Reston Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Reston, Virginia government websites.

  About Reston City Government
Annual Budget $12.5 million
Regular Meetings Public Sessions

Reston, Virginia, operates under the governance of the Reston Association Board of Directors, which consists of 9 elected members. Board members are elected by the residents of Reston for a term length of 3 years. Elections are held annually in April, allowing residents to participate in the selection of their representatives.

For the fiscal year 2023, the Reston Association has an approximate annual operating budget of $12.5 million. This budget supports various community services, maintenance of common areas, and recreational programs that enhance the quality of life for Reston residents.

Regular meetings of the Reston Association Board of Directors are held on the second Thursday of each month at 6:30 PM. These meetings take place at the Reston Association Headquarters, located at 12001 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, VA 20191. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding community issues and initiatives.

  About Reston, Virginia

Nestled within the picturesque landscape of Fairfax County, Virginia, Reston is a master-planned community that boasts a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility. Established in 1964 by developer Robert E. Simon Jr., Reston was envisioned as a community that balanced work, recreation, and residential living. Today, it is home to approximately 60,000 residents who enjoy the many amenities and services the area has to offer. Major neighborhoods, including North Reston, South Reston, and the Reston Town Center, showcase a diverse range of housing options from townhomes to luxury condominiums, attracting families, professionals, and retirees alike. The local economy benefits from a mix of industries, with major employers such as the Reston-based Fortune 500 company, Leidos, and a thriving technology sector that emphasizes innovation. What makes Reston truly distinctive is its extensive system of parks, lakes, and trails, which integrate nature into daily life, as well as its commitment to fostering a strong sense of community through numerous cultural events and activities.

The law enforcement needs of Reston are primarily served by the Reston Police Department, which operates as a division of the Fairfax County Police Department. Additionally, the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office plays a vital role in local law enforcement, overseeing the county jail and detention facilities. Residents seeking to obtain arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal history can start their inquiries by contacting the Reston Police Department's records unit, where they can request these documents in person or via mail. For more comprehensive records, including those that relate to multiple jurisdictions, individuals may also turn to the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office, which manages county-wide arrest information. Furthermore, the Virginia State Police maintains a centralized criminal repository that allows for statewide background checks, accessible through their online portal. Individuals interested in record retrieval may find it beneficial to explore the online lookup tools provided by the relevant law enforcement agencies, which streamline the process of accessing vital information while ensuring public safety and transparency.

Reston falls under the jurisdiction of the Fairfax County Circuit Court, which handles a variety of legal matters, including civil and criminal cases. Individuals looking to request court records can do so through the Fairfax County Circuit Court's online portal or by visiting the Clerk's Office in person. Vital records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, can be acquired from the Fairfax County Clerk-Recorder's Office or through Virginia’s Division of Vital Records. Property records, essential for real estate transactions and ownership verification, are accessible from the county assessor’s office, and also available via online portals that provide public access to this information. Lastly, the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (VFOIA) grants residents the right to request public records from various government entities, including local agencies in Reston. Typical response times for these requests range from five to ten business days, ensuring that citizens can obtain essential information in a timely manner. This comprehensive framework of law enforcement and public records contributes to Reston's commitment to transparency and civic engagement, fostering a well-informed community.

About Reston

Nestled within the scenic expanse of Fairfax County, Virginia, Reston is a thriving, master-planned community that seamlessly blends suburban tranquility with urban accessibility. Established in 1964 by developer Robert E. Simon Jr., this city of 62,339 residents was envisioned as a harmonious balance of work, recreation, and residential living. Today, Reston's diverse neighborhoods, including North Reston, South Reston, and the vibrant Reston Town Center, offer a range of housing options from townhomes to luxury condominiums, attracting families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
The local economy benefits from a dynamic mix of industries, with major employers like the Reston-based Fortune 500 company Leidos and a flourishing technology sector that emphasizes innovation. What truly sets Reston apart is its extensive network of parks, lakes, and trails that seamlessly integrate nature into the daily lives of its residents, as well as its strong commitment to fostering a robust sense of community through numerous cultural events and activities.

Police Department & Arrest Records

Reston, Fairfax County is served by multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Fairfax County Police Department and the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office. The Police Department handles law enforcement within the county's municipalities, while the Sheriff's Office manages the jail and court security. Additionally, city police departments such as the Fairfax City Police Department and the Herndon Police Department operate within their respective jurisdictions, coordinating with the county on major crimes and regional initiatives.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Fairfax County Adult Detention Center is the primary jail facility in the county. It handles the booking process for individuals arrested within the county, and inmates can be searched through the county's online inmate lookup tool. Visitation at the detention center is regulated, with specific rules regarding scheduling and conduct. The bond and bail process in Virginia allows for the release of inmates under certain conditions, and information on recently arrested individuals can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office.

Court Records

The judicial needs of Reston and the greater Fairfax County area are served by the Fairfax County Courthouse, located in the county seat of Fairfax. This courthouse houses the Fairfax County Circuit Court, which handles a wide range of civil and criminal cases, as well as the Fairfax County General District Court, which presides over misdemeanors, traffic violations, and small claims. Residents and legal professionals can access court records, including case dockets, filings, and judgments, through the Fairfax County Clerk of the Circuit Court's online portal.

Criminal Records

The criminal records system in Fairfax County encompasses a variety of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic offenses, and the sex offender registry. These records are maintained by the Fairfax County Police Department, the Sheriff's Office, and the Virginia State Police. Residents can conduct background checks through the Virginia State Police, which provides access to statewide criminal history information. The Virginia Bureau of Investigation also plays a role in maintaining and disseminating criminal records for Fairfax County residents.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Fairfax County are maintained by the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office and the Fairfax County Police Department. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records through these agencies, typically requiring a formal request process. A Fairfax County arrest record includes details such as the individual's name, charges, and arrest date. Access to these records is governed by the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, which outlines the public's right to access government records.

Public Records Access

Residents of Reston, Virginia, with ZIP codes 20194, 20191, 20190, 20192, 20195, and 22096, can access a wide range of public records through the Fairfax County government. The Fairfax County Department of Tax Administration maintains detailed property records, including ownership information, assessed values, and tax history. The Fairfax County Office of the Assessor provides comprehensive data on real estate parcels, including land use, square footage, and zoning details.

Economy & Demographics

Reston's diverse and thriving economy is a testament to the city's strategic location and innovative spirit. The local business landscape is anchored by the presence of Leidos, a Fortune 500 technology and engineering company that serves as one of the area's largest employers. Additionally, Reston is home to a vibrant technology sector, with numerous startups and established firms leveraging the city's highly educated workforce and proximity to Washington, D.C.
Beyond the tech industry, Reston's economy is further bolstered by a mix of professional services, healthcare, and retail businesses that cater to the needs of its 62,339 residents and the surrounding Fairfax County community.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

The Reston Police Department, a division of the Fairfax County Police Department, is the primary law enforcement agency serving the city. Residents seeking information on arrests, mugshots, booking records, or criminal histories can submit requests to the Reston Police Department or the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office, which oversees the county's jail and detention facilities. The Fairfax County Police Department maintains a comprehensive online records portal, allowing the public to search for and access certain law enforcement records, subject to applicable privacy and disclosure laws.

Vital Records

The Fairfax County Health Department serves as the central hub for vital records in Reston and the surrounding area. Residents can obtain birth certificates, death records, and marriage licenses from the department's vital records division. The process for requesting these documents is streamlined, with options to submit applications in person, by mail, or online. The Fairfax County Circuit Court Clerk's Office also maintains a registry of marriage licenses and divorce decrees, providing another avenue for residents to access these important records.

Business & Licensing Records

Reston's thriving business community is supported by a range of public records and permitting services offered by the Fairfax County government. The Fairfax County Department of Planning and Zoning maintains comprehensive records on zoning regulations, land use, and development projects within the city. Businesses looking to operate in Reston can apply for the necessary licenses and permits through the Fairfax County Business Professional and Occupational License (BPOL) program.

Elections & Voter Records

Reston voters are served by the Fairfax County Office of Elections, located at 12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 323, Fairfax, VA 22035, phone (703) 222-0776, website www.fairfaxcounty.gov/elections. The office handles all aspects of voter registration, election administration, absentee voting, and maintenance of voter records for Reston and all of Fairfax County. Virginia residents can register to vote online through the Virginia Department of Elections at www.elections.virginia.gov/registration/how-to-register, which requires providing name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and citizenship attestation. The voter registration deadline is 22 days before any election. Virginia offers same-day registration during the early voting period. Acceptable forms of ID for voting include Virginia driver's license, U.S. passport, employer ID, student ID from a Virginia college, tribal ID, or other government-issued photo ID; voters without ID can sign an ID Confirmation Statement. Because Reston is unincorporated and has no municipal government, residents do not vote in city council or mayoral elections; instead, they participate in Fairfax County Board of Supervisors elections (Reston is split between the Hunter Mill and Dranesville magisterial districts), Virginia state legislative elections, statewide offices, and federal races. Fairfax County Board of Supervisors elections are held in November of odd-numbered years (next in 2027), with each supervisor serving four-year terms. Reston residents can find their assigned polling location by using the Virginia Department of Elections' polling place locator at www.elections.virginia.gov/polling-places or by contacting the Fairfax County Office of Elections. In the November 2024 presidential election, Fairfax County reported approximately 66% voter turnout with over 650,000 registered voters and more than 430,000 ballots cast, reflecting strong civic engagement. For the November 3, 2026 general election, Reston and Fairfax County voters will decide races including one U.S. Senate seat (Virginia's Class 2 seat, currently held by Mark Warner, is up for election in 2026), all members of the U.S. House of Representatives (Reston is primarily in Virginia's 11th Congressional District), and all 100 seats in the Virginia House of Delegates (serving two-year terms). Virginia does not have a gubernatorial election in 2026 (next in 2025). County offices including the Board of Supervisors will not be on the 2026 ballot (next county elections in 2027). Virginia offers no-excuse absentee voting; residents can request an absentee ballot online at www.elections.virginia.gov/absentee-voting, by mail, fax, email, or in person. Early in-person voting (absentee voting in person) begins 45 days before Election Day at the Fairfax County Government Center and other satellite locations. Campaign finance reports, candidate filings, and election results are publicly accessible through the Virginia Department of Elections website at www.elections.virginia.gov and the State Board of Elections' campaign finance database. Voter registration lists are public records available for purchase for lawful election-related purposes. Precinct-level election results are published by the Fairfax County Office of Elections after each election at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/elections/results.

Public Records Transparency Score

Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: ✅ Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: ✅ Online Ordering | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 9.2/10 — Fairfax County offers exceptional public records access with comprehensive free online databases for property assessments, land records indices, court case searches, business licenses, and inmate rosters, plus full-service online voter registration and election information, representing one of Virginia's most transparent and digitally accessible local government systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Reston, Fairfax County, Virginia to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in Reston, Virginia, you will be transported to the Fairfax County Detention Center for booking and processing. During booking, officers record personal information, take fingerprints, and photograph the arrestee. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment, or released on bail. The Fairfax County Inmate Search portal allows online lookup of current inmates. Contact the Fairfax County Clerk of Courts for case information.
The Reston area is served by public school districts in Fairfax County, Virginia. School performance data, enrollment statistics, and district boundaries are available through the Virginia Department of Education website. School report cards, test scores, and demographic data are published annually for all public schools.
Crime statistics for Reston, Virginia are reported annually to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting program. Local crime data including incident reports, arrest statistics, and calls for service are typically published by the Reston Police Department on their official website. The Virginia Attorney General also publishes annual crime statistics by jurisdiction.
The Reston Public Library provides residents with access to public records research tools. Library cardholders can access online genealogy databases, historical newspaper archives, and Virginia government document repositories. Reference librarians can assist with records requests, ancestry searches, and government document navigation.
The Reston Public Library main branch is located in Reston, Virginia. Check the Reston city website or library system portal for branch addresses, hours of operation, and available services.
Fingerprinting services in Reston, Virginia are available through the Reston Police Department and authorized IdentoGO or Fieldprint enrollment centers. Fingerprinting is required for employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, real estate), concealed carry permits, and adoption applications. Contact the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office or local law enforcement for walk-in fingerprinting options.
To obtain vital records in Reston, Virginia, contact the Virginia Vital Statistics Unit. Birth and death certificates can be ordered online, by mail, or in person. Marriage licenses are issued by the Fairfax County Clerk's office. Certified copies require valid government-issued photo ID and a processing fee. Online ordering is available through VitalCheck or the state health department portal.
Police reports from Reston, Virginia can be obtained from the Reston Police Department or the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office. Submit a request in person, by mail, or online with the incident report number, date, and your identification. Under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, most incident reports are public records. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days. Traffic accident reports may also be available through the Virginia DMV.
A background check in Reston, Fairfax County, Virginia typically includes a review of criminal history records, arrest records, court judgments, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards frequently request background checks. You can request a Virginia criminal history report through the Virginia Department of Public Safety. Federal background checks are available through the FBI Identity History Summary program.
  Nearby Cities in Fairfax County, Virginia

Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:

Alexandria Annandale Burke Centreville Chantilly Clifton Dunn Loring Fairfax