About Ontario — In Depth
Jail & Inmate Records
The West Valley Detention Center is the primary jail facility for San Bernardino County. The facility processes bookings For people arrested throughout San Bernardino County, and the sheriff's department maintains an online inmate locator for searches. Visitors must schedule appointments in advance and bring identification. Bond and bail procedures follow California state law, allowing release pending trial through payment arranged with bail bondsmen or directly at the facility.
Arrest Records
The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department maintains arrest records for San Bernardino County. Residents and attorneys can request these records through the department's records division, usually with a formal request and sometimes a fee. The records contain arrest dates, charges, and booking details. Access is governed by the California Public Records Act, which balances transparency with protection of sensitive information.
Criminal Records
San Bernardino County's criminal records system includes felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and sex offender registry records. Residents can request criminal records through the sheriff's department or the California Department of Justice, which offers fingerprint-based background checks. The system ensures documentation of criminal activities within San Bernardino County.
Vital Records
Vital records for Ontario, California, are maintained by the California Department of Public Health. Residents can obtain birth certificates, death records, and marriage licenses through the department's Vital Records program. The City of Ontario also offers information and resources related to vital records on its website, directing residents to the appropriate state agencies for their needs.
Business & Licensing Records
The City of Ontario's Economic Development Department manages business related records and information. Residents and entrepreneurs can access resources for starting or expanding a business, including details on permits, licenses, and zoning regulations. The city actively promotes economic development initiatives designed to attract new businesses and support the local economy.
Economy & Demographics
Ontario, California, has a diverse and thriving economy, with major industries including logistics, manufacturing, and retail. The city is home to several large employers, such as the Ontario International Airport, which is a hub for air cargo and passenger transportation. The Ontario Mills shopping center is also a significant economic driver, attracting visitors and generating revenue for Ontario. The city's skilled workforce and strategic location make it an attractive destination for businesses of all sizes.
Elections & Voter Records
The San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters serves Ontario residents from 777 East Rialto Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92415, phone (909) 387-8300, website sbcrov.com. This office administers all federal, state, county, and municipal elections, maintains voter registration rolls, processes mail-in ballots, and certifies results. California residents can register online at registertovote.ca.gov up to 15 days before an election, or use conditional voter registration available through Election Day at vote centers. Voters must be U.S.
Citizens, California residents, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and not currently serving a state prison term for a felony conviction. Online registration requires a California driver's license or ID number. Municipal elections in the city cover the mayor, elected citywide, and four city council seats representing specific wards. The next municipal election is scheduled for November 2026, when certain council seats will appear on the ballot. Residents can find their polling location or vote center through the County Registrar's website at sbcrov.com/elections or by calling the office. San Bernardino County uses a vote center model allowing any registered voter to cast a ballot at any center countywide during the voting period. Public election records in California include voter registration statistics (not individual voter history), campaign finance reports filed with the city clerk and California Fair Political Practices Commission at fppc.ca.gov, candidate statements and filings, ballot measure text and arguments, and precinct-level results available at sbcrov.com after certification. In the November 2024 presidential election, San Bernardino County reported approximately 57 percent voter turnout with over 570,000 ballots cast countywide. For the November 3, 2026 general election, voters in Ontario and San Bernardino County will decide races that may include all 80 State Assembly seats, half of the 40 State Senate seats, county Board of Supervisors districts, county constitutional offices such as Sheriff, District Attorney, Assessor, and possibly city offices depending on the election cycle. Any registered voter can request a vote-by-mail ballot online at sbcrov.com or by calling the Registrar's office; voters can choose permanent vote-by-mail status. Ballots are mailed starting 29 days before Election Day and must be postmarked by Election Day and received within 7 days to be counted, or returned to any vote center or secure drop box by 8 PM on Election Day.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: Yes: Online Statewide Portal | Property: Yes: Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: Yes: Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: Limited: State Office Required | Business: Yes: Free State Database | Elections: Yes: Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.5/10, San Bernardino County and California provide excellent online access to most public records including property searches, court case lookups, inmate information, business entities, and election data, though vital records require formal requests and fees.
Ontario Public Records Directory
Search county, state, and federal government records serving Ontario, California.
Official Government Resources
Ontario California Census and Vital Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau quick facts, demographics, and population statistics for Ontario.
Ontario California Property Records
California Board of Equalization property tax and records for Ontario.
Ontario California Archives and Genealogy
California State Archives genealogy and historical collections for Ontario.
Ontario California Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court Central District of California for Ontario.
California Courts, Ontario Case Search
California Courts self-help guide to court records for Ontario.
Ontario California Vital Records
California Department of Public Health vital records for Ontario.
Ontario California Missing Persons
California DOJ missing persons and unidentified persons for Ontario.
Ontario California Most Wanted
FBI Los Angeles Field Office most-wanted fugitives including Ontario.
Ontario California Sex Offender Registry
California Megan's Law sex offender search for Ontario area.
Ontario California Criminal History Records
California Department of Justice criminal history record review for Ontario.
City of Ontario
Directory of Ontario city records and information
Ontario Records Management Department
Public records request 303 East B St Ontario, CA 91764 Phone: (909) 395-2009 Fax:(909) 395-2395
Ontario Police Department
Law enforcement and public safety 2500 S. Archibald Ave Ontario, CA 91761 Phone: (909) 395-2001 Fax: (909) 395-2720
Ontario Fire Department
Fire and rescue services 425 East "B" Street Ontario, CA 91764 Phone: (909) 395-2002 Fax: (909) 395-2556
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
Business listings directory 500 East E Street Suite 200 Ontario, CA 91764 Phone: (909) 984-2458 Fax: (909) 984-6439 E-ma
Ontario International Airport
Airport and aviation services 1923 East Avion St Ontario, CA 91761 Phone: (909) 937-2700
Ontario Criminal Records Search and History
Public Records Access California Attorney General Public Inquiry Unit P.O. Box 944255, Sacramento, CA 94244-2550 Phone: (800) 952-5225
Ontario California Official Criminal History Background Check
Attorney General's Office California Department of Justice Attn: Public Inquiry Unit P.O. Box 944255 Sacramento, CA 94244-2550
Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Quick search for missing children, sex offenders, Amber alerts, records and more public information.
Search For Inmates in Ontario and Corrections Records
California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation inmate locator. Search for inmates currently in custody of CDCR.
Nearby Cities in San Bernardino County, California
Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register to vote in Ontario, California?
To register to vote in Ontario, California, residents can register online through the California Secretary of State's website, by mail, or in person at the San Bernardino County elections office. California requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the California Secretary of State's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Ontario, contact the San Bernardino County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
How do I look up property records in Ontario, California?
Property records for Ontario, California are maintained by the San Bernardino County Assessor's Office and the San Bernardino County Clerk and Recorder. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within San Bernardino County, including parcels in Ontario. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The San Bernardino County Clerk and Recorder maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many California counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. For in-person requests, visit the San Bernardino County offices at the county courthouse. The San Bernardino County Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
How do I get a birth or death certificate in Ontario, California?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Ontario, California residents are available through both county and state offices. The California Department of Public Health, Vital Records, located in Sacramento, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in California. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the San Bernardino County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for San Bernardino County. Birth and death certificates may also be available through local vital records offices. Requestors typically need to provide valid photo identification and proof of their relationship to the person named on the record. Processing times and fees vary by office and record type.
Library Public Records Access
Public records resources are available at the Ontario library and through the San Bernardino County library system. Patrons can access government documents, historical records, and online databases. The library staff can assist with locating specific public records and research materials.
Fingerprinting Services
Services are provided for background checks, professional licensing, and other official purposes. Contact local law enforcement for scheduling and fees.