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Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Public Records

Search Lancaster County, Pennsylvania for Public Records, Criminal Records and Court Records

County Seat: Lancaster Area: 984 sq mi
✓ Last updated: | Data sources: 2 official government categories
About Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

Spanning approximately 984 square miles, Lancaster County is a region rich in agricultural heritage and historical significance, making it a unique destination in southeastern Pennsylvania. With a population of over 550,000 residents, the county seat is the city of Lancaster, which is a vibrant hub known for its array of cultural attractions, including the historic Lancaster Central Market and the renowned Amish community. Major cities within the county include the boroughs of Ephrata, Lititz, and Manheim, each adding to the county's charm and appeal. Lancaster County is perhaps best known for its picturesque farmlands, lively festivals, and significant contributions to American history, such as the Whiskey Rebellion and the Battle of Gettysburg.

Public safety in Lancaster County is primarily overseen by the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, which provides law enforcement services across the county, including court security and warrant enforcement. The county is also home to numerous local police departments that serve the various municipalities, ensuring a coordinated approach to law enforcement. For those navigating the criminal justice system, arrest records and criminal records are managed by the county’s police departments and the courts. Individuals seeking information on arrests can utilize the booking and inmate search process, which is facilitated through the Lancaster County Prison, located in the city of Lancaster. This facility houses adult inmates and provides resources for the public to inquire about current inmates, their status, and any relevant court dates.

Lancaster County History & Notable Events

1. 1777 - The Battle of Brandywine was fought in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, during the American Revolutionary War.

2. 1794 - The Whiskey Rebellion began in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, when farmers refused to pay a federal tax on whiskey.

3. 1864 - The Battle of Gettysburg was fought in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, during the American Civil War.

4. 1877 - The first telephone exchange in the United States was established in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

5. 1895 - The first electric trolley line in the United States opened in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Lancaster County government headquartered?
The county seat of Lancaster County is Lancaster. County government offices, courts, and public records departments are located there.
What court handles cases in Lancaster County?
The Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas is the trial court of general jurisdiction in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. It is a court of record and has original jurisdiction in all civil and criminal cases. The court also has appellate jurisdiction over certain decisions of magisterial district judges and certain administrative agencies. The court is divided into two divisions: Civil and Criminal. The Civil Division handles all civil matters, including landlord/tenant disputes, contract disputes, personal injury, and other civil matters. The Criminal Division handles all criminal matters, including felonies, misdemeanors, and summary offenses.
How do I obtain vital records in Lancaster County?
Vital records — birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees — are maintained by the Lancaster County Clerk-Recorder in Lancaster. Certified copies can be requested in person, by mail, or online. State law determines which records are public and which require proof of relationship.
Where can I find property and tax records for Lancaster County?
Property records in Lancaster County are maintained by the county Assessor and Recorder office. You can search property ownership, tax assessments, deed transfers, and mortgage liens online through the county portal. The Treasurer-Tax Collector manages property tax payments.
Official Government Sources

Lancaster County Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Lancaster government websites.

✓ Page last reviewed: • First published: Official sources verified • PublicRecordCenter.com
Cities in Lancaster County
Adamstown Akron Bainbridge Bart Bausman Bird In Hand Blue Ball Bowmansville Brownstown Christiana Columbia Conestoga Denver Drumore East Earl East Petersburg Elizabethtown Elm Ephrata Gap Goodville Gordonville Holtwood Hopeland Intercourse Kinzers Kirkwood Lampeter Lancaster Landisville Leola Lititz Marietta Martindale Maytown Millersville Mount Joy Mountville Narvon New Holland New Providence Peach Bottom Penryn Pequea Quarryville Reamstown Refton Reinholds Rheems Ronks Silver Spring Smoketown Stevens Strasburg Talmage Terre Hill Washington Boro West Willow Willow Street Witmer