About Des Moines — In Depth
Jail & Inmate Records
Individuals arrested in King County are processed through two main detention centers: the King County Correctional Facility in Seattle and the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent. Both facilities handle booking, intake, and housing for detainees awaiting trial or release. The King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention provides an online inmate lookup tool for tracking current detainees. Visitation requires advance scheduling, and the county maintains specific protocols for both in-person and video visits.
Arrest Records
The King County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain arrest records that document the circumstances surrounding each detention. These records capture charges, booking details, and personal identifiers tied to the arrest. Anyone seeking copies, whether residents, attorneys, or other interested parties, must submit a formal request under the Washington Public Records Act to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
A standard arrest record from the county includes the individual's name, date of birth, arrest date, specific charges filed, and the current case status, offering a complete snapshot of the arrest incident.
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in King County covers a variety of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The King County Superior Court handles felony cases, while the District Court oversees misdemeanors and traffic offenses.
Residents can request background checks for employment or personal purposes, accessing information on convictions, arrests, and pending charges. The Washington State Patrol helps with compiling and disseminating criminal history information for King County residents.
Vital Records
The Washington State Department of Health oversees vital records for Des Moines, including birth certificates, death records, and marriage licenses. Individuals in need of these documents can request copies through the Des Moines Vital Records office. The process is straightforward, with options to submit requests online, by mail, or in person. Local residents can also access census data and other demographic information through the U.S. Census Bureau's Des Moines profile.
Business & Licensing Records
The city's Planning and Building Department is the primary resource for entrepreneurs and established business owners throughout the community. This office maintains all records related to business licenses, zoning permits, and commercial development projects. An online portal lets users search active permits, submit new applications, and review planning documents without visiting city hall. For questions about business registration and local licensing requirements, the Des Moines City Clerk's office handles those inquiries and maintains the official records.
Economy & Demographics
As a vibrant coastal community, Des Moines has a diverse and thriving economy. Major employers in the area include the Des Moines Marina and Yacht Club, the Highline College campus, and several manufacturing and distribution companies. The city's tourism industry is also a significant economic driver, with the Des Moines Beach Park, Saltwater State Park, and other local attractions drawing visitors from around the region. The Des Moines Chamber of Commerce can provide additional information about the city's business climate and economic development initiatives.
Elections & Voter Records
ELECTION HUB for Des Moines, Washington voters King County Elections serves residents throughout the city. The office, formally known as King County Elections, operates from 919 SW Grady Way, Renton, WA 98057. Voters can reach them at (206) 296-8683 or visit www.kingcounty.gov/depts/elections.aspx. Registration is available online at www.sos.wa.gov/elections/register.aspx, with a deadline of 8 days before any election. A Washington state driver's license or ID card is required to complete the process.
Official Government Resources
Find An Offender Statewide
Washington State Department of Corrections Mailing Address: Post Office Box 41100, Mail Stop 41100 Olympia, Washington 98504-1100 Physical Address: 7345 Linderson Way SW Tumwater, WA 98501-6504
Des Moines Washington Archives and Genealogy
Washington State Archives genealogy and historical records for Des Moines.
Des Moines Washington Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court Western District of Washington for Des Moines.
Des Moines Washington Vital Records
Washington Department of Health vital records for Des Moines.
Des Moines Washington Inmate Search
Washington Department of Corrections offender search for Des Moines.
Des Moines Washington Missing Persons
Washington State Patrol missing persons for Des Moines.
Des Moines Washington Most Wanted
Washington State Patrol most wanted for Des Moines.
Des Moines Washington Sex Offender Registry
Washington State sex offender inquiry for Des Moines.
Des Moines Washington Criminal History Records
Washington State Patrol criminal history records for Des Moines.
Des Moines Washington Census and Vital Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau quick facts, demographics, and population statistics for Des Moines.
City of Des Moines
Directory of Des Moines city records and information 21630 11th Avenue South, Suite A Des Moines, WA 98198
Des Moines City Clerk
Official records and public files 21630 11th Ave South Suite A Des Moines, WA 98198 Phone: (206) 870-6519 Fax: (206) 870
Des Moines Police Department
Law enforcement and public safety 21900 11 Ave S Des Moines WA 98198 Phone: (206) 878-3301 Fax: (206) 870-7626 Email: po
South King Fire and Rescue
Fire and rescue services 31617 1st Ave South Federal Way, WA 98003 Phone: (253) 839-6234 Fax: (253) 529-7204 Email: info
Des Moines Planning and Building Department
Building, development and planning services 21630 11th Ave S Suite D Des Moines, WA 98198 Phone: (206) 870-7576 Fax: (20
Des Moines Library
Reference materials and research assistance 21620 11th Avenue S Des Moines, WA 98198 Phone: (206) 824-6066
Des Moines Historical Society
Local historical information and museum PO Box 98055 Des Moines, WA 98198 Email: info@dmhs.org
Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce
Business listings directory 14220 Interurban Ave S Suite 134 Tukwila, WA 98168 Phone: (206) 575-1633 Fax: (206) 575-2007
Des Moines U.S. Census
Population demographic information Des Moines, WA 98198
Des Moines Washington Background Checks
Washington State Patrol Identification and Criminal History Section Washington State Patrol General Administration Build
Civil and Criminal Cases In Washington Courts
Divorces, criminal history and other court filings The Administrative Office Of The Courts 1206 Quince Street SE P.O. Bo
Center for Missing and Exploited Children
Quick search for missing children, sex offenders, Amber alerts, records and more public information
Nearby Cities in King County, Washington
Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register to vote in Des Moines, Washington?
To register to vote in Des Moines, Washington, residents can register online through the Washington Secretary of State's website, by mail, or in person at the King County elections office. Washington 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 Washington Secretary of State's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Des Moines, contact the King County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
How do I look up property records in Des Moines, Washington?
The Des Moines Washington Archives and Genealogy office maintains public records dating back to the city's incorporation in 1959. Residents can access a wide range of historical documents, including property deeds, land surveys, and city council meeting minutes. The King County Assessor's Office also provides detailed information about local real estate, including property values and ownership details. These records can be especially useful for homeowners, researchers, and those tracing their family history in the Des Moines area.
How do I get a birth or death certificate in Des Moines, Washington?
The Washington State Department of Health oversees vital records for Des Moines, including birth certificates, death records, and marriage licenses. Individuals in need of these documents can request copies through the Des Moines Vital Records office. The process is straightforward, with options to submit requests online, by mail, or in person. Local residents can also access census data and other demographic information through the U.S. Census Bureau's Des Moines profile.
How do I find business license records in Des Moines, Washington?
Entrepreneurs and business owners in Des Moines will find extensive resources through the city's Planning and Building Department. This office maintains records related to business licenses, zoning permits, and commercial development projects. The department's online portal allows users to search for active permits, submit applications, and review planning documents. The Des Moines City Clerk's office can provide details on local business registration and licensing requirements.