Colquitt Regional Medical Center acting as a major institution providing medical services and jobs. Retail trade, educational services through Colquitt County School System, and government employment (county, city, state, and federal) also contribute substantially to the local economy. The unemployment rate in Colquitt County has historically tracked slightly above the Georgia state average, ranging from 3% to 5% in recent years depending on economic conditions and seasonal agricultural employment fluctuations.
Economic development efforts are coordinated through the Moultrie-Colquitt County Development Authority, which works to recruit new businesses, support existing industry expansion, and develop infrastructure. Transportation logistics have become increasingly important due to Colquitt County's location along major highway corridors. Tourism contributes to the economy through Reed Bingham State Park and agritourism activities.
Colquitt County has pursued diversification strategies to reduce dependence on agriculture alone, though farming remains culturally and economically central to the community's identity.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Colquitt County are administered by Colquitt County Board of Elections and Registration, located at 155 East Main Street, Moultrie, GA 31768. The office can be contacted through the office’s website, and election information is available through Colquitt County website. Voter registration in Georgia requires applicants to be U.S. Citizens, legal residents of Colquitt County, at least 17.5 years old (to vote at 18), and not serving a sentence for a felony conviction. Registration deadlines in Georgia are typically 29 days before any election.
- Colquitt County's
- Absentee ballots in Georgia can be requested by any registered voter without providing an excuse.
- Requests must be submitted to Colquitt County Elections Office in writing, and applications can be downloaded from the Secretary of State's website or Colquitt County elections page.
- The deadline for requesting an absentee ballot is typically the Friday before Election Day, though earlier submission is strongly recommended.
Georgia offers online voter registration through the Georgia Secretary of State's My Voter Page at mvp.sos.ga.gov, where eligible citizens can register, check registration status, update addresses, and request absentee ballots. Voters can find their assigned polling place by using the My Voter Page or by contacting Colquitt County Elections Office directly. Colquitt County operates multiple precincts across Moultrie and unincorporated areas.
Election records that are public in Georgia include voter registration rolls (with some personal information redacted for privacy), precinct-level election results, candidate qualification documents, campaign disclosure reports filed with the Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Commission, and absentee ballot application information.
Senate races if seats are up for election, Georgia state constitutional officers (Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, etc.), Georgia General Assembly seats, and local county offices. Georgia law (§ 21-2-500 et seq.) governs absentee voting procedures. Early voting is available at designated locations in Colquitt County beginning approximately three weeks before Election Day.
The elections office provides transparent access to election related public records under Georgia's Open Records Act, and citizens may request voter lists, election results documentation, and other public election materials by submitting written requests to the Board of Elections.