McKeesport Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official McKeesport, Pennsylvania government websites.

  About McKeesport City Government
Annual Budget $12.5 million

The governing body of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, is the McKeesport City Council, which consists of 7 elected members. Council members are elected at-large and serve a term of 4 years. The current council members include Mayor Michael Cherepko, Council President K. Scott McGowan, and members Marcia M. H. McCoy, Daniel J. Carr, and others, as of the latest election cycle.

For the fiscal year 2023, McKeesport's approximate annual operating budget is $12.5 million. This budget reflects the city's ongoing commitment to public safety, infrastructure, and community services. The budget is subject to review and approval by the city council, ensuring transparency and accountability in financial matters.

Regular city council meetings are held on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 6:00 PM. These meetings take place at the McKeesport City Hall, located at 201 Lysle Boulevard, McKeesport, PA 15132. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding local governance and community issues.

  About McKeesport, Pennsylvania

Nestled along the banks of the Monongahela River, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania, presents a rich tapestry of industrial history and community spirit. With an estimated population of approximately 18,200, this city is situated in Allegheny County, just south of Pittsburgh. Established in 1842, Mckeesport has evolved from its roots as a key player in the steel industry to a diverse urban center. The city boasts several distinct neighborhoods, including the vibrant downtown area, the residential spaces of South Mckeesport, and the more suburban feel of the 12th Ward. While the remnants of its industrial past remain, including sites like the former U.S. Steel plant, Mckeesport has shifted its economic focus towards healthcare, education, and small business growth, with a notable presence of local employers such as the UPMC Mckeesport Hospital and various educational institutions. The city is recognized for its strong community ties, local events, and historical landmarks, including the Mckeesport Regional History & Heritage Center, making it a distinctive blend of history and modernity.

The Mckeesport Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency serving the city, ensuring public safety and responding to criminal incidents. Additionally, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office plays a vital role in overseeing law enforcement across the county, while the Allegheny County Jail serves as the detention facility for individuals taken into custody. For those seeking to obtain arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or any criminal history related to Mckeesport, the process begins with the Mckeesport Police Department's records unit, where individuals can request information directly. Alternatively, for broader records, the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office offers access to various law enforcement documents. Individuals can also turn to the Pennsylvania State Police's Bureau of Investigation, which maintains a statewide repository of criminal records; requests can be made online or via mail. Online portals such as the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) allow users to search for criminal history conveniently. By following these steps, residents and interested parties can effectively navigate the process of acquiring public safety records in Mckeesport.

For legal matters, Mckeesport falls under the jurisdiction of the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas. To request court records, individuals can utilize the online portal provided by the Allegheny County Court, which facilitates access to case information and documents. For those preferring an in-person approach, the court clerk's office is available to assist with record requests. Vital records, including birth, death, and marriage certificates, can be obtained from the Allegheny County Clerk of Orphans' Court, or through the Pennsylvania Department of Health's Vital Records division for a more comprehensive state-wide search. Property records are managed by the Allegheny County Office of Property Assessments and the Recorder of Deeds, both of which provide online access to property-related information. In accordance with the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law, general public records can be requested through various local agencies, typically yielding a response in 5 to 10 business days. This blend of accessible court and public record resources underscores Mckeesport's commitment to transparency and community engagement.

  McKeesport, Pennsylvania Public Records & Government Resources

About McKeesport

McKeesport is a city located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, positioned approximately 12 miles southeast of downtown Pittsburgh at the confluence of the Monongahela and Youghiogheny rivers. Founded in 1795 by John McKee and incorporated as a city in 1891, McKeesport grew into a major steel manufacturing center during the industrial boom, with the National Tube Works becoming one of the world's largest producers of steel pipe. At its peak in the 1940s, the city's population exceeded 55,000; today it is home to approximately 17,000-19,000 residents.
The city is known for its historic Palisades overlook offering panoramic river views, the Renziehausen Park Rose Garden, and the McKeesport Regional History & Heritage Center. The Regional Learning Alliance at Penn State Greater Allegheny, UPMC McKeesport hospital, and several manufacturing facilities remain significant employers in the area. Public records for McKeesport residents are maintained by a combination of city, county, and state agencies. The McKeesport City Hall at 201 Lysle Boulevard serves as the primary municipal records office for city-specific documents including business licenses, zoning records, and local ordinances. The McKeesport Police Department maintains law enforcement records, while Allegheny County agencies handle most vital records, property records, and court documents. The Allegheny County Courthouse in downtown Pittsburgh houses the Clerk of Courts, Recorder of Deeds, and other departments that serve McKeesport residents. Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law (65 P.S. § 67.101 et seq.) governs access to public records throughout the state, requiring agencies to respond to requests within five business days. Many records are accessible online through county and state portals, while others require in-person or written requests to the appropriate custodian agency.

Police Department & Arrest Records

McKeesport, Allegheny County is served by multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office and various municipal police departments. Notable city departments include the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, the Bethel Park Police Department, and the Monroeville Police Department. Each department has jurisdiction over its respective area, handling local law enforcement duties. These agencies often collaborate on major crimes and emergencies, coordinating efforts to ensure comprehensive public safety across the county.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Allegheny County Jail, located in Pittsburgh, is the primary detention facility for the county. The booking process at this facility involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the arrestees. Inmate lookup is available through the county's online portal, allowing the public to search for current detainees. Visitation rules are specific, requiring visitors to schedule appointments and adhere to strict security protocols. In Pennsylvania, the bond or bail process involves posting a set amount determined by the court to secure the temporary release of an inmate.

Court Records

McKeesport residents are served by several courts within the Pennsylvania unified judicial system. The Magisterial District Court 36-3-01, located at 2040 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131 (phone: 412-350-5440), handles preliminary hearings, minor criminal cases, traffic violations, civil matters up to $12,000, and landlord-tenant disputes for the McKeesport area. These district courts process initial arraignments and determine whether sufficient evidence exists to advance felony cases to county court.
The Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, located at the Allegheny County Courthouse, 436 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (phone: 412-350-5400), hears all major criminal cases (felonies), civil cases exceeding the district court limit, family court matters including divorce and custody, orphans' court (probate and estate matters), and appeals from district courts. The Family Division handles Protection from Abuse orders, juvenile dependency, and domestic relations. The Criminal Division processes felony cases including preliminary arraignments through trial and sentencing. Pennsylvania's Unified Judicial System Web Portal at https://ujsportal.pacourts.us provides free public access to docket sheets for most county court cases, including criminal, civil, family, and orphans' court records. Users can search by party name, docket number, or other case identifiers. The portal displays case summaries, filing dates, charges or claims, attorney information, and hearing schedules, though it does not provide full document images for most cases. Certified copies of court documents can be obtained from the Allegheny County Clerk of Courts at the Grant Street courthouse; fees are typically $7.50 for the first page and $2.00 for each additional page, plus a certification fee of approximately $7.50.

Criminal Records

The criminal records system in Allegheny County encompasses a range of documents, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. These records are maintained by various agencies, such as the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas and local police departments. Residents can conduct background checks through the Pennsylvania State Police, which provides access to statewide criminal history information.
The Pennsylvania Bureau of Investigation also plays a role in compiling and disseminating criminal records for Allegheny residents, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information is available for legal and personal purposes.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Allegheny County are maintained by both the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office and local police departments. These records can be requested by residents and attorneys through formal applications, often requiring identification and a small fee. An Allegheny County arrest record typically includes details such as the individual's name, the charges filed, and the arresting agency. Pennsylvania's Right to Know Law governs the public's access to these records, ensuring transparency while protecting sensitive information.

Public Records Access

Property and land records for McKeesport are maintained by Allegheny County. The Allegheny County Office of Property Assessments, located at 542 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (phone: 412-350-4636, website: alleghenycountypa.gov/property-assessment), maintains property assessment data including ownership information, assessed values, property characteristics, and sale histories.
The county provides a comprehensive online property search tool at https://www2.alleghenycounty.us/RealEstate/Default.aspx where users can search by address, parcel number, owner name, or street name for all properties in McKeesport and throughout the county. The database displays current assessed values (land and building), property transfers, municipal tax information, and physical property characteristics such as lot size, square footage, and year built. All assessment data is available free of charge online. The Allegheny County Department of Real Estate, Division of Recorder of Deeds, located at 542 Forbes Avenue, Room 116, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (phone: 412-350-4285), records and maintains all real property documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, and declarations. Pennsylvania law requires recording of property transfers to establish clear title. The county offers free online access to recorded documents dating back to 1996 through the Allegheny County Real Estate Portal at https://www2.alleghenycounty.us/RealEstate/Default.aspx, where users can view, download, and print images of recorded instruments at no cost. Documents recorded before 1996 are available by visiting the Recorder of Deeds office in person or submitting a written request. The county also provides an interactive GIS mapping system at https://www.alleghenycounty.us/real-estate/gis.aspx, offering aerial imagery, parcel boundaries, zoning information, floodplain data, and other geographic information for all parcels in McKeesport. This tool allows users to visually identify properties and access linked assessment and deed information.

Economy & Demographics

McKeesport's economy has undergone significant transformation since the decline of the steel industry in the 1980s. UPMC McKeesport, part of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center system, stands as the city's largest employer with approximately 1,200 employees, providing healthcare services to the Mon Valley region. The hospital campus includes emergency services, surgical facilities, and specialty care centers.
Education also plays a major economic role, with the McKeesport Area School District employing hundreds of teachers and staff, and Penn State Greater Allegheny campus located in the city serving approximately 600 students and employing faculty and administrative personnel. Manufacturing remains present though dramatically reduced from historical levels, with several industrial facilities operating in the city and surrounding White Oak area, including metal fabrication, packaging, and distribution operations. The Regional Industrial Development Corporation (RIDC) manages industrial park properties in the area, working to attract new businesses and retain existing employers. Retail and service sector employment is concentrated along Walnut Street and in the surrounding commercial corridors, though the city has experienced significant retail contraction over recent decades. According to U.S. Census estimates, McKeesport's median household income is approximately $31,000-34,000, significantly below both the Allegheny County median of approximately $62,000 and the Pennsylvania state median. The poverty rate exceeds 25%, reflecting ongoing economic challenges. Recent revitalization efforts include the Allegheny County Airport Authority's expansion plans for the nearby Pittsburgh-Wheeling-Morgantown corridor, riverfront redevelopment initiatives, and the designation of portions of McKeesport as Keystone Opportunity Zones offering tax incentives to businesses. The city's location along major transportation routes including Route 48 and the Monongahela River provides potential for logistics and distribution industry growth. McKeesport functions as a regional commercial center for the smaller Mon Valley communities, though many residents commute to Pittsburgh and surrounding areas for employment.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

The McKeesport Police Department, located at 201 Lysle Boulevard, McKeesport, PA 15132 (phone: 412-664-1105), serves as the primary law enforcement agency for the city. The department maintains records of incidents, accidents, and arrests occurring within city limits. To request police reports, citizens can visit the police department in person during regular business hours or submit written requests. Some incident reports may be available for a nominal fee, typically $10-15 for certified copies. The department's records are subject to Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law (65 P.S. § 67.101 et seq.), though certain investigative records and ongoing case files may be exempt from disclosure under state law.

The Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at 436 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (phone: 412-350-4700, website: alleghenycounty.us/sheriff), provides countywide law enforcement services including court security, warrant service, and civil process. The Sheriff's Office maintains public records of warrants, protection from abuse orders, and eviction proceedings.

For arrests and jail bookings, the Allegheny County Jail operates an online inmate locator at https://services.alleghenycounty.us/jail/default.aspx where the public can search current inmates by name or booking number. The roster displays booking dates, charges, bond amounts, mugshots, and housing location. The jail facility is located at 950 Second Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (phone: 412-350-2000). Historical arrest records and criminal histories can be requested through the Pennsylvania State Police or through court records searches, as Pennsylvania law requires background checks to be processed through official channels with appropriate consent and identification.

Vital Records

Birth and death certificates for McKeesport residents are maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Division of Vital Records, P.O. Box 1528, New Castle, PA 16103 (phone: 724-656-3100, website: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/certificates). Birth certificates cost $20 for the first copy and $10 for each additional copy ordered simultaneously; death certificates are $9 for the first copy and $5 for each additional copy.
Pennsylvania law restricts birth certificate access to the individual (if 18 or older), parents listed on the certificate, legal guardians, or legal representatives with proper documentation. Death certificates are more accessible but still require the requester to demonstrate a direct and tangible interest. Online ordering is available through VitalChek at https://www.pa.txcertificates.com for expedited service with additional processing fees (typically $12-15 plus shipping). Standard mail requests take approximately 4-6 weeks, while expedited online orders typically arrive within 5-10 business days. Marriage licenses in Allegheny County are issued by the Marriage License Bureau, Allegheny County Courthouse, 436 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (phone: 412-350-4234). The fee is $60, and licenses are valid for 60 days from issuance. Pennsylvania eliminated the three-day waiting period in 2018, allowing immediate marriage upon license issuance. Both parties must appear in person with valid photo identification and Social Security numbers. Marriage records dating back many decades are maintained by the county and are considered public records accessible to anyone. Divorce records are maintained by the Allegheny County Clerk of Courts, Family Division, 440 Ross Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (phone: 412-350-5500). Divorce decrees and related family court documents can be searched through the Pennsylvania UJS Portal or by visiting the clerk's office. Certified copies cost approximately $7.50 plus additional fees for certification and extra pages. Some sensitive family court documents may have restricted access under Pennsylvania's protection of privacy provisions.

Business & Licensing Records

The City of McKeesport requires business licenses for most commercial activities conducted within city limits. Applications and renewals are processed through the City Treasurer's Office at McKeesport City Hall, 201 Lysle Boulevard, McKeesport, PA 15132 (phone: 412-675-5020). License fees vary based on business type and gross receipts, typically ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars annually. Businesses must renew licenses annually, and the city conducts periodic compliance checks.
Information about existing licensed businesses may be requested through the City Treasurer or Tax Collector's office under Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law. Allegheny County requires Fictitious Name Registration (DBA - "Doing Business As") for businesses operating under names other than the owner's legal name. These registrations are filed with the Allegheny County Department of Court Records, 436 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (phone: 412-350-5700). The filing fee is approximately $70, and registrations must be renewed every five years. The county maintains an online searchable database of active fictitious name registrations. Pennsylvania state-level business entity records including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and other business structures are maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations. The free online business entity search is available at https://www.corporations.pa.gov/search/corpsearch where users can search by entity name, ID number, or officer name to view registration status, formation date, registered agent, principal office address, and good standing status. This database is updated regularly and provides access to formation documents for entities registered since the system's implementation. Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) liens and financing statements in Pennsylvania are filed with and searchable through the Pennsylvania Department of State's UCC Division at https://www.pa.gov/en/agencies/dos/programs/business-services/uniform-commercial-code.html. Commercial property assessments and tax information for McKeesport businesses can be accessed through the Allegheny County property search system mentioned in the property records section, with commercial properties assessed similarly to residential properties but subject to different millage rates.

Elections & Voter Records

McKeesport voters are served by the Allegheny County Division of Elections, located at 542 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (phone: 412-350-4500, website: https://www.alleghenycounty.us/elections). The Elections Division administers all federal, state, county, and municipal elections for McKeesport and the entire county, maintaining voter registration records, processing absentee and mail-in ballots, managing polling places, and certifying election results.

Pennsylvania residents can register to vote online at https://www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/pages/VoterRegistrationApplication.aspx, the official state voter registration portal. Registration deadlines are 15 days before any election. First-time voters must provide a Pennsylvania driver's license number or the last four digits of their Social Security number. Pennsylvania offers same-day voter registration at the county elections office during early voting periods, which were expanded under recent legislation. Voters can check their registration status, update addresses, and view sample ballots at the same state portal.

McKeesport, as a Third Class City under Pennsylvania law, holds municipal elections in odd-numbered years. The city elects a Mayor and seven City Council members (six ward representatives and one at-large). The next municipal elections are scheduled for November 2025, with Democratic and Republican primaries held in May 2025. City Council positions are staggered four-year terms. McKeesport voters also participate in elections for the McKeesport Area School District Board of Directors. Given McKeesport's strong Democratic voter registration advantage, Democratic primaries often effectively determine local election outcomes.

Voters can find their assigned polling location by visiting https://www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/pages/pollingplaceinfo.aspx and entering their address, or by contacting the Allegheny County Elections Division. Polling places are open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on election days.

Pennsylvania's election records are largely public. Voter registration lists are available for purchase for political purposes under 25 P.S. § 2621. Campaign finance reports for state and local candidates are searchable at https://www.campaignfinanceonline.pa.gov, maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of State. Precinct-level election results for Allegheny County are published at https://www.alleghenycounty.us/elections/election-results.aspx shortly after certification. In the November 2024 presidential election, Allegheny County reported approximately 62-64% voter turnout with over 730,000 ballots cast from approximately 1.15 million registered voters.

The November 3, 2026 general election will feature Pennsylvania's gubernatorial race, as Governor Josh Shapiro's term expires in 2027 (though the sitting governor is eligible for re-election). All 203 Pennsylvania State House seats will be on the ballot, including the district representing McKeesport (currently the 35th Legislative District). Half of the Pennsylvania State Senate seats (25 of 50) will also be contested, though whether McKeesport's senate district is up depends on the specific district's rotation. All county row offices including Controller, Sheriff, Clerk of Courts, Register of Wills, and others will appear on the 2026 ballot in Allegheny County, as these positions follow four-year terms with countywide elections in even-numbered non-presidential years. McKeesport voters will also decide retention questions for any Common Pleas judges whose ten-year terms expire in 2026. Note that Pennsylvania does not have a U.S. Senate seat up in 2026; the next Pennsylvania Senate races are in 2028.

Pennsylvania offers no-excuse mail-in voting under Act 77 of 2019. Any registered voter can request a mail-in or absentee ballot online at https://www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/OnlineAbsenteeApplication, by mail, or in person at the county elections office. Applications must be received by 5:00 PM the Tuesday before the election (7 days prior). Completed ballots must be received by the county by 8:00 PM on election day; postmarks do not extend this deadline following a 2021 Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling. Voters can track their mail ballot status online through the state portal.

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 — Allegheny County and Pennsylvania provide excellent online access to court dockets, property records, business registrations, and election information, with comprehensive free portals for most public records; only vital records require state-level processing with associated fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in McKeesport, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the City of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, you will be transported to the Allegheny 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 Allegheny County Court. Under Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania State Police. The Allegheny County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://inmatelocator.cor.pa.gov/ where you can look up current detainees.
The McKeesport Area School District is located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the district serves approximately 4,000 students in grades K-12. The district's performance data for the 2018-2019 school year shows that the district had a graduation rate of 81.2%, a proficiency rate of 44.2% in math, and a proficiency rate of 57.2% in reading.
According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program, the total number of reported crimes in Mckeesport, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania in 2019 was 1,845. Of those, there were 1,072 property crimes and 773 violent crimes.
The McKeesport Public Library in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law (RTKL), which governs access to government documents in Pennsylvania. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the McKeesport Pennsylvania Archives and Genealogy at https://www.phmc.pa.gov/Archives/Research-and-Education/Pages/Genealogy-and-Personal-Histories.aspx. Contact the McKeesport Public Library reference desk at (412) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
The McKeesport, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania Library is located at 1507 Library Avenue, McKeesport, PA 15132.
Fingerprinting services for McKeesport, Pennsylvania residents are provided at the McKeesport Police Department, which serves Allegheny 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 McKeesport Police Department at (412) 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 Pennsylvania State Police for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Pennsylvania State Police at https://epatch.state.pa.us/.
McKeesport, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania vital records can be obtained from the Allegheny County Register of Wills office.

The records available from the Register of Wills office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees. To obtain a copy of a vital record, you must provide a valid photo ID, proof of relationship to the person named on the record, and the appropriate fee.
A background check in McKeesport, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania. Criminal background checks are processed through the Pennsylvania State Police, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Pennsylvania residents. The Pennsylvania State Police provides official criminal history checks at https://epatch.state.pa.us/. Under the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law (RTKL), 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 Allegheny County, Pennsylvania

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