About Sublette County
Sublette County, Wyoming, is a vast and sparsely populated county located in the western part of the state, covering approximately 4,882 square miles of spectacular high-elevation terrain. Established in 1921 from portions of Fremont and Lincoln counties, Sublette County was named after William Sublette, a prominent mountain man and fur trapper. The county seat is Pinedale, a small mountain town situated at an elevation of approximately 7,175 feet.
As of recent census estimates, Sublette County has a population of around 9,000 to 10,000 residents, making it one of Wyoming's least densely populated counties. The county is home to extraordinary natural landmarks including portions of the Bridger-Teton National Forest, the Wind River Range with Gannett Peak (Wyoming's highest point at 13,809 feet), and the Upper Green River Valley. The county also contains portions of the historic Green River Rendezvous site where fur trappers and Native Americans gathered annually from 1825 to 1840.
Sublette County is renowned for its exceptional elk and mule deer populations, world-class trout fishing, and pristine wilderness areas. The county's economy has historically been driven by natural gas production in the Pinedale Anticline and Jonah Field, ranching, and outdoor recreation tourism. Key county offices include the Sublette County Clerk located at 21 South Sublette Avenue in Pinedale, the County Recorder's Office at the same address, and the Sublette County Assessor's Office at 21 South Sublette Avenue, Suite 4, Pinedale, WY 82941.
These offices maintain public records including land deeds, property assessments, election records, and official county documents.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
The Sublette County Sheriff's Office is responsible for law enforcement across the unincorporated areas of the county. It manages the county jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The office is involved in various community programs and has specialized divisions such as search and rescue and a K-9 unit. The Sheriff's Office plays a crucial role in ensuring public safety and works closely with other local law enforcement agencies to address crime in the area.
Police Departments
Law enforcement in Sublette County is primarily handled by the Sublette County Sheriff's Office, which covers the unincorporated areas. Additionally, the Pinedale Police Department serves the city of Pinedale, providing local law enforcement services. These agencies collaborate on major crimes and public safety initiatives, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the county. Coordination between the Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments is essential for effective law enforcement and community safety.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Law enforcement in Sublette County is primarily provided by the Sublette County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at 21 South Sublette Avenue in Pinedale, Wyoming 82941. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at (307) 367-4378 and maintains a website at www.sublettewyo.com where limited information about office operations is available. The Sheriff's Office is responsible for patrol operations throughout the county's vast rural areas, operating the county detention facility, serving civil process, and providing court security.
- Booking photos and mugshots are generally considered public records in Wyoming and can be requested from the detention facility, though the county may charge reasonable copying fees.
The Sublette County Detention Center houses inmates arrested for misdemeanors and felonies, and inmate information can be obtained by calling the detention facility directly at (307) 367-4378. Municipal law enforcement is provided by the Pinedale Police Department, which serves the incorporated town of Pinedale and can be reached at (307) 367-2345. The town of Marbleton, the county's other incorporated county, relies primarily on county sheriff services with limited municipal enforcement.
Under Wyoming Statute § 16-4-201 through § 16-4-205, the Wyoming Public Records Act governs access to arrest records, booking reports, and law enforcement documents. Citizens may request arrest records and police reports by submitting a written request to the Sheriff's Office or local police department, though certain investigative records may be exempt from disclosure under § 16-4-203(b). Some recent booking information may be available through the Sheriff's Office directly.
There are no tribal police jurisdictions within Sublette County proper, though the county borders the Wind River Indian Reservation to the northeast where the Wind River Police Department and Bureau of Indian Affairs Law Enforcement have jurisdiction.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
Sublette County's criminal records system includes felony, misdemeanor, traffic offenses, and a sex offender registry. The Sublette County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records. Residents can conduct background checks through the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, which provides statewide criminal history information. The Wyoming Bureau of Investigation offers additional resources for Sublette County residents seeking comprehensive background checks.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Sublette County are maintained by the Sublette County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges, and booking information. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. The records typically include the individual's name, date of arrest, charges, and booking details. Wyoming's public records law, known as the Wyoming Public Records Act, governs access to these records, ensuring transparency and public access.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Sublette County Detention Center, located in Pinedale, is the primary jail facility in the county. It handles the booking process for individuals arrested within the county. Inmate information can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office, which provides details on current detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility and require prior scheduling. The bond and bail process follows Wyoming state guidelines, allowing for cash or surety bonds. To find someone recently arrested, individuals can contact the detention center directly.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Sublette County are taken and retained by the Sublette 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 the Sheriff's website may provide some information, detailed mugshot searches often require a formal request. Wyoming does not have specific mugshot removal laws, so the availability of these images is subject to the policies of the Sheriff's Office.
Courts & Case Records
The judicial system in Sublette County operates under Wyoming's unified court system. The Ninth Judicial District Court serves Sublette County and handles felony criminal cases, civil matters over $7,000, divorces, probate proceedings, and appeals from lower courts. The District Court is located at 21 South Sublette Avenue, Pinedale, WY 82941, and can be reached at (307) 367-4372. Case information and court dockets may be searched through the Wyoming Judicial Branch's statewide system at www.wycourts.gov, though some records require in-person requests.
- To access court records, requesters can search online through the Wyoming Court Public Access system or visit the Clerk of District Court office in person.
- Certified copies of court documents typically cost $1.00 per page plus a certification fee of approximately $2.00.
- Court records requests should be directed to the Clerk of District Court at (307) 367-4372.
Sublette County Circuit Court, located at the same address and reachable at (307) 367-4372, has jurisdiction over misdemeanor criminal cases, civil matters under $50,000, small claims up to $7,000, protection orders, and preliminary hearings for felonies. The Pinedale Municipal Court handles traffic violations, municipal ordinance violations, and minor offenses within town limits. Court records in Wyoming are generally public under Wyoming Statute § 1-39-101 and court rules, though certain sealed records, juvenile matters, and confidential filings are restricted.
Online searches are generally free for basic case information, but detailed document retrieval may require payment. The court maintains records of judgments, liens, civil filings, criminal convictions, and domestic relations matters in accordance with Wyoming court rules and retention schedules.
Property & Public Records
Property and land records for Sublette County are maintained by the Sublette County Clerk's Office, which serves as the County Recorder, located at 21 South Sublette Avenue, Pinedale, WY 82941. The office can be reached at (307) 367-4372 and provides access to recorded documents including warranty deeds, quit claim deeds, mortgages, deeds of trust, liens, easements, rights-of-way, subdivision plats, and UCC financing statements. The Recorder's Office maintains an index of all recorded documents dating back to the county's formation in 1921.
- While Sublette County does not currently offer a comprehensive free online search system for recorded documents, interested parties may contact the Clerk's Office to request searches or copies of specific documents.
- Recording fees vary by document type but typically range from $10 to $30 for the first page plus additional charges per page.
- Certified copies of recorded documents cost approximately $2.00 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page.
Property tax information and assessment records are maintained by the Sublette County Assessor's Office at 21 South Sublette Avenue, Suite 4, Pinedale, WY 82941, phone (307) 367-4373. The Assessor maintains records of property valuations, ownership information, legal descriptions, and assessment history. Property tax payment information is handled by the Sublette County Treasurer's Office at (307) 367-4371.
Sublette County provides an online GIS mapping system and parcel viewer that can be accessed through the county website at www.sublettewyo.com, allowing users to view parcel boundaries, ownership information, and basic property characteristics. This system is particularly useful for researching rural properties and understanding property boundaries in the county's vast open spaces.
Vital Records
Vital records for Sublette County, Wyoming, are maintained at both the county and state levels. Birth and death certificates that occurred within Sublette County can be requested through the Sublette County Clerk's Office at 21 South Sublette Avenue, Pinedale, WY 82941, phone (307) 367-4372. However, the primary repository for vital records in Wyoming is the Wyoming Department of Health, Vital Statistics Services, located at 2300 Capitol Avenue, Hathaway Building, 1st Floor, Cheyenne, WY 82002, phone (307) 777-7591.
- Birth certificates cost $12 for the first certified copy and $4 for each additional copy ordered at the same time.
- Death certificates cost $10 for the first certified copy and $4 for each additional copy.
- Processing time for mail requests is typically 4-6 weeks, though expedited service may be available for an additional fee.
- Eligible requesters include the person named on the certificate (if of legal age), parents, legal guardians, adult children, spouse, grandparents, siblings, or legal representatives.
- Couples must apply in person, provide valid identification, and pay a fee of approximately $35-$45.
Applicants must provide valid government-issued photo identification and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record as required by Wyoming Statute § 35-1-425. Marriage licenses are issued by the Sublette County Clerk's Office at the address above. There is no waiting period or blood test required in Wyoming.
Marriage license records and certified copies of marriage certificates are available from the County Clerk. Divorce records (decrees) are maintained by the Clerk of District Court at (307) 367-4372. Wyoming offers limited online ordering of vital records through VitalChek at www.vitalchek.com, though additional service fees apply.
Most vital records in Sublette County require in-person or mail requests with proper identification and documentation of eligibility.
Business & Licensing
Business and licensing records in Sublette County are maintained by multiple agencies depending on the type of business activity. Local business registrations, including Doing Business As (DBA) names, trade names, and fictitious business names, are filed with the Sublette County Clerk's Office at 21 South Sublette Avenue, Pinedale, WY 82941, phone (307) 367-4372. The County Clerk maintains an index of these filings which are public record and available for inspection during regular business hours.
- The Sublette County Chamber of Commerce, located in Pinedale, provides information about local businesses and economic development opportunities and can be reached through www.sublettechamber.com.
For formal business entity formation and registration, including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and nonprofit organizations, businesses must file with the Wyoming Secretary of State's Office. The Secretary of State maintains a comprehensive online business entity search database at wyobiz.wyo.gov where the public can search for registered businesses, view filing history, registered agents, and business status at no charge. This system is one of Wyoming's most transparent public records resources.
Professional licenses in Wyoming are issued by state-level boards and commissions depending on the profession; information is available through the Wyoming Department of Administration and Information. Sales tax licenses and permits are administered by the Wyoming Department of Revenue. Building permits, land use permits, and zoning information for unincorporated areas of Sublette County are handled by the Sublette County Planning and Zoning Department at (307) 367-4372.
The Town of Pinedale issues its own building permits and business licenses for activities within town limits; contact Pinedale Town Hall at (307) 367-4136. Business records are generally public under Wyoming's Public Records Act, Wyoming Statute § 16-4-201 et seq.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Sublette County, Wyoming, are administered by the Sublette County Clerk, who serves as the county's Election Officer. The office is located at 21 South Sublette Avenue, Pinedale, WY 82941, and can be reached at (307) 367-4372. Information about elections may be found through the county website at www.sublettewyo.com. Voter registration in Wyoming is available online through the Wyoming Secretary of State's website at sos.wyo.gov, or in person at the County Clerk's office.
- Wyoming residents must register to deliver or mail their voter registration application at least 30 days before an election, though online registration closes 14 days before election day per Wyoming Statute § 22-3-104.
- To register, applicants must be U.S.
- In the 2024 general election, Sublette County recorded a turnout of approximately 75-80% of registered voters, reflecting Wyoming's consistently high civic engagement.
- Absentee voting in Sublette County is available to any registered voter who requests an absentee ballot, with no excuse required under Wyoming law.
- Citizens may request to observe ballot counting and election processes under Wyoming's open records and election laws, Wyoming Statute § 22-15-109.
citizens, at least 18 years old by election day, and residents of Wyoming. Voters in Sublette County can find their polling place by contacting the County Clerk or checking the Wyoming Secretary of State's voter information portal. The county typically operates polling locations in Pinedale, Bondurant, Big Piney, and Marbleton.
Election records that are public include voter registration lists (with some personal information redacted under Wyoming Statute § 22-3-117), campaign finance reports filed with the Wyoming Secretary of State, candidate filings, and precinct-level election results. Sublette County, like most Wyoming counties, typically sees higher turnout in presidential election years. The next major election will be held on November 3, 2026, featuring U.S.
House and Senate midterm races, Wyoming state legislative races, and county offices. Absentee ballot applications can be submitted to the County Clerk beginning 45 days before an election and must be received by the Thursday before election day. Wyoming also allows early voting at the County Clerk's office beginning the Tuesday three weeks before election day through the day before the election.
Sublette County's election transparency is strong, with precinct-level results published after each election and historical results available through the County Clerk.
Economy & Demographics
Sublette County's economy is characterized by three primary sectors: natural resource extraction, agriculture, and outdoor recreation tourism. Historically, natural gas production has been the dominant economic driver, with the Pinedale Anticline and Jonah Field representing some of the most productive natural gas fields in the United States. Major energy companies including Jonah Energy, Ultra Resources (now Crestone Peak Resources), and other operators have been significant employers and tax contributors.
- According to recent estimates, median household income in Sublette County ranges from approximately $70,000 to $80,000, higher than Wyoming's state average, largely due to energy sector wages.
However, natural gas production has fluctuated with commodity prices and federal land management policies, creating economic volatility. Agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and hay production, remains culturally and economically important, with many multi-generational ranching families operating in the county. The Upper Green River Valley's high-quality forage supports both livestock operations and wildlife populations.
Tourism and outdoor recreation constitute a growing economic sector, with hunting, fishing, backcountry hiking, snowmobiling, and wildlife viewing attracting visitors year-round. The county's proximity to Jackson Hole and Yellowstone National Park benefits local hospitality businesses. Major employers beyond energy companies include Sublette County government, Sublette County School District #1, St.
John's Medical Center clinics, retail establishments in Pinedale, and outfitting and guiding businesses. The unemployment rate in Sublette County has historically been below the national average during energy booms but can spike during downturns. Recent economic development efforts have focused on diversifying beyond fossil fuels, improving broadband infrastructure, and supporting small business development.
The county benefits significantly from mineral severance taxes and federal Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) due to the high percentage of federal land ownership within county boundaries.
Transparency Score
Court Records: ✅ Online Portal | Property: ⚠️ Limited Online/GIS Available | Arrest/Jail: 📞 Phone Request | Vital Records: ⚠️ In-Person/Mail Required | Business: ✅ State Online Search | Elections: ✅ Information Available | Overall Score: 6.5/10 — Sublette County provides access to most public records though many require direct contact with county offices; the county offers basic GIS/parcel viewing online but limited comprehensive digital record access.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Cities & Towns in Sublette County
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