Superior Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Superior, Wisconsin government websites.
About Superior City Government
Annual Budget
$21.5 million
Regular Meetings
Public Sessions
The city government of Superior, Wisconsin, operates under a Common Council, which consists of 10 elected members. Each council member serves a term of 2 years, with elections held in odd-numbered years. The council is responsible for making legislative decisions and overseeing the administration of city services.
For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for the City of Superior is $21.5 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.
The Superior Common Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6:30 PM. These meetings are conducted at the City Hall located at 1316 North 14th Street, Superior, WI 54880. Residents are encouraged to attend to participate in local governance and stay informed about city affairs.
About Superior, Wisconsin
Superior is also home to the University of Wisconsin-Superior, which plays a vital role in the local economy and education. The city has a diverse economic base, with a strong emphasis on shipping and transportation due to its strategic location on Lake Superior. Historically, Superior was a key port city during the late 19th century, contributing to the growth of the timber and shipping industries in the region. The city’s budget for the fiscal year 2023 is approximately $19 million, reflecting its commitment to infrastructure and community services.
Superior, Wisconsin Public Records & Government Resources
Superior Wisconsin Archives and Genealogy
Wisconsin Historical Society archives and genealogy for Superior.
Superior Wisconsin Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court Eastern District of Wisconsin for Superior.
Wisconsin Courts – Superior Case Search
Wisconsin Circuit Court Access case search for Superior.
Superior Wisconsin Vital Records
Wisconsin Department of Health Services vital records for Superior.
Superior Wisconsin Missing Persons
Wisconsin DOJ missing persons for Superior.
Superior Wisconsin Most Wanted
Wisconsin DOJ most wanted for Superior.
Superior Wisconsin Sex Offender Registry
Wisconsin Sex Offender Registry for Superior.
Superior Wisconsin Criminal History Records
Wisconsin DOJ criminal history record search for Superior.
Superior Wisconsin Census and Vital Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau quick facts, demographics, and population statistics for Superior.
City of Superior
Directory of Superior city records and information 1316 N. 14th St. Superior, WI, 54880 Phone: (715) 395-7212 Fax: (715)
Superior Police Department
Crime prevention and law enforcement 1316 N. 14th St., Suite 150 Superior, WI, 54880 Phone: (715) 395-7234
Superior Fire Department
Fire protection, rescue, and emergency services 3326 Tower Ave Superior, WI, 54880 Phone: (715) 394-0227
Superior City Clerk
Voter registration and election information 1316 N. 14th St, Suite 200 Superior, WI, 54880 Phone: (715) 395-7200
Superior Building Inspection
Building permits and code enforcement 1316 N. 14th St. Superior, WI, 54880 Phone: (715) 395-7288
Richard I. Bong Memorial Airport
General aviation services 4804 Hammond Ave Superior, WI 54880-5507 Phone: (715) 394-0282
School District of Superior
General education information and services 3025 Tower Avenue Superior, WI 54880 Phone: (715) 394-8700 Email: info@super
Superior Public Library
Access to libraries, reference materials, and research assistance 1530 Tower Ave Superior, WI, 54880 Phone: (715) 394-88
Superior Telegram Newspaper
Current and archived local newspaper articles
Superior-Douglas County Chamber of Commerce
Listing of Superior businesses 205 Belknap Street Superior, WI 54880 Phone: (715) 394-7716
City of Superior Census Bureau Information
Population demographic information Superior, WI. 54880
Superior Wisconsin Crime Information Bureau
Conducting criminal background checks Wisconsin Department of Justice P.O. Box 7857 Madison, WI 53707-7857 Tel: 608-266-
State of Wisconsin Department of Corrections
Superior Inmate and offender search 3099 East Washington Avenue Post Office Box 7925 Madison, Wisconsin 53707-7925 DOC R
Center for Missing and Exploited Children
Quick search for missing children, sex offenders, Amber alerts, records and more public information
Law Enforcement
Law enforcement in Douglas County draws on both the Sheriff's Office and several municipal departments working their respective jurisdictions. The Superior Police Department handles urban policing duties throughout the city, tackling everything from routine calls to major investigations that require coordination with county authorities. Smaller communities maintain their own forces too—Solon Springs and Lake Nebagamon each run police departments serving their local populations.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Douglas County Jail in Superior serves as the primary detention facility for the entire county. When someone arrives at the facility, they go through standard booking procedures: photographs, fingerprints, and processing before being held pending trial or sentencing. The jail maintains an online inmate lookup service that allows the public to search for current detainees. Visitors need to schedule appointments in advance and follow strict security protocols once they arrive.
Wisconsin's bond and bail system allows detainees to secure release while awaiting trial, with specific conditions determined by the court. Anyone searching for a recently arrested individual can contact the jail directly or use the online search tool to locate them.
Arrest Records
The Douglas County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records for the county, documenting the circumstances surrounding each arrest—the charges filed, when and where it occurred, and which agency made the apprehension. Residents and attorneys seeking these records can contact the Sheriff's Office directly. Requests are processed according to the Wisconsin Open Records Law, the state's public records statute. A typical arrest record here includes personal identifying information about the arrestee, details about the charges, and documentation of the arresting agency's involvement.
Court Records
Residents of Superior and Douglas County can access court records through the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) website, a user-friendly platform that brings case information online. The system allows searches for criminal charges, civil suits, and traffic violations heard in both the Superior Municipal Court and Douglas County Circuit Court. Those needing more comprehensive criminal history information can submit requests directly to the Wisconsin Department of Justice's Criminal History Records division.
The Superior Municipal Court and Douglas County Courthouse function as the primary judicial centers for the community, handling the full spectrum of legal proceedings while maintaining detailed records of every case that passes through their doors.
Criminal Records
The criminal records ecosystem in Douglas County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and sex offender registrations. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, while the Wisconsin Department of Justice provides statewide background checks through the Wisconsin Bureau of Investigation. Residents can request background checks for employment or personal reasons, which will include any criminal history within the state.
Public Records Access
Property owners in Superior can dig into a wealth of public records through multiple channels. The Wisconsin State Archives and Genealogy website houses digitized land deeds, plat maps, and historical real estate documents for Douglas County—a valuable resource for anyone tracing property histories. For current information, the City of Superior's Building Inspection department maintains records on building permits, zoning decisions, and property assessments.
These municipal records can be searched online or accessed in person at City Hall, where staff can assist with inquiries about specific properties or recent development activity throughout the community.
Vital Records
For residents of Superior and Douglas County, vital records such as birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses are managed by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. This state agency maintains a comprehensive database of these important documents, which can be accessed by submitting requests online or by mail. The Superior City Clerk's office also retains certain local vital records and can assist community members in obtaining copies of these documents as needed.
Business & Licensing Records
Entrepreneurs and business owners in Superior navigate a network of public records when launching or operating commercial ventures. The City of Superior's Building Inspection department oversees business licenses, construction permits, and zoning approvals, keeping detailed records of every transaction. The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions provides another layer of transparency, offering public access to information on registered corporations, limited liability companies, and other business entities operating throughout the area.
Economy & Demographics
Superior's economy is anchored by its strategic location on Lake Superior and its role as a major transportation and logistics hub. The city is home to the Richard I. Bong Memorial Airport, which serves general aviation and plays a vital part in the region's air transportation network. Additionally, Superior's deep-water port and proximity to rail lines make it an important center for shipping, warehousing, and distribution activities.
Other key industries in the city include manufacturing, healthcare, and education, with the University of Wisconsin-Superior contributing significantly to the local job market. The city's budget of approximately $19 million for the 2023 fiscal year reflects its ongoing commitment to infrastructure improvements and community development initiatives that support the local economy.
Elections & Voter Records
ELECTION HUB for Superior, Wisconsin voters
Superior, Wisconsin is located in Douglas County. The Douglas County Elections Office serves Superior voters and can be reached at 1313 Belknap Street, Superior, WI 54880, (715) 395-1568, https://douglascountywi.org/169/County-Clerk. Wisconsin residents can register to vote online at https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/RegisterToVote. The deadline to register is 20 days before an election. When registering, you'll need to provide a valid Wisconsin driver's license or state ID number. Superior holds mayoral and city council elections.
Superior, Wisconsin is located in Douglas County. The Douglas County Elections Office serves Superior voters and can be reached at 1313 Belknap Street, Superior, WI 54880, (715) 395-1568, https://douglascountywi.org/169/County-Clerk. Wisconsin residents can register to vote online at https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/RegisterToVote. The deadline to register is 20 days before an election. When registering, you'll need to provide a valid Wisconsin driver's license or state ID number. Superior holds mayoral and city council elections.
The next mayoral election is scheduled for April 2024, with the city council elections following in April 2026. Candidate information can be found on the Douglas County Clerk's website. Voters can look up their polling place at https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/WhereDoIVote. In Wisconsin, election records such as voter registration lists, absentee ballot records, and campaign finance reports are considered public records and can be accessed through the Douglas County Clerk's office. In the 2024 presidential election, Douglas County had a voter turnout of 72%. The November 2026 elections in Superior/Douglas County will include races for the Wisconsin State Senate and Assembly, as well as any local offices up for election. Wisconsin allows no-excuse absentee/mail-in voting. Voters can request an absentee ballot at https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/VoteAbsentee.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: 8/10 | Property: 8/10 | Arrest Logs: 7/10 | Vital Records: 8/10 | Business: 8/10 | Elections: 9/10 | Overall: 8.3/10 — Superior and Douglas County, Wisconsin have generally good public records transparency, with election-related records being especially accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What are the school district and education performance data for Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin?
Public schools in Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin are administered by the local school district serving the Douglas County area. For information about school enrollment, academic performance, and school ratings, residents should contact the Douglas County school administration or the Wisconsin Department of Education.
2 What are the crime statistics for Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin?
Law enforcement in Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin is provided by the Superior Police Department and the Douglas County Sheriff's Office. Crime data for Superior is reported to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program and can be accessed through the FBI Crime Data Explorer. Residents can also request local crime reports from the Superior Police Department or the Douglas County Sheriff's Office.
3 What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin Library?
The Superior Public Library in Douglas County, Wisconsin provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin Open Records Law, which governs access to government documents in Wisconsin. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Superior Wisconsin Archives and Genealogy at https://www.wisconsinhistory.org/Records/. Contact the Superior Public Library reference desk for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
4 Where is the Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin Public Library located?
The Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin Library is located at 1530 Tower Avenue, Superior, WI 54880.
5 Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin?
Fingerprinting services for Superior, Wisconsin residents are provided at the Superior Police Department, which serves Douglas 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 Superior Police Department for 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 Wisconsin Department of Justice for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Wisconsin Department of Justice at https://www.doj.state.wi.us/dles/cib/criminal-history-record-search.
6 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin, and what information is provided in the records?
To obtain vital records from Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin, you must contact the Douglas County Register of Deeds office.
The vital records available from the Douglas County Register of Deeds office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce records. To obtain any of these records, you must provide the full name of the person listed on the record, the date of the event, and the place of the event. You may also need to provide additional information, such as the parents' names or the spouse's name. You will also need to provide a valid form of identification and payment for the record.
The vital records available from the Douglas County Register of Deeds office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce records. To obtain any of these records, you must provide the full name of the person listed on the record, the date of the event, and the place of the event. You may also need to provide additional information, such as the parents' names or the spouse's name. You will also need to provide a valid form of identification and payment for the record.
7 How do I register to vote in Superior, Wisconsin?
ELECTION HUB for Superior, Wisconsin voters
Superior, Wisconsin is located in Douglas County. The Douglas County Elections Office serves Superior voters and can be reached at 1313 Belknap Street, Superior, WI 54880, (715) 395-1568, https://douglascountywi.org/169/County-Clerk.
Wisconsin residents can register to vote online at https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/RegisterToVote. The deadline to register is 20 days before an election. When registering, you'll need to provide a valid Wisconsin driver's license or state ID number.
Superior holds mayoral and city council elections.
Superior, Wisconsin is located in Douglas County. The Douglas County Elections Office serves Superior voters and can be reached at 1313 Belknap Street, Superior, WI 54880, (715) 395-1568, https://douglascountywi.org/169/County-Clerk.
Wisconsin residents can register to vote online at https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/RegisterToVote. The deadline to register is 20 days before an election. When registering, you'll need to provide a valid Wisconsin driver's license or state ID number.
Superior holds mayoral and city council elections.
8 How do I look up property records in Superior, Wisconsin?
Property records for Superior, Wisconsin are maintained by Douglas County. The county assessor's office holds property tax records, assessed values, and ownership information. Property deeds, liens, and mortgage documents are filed with the county recorder's office. Many counties in Wisconsin offer online portals where residents can search property records by address or owner name. For federal property-related records, the USA.gov website provides guidance on accessing land patents, federal tax liens, and other property documentation.
9 How do I get a birth or death certificate in Superior, Wisconsin?
Birth and death certificates for Superior, Wisconsin residents are available through the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Vital Records. Requests can typically be made online, by mail, or in person. You will need to provide identification and proof of eligibility, as vital records in Wisconsin are restricted to authorized individuals such as the registrant, immediate family members, or legal representatives. Locally, the Douglas County Clerk's office may also process vital record requests. Processing times and fees vary depending on the method of request and the issuing office.
10 How do I find business license records in Superior, Wisconsin?
Business license records for Superior, Wisconsin can be obtained through the city's municipal offices or Douglas County administration. The city clerk's office or planning and development department typically handles business license applications, renewals, and public records requests. The Wisconsin Secretary of State's office maintains records of registered business entities, including corporations, LLCs, and partnerships, which can be searched through their online business filing database. For federal employer identification numbers and tax-related business records, the IRS website provides relevant forms and search tools.
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