Official Government Sources
Tacoma Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Tacoma, Washington government websites.
About Tacoma City Government
The governing body of Tacoma, Washington, is the Tacoma City Council, which consists of 7 elected members. Council members are elected to serve 4-year terms, with elections occurring in odd-numbered years. The council is composed of 5 district representatives and 2 at-large members, ensuring a diverse representation of the city's neighborhoods.
For the fiscal year 2023, Tacoma's approximate annual operating budget is $1.2 billion. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure, and community development, reflecting the city's commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents.
Regular city council meetings are held on Tuesdays at 5:00 PM, taking place in the Tacoma Municipal Building located at 747 Market Street, Tacoma, WA 98402. These meetings provide a platform for public participation and discussion on city issues, allowing residents to engage directly with their elected officials.
For the fiscal year 2023, Tacoma's approximate annual operating budget is $1.2 billion. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure, and community development, reflecting the city's commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents.
Regular city council meetings are held on Tuesdays at 5:00 PM, taking place in the Tacoma Municipal Building located at 747 Market Street, Tacoma, WA 98402. These meetings provide a platform for public participation and discussion on city issues, allowing residents to engage directly with their elected officials.
About Tacoma, Washington
Nestled along the shimmering shores of Puget Sound, Tacoma shines as a vibrant and historically rich city within Pierce County, Washington. With a population estimated at approximately 219,000, it stands as the third-largest city in the state, serving as a pivotal hub for commerce and culture in the Pacific Northwest. Founded in the mid-19th century, Tacoma experienced significant growth during the arrival of the railroads, which solidified its status as a key port city. Its neighborhoods, such as the lively Stadium District, the artsy Hilltop, and the waterfront Point Ruston, contribute to a diverse urban fabric that reflects the city's eclectic character. Tacoma's economy is bolstered by major employers, including the Port of Tacoma, MultiCare Health System, and Boeing, which support a mix of industries from healthcare to engineering. What sets Tacoma apart is its commitment to fostering arts and culture, epitomized by institutions like the Museum of Glass and the LeMay - America’s Car Museum, encapsulating both visual and historical narratives that resonate with locals and visitors alike.
The Tacoma Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency serving the city, dedicated to providing safety and security to its residents. In addition to this, the Pierce County Sheriff's Office plays a crucial role in overseeing law enforcement for unincorporated areas of the county, as well as operating the Pierce County Jail, where individuals are detained following arrests. For those seeking to obtain arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal history in Tacoma, the process begins with the Tacoma Police Department's records unit, where requests can be submitted in person or via mail. Individuals may also contact the Pierce County Sheriff's Office for records related to its custody facilities. Moreover, for comprehensive criminal history information, requests can be directed to the Washington State Patrol’s Criminal Records Division, which maintains the statewide criminal repository. The state also provides online lookup portals, making it easier for individuals to access some public records without having to visit city or county offices in person.
Court proceedings in Tacoma are managed by the Pierce County Superior Court, which handles a wide range of legal matters, including civil, criminal, and family law cases. To access court records, individuals can utilize the online portal provided by the Pierce County District Court, allowing for easy searches of case documents and filings. In-person requests can also be made at the court clerk's office, where staff can assist in finding specific court records. For vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, residents must contact the Pierce County Clerk-Recorder's office, where these documents can be requested. Additionally, the Washington State Department of Health offers a broader range of vital records services. Property records can be accessed through the Pierce County Assessor-Treasurer's office and the Recorder’s office, both of which provide online tools for searching property ownership and transaction history. Lastly, the Washington Public Records Act allows for general public records requests, typically requiring a response within 5 to 10 business days, ensuring transparency and accountability in local government processes.
The Tacoma Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency serving the city, dedicated to providing safety and security to its residents. In addition to this, the Pierce County Sheriff's Office plays a crucial role in overseeing law enforcement for unincorporated areas of the county, as well as operating the Pierce County Jail, where individuals are detained following arrests. For those seeking to obtain arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal history in Tacoma, the process begins with the Tacoma Police Department's records unit, where requests can be submitted in person or via mail. Individuals may also contact the Pierce County Sheriff's Office for records related to its custody facilities. Moreover, for comprehensive criminal history information, requests can be directed to the Washington State Patrol’s Criminal Records Division, which maintains the statewide criminal repository. The state also provides online lookup portals, making it easier for individuals to access some public records without having to visit city or county offices in person.
Court proceedings in Tacoma are managed by the Pierce County Superior Court, which handles a wide range of legal matters, including civil, criminal, and family law cases. To access court records, individuals can utilize the online portal provided by the Pierce County District Court, allowing for easy searches of case documents and filings. In-person requests can also be made at the court clerk's office, where staff can assist in finding specific court records. For vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, residents must contact the Pierce County Clerk-Recorder's office, where these documents can be requested. Additionally, the Washington State Department of Health offers a broader range of vital records services. Property records can be accessed through the Pierce County Assessor-Treasurer's office and the Recorder’s office, both of which provide online tools for searching property ownership and transaction history. Lastly, the Washington Public Records Act allows for general public records requests, typically requiring a response within 5 to 10 business days, ensuring transparency and accountability in local government processes.
Tacoma, Washington Public Records & Government Resources
Tacoma Washington Archives and Genealogy
Washington State Archives genealogy and historical records for Tacoma.
Tacoma Washington Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court Western District of Washington for Tacoma.
Tacoma Washington Vital Records
Washington Department of Health vital records for Tacoma.
Tacoma Washington Inmate Search
Washington Department of Corrections offender search for Tacoma.
Tacoma Washington Missing Persons
Washington State Patrol missing persons for Tacoma.
Tacoma Washington Most Wanted
Washington State Patrol most wanted for Tacoma.
Tacoma Washington Sex Offender Registry
Washington State sex offender inquiry for Tacoma.
Tacoma Washington Criminal History Records
Washington State Patrol criminal history records for Tacoma.
Tacoma Washington Census and Vital Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau quick facts, demographics, and population statistics for Tacoma.
City of Tacoma
Directory of Tacoma city records and information 747 Market Street Tacoma, WA 98402 Phone: (253) 591-5000
Tacoma City Clerk
Official city records, voter registrar, special events permits 747 Market Street Tacoma WA 98402 Phone: (253) 591-5505
Tacoma Police Department
Law enforcement services, crime statistics, investigations 3701 South Pine Street Tacoma WA 98409 Phone: (253) 591-5900
Tacoma Fire Department
Fire prevention, safety, emergency medical services 901 Fawcett Avenue Tacoma WA 98402 Phone: (253) 591-5737
Tacoma Municipal Court
Criminal traffic offenses, parking tickets, hearings and warrant information 930 Tacoma Avenue South Tacoma WA 98402 Pho
Tacoma Public Library
Reference materials, research assistance and databases 1102 Tacoma Avenue South Tacoma Washington 98402 Phone: (253) 591
Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber
Businesses directory, events calendar and relocation information 950 Pacific Avenue Tacoma WA 98402 Phone: (253) 627-217
Tacoma School District
General education information, student services P.O. Box 1357 Tacoma WA 98401 Phone: (253) 571-1000
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
Tacoma commercial aviation information, passenger services, parking and transportation 17801 International Blvd. Seattle
The News Tribune
Tacoma current and archived local newspaper articles 1950 South State Street Tacoma WA 98405 Phone: (253) 597-8742
Tacoma Art Museum
Exhibitions, collections, programs and events 1701 Pacific Avenue Tacoma WA 98402 Phone: (253) 272-4258 Email: info@Taco
Tacoma, U.S. Census Bureau
Population and demographic information Tacoma WA 98402
Tacoma Washington Background Checks
Washington State Patrol Identification and Criminal History Section Washington State Patrol General Administration Build
Civil and Criminal Cases In Washington Courts
Divorces, criminal history and other court filings The Administrative Office Of The Courts 1206 Quince Street SE P.O. Bo
Center for Missing and Exploited Children
Quick search for missing children, sex offenders, Amber alerts, records and more public information
Find An Offender Statewide
Washington State Department of Corrections Mailing Address: Post Office Box 41100, Mail Stop 41100 Olympia, Washington 9
About Tacoma
The governing body of Tacoma, Washington, is the Tacoma City Council, which consists of 7 elected members. Council members are elected to serve 4-year terms, with elections occurring in odd-numbered years. The council is composed of 5 district representatives and 2 at-large members, ensuring a diverse representation of the city's neighborhoods.
For the fiscal year 2023, Tacoma's approximate annual operating budget is $1.2 billion. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure, and community development, reflecting the city's commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents.
Regular city council meetings are held on Tuesdays at 5:00 PM, taking place in the Tacoma Municipal Building located at 747 Market Street, Tacoma, WA 98402. These meetings provide a platform for public participation and discussion on city issues, allowing residents to engage directly with their elected officials.
For the fiscal year 2023, Tacoma's approximate annual operating budget is $1.2 billion. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure, and community development, reflecting the city's commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents.
Regular city council meetings are held on Tuesdays at 5:00 PM, taking place in the Tacoma Municipal Building located at 747 Market Street, Tacoma, WA 98402. These meetings provide a platform for public participation and discussion on city issues, allowing residents to engage directly with their elected officials.
Police Department & Arrest Records
Pierce County is served by several law enforcement agencies, including the Pierce County Sheriff's Department and municipal police departments such as the Tacoma Police Department, Lakewood Police Department, and Puyallup Police Department. Each city department handles law enforcement within its jurisdiction, while the sheriff's office covers unincorporated areas. These agencies often collaborate on major investigations and share resources to enhance public safety across the county.
Jail & Inmate Records
The main detention facility in Pierce County is the Pierce County Jail, located in Tacoma. The booking process involves photographing and fingerprinting individuals upon arrival. Inmate information, including charges and bond amounts, can be accessed through an online inmate lookup tool provided by the sheriff's office. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, requiring appointments and adherence to a dress code. Bail can be posted through the jail's cashier or a bail bondsman, following Washington's bail procedures.
Court Records
Pierce County is served by the Pierce County Superior Court, located in Tacoma, which handles felony cases, civil matters, and family law. The Pierce County District Court, also in Tacoma, addresses misdemeanors, traffic violations, and small claims. Court records, case filings, and criminal dockets can be accessed through the court's online portal or by visiting the courthouse. These courts ensure the administration of justice within the county.
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Pierce County encompass felony, misdemeanor, traffic offenses, and the sex offender registry. The Pierce County Sheriff's Department and local police departments maintain these records, while the Washington State Patrol provides statewide background checks. Residents can request criminal history information through the Washington Access to Criminal History (WATCH) system. The Washington Bureau of Investigation offers additional resources for comprehensive background checks.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Pierce County are maintained by the Pierce County Sheriff's Department and local police departments. Residents and attorneys can request these records through the respective law enforcement agency, often requiring a formal request under the Washington Public Records Act. An arrest record typically includes the individual's personal information, charges, and the arresting officer's details. The process ensures transparency and accountability in law enforcement activities.
Public Records Access
Public records in Pierce County are accessible under Washington's Public Records Act. The Pierce County Clerk's Office provides access to court records, while the Auditor's Office handles property and marriage records. Requests can be made online or in person, with typical turnaround times varying based on the complexity of the request. The county's commitment to transparency ensures residents have access to essential public information.
Economy & Demographics
Pierce County's economy is diverse, with major industries including healthcare, education, and manufacturing. The presence of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, a significant military installation, contributes to the local economy and employment. The Port of Tacoma is a vital economic driver, facilitating international trade and logistics. The county's economic landscape is distinct due to its strategic location and robust infrastructure, supporting growth and development.
Frequently Asked Questions
1
What is the process for someone who is arrested in Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the City of Tacoma, Washington, you will be transported to the Pierce 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 Pierce County Court. Under Washington 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 Washington State Patrol. The Pierce County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.doc.wa.gov/information/offendersearch.aspx where you can look up current detainees.
2
What are the school district and education performance data for Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington?
The Tacoma Public Schools district serves the city of Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington. According to the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tacoma Public Schools had an overall graduation rate of 79.2% in the 2018-19 school year. The district also had an overall proficiency rate of 57.2% in English Language Arts and 44.2% in Math.
3
What are the crime statistics for Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington?
According to the Tacoma Police Department's 2019 Annual Report, the total number of reported crimes in Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington was 16,945. Of those reported crimes, the most common were larceny (5,845), burglary (2,845), and motor vehicle theft (2,072).
4
What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington Library?
The Tacoma Public Library in Pierce County, Washington provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Washington 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 Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56), which governs access to government documents in Washington. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Tacoma Washington Archives and Genealogy at https://www.sos.wa.gov/archives/Genealogy.aspx. Contact the Tacoma Public Library reference desk at (253) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
5
Where is the Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington Public Library located?
The Tacoma Public Library is located at 1102 Tacoma Ave S, Tacoma, WA 98402.
6
Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington?
Fingerprinting services for Tacoma, Washington residents are provided at the Tacoma Police Department, which serves Pierce 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 Tacoma Police Department at (253) 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 Washington State Patrol for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Washington State Patrol at https://www.wsp.wa.gov/crime/criminal-history/.
7
What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington, and what information is provided in the records?
To obtain Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington vital records, you must contact the Pierce County Auditor's Office.
The records available 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. Birth certificates also include the parents' names, and death certificates include the cause of death. Marriage certificates include the names of both parties, and divorce decrees include the date of the divorce and the court that granted it.
The records available 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. Birth certificates also include the parents' names, and death certificates include the cause of death. Marriage certificates include the names of both parties, and divorce decrees include the date of the divorce and the court that granted it.
8
About background check
A background check in Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington 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 Washington. Criminal background checks are processed through the Washington State Patrol, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Washington residents. The Washington State Patrol provides official criminal history checks at https://www.wsp.wa.gov/crime/criminal-history/. Under the Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56), 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 Pierce County, Washington
Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county: