About Natrona County
Natrona County is located in central Wyoming and serves as one of the state's most populous and economically significant counties. The county seat is Casper, Wyoming's second-largest city, which sits along the North Platte River at an elevation of approximately 5,150 feet. Natrona County encompasses roughly 5,340 square miles and has a population estimated at around 79,000 residents as of recent census data. The county was established in 1888 and named after the naturally occurring sodium carbonate deposits (natron) found in the region.
Major landmarks include Casper Mountain, the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center commemorating the Oregon, California, Mormon, and Pony Express trails that passed through the area, and Independence Rock located southwest of Casper. The county's history is deeply rooted in the westward expansion era and the development of Wyoming's oil and gas industry. Natrona County operates through several key governmental offices: the Natrona County Clerk's Office located at 200 North Center Street, Suite 200, Casper, WY 82601; the Natrona County Recorder's Office at the same address; and the Natrona County Assessor's Office also housed in the Natrona County Courthouse complex at 200 North Center Street.
The county's economy has traditionally centered on energy extraction, ranching, and increasingly, outdoor recreation and tourism, making it a vital hub for central Wyoming commerce and governance.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
The Natrona County Sheriff's Office is responsible for law enforcement in the unincorporated areas of the county. It operates the Natrona County Detention Center, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The office is involved in various community programs and has specialized divisions such as investigations and patrol. The sheriff's office also collaborates with local, state, and federal agencies to ensure public safety and effective law enforcement.
Police Departments
In addition to the Natrona County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement in the county is provided by several municipal police departments. The Casper Police Department serves the city of Casper, handling urban law enforcement and crime prevention. The Evansville Police Department and the Mills Police Department are responsible for their respective towns. These agencies coordinate on major crimes and public safety initiatives, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the county.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Law enforcement in Natrona County is primarily provided by the Natrona County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at 1500 East 'E' Street, Casper, WY 82601. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at (307) 235-9282 and maintains a website at natronacountysheriff.com where citizens can access information about services, community programs, and public safety initiatives. The Sheriff's Office operates the Natrona County Detention Center, the county's primary jail facility located at the same address.
- Inmates can be searched through the detention center's online roster, typically accessible via the Sheriff's website, which provides booking information, charges, bond amounts, and expected release dates.
- Requests should be submitted in writing to the custodian of records at the respective agency.
- Mugshots and booking photos are generally considered public record and are often available through the detention center's inmate roster or by specific request to the Sheriff's Office.
- Processing times and copying fees may apply as permitted under state statute.
Within Natrona County, the Casper Police Department provides municipal law enforcement services for the city of Casper and can be contacted at (307) 235-8278, with headquarters at 200 North David Street, Casper, WY 82601. Smaller municipalities such as Mills and Evansville maintain their own police departments or contract with the county for services. Wyoming's public records law, primarily governed by Wyoming Statute § 16-4-201 through § 16-4-205 (Wyoming Public Records Act), allows citizens to request arrest records, booking logs, and incident reports from law enforcement agencies.
No tribal law enforcement operates within Natrona County proper, as the county does not contain reservation lands, though the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes govern the nearby Wind River Reservation in adjacent Fremont County.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in Natrona County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Natrona County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, while the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation provides statewide background checks. Residents can request criminal background checks through the sheriff's office or the Wyoming Bureau of Investigation. These records are crucial for legal proceedings, employment screenings, and public safety.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Natrona County are maintained by the Natrona County Sheriff's Office. These records can be requested by residents and attorneys through formal applications, often requiring identification and a processing fee. An arrest record in Natrona County typically includes the individual's name, date of arrest, charges, and booking information. The Wyoming Public Records Act governs the accessibility of these records, ensuring transparency while protecting certain sensitive information.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Natrona County Detention Center is the primary jail facility in the county. It handles the booking process for all individuals arrested in the county, where they are photographed and fingerprinted. Inmate lookup is available through the sheriff's office, allowing the public to find information about current detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, requiring appointments and adherence to strict guidelines.
- The bond and bail process in Wyoming allows for the release of detainees under certain conditions, and information on posting bail can be obtained from the detention center.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Natrona County are taken and retained by the Natrona County Sheriff's Office as part of the booking process. These photos are part of the public record and can be accessed through the sheriff's office or online databases. While Wyoming does not have specific laws for mugshot removal, individuals can request corrections or updates to their records if inaccuracies are found. Mugshots are often used in conjunction with arrest records and can be searched through official channels.
Courts & Case Records
Natrona County's judicial system is anchored by the Seventh Judicial District Court, which serves as the county's district court with general jurisdiction over felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $50,000, domestic relations, probate, and appeals from lower courts. The District Court is located at 200 North Center Street, Casper, WY 82601, and can be reached at (307) 235-9211.
- Court records and case information can be searched through Wyoming's statewide case management system at wyomingcourtrecords.com, which provides access to district court filings, schedules, and case histories.
- Natrona County also operates Circuit Court, which handles misdemeanor criminal cases, civil matters under $50,000, small claims, protection orders, and preliminary hearings for felonies.
- The Seventh District Court charges fees for certified copies of court documents, typically $2.00 per page for certification plus copying costs.
- Online access through the state portal is free for basic case searches, though detailed documents may require in-person requests or payment.
- The Clerk of District Court, located at 200 North Center Street, Suite 100, serves as the official custodian of court records and can assist with record requests, file searches, and procedural questions.
Property & Public Records
Property and land records for Natrona County are maintained by the Natrona County Clerk's Office, which serves as the County Recorder, located at 200 North Center Street, Suite 200, Casper, WY 82601. The office can be reached at (307) 235-9217 and operates a website at natronacounty-wy.gov where property-related services are detailed. The Recorder maintains documents including warranty deeds, quit claim deeds, mortgages, deeds of trust, liens (mechanic's, tax, judgment), easements, right-of-way agreements, subdivision plats, and UCC financing statements.
- Many basic searches are available at no cost, though certified copies of recorded documents require payment and can be requested in person, by mail, or sometimes online.
- The fee for certified copies is generally $3.00 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page as set by Wyoming statute.
- Tax payments are processed through the Natrona County Treasurer's Office at (307) 235-9220.
Natrona County provides online property record searches through a public access portal, typically linked from the county website, allowing users to search by owner name, parcel number, legal description, or document number. Property tax information, assessments, and parcel data are managed by the Natrona County Assessor's Office, also located at 200 North Center Street, reachable at (307) 235-9203. The Assessor provides an online GIS mapping system and property tax database that allows searches by address, owner, or parcel identification number, displaying assessment values, tax amounts, property characteristics, and ownership history.
All property records are public under Wyoming law except where specifically exempted for privacy or security reasons, and the county encourages online research to improve transparency and convenience for residents and title professionals.
Vital Records
Vital records for Natrona County, Wyoming, including birth and death certificates, are managed both at the county level and by the Wyoming Department of Health, Vital Records Services. Birth certificates for births occurring in Natrona County can be requested from the Natrona County Clerk's Office at 200 North Center Street, Suite 200, Casper, WY 82601, phone (307) 235-9217. The current fee for a certified birth certificate is $15 for the first copy and $10 for each additional copy ordered at the same time.
- Death certificates are also available through the County Clerk's Office at the same fee structure.
- Processing time at the county level is typically 3-5 business days for in-person requests and 1-2 weeks for mail requests.
- Marriage licenses must be obtained from the Natrona County Clerk's Office; couples must apply in person with valid identification, and there is a marriage license fee currently set at approximately $25-30.
- Online ordering of vital records is available through the state's authorized vendor VitalChek at vitalchek.com, though convenience fees apply.
Applicants must provide valid government-issued photo identification and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest as required by Wyoming Statute § 35-1-424, which restricts access to immediate family members, legal representatives, or those with court orders. The Wyoming Department of Health Vital Records Services, located in Cheyenne, serves as the state repository for all vital records and can be reached at (307) 777-7591 or via their website health.wyo.gov/vital-records. Wyoming does not have a waiting period, and the license is valid for one year.
Divorce decrees and dissolution records are maintained by the Clerk of District Court at (307) 235-9211. Expedited service options are available for an additional charge through both county and state offices.
Business & Licensing
Business and licensing records in Natrona County are available through multiple governmental entities depending on the type of business activity. The Natrona County Clerk's Office at 200 North Center Street, Suite 200, Casper, WY 82601, (307) 235-9217, maintains DBA (Doing Business As) filings and fictitious name registrations for businesses operating under assumed names in the county. These records are public and can be searched by visiting the Clerk's Office or by written request.
- This database is updated regularly and provides essential due diligence information for anyone researching Wyoming businesses.
For formal business entity formation and registration—including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and nonprofit organizations—the Wyoming Secretary of State's Office serves as the official registry. The Secretary of State maintains a comprehensive online business entity search tool at wyobiz.wyo.gov, allowing free public access to search corporate filings, registered agents, annual reports, and entity status by business name or filing number. Professional and occupational licenses are generally issued by state-level boards and departments rather than county offices; information can be found through the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services and specific professional licensing boards.
Sales tax licenses and permits are administered by the Wyoming Department of Revenue. Building permits, zoning approvals, and land use permits for unincorporated areas of Natrona County are handled by the Natrona County Planning and Development Department, located at 888 South Wyoming Boulevard, Casper, WY 82609, phone (307) 235-9325. The City of Casper maintains its own Community Development Department for permits within city limits.
The Casper Area Economic Development Alliance (CAEDA) and the Casper Area Chamber of Commerce, located at 300 South Wolcott Street, Suite 300, Casper, WY 82601, (307) 234-5311, website casperchamber.com, provide business support services, networking, and economic information for entrepreneurs and established businesses in Natrona County.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Natrona County are administered by the Natrona County Clerk's Office, which serves as the official County Elections Office, located at 200 North Center Street, Suite 200, Casper, WY 82601. The office can be reached at (307) 235-9217, and election information is available at natronacounty-wy.gov under the Clerk's section. Voter registration in Wyoming is available to U.S. citizens who are at least 18 years old by election day and have resided in Wyoming for at least 30 days prior to the election.
- In the November 2024 general election, Natrona County reported voter turnout of approximately 70-73% of registered voters, reflecting strong civic engagement typical of Wyoming counties in presidential election years.
- Absentee ballots in Natrona County can be requested by any registered voter; applications are available on the County Clerk's website, by calling (307) 235-9217, or in person at the Clerk's Office.
Voters can register online through the Wyoming Secretary of State's website at sos.wyo.gov, in person at the County Clerk's Office, at the Wyoming Department of Transportation when obtaining a driver's license, or by mail using a voter registration form. The registration deadline is 14 days before any election for online and mail registration, though Wyoming allows in-person registration at the polls on Election Day with proper identification and proof of residency. To find your polling place in Natrona County, voters can contact the County Clerk's Office, check their voter registration status at the Secretary of State's website, or refer to the sample ballot and polling location notice mailed to registered voters before each election.
Natrona County operates multiple polling locations throughout the county on Election Day, with early voting available at the County Clerk's Office for a period before each election. Election records that are public in Wyoming include voter registration lists (with some personal information redacted for privacy), precinct-level election results, candidate filing documents, campaign finance reports filed with the Wyoming Secretary of State, and official canvass results. The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, which will include U.S.
House and Senate races (Wyoming's single U.S. House seat and potentially one U.S. Senate seat), Wyoming statewide offices such as Governor and other constitutional officers, state legislative seats, and county offices.
Absentee ballot requests must be received by the Friday before Election Day, and completed ballots must be returned by 7:00 PM on Election Day either by mail, in person at the Clerk's Office, or at designated drop boxes. Wyoming law, specifically Wyoming Statute § 22-2-119 and § 22-26-101 through § 22-26-115, governs public access to election records and ensures transparency in the electoral process while protecting voter privacy where appropriate.
Economy & Demographics
Natrona County's economy has historically been dominated by the energy sector, particularly oil and gas extraction, refining, and related services, which remain significant employers and revenue generators for the region. Major energy companies and service providers maintain operations in and around Casper, contributing substantially to the tax base and employment. The county has experienced economic volatility tied to energy commodity prices, prompting diversification efforts in recent decades.
- Census estimates, Natrona County's median household income is approximately $64,000-$68,000, slightly above the national median for rural areas.
- Recent economic development projects include expansions in data center infrastructure, value-added agricultural processing, and outdoor recreation amenities.
Healthcare is now one of the largest employment sectors, anchored by Banner Health's Wyoming Medical Center, the state's largest hospital, and other medical facilities. Government employment, including federal, state, and local agencies, also constitutes a major economic pillar. Retail trade, accommodation, and food services support both residents and tourists visiting central Wyoming's outdoor attractions.
According to recent U.S. Major employers beyond healthcare and energy include Natrona County School District #1, the county and city governments, and manufacturing operations such as Advanced Blending and Coating Technologies. Agriculture, primarily cattle ranching and hay production, continues as a traditional economic activity in the county's rural areas.
Tourism related to outdoor recreation—including fishing, hunting, hiking on Casper Mountain, and visiting historic trail sites—contributes growing economic value. The Casper Area Economic Development Alliance actively recruits businesses in technology, manufacturing, and professional services to broaden the economic base. Unemployment in Natrona County typically tracks slightly above the Wyoming state average, fluctuating between 4-6% depending on energy market conditions, with seasonal variations related to construction and tourism.
Transparency Score
Court Records: ✅ Online | Property: ✅ Free Search & GIS | Arrest/Jail: ✅ Online Roster | Vital Records: ⚠️ In-Person/Mail Preferred | Business: ✅ State Online Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall Score: 8.5/10 — Natrona County provides robust digital access to most public records with comprehensive online portals for property, court, and election data.
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Cities & Towns in Natrona County
Explore public records for 10 cities and communities in Natrona County, Wyoming.
Nearby Counties
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