Kailua Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Kailua, Hawaii government websites.

  About Kailua City Government
Council Members 9 Members
Annual Budget $2.9 billion
Regular Meetings Public Sessions

Kailua, Hawaii, operates under the governance of the City and County of Honolulu, which encompasses the entire island of Oahu. The Honolulu City Council serves as the legislative body, consisting of 9 members. Each council member is elected to represent a specific district for a term of 4 years. The council members are elected through a nonpartisan election process, with the most recent election held in 2022.

For the fiscal year 2023, the City and County of Honolulu has an approximate annual operating budget of $2.9 billion. This budget allocates funds for various essential services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development.

The Honolulu City Council holds regular meetings every Wednesday at 10:00 AM. These meetings take place at Honolulu Hale, located at 530 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96813. Residents of Kailua and other areas are encouraged to attend these meetings to engage with their elected officials and participate in local governance.

  About Kailua, Hawaii

Nestled on the windward coast of Oahu, Kailua is a vibrant hamlet renowned for its picturesque beaches, lush landscapes, and a friendly community atmosphere. This charming town, which has an estimated population of approximately 38,635 residents, boasts a rich history, having developed from a small fishing village into a thriving residential area. The founding of Kailua as a recognized community dates back to the early 19th century when it served as a vital hub for trade and agriculture. Major neighborhoods such as Lanikai, known for its stunning beaches and luxurious homes, and Enchanted Lake, with its family-friendly vibe, contribute to Kailua’s diverse character. A local economy that thrives on small businesses, retail shops, and tourism, combined with the presence of larger employers like the military and aerospace sectors, distinguishes Kailua as an essential component of Honolulu County. Beyond its economic landscape, the city is characterized by its commitment to environmental conservation and outdoor activities, offering residents and visitors a unique blend of relaxation and adventure amid breathtaking natural beauty.

For law enforcement, Kailua is primarily served by the Kailua Police Department, a branch of the Honolulu Police Department, which is responsible for maintaining public safety and order in the community. Additionally, the Honolulu County Sheriff's Office assists with security and law enforcement duties throughout the county. Should individuals wish to obtain arrest records, mugshots, or booking records in Kailua, they can start by contacting the Kailua Police Department's records unit directly. For more extensive historical data, the Honolulu County Sheriff's Office may provide assistance, especially concerning cases involving county detention facilities. Individuals seeking criminal history information can access the Hawaii State Criminal Repository, managed by the Bureau of Investigation and State Police, where requests can be made for background checks. Online lookup portals are also available, allowing for easier access to some basic information, but specifics can vary, so it is advisable to call ahead to confirm what is available and any associated fees.

Kailua falls under the jurisdiction of the Honolulu District Court, which handles a range of legal matters, including civil, traffic, and criminal cases. To request court records, individuals can navigate the online portal provided by the Hawaii State Judiciary, or visit the court clerk's office in person for more detailed inquiries. Vital records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, are maintained by the county clerk-recorder’s office and can be requested either in person or through the Hawaii Department of Health’s vital records division. Property records are accessible as well through the Honolulu County Assessor’s Office and the Recorder's Office, which both offer online portals for ease of access. For those interested in obtaining a broader swath of public records, the Hawaii Uniform Information Practices Act allows for general public records requests, with typical response times ranging from 5 to 10 business days. Overall, Kailua provides a conducive environment for both residents and visitors, offering a comprehensive framework for accessing essential public records while maintaining a strong sense of community.

  Kailua, Hawaii Public Records & Government Resources

About Kailua

Nestled on the windward coast of Oahu, Kailua is a vibrant community with a population of 115,264 residents. This charming town has a rich history, dating back to the early 19th century when it served as a vital hub for trade and agriculture. Over time, Kailua has evolved from a small fishing village into a thriving residential area, known for its picturesque beaches, lush landscapes, and friendly community atmosphere.
Major neighborhoods like Lanikai, renowned for its stunning beaches and luxurious homes, and Enchanted Lake, with its family-friendly vibe, contribute to the city's diverse character. Kailua's local economy is characterized by small businesses, retail shops, and a thriving tourism industry, as well as the presence of larger employers in the military and aerospace sectors. The city is also committed to environmental conservation and outdoor activities, offering residents and visitors a unique blend of relaxation and adventure amid breathtaking natural beauty.

Police Department & Arrest Records

The main law enforcement agency in Kailua, Honolulu County is the Honolulu Police Department, which serves the entire island of Oahu. It is responsible for maintaining public safety, investigating crimes, and enforcing laws within the county. Additionally, the Honolulu County Sheriff's Office provides law enforcement services, particularly in unincorporated areas and state facilities. Other municipal police departments within the county include the University of Hawaii Department of Public Safety, which oversees campus security.

Jail & Inmate Records

The primary detention facility serving Honolulu County is the Oahu Community Correctional Center (OCCC), which is operated by the Hawaii Department of Public Safety. The booking process at OCCC involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the detainees. Inmate lookup services are available through the Hawaii SAVIN system, which allows individuals to track the custody status of offenders. Visitation at OCCC is subject to specific rules, including scheduled appointments and security screenings.
The bond and bail process in Hawaii requires posting bail through a bail bondsman or directly with the court, depending on the charges. Recently arrested individuals can be located through the OCCC's inmate information services.

Court Records

The Hawaii Courts system, which includes the Kailua Hawaii Bankruptcy Court and other local court records, is the authoritative source for accessing judicial information and case files in the city. Individuals can utilize the courts' online portal to search for and retrieve records related to civil, criminal, and bankruptcy proceedings. The Kailua Hawaii Bankruptcy Court, in particular, maintains detailed records of bankruptcy filings and proceedings that have occurred within the city's boundaries. These resources are essential for legal research, financial planning, and personal record-keeping.

Criminal Records

Criminal records in Honolulu County encompass felony, misdemeanor, traffic offenses, and sex offender registry information. The Honolulu Police Department and the Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center maintain these records. To run a background check in Hawaii, individuals can request a Criminal History Record Check from the Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center, which provides access to statewide criminal records. The Hawaii Bureau of Investigation offers additional resources for residents seeking detailed criminal history information.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Honolulu County are maintained by the Honolulu Police Department and the Hawaii Department of Public Safety. These records include details of the arrest, charges, and booking information. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by submitting a formal request to the appropriate department, often requiring identification and a processing fee. Information typically found on an arrest record includes the individual's name, date of arrest, charges, and arresting agency.

Public Records Access

The Kailua Hawaii Archives and Genealogy, part of the Hawaii State Archives, is the primary resource for accessing public records related to property, land, and assessor information for the city. This repository contains a wealth of historical documents, including property deeds, land surveys, and tax assessment records. Local residents and those researching the area's history can utilize the online catalog and in-person research services to explore these invaluable resources.

Economy & Demographics

Kailua's local economy is characterized by a diverse mix of small businesses, retail shops, and a thriving tourism industry. Major employers in the area include the military and aerospace sectors, which contribute significantly to the city's economic landscape. The Kailua Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in supporting and promoting the local business community, offering resources and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Additionally, the presence of educational institutions like Kailua High School and the nearby University of Hawaii at Manoa contribute to the city's skilled workforce and attract talent to the region. The city's commitment to environmental conservation and outdoor activities also drives a robust tourism industry, with visitors drawn to the area's natural beauty and recreational offerings.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

Kailua's primary law enforcement agency is the Kailua Police Department, a branch of the Honolulu Police Department. This agency is responsible for maintaining public safety and order within the community. The Honolulu County Sheriff's Office also assists with security and law enforcement duties throughout the county. Residents and visitors can access the Kailua Hawaii Inmate Search and the Kailua Hawaii Sex Offender Registry to obtain information about individuals who have been incarcerated or registered as sex offenders in the area. The Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center also provides access to criminal history records for the city.

Vital Records

For vital records such as birth certificates, death records, and marriage licenses in Kailua, the Kailua Hawaii Census and Vital Statistics office, operated by the U.S. Census Bureau, is the authoritative source. This office maintains comprehensive records of vital events that have occurred within the city's boundaries. Individuals seeking to obtain copies of these documents can submit requests through the office's online portal or by visiting in person.

Business & Licensing Records

The Kailua Chamber of Commerce serves as the central hub for business-related information and resources in the city. This organization maintains records on local business licenses, zoning regulations, and permits. Entrepreneurs and business owners can consult the Chamber's website or reach out directly to learn about the necessary requirements and procedures for establishing and operating a business in Kailua. The Kailua Neighborhood Board also provides valuable insights into the city's development plans and zoning considerations, which can impact commercial activities.

Elections & Voter Records

ELECTION HUB for Kailua, Hawaii voters

Kailua voters are served by the Honolulu County Elections Division, located at 650 S. King St., Honolulu, HI 96813. Their phone number is (808) 768-3800, and their website is www.honoluluelections.us.

To register to vote in Hawaii, residents can use the online voter registration system at www.elections.hawaii.gov. The registration deadline is 30 days before an election. When registering, you'll need to provide a Hawaii driver's license or state ID number.

As an unincorporated community, Kailua does not have its own municipal elections. However, Kailua residents vote in Honolulu County elections, including the mayoral and city council races. The next Honolulu mayoral election is scheduled for November 2024, and the city council election for Kailua's district will also be on the ballot that year.

Voters in Kailua can look up their polling place using the Honolulu elections website's Voter Service Center Lookup tool.

In Hawaii, election records such as voter rolls, campaign finance reports, and election results are considered public records and can be requested from the state Office of Elections.

In the 2024 general election, Honolulu County saw a voter turnout of 69%. The next major elections for Kailua/Honolulu residents will be the November 2026 state and federal races, including the Hawaii gubernatorial election.

Hawaii allows both early voting and absentee/mail-in voting. Kailua residents can request an absentee ballot online at the state elections website. Completed ballots must be received by the Honolulu County Elections Division by the close of polls on election day.

Public Records Transparency Score

Court Records: 7 | Property: 8 | Arrest Logs: 7 | Vital Records: 7 | Business: 8 | Elections: 8 | Overall: 7.5/10 — Kailua and Honolulu County, Hawaii have generally strong public records transparency, with election and property records being particularly accessible. Some areas like court and vital records could still be improved.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Kailua, Honolulu County, Hawaii to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the City of Kailua, Hawaii, you will be transported to the Honolulu 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 Honolulu County Court. Under Hawaii 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 Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center. The Honolulu County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.hawaii.gov/psd/corrections/corrections-division/female-community-correctional-center/ where you can look up current detainees.
The Kailua-Kona Complex Area in Honolulu County, Hawaii is served by the Hawaii Department of Education. According to the Hawaii Department of Education's 2018-2019 School Report Card, the Kailua-Kona Complex Area had a total of 8 schools, with an enrollment of 4,845 students. The overall performance of the schools in the Kailua-Kona Complex Area was rated as "Good" with an overall score of 74.7 out of 100. The student performance in English Language Arts was rated as "Good" with a score of 74.3 out of 100, while the student performance in Mathematics was rated as "Good" with a score of 75.2 out of 100.
According to the Honolulu Police Department, the total number of reported crimes in Kailua, Honolulu County, Hawaii in 2019 was 1,845. Of those, 1,619 were property crimes and 226 were violent crimes.
The Kailua Public Library in Honolulu County, Hawaii provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Hawaii 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 Hawaii Uniform Information Practices Act, which governs access to government documents in Hawaii. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Kailua Hawaii Archives and Genealogy at https://ags.hawaii.gov/archives/. Contact the Kailua Public Library reference desk at for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
The Kailua, Honolulu County, Hawaii Library is located at 239 Kuulei Rd, Kailua, HI 96734.
Fingerprinting services for Kailua, Hawaii residents are provided at the Kailua Police Department, which serves Honolulu 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 Kailua Police Department at 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 Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center at https://ag.hawaii.gov/hcjdc/.
In order to obtain vital records from Kailua, Hawaii, you must contact the Hawaii Department of Health. You can contact them by phone or by mail. The vital records that can be obtained from the Hawaii Department of Health include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. All of these records include the name of the person, the date of the event, and the place of the event.
Police reports from Kailua, Hawaii can be obtained from the Kailua Police Department, located in Honolulu 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 Hawaii Uniform Information Practices Act, most police reports are public records in Hawaii, though portions related to active investigations, juvenile records, or sensitive personal information may be redacted. Contact the Kailua Police Department Records Division at for information on fees, hours, and online request options. For statewide criminal records, visit https://ag.hawaii.gov/hcjdc/.
A background check in Kailua, Honolulu County, Hawaii 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 Hawaii. Criminal background checks are processed through the Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Hawaii residents. The Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center provides official criminal history checks at https://ag.hawaii.gov/hcjdc/. Under the Hawaii Uniform Information 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 Honolulu County, Hawaii

Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:

Ewa Beach Honolulu Kahuku Kapolei Kunia Laie