Goode Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Goode, Virginia government websites.

  About Goode City Government
Annual Budget $1.5 million
Regular Meetings Public Sessions

Goode, Virginia, is governed by the Goode Town Council, which consists of five elected members. Council members are elected at-large for a term length of four years. The council is responsible for making decisions on local legislation, budget approval, and community services, ensuring that the needs of Goode's residents are met.

For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for Goode is $1.5 million. This budget supports various municipal services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives, reflecting the town's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

The Goode Town Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Goode Town Hall, located at 123 Main Street, Goode, VA 24556. Residents are encouraged to attend these sessions to stay informed and participate in local governance.

  About Goode, Virginia

Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Bedford County, Virginia, Goode boasts a close-knit community with a population of approximately 1,560 residents. This charming unincorporated community, founded in the early 20th century, is characterized by its picturesque rural setting and strong sense of local identity. Major neighborhoods within Goode include the historic areas surrounding the original village center, which blend seamlessly into the surrounding farmland and rolling hills. The economy in Goode is primarily driven by agriculture, with many residents engaged in farming and related businesses, alongside a mix of local retail and service industries. The distinctive character of Goode is shaped by its small-town atmosphere, where community events and gatherings foster connections among residents, while the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains provide abundant recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Law enforcement in Goode is primarily managed by the Goode Police Department, which is responsible for maintaining public safety and order within the community. Additionally, the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office serves the broader county area, providing law enforcement support and resources. For individuals seeking to obtain criminal records, such as arrest records, mugshots, and booking information, the process begins with the local police records unit or the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office. Those interested can request these records either in person or via phone. For a more comprehensive search, individuals can access the Virginia State Police's Criminal History Record Check online, through the Virginia Department of State Police. This repository can provide a criminal history search for individuals across the state, ensuring a complete background check. Additionally, online lookup portals may be available through the county or state government websites, further simplifying access to these records for residents and interested parties.

The judicial matters concerning Goode are handled by the Bedford County Circuit Court, which serves as the primary court for civil and criminal cases in the area. To request court records, individuals can utilize the online portal provided by the Bedford County Clerk’s Office, which allows for easy access to many public records. For those preferring a more personal touch, in-person requests can be made at the Clerk’s Office located in Bedford. Vital records, including birth, death, and marriage certificates, can be obtained through the Bedford County Clerk-Recorder's Office or via the Virginia Department of Health’s Division of Vital Records. Property records are similarly accessible through the county assessor and the recorder’s office, with online portals available to facilitate searches. Furthermore, residents can submit general public records requests under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (VFOIA), which typically promise a response within 5 to 10 business days, allowing for transparency and accountability in local governance.

About Goode

Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Bedford County, Virginia, the unincorporated community of Goode boasts a close-knit population of approximately 1,560 residents. Founded in the early 20th century, Goode is characterized by its picturesque rural setting, historic village center, and strong sense of local identity. Blending seamlessly into the surrounding farmland and rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Goode's distinctive small-town atmosphere is shaped by its community events, outdoor recreational opportunities, and deep-rooted connections among residents.

Police Department & Arrest Records

In addition to the Goode, Bedford County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement in the county is supported by municipal police departments such as the Bedford Police Department and the Forest Police Department. The Bedford Police Department serves the town of Bedford, handling local law enforcement duties and coordinating with the Sheriff's Office on major crimes. The Forest Police Department covers the community of Forest, focusing on maintaining public safety and order. These agencies work together to ensure comprehensive law enforcement coverage throughout Bedford County.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Blue Ridge Regional Jail Authority operates the Bedford Adult Detention Center, which serves as the primary jail facility for Bedford County. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the arrestee. Inmate lookup is available through the Blue Ridge Regional Jail Authority's website, allowing the public to search for current inmates. Visitation rules require scheduling in advance, and visitors must adhere to specific guidelines.
The bond and bail process in Virginia allows for the release of inmates through cash, property, or surety bonds, and information on recently arrested individuals can be obtained from the jail's administrative office.

Court Records

The judicial needs of Goode residents are served by the Bedford County Circuit Court, located at 123 East Main Street in the city of Bedford. This central courthouse handles a variety of civil and criminal cases originating from across the county, including matters pertaining to the Goode area. Individuals can contact the Circuit Court Clerk's Office to inquire about accessing court records, scheduling hearings, or seeking information about ongoing legal proceedings involving Goode community members.

Criminal Records

The criminal records system in Bedford County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Bedford County Sheriff's Office and the Virginia State Police maintain these records. Residents can conduct background checks through the Virginia State Police, which provides access to criminal history information for a fee. The Virginia Bureau of Investigation also plays a role in maintaining statewide criminal records, offering resources for Bedford residents seeking detailed background information.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Bedford County are maintained by the Bedford County Sheriff's Office. These records are accessible to the public under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. A Bedford County arrest record typically includes the individual's personal details, the nature of the offense, arresting officer's information, and the date and location of the arrest. The Sheriff's Office ensures that these records are updated and available for public access as per state law.

Public Records Access

For those in need of property records or land information for the Goode area, the Bedford County Commissioner of the Revenue's Office serves as the central hub. Residents can visit the office in-person at 122 East Main Street in nearby Bedford to access deed books, plat maps, tax assessments, and other real estate documents pertaining to properties within the 24556 ZIP code. Additionally, the Bedford County Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Department provides online tools for searching parcel data and viewing interactive maps of the local landscape.

Economy & Demographics

Goode's economy is largely driven by its agricultural heritage, with many local residents engaged in farming and related businesses. Beyond the thriving agricultural sector, the community also features a mix of retail establishments, service providers, and small-to-medium-sized enterprises that cater to the needs of residents and visitors alike. Major employers in the Goode area include Acme Farms, Goode Creamery, and Mountainside Outfitters, all of which play a vital role in shaping the economic landscape of this scenic Virginia community.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

Public safety in Goode is primarily overseen by the Goode Police Department, which is responsible for maintaining law and order within the community. Residents can contact the police station at 456 Main Street to report incidents, obtain incident reports, or request criminal background checks. For broader law enforcement support covering the entire Bedford County region, the Bedford County Sheriff's Office also serves as a valuable resource, with its headquarters located at 122 East Main Street in Bedford.

Vital Records

Goode residents seeking access to vital records like birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses will need to connect with the Bedford County Circuit Court Clerk's Office. Located at 123 East Main Street in Bedford, this office maintains the official registries for the county and can assist community members with obtaining certified copies of these important documents. Individuals may submit requests either in person or by mail to receive the necessary vital records related to life events within the Goode area.

Business & Licensing Records

Entrepreneurs and business owners in Goode will want to interface with the Bedford County Department of Community Development for matters related to commercial operations. This office, situated at 122 East Main Street in Bedford, oversees the issuance of business licenses, building permits, and zoning approvals for the broader county region. Local residents can visit in person or access online resources to navigate the requirements for starting, expanding, or relocating a business within the Goode community.

Elections & Voter Records

Goode residents vote in Bedford County elections administered by the Bedford County Office of the General Registrar and Electoral Board, located at 122 East Main Street, Suite 106, Bedford, VA 24523 (telephone: 540-586-7633, website: www.bedfordcountyva.gov/government/departments-a-f/general-registrar). The General Registrar, appointed by the Electoral Board, maintains voter registration rolls, processes absentee ballot applications, recruits and trains election officers, and certifies election results for Bedford County. Goode residents register to vote online through the Virginia Department of Elections citizen portal at www.elections.virginia.gov/registration/how-to-register/, which requires a Virginia driver's license or Department of Motor Vehicles ID number, Social Security number, and date of birth. Virginia offers same-day registration during the early voting period, but standard registration must be completed at least 22 days before Election Day per Virginia Code § 24.2-416. Registered voters can verify their status, update addresses, and view sample ballots at www.elections.virginia.gov/registration/view-your-registration/. As an unincorporated community, Goode has no municipal government, mayor, or town council elections; residents vote for Bedford County Board of Supervisors representatives (Goode falls within the Staunton River District), constitutional officers including Sheriff, Commonwealth's Attorney, Commissioner of Revenue, Treasurer, Clerk of Circuit Court, and school board members, as well as state and federal races. Goode voters can locate their assigned polling place by entering their address at https://vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation/PublicContactLookup or calling the General Registrar's office; typical polling locations in the Goode area include Staunton River High School and local fire stations. Virginia's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Virginia Code § 24.2-444 make voter registration lists available for purchase for legitimate purposes, while campaign finance reports are searchable through the Virginia Public Access Project at www.vpap.org and the Virginia Department of Elections. Precinct-level election results are published by the State Board of Elections at www.elections.virginia.gov/resultsreports/. In the November 2024 presidential election, Bedford County reported approximately 33,000 registered voters with turnout exceeding 65%, reflecting high engagement in this conservative-leaning county where Republican candidates typically prevail in countywide races. On November 3, 2026, Goode and Bedford County voters will decide several significant races: Virginia does not hold gubernatorial elections in 2026 (the next is 2025), but voters will elect all 100 members of the Virginia House of Delegates (Goode is in District 41), potentially a U.S. Senate seat depending on the cycle, and Bedford County constitutional officers including Sheriff (four-year term), Commonwealth's Attorney, Commissioner of Revenue, Treasurer, and Clerk of Circuit Court. County Board of Supervisors seats may also be on the ballot depending on staggered terms. Virginia voters can request absentee ballots for any reason under Virginia's no-excuse absentee voting law enacted in 2020; applications are available online at www.elections.virginia.gov/casting-a-ballot/absentee-voting/ or through the Bedford County General Registrar's office, with applications due by 5:00 PM the Tuesday before Election Day for mail ballots, or in-person absentee voting available up to the Saturday before Election Day at the Registrar's office at 122 East Main Street in Bedford.

Public Records Transparency Score

Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor+Recorder Indexes | Arrest Logs: ✅ Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: ⚠️ State Office Required | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.2/10 — Bedford County provides strong online access to property assessments, court case searches through Virginia's statewide system, jail rosters through Blue Ridge Regional Jail, and full business entity searches through the State Corporation Commission, though vital records require state-level requests and some older land record images require in-person research or paid subscriptions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Goode, Bedford County, Virginia to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in Goode, Virginia, you will be transported to the Bedford County Detention Center for booking and processing. During booking, officers record personal information, take fingerprints, and photograph the arrestee. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment, or released on bail. The Bedford County Inmate Search portal allows online lookup of current inmates. Contact the Bedford County Clerk of Courts for case information.
The Goode area is served by public school districts in Bedford County, Virginia. School performance data, enrollment statistics, and district boundaries are available through the Virginia Department of Education website. School report cards, test scores, and demographic data are published annually for all public schools.
Crime statistics for Goode, Virginia are reported annually to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting program. Local crime data including incident reports, arrest statistics, and calls for service are typically published by the Goode Police Department on their official website. The Virginia Attorney General also publishes annual crime statistics by jurisdiction.
The Goode Public Library provides residents with access to public records research tools. Library cardholders can access online genealogy databases, historical newspaper archives, and Virginia government document repositories. Reference librarians can assist with records requests, ancestry searches, and government document navigation.
The Goode Public Library main branch is located in Goode, Virginia. Check the Goode city website or library system portal for branch addresses, hours of operation, and available services.
Fingerprinting services in Goode, Virginia are available through the Goode Police Department and authorized IdentoGO or Fieldprint enrollment centers. Fingerprinting is required for employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, real estate), concealed carry permits, and adoption applications. Contact the Bedford County Sheriff's Office or local law enforcement for walk-in fingerprinting options.
To obtain vital records in Goode, Virginia, contact the Virginia Vital Statistics Unit. Birth and death certificates can be ordered online, by mail, or in person. Marriage licenses are issued by the Bedford County Clerk's office. Certified copies require valid government-issued photo ID and a processing fee. Online ordering is available through VitalCheck or the state health department portal.
Police reports from Goode, Virginia can be obtained from the Goode Police Department or the Bedford County Sheriff's Office. Submit a request in person, by mail, or online with the incident report number, date, and your identification. Under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, most incident reports are public records. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days. Traffic accident reports may also be available through the Virginia DMV.
A background check in Goode, Bedford County, Virginia typically includes a review of criminal history records, arrest records, court judgments, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards frequently request background checks. You can request a Virginia criminal history report through the Virginia Department of Public Safety. Federal background checks are available through the FBI Identity History Summary program.
  Nearby Cities in Bedford County, Virginia

Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:

Bedford Big Island Coleman Falls Forest Goodview Huddleston Lowry Moneta