Selbyville Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Selbyville, Delaware government websites.

  About Selbyville City Government
Annual Budget $1.8 million
Regular Meetings Public Sessions

The governing body of Selbyville, Delaware, is the Selbyville Town Council, which consists of five elected members. Council members are elected at-large, serving staggered terms of two years each. The current council members include Mayor Greg W. Wiggins, Vice Mayor John L. McGowan, and Council Members William W. Hazzard, Thomas R. McGowan, and Robert W. McGowan.

For the fiscal year 2023, Selbyville's approximate annual operating budget is $1.8 million. This budget supports various municipal services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.

The Selbyville Town Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Monday of each month at 7:00 PM. Meetings take place at the Selbyville Town Hall, located at 68 Hazzard Street, Selbyville, DE 19975. These meetings provide an opportunity for residents to engage with council members and discuss local issues.

  About Selbyville, Delaware

Nestled within the scenic landscapes of Sussex County, Selbyville, Delaware, is a quaint town that embodies the charm of small-town living. Covering an area of approximately 1.5 square miles, Selbyville is home to a population of around 2,400 residents, contributing to its close-knit community atmosphere. The town was officially incorporated in 1904, though its history stretches back further, with roots tracing to the late 19th century. Selbyville features several notable neighborhoods, including the historic district, known for its quaint architecture and friendly ambiance. The local economy is characterized by a mix of small businesses, service-oriented enterprises, and seasonal tourism, especially due to its proximity to popular beach destinations. What makes Selbyville distinctive is its commitment to preserving its rural character while accommodating growth and development, all while fostering community spirit through various local events and gathering spots.

The Selbyville Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency serving this tight-knit community, dedicated to maintaining safety and order. Residents can also rely on the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, which provides additional law enforcement support throughout the county, including Selbyville. For those seeking to obtain criminal records, arrest logs, or mugshots, the Selbyville Police Department features a dedicated Records Unit, where individuals can request information pertaining to local incidents. Furthermore, the Sussex County Sheriff's Office can provide broader assistance in searching for criminal history within the larger jurisdiction. For more extensive background checks, the Delaware State Bureau of Identification holds the state criminal repository, where residents can access their criminal history records, ensuring transparency and accountability. Requests for these records may involve a small fee and require specific identification to facilitate processing.

The judicial needs of Selbyville are primarily served by the Sussex County Superior Court, which handles a variety of civil and criminal cases. The courthouse is located at 22 The Circle, Georgetown, DE 19947, a short drive from Selbyville itself. Residents looking to access court records have multiple options, including an online case lookup portal that allows for easy searches by name or case number. For those who prefer in-person inquiries, requests can be made at the courthouse, where staff are available to assist. Vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates can be obtained through the Sussex County Clerk of the Peace or the Delaware Division of Public Health's Office of Vital Statistics. Property records are similarly accessible through the Sussex County Assessor’s Office and the Recorder of Deeds, with online portals streamlining the process. It's worth noting that Delaware operates under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which helps ensure public access to government documents, typically allowing a response within 15 business days for most requests. This commitment to transparency allows residents to stay informed and engaged with their local governance and community affairs.

  Selbyville, Delaware Public Records & Government Resources

About Selbyville

Nestled within the scenic landscapes of Sussex County, Selbyville, Delaware, is a charming town that embodies the character of small-town living. Covering an area of approximately 1.5 square miles, this close-knit community is home to around 2,907 residents who contribute to its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Officially incorporated in 1904, Selbyville's history traces back to the late 19th century, with the historic district showcasing the town's quaint architecture and inviting ambiance.
The local economy features a mix of small businesses, service-oriented enterprises, and seasonal tourism, thanks to the town's proximity to popular beach destinations. Selbyville is dedicated to preserving its rural essence while accommodating thoughtful growth and development, all while fostering a strong sense of community through various local events and gathering spots.

Police Department & Arrest Records

Selbyville, Sussex County is served by several law enforcement agencies, including the Sussex County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments such as the Georgetown Police Department, Rehoboth Beach Police Department, and Seaford Police Department. Each department is responsible for maintaining public safety within its jurisdiction, handling local crime, and working collaboratively on major investigations. The Sheriff's Office primarily covers unincorporated areas, while city police departments focus on urban and suburban communities.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Sussex Correctional Institution, located in Georgetown, is the primary detention facility for the county. It handles the booking process for individuals arrested within Sussex County, where detainees are processed and held pending trial or release. Inmate lookup services are available through the Delaware Department of Correction's online portal, allowing the public to search for current inmates. Visitation rules are specific to the facility and require prior scheduling, with guidelines available on the institution's website.

Court Records

The judicial system serving Selbyville and the surrounding Sussex County is centered around the Delaware Courts. Residents and interested parties can access court records, case information, and other legal documents through the Delaware Courts – Selbyville Case Search portal. This comprehensive online resource allows users to search for and retrieve details on civil, criminal, and family court proceedings within the local jurisdiction.

Criminal Records

The criminal records system in Sussex County encompasses a variety of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. These records are maintained by the Sussex County Sheriff's Office, local police departments, and the Delaware State Bureau of Identification. Residents can conduct background checks through the Delaware State Police, which provides comprehensive criminal history reports.
The Delaware Bureau of Investigation offers fingerprinting services and access to statewide criminal records, ensuring that Sussex County residents have the resources needed to obtain accurate background information.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Sussex County are maintained by the Sussex County Sheriff's Office and local police departments. These records are part of the public record and can be requested by residents and attorneys through formal applications. Arrest records typically include details such as the individual's name, charges, arresting agency, and date of arrest. Under the Delaware Freedom of Information Act, individuals have the right to access public records, including arrest records, subject to certain exemptions.

Public Records Access

Residents of Selbyville and the surrounding Sussex County area can access a variety of public records through official government resources. The Selbyville Delaware USA.gov Public Records Guide provides a comprehensive overview of the types of records available, including property deeds, land titles, and assessor information. The Sussex County Recorder of Deeds office maintains these vital property records, allowing individuals to research ownership histories and other real estate details.

Economy & Demographics

Selbyville's local economy is characterized by a diverse mix of small businesses, service-oriented enterprises, and seasonal tourism. The town's proximity to popular beach destinations, such as Fenwick Island and the Atlantic Ocean, contributes to a thriving tourism industry, with many local shops, restaurants, and accommodation providers catering to visitors. Beyond tourism, Selbyville is home to a range of other industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. Major employers in the area include Mountaire Farms, Nanticoke Memorial Hospital, and the town's own municipal government.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

The Selbyville Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining public safety and order within the town. Residents can visit the department's website to learn about its various services, including requesting criminal records, accessing arrest logs, and obtaining mugshots. Additionally, the Sussex County Sheriff's Office provides supplementary law enforcement support throughout the county, including the Selbyville area. For those seeking information on registered sex offenders, the Delaware Sex Offender Registry offers a comprehensive database, while the National Sex Offender Registry and FBI Most Wanted Criminals lists provide broader resources.

Vital Records

For individuals seeking birth certificates, death records, or marriage licenses in Selbyville, the Delaware Division of Public Health's Vital Statistics office is the primary resource. This state-level agency maintains comprehensive records for the entire state, including the Selbyville community. Residents can visit the Selbyville Delaware Vital Records webpage to learn about the process for requesting these essential documents. Whether researching family histories or obtaining certified copies, the Vital Statistics office is the authoritative source for vital records in this Sussex County city.

Business & Licensing Records

Selbyville, Delaware, offers a range of business-related public records for local entrepreneurs and organizations. The town's Planning and Zoning Department oversees the issuance of business licenses, permits, and zoning information. Individuals interested in starting a new business or researching the history of a particular commercial property can consult the department's records. Additionally, the Delaware Division of Corporations maintains statewide business entity filings, allowing users to search for and obtain information on registered companies operating within the Selbyville area.

Elections & Voter Records

Selbyville voters are served by the Sussex County Department of Elections, located at 119 North Race Street, Georgetown, DE 19947 (phone: 302-856-5367, website: https://sussexcountyde.gov/voter-registration). This office handles all aspects of voter registration, election administration, absentee voting, and precinct operations for Selbyville and all Sussex County residents. Delaware residents may register to vote online through the Delaware State Election Commissioner's website at https://ivote.de.gov, which provides online voter registration, registration status lookup, and polling place finder tools. Voter registration deadlines in Delaware are the fourth Saturday prior to any election for in-person or mail registration, and the Saturday before an election for online registration. Voters must provide their Delaware driver's license or state ID number, or the last four digits of their Social Security number.

Selbyville, as an incorporated town, holds municipal elections for Mayor and Town Council. The Town of Selbyville typically holds elections in accordance with its town charter, with council members elected to staggered terms. Information about upcoming Selbyville municipal elections, candidate filings, and local ballot issues is available from Selbyville Town Hall at 302-436-8423. The next regularly scheduled municipal elections would follow the town's charter cycle; residents should contact town hall for specific dates and candidate information for 2026 or 2027 elections. For voters in unincorporated areas near Selbyville, there are no municipal elections, and voting focuses on county, state, and federal races.

Selbyville residents can find their assigned polling location by using the Delaware Polling Place Lookup tool at https://ivote.de.gov/voterlogin.aspx, which requires entering name and date of birth or voter ID number. Polling places are assigned based on residential address and election district. Sussex County typically operates numerous polling locations throughout the county, with Selbyville-area voters assigned to locations such as Lord Baltimore Elementary School or other nearby facilities depending on precinct boundaries.

Delaware makes several types of election records publicly accessible. Voter registration lists are available for purchase by political parties, candidates, and certain authorized requesters through the Department of Elections, though individual voter records are not freely searchable online by the general public. Campaign finance reports for state and county candidates are available through the Delaware Public Integrity Commission at https://cipublic.delaware.gov/, where users can search contributions and expenditures for candidates and political action committees. Candidate filing information and official election results are published by the Delaware Department of Elections at https://elections.delaware.gov/ and by the Sussex County Department of Elections. Precinct-level results are typically published following certification of election results.

In the November 2024 presidential election, Sussex County saw voter turnout of approximately 75-78% of registered voters, reflecting strong participation consistent with Delaware's overall turnout rates. Sussex County, the most Republican-leaning of Delaware's three counties, showed significant support for conservative candidates in federal and state races, contrasting with the more Democratic-leaning New Castle County in northern Delaware.

Looking ahead to the November 3, 2026 general election, Selbyville and Sussex County voters will decide several important races. Delaware's U.S. Senate seat currently held by Senator Chris Coons will be on the ballot in 2026 (Class II seat, next election 2026). Delaware does not have a gubernatorial election in 2026 (the governor is elected in presidential years, next in 2028). Delaware's single U.S. House seat (At-Large) will be contested. State legislative races will include all 21 seats in the Delaware State Senate and all 41 seats in the Delaware House of Representatives; Selbyville is located in specific Senate and House districts whose representatives will be on the ballot. Sussex County Council seats may also be contested depending on the county's staggered election schedule. Additionally, various state and county offices such as Register of Wills, Clerk of the Peace, and other positions may appear on the ballot. Voters should check closer to the election for confirmed candidates and any local referenda or ballot questions.

Delaware offers absentee voting for voters who will be absent from their polling place on Election Day, are unable to vote in person due to illness or disability, or have religious obligations. Absentee ballot applications are available from the Sussex County Department of Elections or online at https://elections.delaware.gov/. Applications must be submitted by the Friday before the election (in person) or postmarked by the Tuesday before the election (by mail). Delaware does not have no-excuse mail-in voting; voters must provide a reason for requesting an absentee ballot. Completed absentee ballots must be returned by mail (postmarked by Election Day and received within three days) or delivered in person to the Sussex County Department of Elections by 8:00 PM on Election Day.

Public Records Transparency Score

Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: ✅ Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: ⚠️ State Office Required | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.5/10 — Sussex County and Delaware provide excellent online access to court records, property data, and business filings, with strong voter tools and inmate search capabilities, though vital records require state office processing rather than full online ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Selbyville, Sussex County, Delaware to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the Town of Selbyville, Delaware, you will be transported to the Sussex 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 Sussex County Court. Under Delaware 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 Delaware State Bureau of Identification. The Sussex County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.doc.delaware.gov/inmate_locator/ where you can look up current detainees.
Selbyville is located in the Indian River School District in Sussex County, Delaware. According to the Delaware Department of Education, the district's overall performance rating for the 2018-2019 school year was a "C". The district's graduation rate was 91.3%, and the average SAT score was 1020.
The Selbyville Police Department does not provide crime statistics for the town. However, the Delaware State Police provide crime statistics for Sussex County as a whole. According to the Delaware State Police, in 2019 there were a total of 4,945 reported crimes in Sussex County, including 1,845 violent crimes and 3,100 property crimes.
The Selbyville Public Library in Sussex County, Delaware provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Delaware 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 Delaware Freedom of Information Act, which governs access to government documents in Delaware. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Selbyville Delaware Archives and Genealogy at https://archives.delaware.gov/. Contact the Selbyville Public Library reference desk at (302) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
The Selbyville Public Library is located at 11 N. Main Street, Selbyville, DE 19975.
Fingerprinting services for Selbyville, Delaware residents are provided at the Selbyville Police Department, which serves Sussex County. Fingerprinting is required for a variety of purposes, including pre-employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, law, real estate), volunteer work with children or the elderly, immigration and naturalization applications, firearm purchases, and FBI Identity History Summary requests. To schedule fingerprinting, call the Selbyville Police Department at (302) or visit in person. Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) and any required agency forms. Fingerprint cards are typically forwarded to the Delaware State Bureau of Identification for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Delaware State Bureau of Identification at https://state.delaware.gov/tasks/background-check/.
In order to obtain vital records from Selbyville, Sussex County, Delaware, you will need to contact the Sussex County Division of Vital Records.

The vital records that can be obtained from this office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. In order to obtain any of these records, you will need to provide proof of identity, a valid photo ID, and a fee.
Police reports from Selbyville, Delaware can be obtained from the Selbyville Police Department, located in Sussex 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 Delaware Freedom of Information Act, most police reports are public records in Delaware, though portions related to active investigations, juvenile records, or sensitive personal information may be redacted. Contact the Selbyville Police Department Records Division at (302) for information on fees, hours, and online request options. For statewide criminal records, visit https://state.delaware.gov/tasks/background-check/.
A background check in Selbyville, Sussex County, Delaware 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 Delaware. Criminal background checks are processed through the Delaware State Bureau of Identification, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Delaware residents. The Delaware State Bureau of Identification provides official criminal history checks at https://state.delaware.gov/tasks/background-check/. Under the Delaware Freedom of Information Act, 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 Sussex County, Delaware

Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:

Lewes Milford Rehoboth Beach Bethany Beach Delmar Dewey Beach