Official Government Sources
San Mateo Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official San Mateo, California government websites.
About San Mateo City Government
The governing body of San Mateo, California, is the San Mateo City Council, which consists of five elected members. Council members are elected at-large and serve four-year terms. The current council members include Mayor Joe Goethals, Vice Mayor Amourence Lee, and council members Eric Rodriguez, Lisa Diaz Nash, and Diane Papan.
For the fiscal year 2023-2024, the City of San Mateo has an approximate annual operating budget of $90.9 million. This budget supports various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community programs.
The San Mateo City Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Mondays of each month at 7:00 PM. Meetings are conducted at the San Mateo City Hall, located at 330 West 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403. These sessions provide residents an opportunity to engage with council members and discuss city matters.
For the fiscal year 2023-2024, the City of San Mateo has an approximate annual operating budget of $90.9 million. This budget supports various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community programs.
The San Mateo City Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Mondays of each month at 7:00 PM. Meetings are conducted at the San Mateo City Hall, located at 330 West 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403. These sessions provide residents an opportunity to engage with council members and discuss city matters.
About San Mateo, California
San Mateo, California, is a thriving city in San Mateo County, renowned for its blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. With a population of approximately 104,430 residents, it serves as a central hub for economic activity on the San Francisco Peninsula. The city boasts several notable neighborhoods, including the picturesque Central Park, characterized by its lush greenery and recreational facilities, and the lively downtown area, filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. Economically, San Mateo is a key player in the tech industry, home to numerous startups and established companies, often referred to as part of Silicon Valley's broader ecosystem, which contributes to its cultural dynamism and a strong job market.
The San Mateo Police Department plays a crucial role in maintaining public safety and upholding the law within the city. They are responsible for the management of arrest records and criminal records, which are meticulously maintained to ensure transparency and accountability. For those seeking information about individuals in custody, the San Mateo County Jail provides a means to search inmate records, along with options for requesting background checks through the police department. Notably, the region has a proactive approach to community policing, fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and residents, which has resulted in lower crime rates compared to other urban areas.
Accessing public records in San Mateo is streamlined through the California Public Records Act (CPRA), which allows residents to request various documents from public agencies. The San Mateo County Clerk's office serves as the primary resource for vital records, including birth, death, and marriage certificates, ensuring that residents can retrieve essential documents efficiently. For property records, the San Mateo County Assessor provides online access, allowing homeowners and prospective buyers to obtain necessary information with ease. Additionally, court records are available through the San Mateo County Superior Court, which offers a user-friendly online portal for public access to legal documents. These resources collectively reflect the city's commitment to transparency and informed citizenship.
The San Mateo Police Department plays a crucial role in maintaining public safety and upholding the law within the city. They are responsible for the management of arrest records and criminal records, which are meticulously maintained to ensure transparency and accountability. For those seeking information about individuals in custody, the San Mateo County Jail provides a means to search inmate records, along with options for requesting background checks through the police department. Notably, the region has a proactive approach to community policing, fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and residents, which has resulted in lower crime rates compared to other urban areas.
Accessing public records in San Mateo is streamlined through the California Public Records Act (CPRA), which allows residents to request various documents from public agencies. The San Mateo County Clerk's office serves as the primary resource for vital records, including birth, death, and marriage certificates, ensuring that residents can retrieve essential documents efficiently. For property records, the San Mateo County Assessor provides online access, allowing homeowners and prospective buyers to obtain necessary information with ease. Additionally, court records are available through the San Mateo County Superior Court, which offers a user-friendly online portal for public access to legal documents. These resources collectively reflect the city's commitment to transparency and informed citizenship.
San Mateo, California Public Records & Government Resources
San Mateo California Property Records
California Board of Equalization property tax and records for San Mateo.
San Mateo California Archives and Genealogy
California State Archives genealogy and historical collections for San Mateo.
San Mateo California Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court Central District of California for San Mateo.
California Courts – San Mateo Case Search
California Courts self-help guide to court records for San Mateo.
San Mateo California Vital Records
California Department of Public Health vital records for San Mateo.
San Mateo California Inmate Search
California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation inmate search for San Mateo.
San Mateo California Missing Persons
California DOJ missing persons and unidentified persons for San Mateo.
San Mateo California Most Wanted
FBI Los Angeles / Sacramento most-wanted fugitives including San Mateo.
San Mateo California Sex Offender Registry
California Megan's Law sex offender search for San Mateo area.
San Mateo California Criminal History Records
California Department of Justice criminal history record review for San Mateo.
City of San Mateo
Directory of San Mateo city records and information
San Mateo City Clerk
City legal records and files 330 West 20th Avenue San Mateo, CA 94403 Phone: (650) 522-7040 Fax: (650) 522-7041
San Mateo Police Department
Law enforcement services 200 Franklin Parkway San Mateo, CA 94403 Phone: (650) 522-7700 Fax: (650) 522-7711
San Mateo Fire Department
Fire and rescue services 1900 O'Farrell Street, Suite 140 San Mateo, CA 94403 Phone: (650) 522-7900
San Mateo Chamber of Commerce
Business listings directory P.O. Box 936 San Mateo, CA 94403 Phone: (650) 401-2440 Fax: (650) 401-2446 Email: info@sanm
San Mateo Community Development
Building planning, permits and development 330 West 20th Avenue San Mateo, CA 94403 Phone: (650) 522-7200 Fax: (650) 522
San Mateo Public Library
Reference materials and research assistance 55 West 3rd Avenue San Mateo, Ca 94402 Phone: (650) 522-7802 Fax: (650) 522-
San Mateo U.S. Census
Population demographic information San Mateo, CA 94402
San Mateo Criminal Records Search and History
Public Records Access Public Records Ombudsman P.O. Box 944255-2550 Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone: (916) 445-4069 Email: Pu
San Mateo California Official Criminal History Background Check
Attorney General's Office California Department of Justice Attn: Public Inquiry Unit P.O. Box 944255 Sacramento, CA 942
Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Quick search for missing children, sex offenders, Amber alerts, records and more public information
Search For Inmates in San Mateo and Corrections Records
ID & Warrants, (916) 445-6713 Inmate Check Line (Media), (916) 557-5933 California Department of Corrections and Rehabil
About San Mateo
The governing body of San Mateo, California, is the San Mateo City Council, which consists of five elected members. Council members are elected at-large and serve four-year terms. The current council members include Mayor Joe Goethals, Vice Mayor Amourence Lee, and council members Eric Rodriguez, Lisa Diaz Nash, and Diane Papan.
For the fiscal year 2023-2024, the City of San Mateo has an approximate annual operating budget of $90.9 million. This budget supports various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community programs.
The San Mateo City Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Mondays of each month at 7:00 PM. Meetings are conducted at the San Mateo City Hall, located at 330 West 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403. These sessions provide residents an opportunity to engage with council members and discuss city matters.
For the fiscal year 2023-2024, the City of San Mateo has an approximate annual operating budget of $90.9 million. This budget supports various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community programs.
The San Mateo City Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Mondays of each month at 7:00 PM. Meetings are conducted at the San Mateo City Hall, located at 330 West 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403. These sessions provide residents an opportunity to engage with council members and discuss city matters.
Police Department & Arrest Records
San Mateo County is served by several law enforcement agencies, including the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments such as the Daly City Police Department, San Mateo Police Department, and South San Francisco Police Department. Each city department is responsible for law enforcement within its jurisdiction, handling local crimes, traffic enforcement, and community policing. These agencies collaborate on major crimes and emergencies, often coordinating with the Sheriff's Office for resources and support in larger investigations.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Maguire Correctional Facility is the primary jail facility in San Mateo County. It handles the booking process for individuals arrested in the county, where they are fingerprinted, photographed, and assessed for bail eligibility. The facility provides an inmate lookup service through the county's official website, allowing the public to search for current detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, requiring visitors to schedule appointments and adhere to strict guidelines. In California, the bail process involves posting a bond through a bail bondsman or paying the full bail amount to secure the release of an inmate pending trial.
Court Records
The Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo, serves the county and is located in Redwood City. This court has jurisdiction over civil, criminal, family, probate, and juvenile cases. Court records, case filings, and criminal dockets can be accessed through the court's online portal or by visiting the courthouse. The court provides public access terminals for individuals to search for case information and obtain copies of court documents.
Criminal Records
The criminal records ecosystem in San Mateo County includes felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and sex offender registry records. The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records. Background checks can be conducted through the California Department of Justice, which provides comprehensive criminal history information for residents. The California Bureau of Investigation also plays a role in maintaining statewide criminal records, which are accessible to law enforcement and authorized agencies for investigative purposes.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in San Mateo County are maintained by the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office and the various municipal police departments within the county. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the respective law enforcement agency. These records typically include the individual's name, date of arrest, charges, and booking details. The California Public Records Act governs the accessibility of these records, ensuring transparency while protecting sensitive information. Requests for arrest records can be made in person, by mail, or through online portals provided by the agencies.
Public Records Access
Public records in San Mateo County are accessible under the California Public Records Act. The County Clerk's Office, located in the San Mateo County Government Center, provides access to vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates. The Recorder's Office handles property records and other official documents. These offices offer online services for record requests, with typical turnaround times varying based on the type of record and request method. The county also provides an online portal for accessing various public records and documents.
Economy & Demographics
San Mateo County's economy is characterized by its strong ties to technology and biotechnology industries, with major employers including Genentech, Oracle, and Electronic Arts. The county's proximity to Silicon Valley has fostered a robust tech sector, while its coastal location supports a thriving tourism industry. Additionally, the county benefits from a diverse economic base that includes healthcare, education, and retail sectors, distinguishing it from neighboring counties with its unique blend of innovation and traditional industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
1
What is the process for someone who is arrested in San Mateo, San Mateo County, California to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the City of San Mateo, California, you will be transported to the San Mateo 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 San Mateo Superior Court. Under California 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 California Department of Justice. The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/ciris/ where you can look up current detainees.
2
What are the school district and education performance data for San Mateo, San Mateo County, California?
The San Mateo Union High School District serves the city of San Mateo, California. According to the California Department of Education, the district had an overall Academic Performance Index (API) score of 845 in 2019, which is higher than the state average of 790. The district also had a graduation rate of 93.2%, which is higher than the state average of 83.2%.
3
What are the crime statistics for San Mateo, San Mateo County, California?
According to the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office, the crime rate in San Mateo, San Mateo County, California is lower than the national average. In 2019, the total number of reported crimes in San Mateo was 4,845, which is a decrease of 4.3% from 2018. The most common crimes reported were larceny/theft (1,845), burglary (1,072), and motor vehicle theft (717).
4
What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the San Mateo, San Mateo County, California Library?
The San Mateo Public Library in San Mateo County, California provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and California 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 California Public Records Act (Gov. Code § 7920 et seq.), which governs access to government documents in California. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the San Mateo California Archives and Genealogy at https://www.sos.ca.gov/archives/collections/. Contact the San Mateo Public Library reference desk at (650) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
5
Where is the San Mateo, San Mateo County, California Public Library located?
The San Mateo Public Library is located at 55 West Third Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94402.
6
Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in San Mateo, San Mateo County, California?
Fingerprinting services in San Mateo, San Mateo County, California are available through the San Mateo Police Department and the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office. Services are provided for employment background checks, licensing applications, immigration purposes, and personal record requests. You will typically need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID and, where applicable, a completed fingerprint card from the requesting agency. Appointments can often be scheduled by calling (650) or by visiting the department's website. Fingerprints are submitted to the California Department of Justice and the FBI for identity verification and criminal history review. Statewide criminal history checks can also be requested through the California Department of Justice.
7
What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from San Mateo, San Mateo County, California, and what information is provided in the records?
The San Mateo County Clerk-Recorder's Office is responsible for issuing vital records for San Mateo County, California.
To obtain vital records from the San Mateo County Clerk-Recorder's Office, you must submit a completed application form, along with a valid photo ID and the appropriate fee. The application form can be found on the San Mateo County Clerk-Recorder's website.
The vital records available from the San Mateo County Clerk-Recorder's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. All of these records include the name of the person, the date of the event, and the place of the event.
To obtain vital records from the San Mateo County Clerk-Recorder's Office, you must submit a completed application form, along with a valid photo ID and the appropriate fee. The application form can be found on the San Mateo County Clerk-Recorder's website.
The vital records available from the San Mateo County Clerk-Recorder's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. All of these records include the name of the person, the date of the event, and the place of the event.
8
About Police Reports
Police reports from San Mateo, California can be obtained from the San Mateo Police Department, located in San Mateo County. To request a police report, visit the Records Division in person or submit a written request by mail. You will typically need the report number, date of incident, and your valid photo ID. A fee may be charged per page for copies. Under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code § 7920 et seq.), most police reports are public records in California, though portions related to active investigations, juvenile records, or sensitive personal information may be redacted. Contact the San Mateo Police Department Records Division at (650) for information on fees, hours, and online request options. For statewide criminal records, visit https://oag.ca.gov/fingerprints/record_review.
9
About background check
A background check in San Mateo, San Mateo County, California 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 California. Criminal background checks are processed through the California Department of Justice, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for California residents. The California Department of Justice provides official criminal history checks at https://oag.ca.gov/fingerprints/record_review. Under the California Public Records Act (Gov. Code § 7920 et seq.), 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 San Mateo County, California
Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county: