About Reynolds County
Reynolds County is located in southeastern Missouri, located in the scenic Ozark highlands region. Established in 1845 and named after Thomas Reynolds, the second governor of Missouri, Reynolds County includes approximately 811 square miles of rugged terrain characterized by rolling hills, clear streams, and dense forests. Reynolds County Seat is Centerville, which is the administrative hub for approximately 6,200 residents based on recent population estimates.
Reynolds County is one of Missouri's least populated counties, offering a rural character defined by outdoor recreation, timber resources, and agricultural pursuits. Major landmarks include the Black River, which winds through Reynolds County providing exceptional canoeing and fishing opportunities, as well as portions of the Mark Twain National Forest. Reynolds County's governmental operations are managed through several key offices located primarily in Centerville.
Reynolds County Recorder, situated at the courthouse on Main Street in Centerville, maintains property records and land documents. Reynolds County Clerk's office handles marriage licenses, elections administration, and various county records. Reynolds County Assessor's office is responsible for property valuations and tax assessment records.
Reynolds County's economy historically relied on mining operations, timber harvesting, and agriculture, though tourism related to outdoor recreation has become increasingly important. Reynolds County's remote location and natural beauty make it a destination If you need respite from urban areas, while its small population creates a close community atmosphere where local government remains accessible to residents.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
Reynolds County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order in Reynolds County, particularly in the unincorporated areas. The office is tasked with patrolling these regions, managing Reynolds County jail, processing arrests, and maintaining criminal records. The Sheriff's Office is also involved in community outreach programs and collaborates with local organizations to enhance public safety. Notable divisions within the office may include a criminal investigations unit and a patrol division, which work together to address crime and ensure the safety of residents.
Police Departments
In addition to Reynolds County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement in Reynolds County is supported by municipal police departments in cities such as Ellington and Bunker. These city police departments handle law enforcement within their respective city limits, focusing on local ordinances and minor crimes. The Sheriff's Office and city police departments coordinate on major crimes and emergencies, making sure of full coverage and response throughout Reynolds County. This collaboration enhances the overall effectiveness of law enforcement in Reynolds County.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Law enforcement in Reynolds County is primarily provided by Reynolds County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at Reynolds County Courthouse in Centerville, Missouri. The Sheriff's Office can be contacted at 573-648-2491 and is responsible for patrol operations throughout the unincorporated areas of Reynolds County, service of civil process, court security, and operation of Reynolds County detention facility. Reynolds County Jail is a small facility that houses pre-trial detainees and individuals serving short-term sentences.
- For arrest records and booking information, requests must be submitted under Missouri's Sunshine Law (Chapter 610 RSMOs), which governs public records access throughout the state.
- Written requests should be directed to the Sheriff's Office, and while some records are immediately available, certain investigative records may be closed to protect ongoing investigations.
- Mugshots and booking photos are considered public records in Missouri unless specifically exempted, and can be requested from the Sheriff's Office.
- Processing times for records requests vary depending on the complexity and volume of records sought.
Inmate information can be obtained by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly during business hours, as Reynolds County does not currently maintain a full online inmate roster system. Municipal law enforcement is limited given Reynolds County's small population; the largest municipalities including Centerville, Ellington, and Lesterville rely primarily on the Sheriff's Office for law enforcement services, though some may contract for additional coverage. Residents seeking information about specific arrests or incidents should contact the Sheriff's Office directly with as much identifying information as possible, including names, dates, and case numbers if known.
Reynolds County does not have tribal police jurisdictions or specialized law enforcement agencies beyond the Sheriff's Office and Missouri State Highway Patrol, which provides traffic enforcement on state highways within Reynolds County.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Reynolds County cover felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and sex offender registry information. Reynolds County Sheriff's Office and the local courts maintain these records, which are essential for background checks and legal proceedings. Residents can request criminal records through the Sheriff's Office or the court system. The Missouri State Highway Patrol's Criminal Justice Information Services Division provides additional resources for background checks, offering statewide criminal history information to Reynolds County residents.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Reynolds County are maintained by Reynolds County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges, and personal information of the arrestee. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. Under the Missouri Sunshine Law, these records are generally accessible to the public, although certain restrictions may apply to protect privacy or ongoing investigations. Arrest records provide crucial information for legal proceedings and background checks.
Jail & Inmate Records
Reynolds County Jail, located in Centerville, is the primary detention facility for people arrested within Reynolds County. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the detainees. Inmate lookup services are available through the Sheriff's Office, allowing family members and legal representatives to find information about current inmates. Visitation rules are specific to the facility and typically require scheduling in advance.
- The bond and bail process in Missouri allows individuals to be released from custody pending trial, and details can be obtained from the jail or the Sheriff's Office.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Reynolds County are taken and retained by Reynolds County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the arrest records and can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office. While some counties may offer online databases for mugshot searches, Reynolds County typically requires direct contact with the Sheriff's Office for such requests. Missouri does not have specific laws for mugshot removal, but individuals can petition for removal if the charges are dropped or if they are acquitted.
Courts & Case Records
Reynolds County Circuit Court is the trial court of general jurisdiction serving Reynolds County, located at Reynolds County Courthouse, 106 Main Street, Centerville, MO 63633. The Circuit Court can be reached at 573-648-2494 and handles all civil, criminal, probate, juvenile, and domestic relations matters arising within Reynolds County. Reynolds County is part of Missouri's 42nd Judicial Circuit. Court records in Missouri are governed by Missouri Supreme Court Rules and Chapter 610 RSMOs regarding access to public records.
- The Associate Circuit Division handles small claims matters (claims up to $5,000), minor criminal cases, traffic violations, and preliminary hearings in felony cases.
- Fees for copies of court documents vary by document type: certified copies typically cost several dollars per page, while simple photocopies are charged at a lower rate.
- Requests for certified records should be made in writing to the Circuit Clerk, and requesters should provide case numbers, party names, and specific documents needed to expedite processing.
The Circuit Clerk maintains case files, dockets, and judgments, which are available for public inspection during regular business hours. Reynolds County does not currently offer online case search capabilities through a dedicated county portal; however, some case information may be accessible through Missouri CaseNet (www.courts.mo.gov/casenet), the statewide online case management system that provides free public access to circuit court case records. Not all historical records are available electronically, and older cases may require in-person research at the Clerk's office.
Probate matters, including estate administration, guardianships, and conservatorships, are handled by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court. Municipal courts in Ellington and other incorporated areas handle local ordinance violations and traffic matters occurring within city limits.
Property & Public Records
Property and land records for Reynolds County are maintained by Reynolds County Recorder of Deeds, located at Reynolds County Courthouse, 106 Main Street, Centerville, MO 63633, phone 573-648-2228. The Recorder's office maintains an extensive collection of documents including warranty deeds, quitclaim deeds, deeds of trust, mortgages, releases, liens, easements, right-of-way agreements, plat maps, and subdivision records dating back to Reynolds County's formation.
- Researchers seeking property records must visit the Recorder's office in person or contact the office to request copies by mail.
- Certified copies of recorded documents are available for a statutory fee, typically around $3.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page, plus certification fees.
These records are public under Missouri law (Chapter 59 RSMOs) and are available for inspection during regular business hours, typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, excluding county holidays. Reynolds County does not currently offer a full online searchable database for recorded documents, though some Missouri counties are gradually implementing digital systems. Reynolds County Assessor's office, also located in the courthouse, maintains property tax assessment records, ownership information, legal descriptions, and property characteristics used for valuation purposes.
The Assessor can be reached at 573-648-2811. Property tax payment records and current tax information are maintained by Reynolds County Collector's office. While some basic property information may be accessible through informal inquiries, full property research requires in-person examination of the Recorder's indices and deed books.
Title companies, attorneys, and abstract companies regularly use these records for real estate transactions. Plat maps showing subdivisions and land divisions are maintained in the Recorder's office and are essential for identifying parcel boundaries and easements.
Vital Records
Vital records for Reynolds County, including birth and death certificates, are maintained under Missouri's vital records statutes (Chapter 193 RSMOs). Birth and death certificates occurring in Reynolds County may be obtained from Reynolds County Clerk's office at Reynolds County Courthouse, 106 Main Street, Centerville, MO 63633, phone 573-648-2494, though local Clerk offices typically maintain records only for events occurring within Reynolds County.
- Certified copies of birth certificates cost $15.00 for the first copy and $13.00 for each additional copy of the same record ordered simultaneously; death certificates follow a similar fee structure.
- Processing times vary: in-person requests at the state office may be completed the same day, while mail requests typically take 4-6 weeks.
- VitalChek, an authorized third-party vendor (www.vitalchek.com), offers expedited online ordering for Missouri vital records with additional service fees.
- Marriage licenses are issued by Reynolds County Recorder of Deeds office, where couples must apply in person with identification and pay the required fee (approximately $58.00).
- Divorce records are maintained by the Circuit Clerk as part of court case files and must be requested through the court system.
The primary repository for Missouri vital records is the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Bureau of Vital Records, located at 930 Wildwood Drive, Jefferson City, MO 65109, phone 573-751-6387. The state office maintains birth records from 1910 forward and death records from 1910 forward on a full basis. Applicants must complete the appropriate application form, provide valid government-issued photo identification, and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record as required by Missouri law, eligible applicants typically include the registrant (for birth records), immediate family members, legal representatives, and individuals with a court order.
Missouri has no waiting period or blood test requirement. Marriage records are public and copies can be obtained from the Recorder.
Business & Licensing
Business and licensing records in Reynolds County are maintained by multiple offices depending on the type of business activity and regulatory requirements. Reynolds County Clerk's office at Reynolds County Courthouse, 106 Main Street, Centerville, MO 63633, handles certain local business related filings including assumed name certificates (DBAs or fictitious name registrations) for businesses operating under names other than the owner's legal name. These records are public and can be inspected at the Clerk's office during regular business hours.
For full business entity information including corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, and other formal business structures, the Missouri Secretary of State's Business Services Division maintains the authoritative database. The Missouri Business Entity Search is available online at www.sos.mo.gov/BusinessEntity/soskb/csearch.asp and provides free access to information about registered business entities, including formation dates, registered agents, principal addresses, and current status. Most professional licenses in Missouri are issued by state-level boards and commissions rather than county offices; these can be researched through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration.
Sales tax permits and employer identification are handled through the Missouri Department of Revenue. Building permits, zoning approvals, and land use permits in unincorporated Reynolds County are administered by the County Commission or designated planning officials; applicants should contact the County Clerk's office at 573-648-2494 for specific requirements and application procedures. Municipalities within Reynolds County including Ellington and Centerville may have separate business licensing or permit requirements for businesses operating within city limits.
Reynolds County area is served by regional economic development organizations that can assist businesses with location, expansion, and regulatory compliance questions, though Reynolds County's rural character means fewer formal licensing requirements compared to urban areas.
Elections & Voter Records
Election administration in Reynolds County is managed by Reynolds County Clerk, who serves as Reynolds County's election authority under Missouri election law (Title IX RSMOs). The Clerk's office is located at Reynolds County Courthouse, 106 Main Street, Centerville, MO 63633, and can be reached at 573-648-2494 for election related inquiries including voter registration, polling place locations, and absentee voting.
- Absentee ballot applications must be submitted to the County Clerk, and voters may request to receive ballots by mail or vote in person during the advance voting period at the Clerk's office.
- Citizens seeking to access election records should contact the County Clerk's office with specific requests.
- Missouri law provides strong transparency for election administration, allowing citizens to request records, observe certain election processes, and petition for recounts under specified circumstances.
Voter registration in Reynolds County can be accomplished by submitting a completed application to the County Clerk's office; the deadline to register is the fourth Wednesday prior to any election (typically 27 days before Election Day). Missouri offers online voter registration through the Missouri Secretary of State's website at www.sos.mo.gov/elections/goVoteMissouri for citizens who possess a valid Missouri driver's license or state identification card. Residents can verify their registration status and find their assigned polling place using the online tools at the Secretary of State's election website.
Reynolds County typically operates several polling places across Reynolds County on Election Day to serve its geographically dispersed population; voters must cast ballots at their assigned precinct location based on their residential address. Absentee voting is available for Missouri voters who meet statutory qualifications including absence from Reynolds County on Election Day, incapacity or confinement due to illness or physical disability, religious belief or practice, employment as an election authority, or incarceration while maintaining eligibility to vote. Election records in Missouri are extensively public under the Sunshine Law.
Voter registration lists, candidate filings, campaign finance reports (for local candidates), and certified election results by precinct are all available for public inspection and copying. Reynolds County typically experiences voter turnout rates that reflect its rural character; the November 2024 general election likely saw turnout in the range of 60-70% of registered voters, consistent with patterns in similar rural Missouri counties. The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, featuring U.S.
House of Representatives races, one U.S. Senate seat, and various Missouri state offices including Governor (depending on the election cycle).
Economy & Demographics
Reynolds County's economy is characterized by its rural, resource-based heritage and small population base of approximately 6,200 residents. Historically, Reynolds County's economic foundation rested on timber harvesting, small-scale agriculture, and lead mining operations that flourished in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, forestry and timber products remain important, with significant portions of Reynolds County covered by the Mark Twain National Forest, which provides both employment and recreational opportunities.
- Major employers include county government, the school districts (Reynolds County R-II in Ellington and Centerville R-I), healthcare facilities, and small manufacturing or processing operations.
Agriculture consists primarily of cattle ranching, hay production, and small farming operations suited to Reynolds County's hilly terrain and thin soils. The median household income in Reynolds County is significantly below both state and national averages, estimated at approximately $32,000 to $35,000 based on recent census data, reflecting Reynolds County's rural character and limited industrial base. Tourism and outdoor recreation have emerged as increasingly important economic sectors, with the Black River attracting canoeists, kayakers, and fishermen, while the surrounding forest lands draw hunters, hikers, and nature enthusiasts.
Several small resorts, campgrounds, and outfitters serve visitors exploring Reynolds County's natural resources. Unemployment rates in Reynolds County typically run higher than state averages, reflecting limited employment opportunities and seasonal variation in available work. Retail and service businesses in Centerville and Ellington provide basic goods and services, though residents often travel to larger communities for major purchases and specialized services.
Reynolds County faces ongoing economic challenges including population decline, aging demographics, limited broadband infrastructure, and distance from major transportation corridors and metropolitan markets. Economic development efforts focus on promoting tourism, supporting small business development, and using natural resource assets while maintaining Reynolds County's rural quality of life.
Transparency Score
Court Records: Limited: Online via CaseNet (limited) | Property: Limited: In-Person Required | Arrest/Jail: Limited: Phone/In-Person Only | Vital Records: Limited: In-Person or State Office | Business: Yes: State Online Database | Elections: Limited: Online (State Site) | Overall Score: 4/10, Reynolds County's small size and rural character mean most records require in-person visits or telephone contact, with limited digital access compared to larger Missouri counties.
Official Government Resources
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Cities & Towns in Reynolds County
Explore public records for 7 cities and communities in Reynolds County, Missouri.