Faribault Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Faribault, Minnesota government websites.

  About Faribault City Government
Annual Budget $14.5 million
Regular Meetings Public Sessions

The governing body of Faribault, Minnesota, is the Faribault City Council, which consists of five members. Council members are elected at-large, with each serving a term of four years. The current council includes Mayor Kevin Voracek and Council Members Tom Willis, at-large; and members from specific wards: Brian Coates (Ward 1), Amy B. B. W. D. (Ward 2), and John E. (Ward 3).

For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for the City of Faribault is $14.5 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.

The Faribault City Council holds regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Faribault City Hall, located at 208 1st Avenue NW, Faribault, MN 55021. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in the governance of their community.

  About Faribault, Minnesota

Nestled in the scenic landscape of Rice County, Faribault, Minnesota, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and diverse community life. With a current population of approximately 23,352, Faribault has established itself as a charming hub that balances small-town warmth with urban conveniences. Founded in 1852, the city grew rapidly during the 19th century due to its strategic location along the Cannon River and the arrival of the railroad. Major neighborhoods, including the historic downtown area, the West End, and the East Side, each offer unique characteristics that contribute to the city's charm. Faribault's economy is primarily driven by manufacturing, healthcare, and education, with prominent employers such as the Faribault Woolen Mill, one of the oldest fabric manufacturers in the United States, and local educational institutions like South Central College. What truly distinguishes Faribault is its dedication to preserving historical landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Our Merciful Saviour, and fostering a strong sense of community through various cultural events and initiatives.

Law enforcement in Faribault is primarily provided by the Faribault Police Department, which is committed to ensuring public safety and maintaining the community's quality of life. Additionally, the Rice County Sheriff's Office plays a crucial role in law enforcement throughout the county, including the management of the Rice County Jail and Detention Facility. For those seeking to obtain arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal history in Faribault, the process begins at the Faribault Police Department. Residents can request these records by visiting the department's records unit, where personnel can assist with filling out the necessary forms. For cases involving more extensive law enforcement records or inquiries, the Rice County Sheriff's Office can be contacted, as they maintain a repository of records for incidents that may not fall under the city's purview. Additionally, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension acts as the central repository for statewide criminal data, allowing individuals to request their criminal history online or via mail. The department's website offers various digital tools for online lookup, making it easier for residents to access the information they need without extensive travel.

Faribault is served by the Rice County District Court, which handles a wide range of legal matters, including civil, criminal, and family law cases. For individuals seeking court records, requests can be made in person at the court clerk's office or through the court's online portal, which provides access to case files and documents. Vital records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, are maintained by the Rice County Clerk-Recorder’s office. These records can be requested in person or through the Minnesota Department of Health’s vital records division, which also provides a convenient online application process. Property records are another essential aspect of public documents available in Faribault and can be accessed through the Rice County Assessor and Recorder’s offices, with online tools available for property searches. Additionally, general public records requests can be made under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, with a typical response time of 5 to 10 business days. This commitment to transparency and accessibility in public records ensures that residents have the vital information they need in a timely manner, supporting informed community engagement and personal planning.

  Faribault, Minnesota Public Records & Government Resources

About Faribault

Nestled in the scenic landscape of Rice County, Faribault, Minnesota, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and diverse community life. With a current population of approximately 24,418, Faribault offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.

Police Department & Arrest Records

In addition to the Rice County Sheriff's Office, several municipal police departments operate within the county, including the Faribault Police Department and the Northfield Police Department. These agencies are responsible for law enforcement within their respective city limits, handling local crime and community policing. The Sheriff's Office and city police departments collaborate on major crimes and emergencies, ensuring a coordinated approach to public safety across Rice County.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Rice County Jail, located in Faribault, is the primary detention facility for the county. It handles the booking process for individuals arrested within the county, where detainees are processed and held. The jail offers an inmate lookup service through the county's official website, allowing the public to search for current inmates. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, requiring visitors to schedule appointments and adhere to strict guidelines.

Court Records

Court records for Faribault, Minnesota, are managed by the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Individuals can access case information, including criminal and civil proceedings, through the state's public case records system at https://mncourts.gov/access-case-records. This comprehensive database allows users to search for and retrieve court records related to Faribault and the surrounding Rice County area.

Criminal Records

The criminal records system in Rice County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Rice County Sheriff's Office, along with local police departments, maintains these records. Residents can conduct background checks through the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, which provides comprehensive criminal history information. The Bureau offers services to Rice County residents, including fingerprinting and access to statewide criminal records databases.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Rice County are maintained by the Rice County Sheriff's Office. These records document the details of an individual's arrest, including charges, booking information, and arresting agency. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. Under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, public access to these records is governed by state law, ensuring transparency while protecting sensitive information.

Public Records Access

The City of Faribault maintains a comprehensive public records system, providing access to a wide range of municipal information. These records cover a variety of topics, including city council meetings, public works projects, and local government initiatives. Residents and interested parties can access these records through the city's official website at https://www.ci.faribault.mn.us/.

Economy & Demographics

Faribault's economy is driven by a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and education. The city's economic development initiatives are overseen by the Faribault Economic Development Authority, which tracks key economic indicators and business growth. Detailed information about Faribault's economic landscape can be found on the city's website at https://www.ci.faribault.mn.us/153/Economic-Development.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

The Faribault Police Department is responsible for maintaining public safety and law enforcement records within the city. These records include incident reports, arrest logs, and other law enforcement-related information. Residents and interested parties can access relevant police records by visiting the Faribault Police Department's website at https://www.ci.faribault.mn.us/149/Police.

Vital Records

Vital records for Faribault, Minnesota, are managed by the Rice County Recorder's Office. This office is responsible for maintaining and providing access to birth, death, and marriage certificates for individuals within the city limits. Residents can request these records by visiting the Rice County Recorder's Office website at https://www.co.rice.mn.us/208/Recorder.

Business & Licensing Records

The Faribault business community is well-documented through the city's economic development initiatives. Businesses operating within Faribault can be found in the city's online business directory, accessible at https://www.ci.faribault.mn.us/153/Economic-Development. This directory provides contact information, business descriptions, and other relevant details to assist residents and potential investors.

Elections & Voter Records

Faribault voters are served by the Rice County Elections Office, located within the Rice County Recorder's Office at 320 3rd Street NW, Faribault, MN 55021 (phone: 507-332-6103, website: https://www.co.rice.mn.us/recorder/elections). The office administers all federal, state, county, and municipal elections for county residents. Minnesota offers online voter registration at https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us through the Minnesota Secretary of State's website; residents can register until 21 days before Election Day, and Minnesota also allows same-day voter registration at polling places on Election Day with proof of residence. Acceptable identification includes a Minnesota driver's license, state ID, tribal ID, or a registered voter from the precinct who can vouch for the voter's residence. Faribault holds municipal elections for Mayor, City Council, and School Board on a staggered cycle. The Mayor and City Council members serve four-year terms with elections in even-numbered years; the next municipal general election is November 4, 2025. The City of Faribault website at https://www.ci.faribault.mn.us provides information on local candidates, ballot questions, and city offices. Faribault residents can find their assigned polling place by using the Polling Place Finder at https://pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us or by contacting the Rice County Elections Office. Minnesota law (Minnesota Statutes Chapter 13) makes voter registration lists public data, though personal information like birth dates is classified as private. Campaign finance reports filed with the Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board (https://cfb.mn.gov) are public records searchable online, as are candidate filings and precinct-level election results available through the Secretary of State's website at https://electionresults.sos.state.mn.us. In the November 2024 presidential election, Rice County reported approximately 67% voter turnout with over 21,000 ballots cast out of approximately 31,500 registered voters. For the November 3, 2026 general election, Faribault and Rice County voters will decide several significant races: the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Amy Klobuchar is up for election; all eight Minnesota Congressional districts including Rice County's 2nd District will be on the ballot; Minnesota Governor and Lieutenant Governor positions are not up in 2026 (next in 2028); all 134 Minnesota House of Representatives seats and half of the 67 State Senate seats will be contested; and Rice County will elect County Commissioner seats, County Attorney, Sheriff, Recorder, and other constitutional offices. Municipal races may also appear on the ballot depending on the election cycle. Minnesota voters can request absentee ballots online at https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us starting 46 days before any election; applications can also be submitted by mail, email, fax, or in person to the Rice County Elections Office. Absentee voting in person begins 46 days before Election Day at the county elections office. Completed absentee 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: ✅ Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: ⚠️ State Office Required | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.5/10 — Rice County provides excellent online access to property records, court records through the state portal, current jail bookings, and full business entity searches, with strong election transparency and same-day voter registration, though vital records require state-level processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the City of Faribault, Minnesota, you will be transported to the Rice 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 Rice County Court. Under Minnesota 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 Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA). The Rice County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.doc.state.mn.us/publicviewer/ where you can look up current detainees.
Faribault Public Schools is the school district for Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Education, Faribault Public Schools had an overall proficiency rate of 64.2% in 2019, with a graduation rate of 87.2%. The district also had an average ACT score of 20.3 and an average SAT score of 1020.
According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, there were a total of 1,845 reported crimes in Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota in 2019. Of those reported crimes, there were 1,717 property crimes and 128 violent crimes. The property crime rate was 3,845.7 per 100,000 people, and the violent crime rate was 276.3 per 100,000 people.
The Faribault Public Library in Rice County, Minnesota provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Minnesota 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 Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, which governs access to government documents in Minnesota. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Faribault Minnesota Archives and Genealogy at https://www.mnhs.org/genealogy. Contact the Faribault Public Library reference desk at (507) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
The Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota Library is located at:

Faribault Public Library
110 3rd Ave NW
Faribault, MN 55021
Fingerprinting services for Faribault, Minnesota residents are provided at the Faribault Police Department, which serves Rice 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 Faribault Police Department at (507) 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 Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) at https://cch.bca.state.mn.us/.
To obtain vital records from Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota, you must contact the Rice County Recorder's Office.

The vital records available from the Rice County Recorder's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. To obtain any of these records, you must provide a valid photo ID and proof of your relationship to the person named on the record. You must also pay the applicable fees.
Police reports from Faribault, Minnesota can be obtained from the Faribault Police Department, located in Rice 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 Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, most police reports are public records in Minnesota, though portions related to active investigations, juvenile records, or sensitive personal information may be redacted. Contact the Faribault Police Department Records Division at (507) for information on fees, hours, and online request options. For statewide criminal records, visit https://cch.bca.state.mn.us/.
A background check in Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota 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 Minnesota. Criminal background checks are processed through the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Minnesota residents. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) provides official criminal history checks at https://cch.bca.state.mn.us/. Under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, 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 Rice County, Minnesota

Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:

Morristown Northfield