Official Government Sources
Des Moines Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Des Moines, Washington government websites.
About Des Moines City Government
Des Moines is a city in King County, Washington. Use the official town and county resources on this page to reach the clerk, court, assessment, public-records, and Freedom of Information request pages serving residents and researchers.
About Des Moines, Washington
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Puget Sound, the city of Des Moines, Washington, is a vibrant community known for its stunning waterfront views and rich cultural diversity. With a population of approximately 32,000, it serves as a unique blend of suburban charm and urban amenities. Founded in the late 19th century, Des Moines has grown significantly over the years, with neighborhoods such as Marina District, North Hill, and Redondo Beach offering distinct atmospheres that cater to various lifestyles. The city's economy is bolstered by a mix of local businesses, retail, and service industries, as well as significant employers in the healthcare and education sectors. What truly sets Des Moines apart is its commitment to waterfront development, including public parks, a marina, and the scenic Des Moines Beach Park, which draw residents and visitors alike to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities available.
Law enforcement within Des Moines is primarily handled by the Des Moines Police Department, a dedicated agency that not only focuses on community policing but also on maintaining public safety through proactive measures. In addition to local law enforcement, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office provides support for law enforcement needs in the region, including the operation of the nearby county jail and detention facility. To obtain arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal history in Des Moines, individuals can start by contacting the records unit of the Des Moines Police Department directly. Individuals can also reach out to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office for additional information regarding county-level records. For comprehensive criminal history checks, requests can be made through the Washington State Criminal Repository, operated by the Washington State Patrol. Online lookup portals are available, allowing users to access certain public records with relative ease; however, specific procedures for obtaining detailed records may vary, so contacting the appropriate department will provide the most accurate guidance.
The judicial landscape of Des Moines is primarily served by the Washington County Superior Court, handling various civil and criminal cases, as well as family law matters. To request court records, individuals can utilize the online portal provided by the court system, which facilitates easier access to case documents. For those who prefer in-person assistance, visiting the court's clerk's office is also an option. Vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates are managed by the county clerk-recorder, and requests can be made through their office or via Washington Vital Records. Property records can be accessed through the county assessor's office and the recorder's office, which also provide online portals for ease of access. Under the Washington Public Records Act, the city maintains transparency through public records requests, typically responding within 5 to 10 business days, ensuring that citizens can access the information they need while upholding the accountability of local government.
Law enforcement within Des Moines is primarily handled by the Des Moines Police Department, a dedicated agency that not only focuses on community policing but also on maintaining public safety through proactive measures. In addition to local law enforcement, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office provides support for law enforcement needs in the region, including the operation of the nearby county jail and detention facility. To obtain arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal history in Des Moines, individuals can start by contacting the records unit of the Des Moines Police Department directly. Individuals can also reach out to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office for additional information regarding county-level records. For comprehensive criminal history checks, requests can be made through the Washington State Criminal Repository, operated by the Washington State Patrol. Online lookup portals are available, allowing users to access certain public records with relative ease; however, specific procedures for obtaining detailed records may vary, so contacting the appropriate department will provide the most accurate guidance.
The judicial landscape of Des Moines is primarily served by the Washington County Superior Court, handling various civil and criminal cases, as well as family law matters. To request court records, individuals can utilize the online portal provided by the court system, which facilitates easier access to case documents. For those who prefer in-person assistance, visiting the court's clerk's office is also an option. Vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates are managed by the county clerk-recorder, and requests can be made through their office or via Washington Vital Records. Property records can be accessed through the county assessor's office and the recorder's office, which also provide online portals for ease of access. Under the Washington Public Records Act, the city maintains transparency through public records requests, typically responding within 5 to 10 business days, ensuring that citizens can access the information they need while upholding the accountability of local government.
Des Moines, Washington Public Records & Government Resources
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 (206) 878-459
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
Find An Offender Statewide
Washington State Department of Corrections Mailing Address: Post Office Box 41100, Mail Stop 41100 Olympia, Washington 9
Frequently Asked Questions
1
What is the process for someone who is arrested in Des Moines, King County, Washington to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the City of Des Moines, Washington, you will be transported to the 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 County Court. Under Washington 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 Washington State Patrol. The County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.doc.wa.gov/information/offendersearch.aspx where you can look up current detainees.
2
What are the school district and education performance data for Des Moines, King County, Washington?
The Des Moines School District is located in King County, Washington. According to the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, the district has an overall score of 4 out of 10 on the state's School Report Card. The district's graduation rate is 81.3%, and the average student-teacher ratio is 22:1. The district also has a four-year adjusted cohort graduation rate of 81.3%.
3
What are the crime statistics for Des Moines, King County, Washington?
According to the King County Sheriff's Office, the total number of reported crimes in Des Moines, King County, Washington in 2019 was 1,845. Of those, 1,619 were property crimes and 226 were violent crimes.
4
What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Des Moines, King County, Washington Library?
The Des Moines Public Library in County, Washington provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Washington 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 Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56), which governs access to government documents in Washington. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Des Moines Washington Archives and Genealogy at https://www.sos.wa.gov/archives/Genealogy.aspx. Contact the Des Moines Public Library reference desk at (206) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
5
Where is the Des Moines, King County, Washington Public Library located?
The Des Moines, King County, Washington Library is located at 21620 11th Ave S, Des Moines, WA 98198.
6
Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Des Moines, King County, Washington?
Fingerprinting services for Des Moines, Washington residents are provided at the Des Moines Police Department, which serves 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 Des Moines Police Department at (206) 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 Washington State Patrol for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Washington State Patrol at https://www.wsp.wa.gov/crime/criminal-history/.
7
What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Des Moines, King County, Washington, and what information is provided in the records?
In order to obtain vital records from Des Moines, King County, Washington, you must contact the King County Department of Health.
The vital records that are available from the King County Department of Health include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. All of these records include the address of the individual listed on the record.
The vital records that are available from the King County Department of Health include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. All of these records include the address of the individual listed on the record.
8
About background check
A background check in Des Moines, County, Washington 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 Washington. Criminal background checks are processed through the Washington State Patrol, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Washington residents. The Washington State Patrol provides official criminal history checks at https://www.wsp.wa.gov/crime/criminal-history/. Under the Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56), 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 King County, Washington
Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county: