About Greene County

County Seat Carrollton
Established 1821
Named After Revolutionary War General

Greene County, Illinois, is a rural county located in the west-central portion of the state along the Illinois River. Established in 1821, Greene County was named after Revolutionary War General Nathanael Greene. Greene County Seat is Carrollton, which is the governmental and administrative center. Greene County includes approximately 543 square miles and has a population of around 13,000 residents according to recent census estimates. Greene County is bordered by the Illinois River to the west, which provides scenic bluffs and recreational opportunities.

Major landmarks include Pere Marquette State Park, located partially within Greene County boundaries, offering hiking trails and wildlife viewing along the river bluffs. Greene County is characterized by its agricultural heritage, with farming and livestock production forming the economic backbone. Key county agencies include Greene County Recorder's Office, Greene County Clerk, and Greene County Assessor, all located in the historic courthouse at 519 North Main Street in Carrollton.

Greene County Courthouse, built in 1890, stands as a prominent architectural landmark in the community. Greene County's history is deeply connected to early Illinois settlement patterns and river commerce. What makes Greene County unique is its blend of natural beauty along the Illinois River valley, preserved small-town character, and agricultural traditions that continue to define the community's identity and economy.

Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement

Sheriff & Law Enforcement

Greene County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order in Greene County's unincorporated areas. The office oversees Greene County jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The Sheriff's Office also provides patrol services, investigates crimes, and collaborates with other local law enforcement agencies. Notable programs include community outreach initiatives meant to crime prevention and public safety education.

Police Departments

In addition to Greene County Sheriff's Office, several municipal police departments operate within Greene County, including the Carrollton Police Department, White Hall Police Department, and Roodhouse Police Department. These agencies are responsible for law enforcement within their respective city limits. They coordinate with the sheriff's office on major crimes and joint investigations, making sure of full coverage and public safety throughout Greene County.

Law Enforcement & Arrests

Law enforcement in Greene County, Illinois, is primarily provided by Greene County Sheriff's Office, located at 519 North Main Street in Carrollton, Illinois 62016. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at and maintains law enforcement services throughout the unincorporated areas of Greene County. Greene County Jail, operated by the Sheriff's Office, houses inmates awaiting trial and those serving shorter sentences.

  • Mugshots and booking photos are generally considered public records in Illinois and may be obtained through formal public records requests to the arresting agency.
  • Processing times and fees vary by agency, with costs typically covering copying and administrative expenses as permitted under FOIA.
  • Greene County Sheriff's Office also provides court security, civil process service, and investigative services.

Inmate information and jail rosters may be obtained by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly during business hours, though online inmate lookup systems may be limited compared to larger Illinois counties. Municipal law enforcement is provided by local police departments in incorporated communities including Carrollton, White Hall, Roodhouse, and Greenfield, each maintaining their own police forces with jurisdiction within city limits. Arrest records in Greene County are public records under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140/1 et seq.), and citizens may request arrest records by submitting a written FOIA request to the Sheriff's Office or respective municipal police departments.

For specific case information or warrant status, individuals should contact the Sheriff's Office directly or consult with Greene County Circuit Clerk regarding court records associated with arrests.

Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records

Criminal Records

The criminal records ecosystem in Greene County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. Greene County Circuit Clerk's Office maintains court records, while the sheriff's office manages arrest and jail records. Background checks can be conducted through the Illinois State Police, which provides statewide criminal history information. The Illinois Bureau of Investigation offers additional resources for residents seeking full background checks.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Greene County are maintained by Greene County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges, and booking information. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the sheriff's office directly. The records typically include the individual's personal information, arrest date, charges, and case status. The Illinois Freedom of Information Act governs the accessibility of these records, for public access and public access.

Jail & Inmate Records

Greene County Jail, located in Carrollton, is the primary detention facility for Greene County. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the arrestees. Inmate lookup can be conducted through the sheriff's office website, which provides information on current detainees. Visitation rules require scheduling in advance, and visitors must adhere to strict guidelines.

  • The bond process follows Illinois state law, allowing for cash or surety bonds, and information on recently arrested individuals can be obtained from the jail's administrative office.

Mugshots & Booking Photos

Mugshots in Greene County are taken and retained by Greene County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the arrest records and can be accessed through the sheriff's office or online databases. While Illinois does not have specific mugshot removal laws, individuals can request removal from third-party websites under certain conditions. Mugshots are generally available to the public unless sealed by court order.

Courts & Case Records

Greene County Circuit Court is the primary judicial body serving Greene County, Illinois, and is part of the Eighth Judicial Circuit of Illinois. The courthouse is located at 519 North Main Street, Carrollton, Illinois 62016, and the Circuit Clerk's office can be reached for The Circuit Court has jurisdiction over all civil, criminal, traffic, probate, family law, and juvenile matters arising in Greene County. Court records are accessible under Illinois Supreme Court Rules and the Illinois Freedom of Information Act.

  • Fees for copying court documents are established by Illinois statute, generally $2.00 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page, with certified copies carrying additional certification fees.
  • Traffic violations and minor criminal matters are also processed through the Circuit Court.
  • Citizens seeking court records should contact Greene County Circuit Clerk's office directly to inquire about specific case information, available search methods, and current fee schedules.

Greene County Circuit Clerk maintains case records, and the public may search court records by visiting the Clerk's office in person during regular business hours, typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Online case search capabilities may be limited in Greene County compared to larger Illinois counties, though some case information may be accessible through the Illinois state court system's electronic filing portal. Probate matters, including estate administration and guardianship cases, are heard in the Circuit Court's Probate Division.

Access to certain court records, including sealed cases, expunged records, and juvenile matters, is restricted by Illinois law.

Property & Public Records

Property and land records in Greene County, Illinois, are maintained by Greene County Recorder of Deeds, located at 519 North Main Street, Carrollton, Illinois 62016. The Recorder's office can be contacted at and is responsible for recording and preserving documents affecting real property, including warranty deeds, quit claim deeds, mortgages, mortgage releases, liens, easements, plat maps, and other instruments. These records are public and available for inspection under Illinois law (55 ILCS 5/3-5001 et seq.).

  • Certified copies of recorded documents are available for statutory fees, typically $2.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page, plus a certification fee.

The Recorder's office maintains grantor-grantee indexes that allow searches by name or property description. While some Illinois counties offer full online property record search portals, Greene County's online access may be more limited, and researchers are encouraged to contact the Recorder's office directly to inquire about current online search capabilities and fees. Property tax records and assessment information are maintained by Greene County Assessor's Office and Greene County Treasurer's Office, both located in Greene County courthouse.

The Assessor's office maintains property assessment records, ownership information, and legal descriptions for all parcels in Greene County. Property tax payment records and delinquency information are available through the County Treasurer. Some Illinois counties participate in regional GIS (Geographic Information Systems) parcel viewers, and interested parties should contact Greene County Assessor's office for inquire about the availability of online parcel mapping and property data access.

Vital Records

Vital records for Greene County, Illinois, including birth and death certificates, are maintained under the Illinois Vital Records Act (410 ILCS 535/). Birth and death certificates occurring in Greene County may be obtained from Greene County Clerk's office at 519 North Main Street, Carrollton, Illinois 62016, phone. Greene County Clerk maintains vital records for events that occurred within Greene County, though records may have varying availability depending on the date of the event.

  • Certified copies of birth certificates typically cost $15.00 for the first copy and $2.00 for each additional copy of the same record ordered at the same time.
  • Death certificates generally cost $19.00 for the first copy and $4.00 for each additional copy.
  • Processing times vary but are typically completed within a few business days for in-person requests.

Applicants must provide valid photo identification and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record, as only certain individuals are entitled to certified copies under Illinois law. Marriage licenses are issued by Greene County Clerk's office, and certified copies of marriage records can be obtained from the same office. Divorce records are maintained as court records by Greene County Circuit Clerk.

For full access to Illinois vital records, individuals may also contact the Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Records, 925 East Ridgely Avenue, Springfield, Illinois 62702, or visit their website for online ordering options through VitalChek. The state vital records office maintains birth records from 1916 forward and death records from 1916 forward, while earlier records may be available through Greene County or state archives.

Business & Licensing

Business and licensing records in Greene County, Illinois, are available through multiple agencies depending on the type of business activity. Greene County Clerk's office, located at 519 North Main Street, Carrollton, Illinois 62016, phone, maintains records of assumed business name registrations (DBA - Doing Business As) and fictitious name filings for businesses operating in Greene County under names other than the owner's legal name. These registrations are public records available for inspection.

  • This searchable database is available online at www.ilsos.gov through the Business Services section, allowing free public searches of business names, registered agents, filing dates, and status.

For full business entity searches, including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and other formal business structures, the Illinois Secretary of State maintains the official business entity database. Sales tax permits and employer identification for Illinois tax purposes are administered by the Illinois Department of Revenue. Professional licenses, including those for contractors, cosmetologists, and healthcare professionals, are regulated by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).

Building permits, zoning approvals, and land use permits in unincorporated Greene County are handled by Greene County Zoning Office, which can be contacted through Greene County courthouse. Individual municipalities within Greene County, including Carrollton, White Hall, Roodhouse, and Greenfield, maintain their own business licensing requirements and building permit processes for activities within city limits. Greene County Chamber of Commerce may provide additional business information and economic development resources, though specific licensing and registration remain governmental functions.

Elections & Voter Records

Elections in Greene County, Illinois, are administered by Greene County Clerk, who is the election authority for Greene County. Greene County Clerk's office is located at 519 North Main Street, Carrollton, Illinois 62016, and can be reached for Voter registration in Greene County can be completed in person at the County Clerk's office, by mail, or online through the Illinois State Board of Elections website at www.elections.il.gov.

  • Illinois law requires voters to register at least 27 days before an election (grace period registration is available during early voting and on Election Day at designated locations).

Eligible residents must be U.S. Citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and have resided in their precinct for at least 30 days prior to the election. To find your polling place in Greene County, voters may contact the County Clerk's office or use the polling place lookup tool on the Illinois State Board of Elections website by entering their residential address.

Election records that are public in Illinois include voter registration lists (with certain personal information redacted), campaign finance reports filed with the Illinois State Board of Elections, candidate filing documents, and precinct-level election results. Greene County Clerk publishes official election results following certification. Turnout in Greene County for the November 2024 general election was approximately 68-72%, consistent with typical rural Illinois county turnout in presidential election years, though exact certified numbers should be verified with the County Clerk.

The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, featuring U.S. House of Representatives races, one U.S. Senate seat from Illinois, statewide constitutional officers including Governor, and Illinois General Assembly seats.

Vote-by-mail (absentee) ballots in Greene County can be requested by submitting an application to Greene County Clerk's office; applications are available on the Illinois State Board of Elections website or directly from the County Clerk. Illinois offers both traditional absentee voting (for voters who will be absent on Election Day or meet specific criteria) and no-excuse vote-by-mail. Early voting is typically available at the County Clerk's office beginning 40 days before an election.

Transparency in Greene County elections is governed by the Illinois Election Code (10 ILCS 5/), which provides for public access to voter registration data, election results, and campaign finance disclosures, making sure of citizens can monitor and verify electoral processes.

Economy & Demographics

The economy of Greene County, Illinois, is predominantly agricultural, with farming and livestock production serving as the primary economic drivers. Greene County's fertile soil and favorable climate support extensive corn and soybean cultivation, along with cattle and hog operations. Agriculture-related businesses, including grain elevators, farm equipment dealers, and agricultural services, form a significant portion of the economic base.

  • The median household income in Greene County is estimated at approximately $52,000, which is below the Illinois state median, reflecting the rural character and agricultural economy.
  • The manufacturing sector maintains a presence with several small to mid-sized facilities producing agricultural equipment components and processed goods.

Major employers include local school districts, Greene County government, healthcare facilities, and agricultural cooperatives. Tourism contributes to the local economy, particularly related to outdoor recreation along the Illinois River corridor, including Pere Marquette State Park, which attracts visitors for hiking, camping, fishing, and birdwatching. Retail and service businesses are concentrated in Greene County Seat of Carrollton and the towns of White Hall, Roodhouse, and Greenfield.

Greene County's unemployment rate typically tracks close to or slightly above the Illinois state average, with seasonal fluctuations related to agricultural cycles. Economic development efforts focus on supporting existing agricultural businesses, attracting light manufacturing, and using Greene County's natural amenities for tourism growth. The proximity to larger employment centers in the St.

Louis metropolitan area, approximately 60 miles to the southwest, influences commuting patterns for some residents. Small business development and entrepreneurship are supported through local and regional economic development organizations serving west-central Illinois.

Transparency Score

Court Records: Limited: In-Person/Phone Required | Property: Limited: Online, In-Person Available | Arrest/Jail: Limited: Phone/In-Person Request | Vital Records: Limited: In-Person or State Portal | Business: Yes: State Online Search | Elections: Yes: State Portal & Local Office | Overall Score: 5/10, Greene County maintains traditional in-person access to most records with limited online portals, though state-level systems supplement local access.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I search for someone recently arrested in Greene County, Illinois?
To search for someone recently arrested in Greene County, Illinois, you can contact the Greene County Jail, located at 403 Seventh Street, Carrollton, IL. The jail maintains an inmate roster that can be accessed by visiting the facility or calling their main line. The the county Sheriff's Office may provide assistance with inmate lookup inquiries during business hours.
Mugshots or booking photos in Greene County, Illinois, can be obtained from the Greene County Sheriff's Office. They may provide access to these records upon request, subject to applicable privacy laws. For online access, you can check if the Sheriff's Office has a digital portal or contact them directly for guidance on obtaining booking photos.
To obtain a criminal background check in Greene County, Illinois, you can request a statewide check through the Illinois State Police Bureau of Identification. Locally, you may visit the Greene County Sheriff's Office for guidance on the process. Ensure you have the necessary identification and any required fees when making your request.
You can look up sex offenders in Greene County, Illinois, by accessing the Illinois Sex Offender Registry. This online database is maintained by the Illinois State Police and provides information on registered sex offenders throughout the state, including those residing in Greene County. Searches can be conducted by name, address, or proximity to a specific location.
To register to vote in Greene County, you may register online at the Illinois State Board of Elections website (www.elections.il.gov), in person at the Greene County Clerk's office at 519 North Main Street in Carrollton, or by mail using a voter registration application. Illinois law requires registration at least 27 days before an election, though grace period registration is available during early voting and on Election Day at designated locations. You must be a U.S. Citizen, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and a resident of your precinct for 30 days. The County Clerk's office at (217) 942-5443 can provide assistance with registration and information about absentee and vote-by-mail ballot options.
Property records in Greene County can be accessed through the Greene County Recorder of Deeds office at 519 North Main Street, Carrollton, phone (217) 942-6517, which maintains deeds, mortgages, liens, and other recorded documents. Property tax assessment information is available through the this jurisdiction Assessor's office at (217) 942-6225. While online access may be limited compared to larger Illinois counties, you can search records in person at the courthouse during regular business hours or contact the offices to inquire about available remote search options and current fees for copies.
Birth and death certificates for events occurring in Greene County can be obtained from the Greene County Clerk's office at 519 North Main Street, Carrollton, phone (217) 942-5443. Fees are typically $15 for the first certified copy of a birth certificate and $19 for a death certificate, with reduced fees for additional copies ordered simultaneously. You must provide valid photo identification and demonstrate a direct interest in the record. Alternatively, you may order Illinois vital records online through the Illinois Department of Public Health Division of Vital Records via VitalChek, or by contacting the state office in Springfield for records from 1916 forward.
For business license records in Greene County, contact the Greene County Clerk's office at (217) 942-5443 to search assumed name (DBA) registrations filed with the county. For searches of corporations, LLCs, and other registered business entities, use the free Illinois Secretary of State business entity search at www.ilsos.gov, which provides filing status, registered agents, and incorporation dates. Local business licenses and building permits for incorporated areas are maintained by individual municipalities, while county-level zoning and permits for unincorporated areas are handled through county offices at the courthouse in Carrollton.

Cities & Towns in Greene County

Explore public records for 9 cities and communities in Greene County, Illinois.

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