About Stewart County
Stewart County, Tennessee, is located in the northwestern portion of Middle Tennessee along the Kentucky border. Established in 1803, the county was named after Duncan Stewart, a Tennessee legislator. The county seat is Dover, a historic town situated along the Cumberland River that played a significant role during the Civil War as the site of Fort Donelson. Stewart County encompasses approximately 458 square miles and has a population of around 13,500 residents according to recent census estimates.
The county is bordered by Montgomery County to the south, Houston County to the east, and Trigg and Christian counties in Kentucky to the north. Major landmarks include Fort Donelson National Battlefield, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area (which shares portions with the county), and Dover Hotel (also known as the Surrender House). The Cumberland River serves as a defining geographic feature, providing recreational opportunities and historical significance.
The county's economy has historically been rooted in agriculture, timber, and iron production. Key government offices serving public records functions include the Stewart County Clerk located at 225 Donelson Parkway in Dover, the Stewart County Register of Deeds at the same address, and the Stewart County Assessor of Property, also housed in the county courthouse complex. The county maintains a rural character with small communities including Dover, Cumberland City, and Indian Mound, offering residents a quiet lifestyle with access to extensive outdoor recreation and Civil War heritage tourism.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
The Stewart County Sheriff's Office is responsible for law enforcement in the unincorporated areas of the county. It provides a range of services including patrol, criminal investigations, and community policing. The office also manages the Stewart County Jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The Sheriff's Office is known for its community outreach programs and efforts to engage with local residents to enhance public safety.
Police Departments
In addition to the Stewart County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement in the county is supported by municipal police departments. The Dover Police Department serves the city of Dover, focusing on maintaining law and order within city limits. These agencies coordinate on major crimes and emergencies, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the county. They work together on initiatives such as drug enforcement and traffic safety, sharing resources and information to enhance public safety.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Law enforcement in Stewart County, Tennessee is primarily provided by the Stewart County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at 500 Petty Street in Dover, TN 37058. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at (931) 232-5666 and maintains jurisdiction throughout the unincorporated areas of the county. The agency operates the Stewart County Jail, which houses inmates awaiting trial and those serving short sentences.
- Requests for arrest records should be submitted in writing to the Sheriff's Office, and fees may apply for copies.
- Mugshots and booking photos are generally considered public records in Tennessee and may be available through direct request to the jail or Sheriff's Office, though not all agencies maintain online databases.
Inmate information and jail roster can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office during business hours by calling the main number or visiting in person; Tennessee does not mandate online inmate databases for all counties, so availability may vary. Municipal law enforcement is provided by the Dover Police Department, which has jurisdiction within the town limits of Dover. The City of Cumberland City may also maintain limited police services or rely on county coverage.
Under Tennessee Code Annotated § 10-7-503 and § 10-7-504, the Tennessee Public Records Act grants citizens the right to inspect and copy public records, including arrest records, incident reports, and booking information. Tennessee State Highway Patrol also operates in Stewart County along state highways. Response times and service levels reflect the county's rural geography, with mutual aid agreements in place with neighboring jurisdictions including Montgomery County and Kentucky agencies across the border.
Citizens seeking criminal history information can also contact the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for statewide background checks.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
The criminal records ecosystem in Stewart County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Stewart County Sheriff's Office maintains local criminal records, while the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) provides broader access to statewide criminal background checks. Residents can request background checks through the TBI, which include information on arrests, convictions, and sex offender status. The TBI's online portal allows for convenient access to these records, ensuring transparency and public safety.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Stewart County are maintained by the Stewart County Sheriff's Office. These records provide detailed information about the arrest, including the date, charges, and personal details of the individual. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. The records are subject to the Tennessee Public Records Act, which governs the accessibility of public records in the state. Arrest records typically include the arresting officer's name, the location of the arrest, and any related court dates or outcomes.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Stewart County Jail, located in Dover, is the primary detention facility for individuals arrested within the county. The booking process involves photographing, fingerprinting, and documenting the personal information of the detainee. Inmate lookup services are available through the Sheriff's Office, allowing residents to find information about current inmates. Visitation rules at the jail require scheduling in advance, with specific days and times allocated for visits.
- The bond and bail process in Tennessee allows for the release of detainees upon payment of a set amount, which can be arranged through the jail or a bail bondsman.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Stewart County are taken and retained by the Stewart County Sheriff's Office as part of the booking process. These booking photos are part of the public record and can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office. While there is no specific online database for mugshots, individuals can request copies by contacting the office directly. Tennessee does not have specific laws for the removal of mugshots from public records, but individuals may petition for removal if the charges are dropped or if they are acquitted.
Courts & Case Records
Stewart County, Tennessee is served by the 23rd Judicial District, which includes Stewart and Houston counties. The Stewart County Circuit Court and General Sessions Court are located at 225 Donelson Parkway, Dover, TN 37058, phone (931) 232-5814. Circuit Court has jurisdiction over civil cases exceeding $25,000, felony criminal cases, divorces, and appeals from lower courts. General Sessions Court handles civil matters up to $25,000, preliminary hearings in criminal cases, misdemeanors, and some domestic matters.
- The Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts provides limited online case search capabilities at tncourts.gov, though availability varies by county.
- Copy fees are typically $0.50 per page for certified copies with additional fees for certification.
- Requesters should provide case numbers, party names, and dates when available to facilitate searches.
The Stewart County Chancery Court, also located at the courthouse, handles equity cases, probate matters, guardianships, and land disputes. The County Clerk serves as the Clerk and Master for Chancery Court. The Stewart County Juvenile Court has jurisdiction over delinquency, unruly behavior, and dependency and neglect cases involving minors.
Dover Municipal Court handles city ordinance violations and traffic citations issued within Dover. Court records in Tennessee are generally public under Tennessee Code Annotated § 10-7-503, though certain records such as sealed cases, adoption records, and some juvenile matters are confidential. In-person record searches can be conducted at the courthouse during regular business hours.
The Circuit Court Clerk maintains civil and criminal court records, while the Chancery Court Clerk maintains equity and probate records.
Property & Public Records
Property and land records for Stewart County, Tennessee are maintained by the Stewart County Register of Deeds, located at 225 Donelson Parkway, Dover, TN 37058. The office can be reached at (931) 232-5513. The Register of Deeds maintains and records documents including warranty deeds, quit-claim deeds, deeds of trust, mortgages, releases, liens (tax liens, mechanics liens, judgment liens), easements, plat maps, and subdivision plans. These records are public under Tennessee law and date back to the county's founding in 1803, providing a comprehensive chain of title for all parcels.
- While some Tennessee counties offer online access through private vendors, Stewart County residents and researchers typically need to visit the office in person or call to request specific documents.
- Copy fees are established by state statute at approximately $0.50 per page for the first page and $0.25 for subsequent pages.
- The Assessor provides property record cards showing improvements, acreage, and assessed values.
- Certified copies of recorded documents require additional certification fees.
- The Register of Deeds office maintains regular business hours Monday through Friday, and appointments are recommended for extensive title searches.
The office indexes records by grantor, grantee, and property description. Property tax records are maintained separately by the Stewart County Trustee's Office and the Stewart County Assessor of Property, both located in the courthouse complex. The Assessor's office, phone (931) 232-7458, maintains property appraisals, tax maps, and assessment records.
Some property tax information may be viewable through the Tennessee Comptroller's website or county-specific portals. Researchers seeking historical land records will find comprehensive deed books and indexes available for public inspection.
Vital Records
Vital records for Stewart County, Tennessee are managed through both county and state offices. Birth and death certificates occurring in Stewart County can be requested through the Stewart County Clerk's Office at 225 Donelson Parkway, Dover, TN 37058, phone (931) 232-5814. However, Tennessee centralized vital records management, and the most reliable source for certified copies is the Tennessee Department of Health, Vital Records Office, Central Services Building, 421 5th Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37243.
- Birth certificates cost $15 for the first copy and $15 for each additional copy of the same record ordered at the same time.
- Death certificates follow the same fee structure.
- Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks by mail or 2-3 weeks if ordered online through the VitalChek service at vitalchek.com.
- Eligible requesters include the registrant, immediate family members, legal representatives, and individuals with a court order.
- The marriage license fee is approximately $97.50.
Birth records are available from 1914 forward statewide, with some earlier records available at the county level. Death records are similarly available from 1914 forward. Applicants must provide valid photo identification and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record as required by Tennessee Code Annotated § 68-3-203.
Marriage licenses are issued by the Stewart County Clerk's Office; couples must apply in person with valid identification, and there is no waiting period or blood test required in Tennessee. Divorce decrees are maintained by the Circuit or Chancery Court Clerk and can be obtained by requesting certified copies from the court that granted the divorce. Online ordering through VitalChek offers expedited service for state-held vital records with additional fees for faster processing and delivery.
Business & Licensing
Business and licensing records in Stewart County, Tennessee are maintained through multiple offices depending on the type of business activity. The Stewart County Clerk's Office at 225 Donelson Parkway, Dover, TN 37058, (931) 232-5814, handles filings for assumed names (doing business as/DBA) and fictitious business names operating in the county. These records are public and can be searched by visiting the Clerk's office in person.
For formal business entity formation including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and other registered entities, filings are made with the Tennessee Secretary of State, Division of Business Services. The Tennessee Secretary of State maintains a searchable online database at tnbear.tn.gov where anyone can look up registered business entities, view officers and registered agents, check filing status, and access formation documents. Professional licenses for occupations such as contractors, cosmetologists, and healthcare providers are issued by the respective Tennessee state licensing boards, not at the county level.
Sales tax registration and permits are handled through the Tennessee Department of Revenue. Building permits, zoning approvals, and certificates of occupancy are issued by the Stewart County Planning and Zoning Department or Building Codes office, which can be contacted through the county government offices. Businesses operating in Dover or other incorporated municipalities may require additional city business licenses from the respective city clerk or recorder.
The Stewart County Chamber of Commerce does not maintain a formal organization with a significant online presence, but business development inquiries can be directed to county government. Alcohol licenses for beer sales are issued at the county level if approved by local referendum, while liquor licenses are managed by the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission in conjunction with local approval.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Stewart County, Tennessee are administered by the Stewart County Election Commission, located at 225 Donelson Parkway, Suite 103, Dover, TN 37058. The office can be reached at (931) 232-7738. Voter registration in Tennessee requires completion of a voter registration application at least 30 days before any election. Tennessee offers online voter registration through the Tennessee Secretary of State's website at ovr.govote.tn.gov, where eligible citizens can register or update their registration using a Tennessee driver license or ID card.
- Voters can also register in person at the Election Commission office, county clerk's office, or various state agencies.
- Absentee ballot applications can be requested from the Stewart County Election Commission and must be submitted by specific deadlines.
- governs election procedures and public access to election records, ensuring transparency in the democratic process.
Tennessee requires voters to present valid photo identification at the polls, including Tennessee driver licenses, U.S. passports, military IDs, or photo IDs issued by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. Voters can find their assigned polling place by visiting the Tennessee Secretary of State's GoVoteTN website at GoVoteTN.com or by contacting the local Election Commission.
Stewart County typically operates 5-7 polling locations on election day depending on precinct configuration. Early voting is available at the Election Commission office for approximately two weeks before each election, including some Saturday hours. Tennessee law makes extensive election records public, including voter registration lists (with some personal information redacted), campaign finance reports filed by candidates and PACs, candidate nominating petitions, and precinct-level election results.
In the November 2024 general election, Stewart County, like much of rural Middle Tennessee, saw voter turnout of approximately 60-65% of registered voters, consistent with statewide patterns in presidential election years. The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, which will include midterm elections for the U.S. House of Representatives, one U.S.
Senate seat, Tennessee state constitutional officers including governor if applicable to the cycle, state legislature seats, and local county offices. Absentee voting by mail is available to Tennessee voters who meet specific statutory criteria including age 60 or older, absence from the county during early voting and election day, hospitalization or illness, caretaker of a hospitalized person, or election official. Tennessee Code Annotated § 2-2-101 et seq.
Economy & Demographics
Stewart County, Tennessee maintains a predominantly rural economy characterized by agriculture, forestry, government employment, and tourism related to Fort Donelson National Battlefield and Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. Major economic sectors include farming (cattle, hay, soybeans, corn), timber production, and outdoor recreation services. Manufacturing has a limited presence compared to neighboring Montgomery County, though small-scale manufacturing and distribution operations exist.
- The county's proximity to Fort Campbell in neighboring Montgomery County provides some economic spillover, with military families and civilian workers residing in Stewart County.
- The Cumberland River provides recreational fishing, boating, and camping opportunities that support seasonal tourism.
The median household income in Stewart County is estimated at approximately $45,000-$50,000, which is below both the Tennessee state median and the national average, reflecting the county's rural character and limited industrial base. Government employment, including the county government, school system, and Fort Donelson National Battlefield operations, represents a significant portion of the workforce. Retail and service sector jobs are concentrated in Dover and along major highway corridors.
Unemployment rates in Stewart County have historically tracked slightly above state averages, typically ranging from 4-6% depending on economic conditions. Economic development challenges include limited broadband infrastructure in rural areas, distance from interstate highways, and a small labor pool. Recent initiatives have focused on heritage tourism, outdoor recreation development, and supporting small businesses and agriculture.
No major corporate headquarters or large industrial facilities are located in the county. Property values remain affordable compared to metropolitan areas, attracting retirees and remote workers seeking rural lifestyles.
Transparency Score
Court Records: ⚠️ Limited Online Access | Property: ⚠️ In-Person Preferred | Arrest/Jail: ⚠️ Phone/In-Person Request | Vital Records: ✅ State Online Available | Business: ✅ State Online Search | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall Score: 6/10 — Stewart County provides basic public records access but relies heavily on in-person visits and phone requests rather than comprehensive online portals typical of larger Tennessee counties.
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Cities & Towns in Stewart County
Explore public records for 5 cities and communities in Stewart County, Tennessee.
Nearby Counties
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