Tazewell Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Tazewell, Virginia government websites.

  About Tazewell City Government
Annual Budget $2.6 million
Regular Meetings Public Sessions

The governing body of Tazewell, Virginia, is the Tazewell Town Council, which consists of six elected members. Council members are elected at-large for a term of four years. The current council includes Mayor David A. Doss and council members J. L. "Jerry" Cline, J. R. "Randy" McGlothlin, and others, with elections occurring every odd-numbered year.

For the fiscal year 2022-2023, Tazewell's approximate annual operating budget is $2.6 million. This budget supports various town services, including public safety, infrastructure, and community development initiatives.

The Tazewell Town Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM. Meetings take place at the Tazewell Town Hall, located at 202 E. Main Street, Tazewell, VA 24651. These meetings are open to the public, allowing residents to engage with their local government and stay informed about community issues.

  About Tazewell, Virginia

Nestled in the scenic Appalachian region, Tazewell, Virginia, is a small town that showcases the rich cultural heritage of southwestern Virginia. With a population of approximately 1,600 residents, this quaint community is situated in Tazewell County, surrounded by the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Established in the late 18th century, Tazewell has retained its charm while adapting to modern needs. The town features several distinct neighborhoods, including the historic district with its beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture. A vibrant local economy thrives on a blend of small businesses, agriculture, and healthcare, with employers such as hospitals and educational institutions playing a significant role in the job market. What sets Tazewell apart is its commitment to preserving local traditions and its strong sense of community, which is evident during local fairs, festivals, and events that celebrate Appalachian culture.

The Tazewell Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency serving the town, ensuring public safety and community policing. In addition to the police department, the Tazewell County Sheriff's Office oversees law enforcement throughout the county, including management of the Tazewell County Jail. For residents seeking arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal history, the process begins with the local police records unit. Individuals can request records directly from the Tazewell Police Department or the Tazewell County Sheriff's Office, which may offer both in-person and phone assistance. For a more comprehensive background check, inquiries can be directed to the Virginia State Police Bureau of Investigation, which maintains a statewide criminal repository. The Virginia State Police also provides an online portal where individuals can request a copy of their criminal history. Residents may find it beneficial to utilize these online resources for efficiency and convenience.

Tazewell falls under the jurisdiction of the Tazewell County Circuit Court, which handles various legal matters, including civil and criminal cases. For those needing to access court records, requests can be made through the Circuit Court Clerk's Office, where both in-person and online options are available. The court's website often provides access to case dockets and some record types, streamlining the search process. Vital records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, can be obtained from the Tazewell County Clerk-Recorder or through the Virginia Department of Health's vital records division. Property records are managed by the county assessor and recorder, and online portals are available for residents to view their property information. Furthermore, the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (VFOIA) allows citizens to request general public records held by government agencies. Typically, VFOIA requests are responded to within 5 to 10 business days, promoting transparency and accountability within local government. In Tazewell, the fusion of historical charm and modern governance creates an accessible and community-oriented atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

  Tazewell, Virginia Public Records & Government Resources

Police Department & Arrest Records

Beyond the Tazewell County Sheriff's Office, several municipal departments handle law enforcement within their respective jurisdictions throughout the county. The Bluefield Police Department, Richlands Police Department, and Cedar Bluff Police Department each maintain responsibility for their city limits while coordinating with the Sheriff's Office when major crimes and investigations require a unified response. Though each agency operates independently within its territory, collaboration on public safety initiatives has become standard practice across the county.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Tazewell County Detention Center serves as the primary holding facility for anyone arrested within county boundaries. Once brought to the center, arrestees go through a standard booking process that includes photographing, fingerprinting, and recording personal information. Those looking for information about current detainees can access Tazewell County's online inmate lookup system, which maintains updated details on who is being held. Visitation at the facility operates on a scheduling system, with visitors required to follow strict security guidelines.

Court Records

Residents of Tazewell and Tazewell County looking for information about local court matters can turn to the Virginia Courts website as their central resource. The online case search tool allows users to locate details on civil, criminal, and traffic cases filed across three venues: the Tazewell County Circuit Court, General District Court, and Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.
Beyond case lookup, the website provides guidance on court procedures, schedules, and contact information for the Tazewell County Clerk of Court, whose office handles the management and preservation of all court records.

Criminal Records

The criminal records system in Tazewell County encompasses a range of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Tazewell County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, which are essential for background checks and legal proceedings. Residents can request criminal background checks through the Virginia State Police, which provides comprehensive reports.

Arrest Records

The Tazewell County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records for incidents throughout Tazewell County. These files contain the arrest date, charges filed, and identifying information about the individual taken into custody. Anyone needing access to these records—whether residents conducting research or attorneys preparing cases—can request them directly from the Sheriff's Office. The Virginia Freedom of Information Act governs how these requests are handled, striking a balance between public access to government records and protection of individual privacy.

Public Records Access

Anyone in Tazewell seeking property records, land records, or assessment information should start with the Tazewell County Assessor's Office. This office keeps comprehensive records on real estate parcels, property valuations, ownership history, and related documentation. Residents can visit in person or access many records online through Tazewell County's website. The Tazewell County Clerk's Office handles a different but equally important function—recording and preserving public documents such as deeds, mortgages, and other land-related filings.

Economy & Demographics

Tazewell's economy is driven by a diverse mix of industries, ranging from small businesses to major employers in the healthcare and education sectors. The town is home to several notable institutions, including Clinch Valley Medical Center and Tazewell Community Hospital, which provide significant employment opportunities for local residents. Additionally, Tazewell is a hub for agricultural activities, with farms and producers contributing to the region's economic vitality.
The Tazewell Area Chamber of Commerce plays a crucial role in supporting the local business community, promoting economic development, and advocating for the interests of employers and entrepreneurs in the area.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

The Tazewell Police Department serves as the primary law enforcement presence within the town, focusing on public safety and community policing efforts. The Tazewell County Sheriff's Office extends law enforcement coverage throughout the broader county and operates the Tazewell County Jail. Residents seeking arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal history information should begin with the local police records unit. Requests can be directed to either the department or the Sheriff's Office, depending on which agency handled the arrest in question.

Vital Records

Tazewell residents in need of vital records, such as birth certificates, death records, or marriage licenses, can turn to the Virginia Department of Health's Vital Records office. This statewide resource provides access to a comprehensive database of vital events that have occurred within the Commonwealth of Virginia, including those specific to the Tazewell area. Individuals can submit requests for certified copies of these important documents, either online, by mail, or in person at the regional office location.

Business & Licensing Records

The Town of Tazewell maintains oversight of the local business landscape through several key functions. The Economic Development Office handles business license issuance, processes zoning and permit applications, and offers guidance to entrepreneurs and small business owners navigating the regulatory environment. Anyone planning to open or operate a business within the town limits can contact this office to understand the requirements and procedures that apply to commercial activities.
The Tazewell Area Chamber of Commerce complements these official functions by connecting businesses with one another, promoting economic development, and advocating for the interests of the local business community.

Elections & Voter Records

The Tazewell County Electoral Board manages elections for voters living in the town of Tazewell, Virginia. Their office is located at 108 East Main Street, Tazewell, VA 24651. Residents can reach them at (276) 988-1421 or online at tazewellcounty.org/elections. Voter registration is available online at vote.gov or through a mailed paper form. The registration deadline falls 22 days before any election, and applicants need to provide a Virginia driver's license or ID card number. Municipal elections for mayor and city council appear on the ballot in November of odd-numbered years.
The Virginia Department of Elections website posts candidate information and sample ballots ahead of these races. Residents can locate their assigned polling place by visiting vote.gov and entering their address. Virginia maintains open public records for voter rolls, campaign finance disclosures, and election results. Turnout in Tazewell County reached 64% in 2024. The 2026 ballot will include state legislature races, county offices, and possibly additional local contests. Virginia offers no-excuse absentee and mail-in voting, with ballot requests handled through vote.virginia.gov.

Public Records Transparency Score

Court Records: 7 | Property: 7 | Arrest Logs: 6 | Vital Records: 7 | Business: 7 | Elections: 8 | Overall: 7.2/10 — Tazewell generally has good transparency, with robust access to election data, property records, and court information. Arrest logs and some vital records could be improved.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What are the school district and education performance data for Tazewell, Tazewell County, Virginia?
The Tazewell County Public Schools district serves Tazewell, Tazewell County, Virginia. According to the Virginia Department of Education, the district's overall performance rating for the 2019-2020 school year was a "Meets Expectations" rating. The district's graduation rate was 95.2%, and the dropout rate was 0.7%. The district's average SAT score was 1020, and the average ACT score was 21.4.
The Tazewell Public Library in Tazewell County, Virginia provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Virginia 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 Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which governs access to government documents in Virginia. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Tazewell Virginia Archives and Genealogy at https://www.lva.virginia.gov/public/guides/genguide.htm. Contact the Tazewell Public Library reference desk at (276) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
The Tazewell County Public Library is located at 200 Main Street, Tazewell, VA 24651.
Fingerprinting services for Tazewell, Virginia residents are provided at the Tazewell Police Department, which serves Tazewell 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 Tazewell Police Department at (276) 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 Virginia State Police for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Virginia State Police at https://www.vsp.virginia.gov/CJIS_Criminal_History.shtm.
The Tazewell County Clerk of the Circuit Court is the official custodian of all vital records in Tazewell County, Virginia. To obtain vital records, you must submit a written request to the Clerk's office. The request must include the full name of the person whose record is being requested, the date and place of the event, and the purpose of the request.

The Clerk's office can provide certified copies of birth, death, marriage, and divorce records. The records include the full name of the person, the date and place of the event, and the names of the parents or spouse, if applicable.
The Tazewell County Electoral Board oversees elections for voters in the town of Tazewell, Virginia. Their office is located at 108 East Main Street, Tazewell, VA 24651. You can reach them at (276) 988-1421 or online at tazewellcounty.org/elections.

Tazewell residents can register to vote online at vote.gov or by mail with a voter registration form. The deadline to register is 22 days before an election. You'll need to provide a Virginia driver's license or ID card number.

Tazewell has municipal elections for mayor and city council. These races are on the ballot in November of odd-numbered y
For residents of Tazewell seeking property records, land records, or assessor information, the primary resource is the Tazewell County Assessor's Office. This office maintains detailed records on real estate parcels, property values, ownership history, and related data. Individuals can visit the office in person or access many records online through the county's website. Additionally, the Tazewell County Clerk's Office is responsible for recording and preserving a wide range of public documents, including deeds, mortgages, and other land-related records. Researching the history of a property o
Tazewell residents in need of vital records, such as birth certificates, death records, or marriage licenses, can turn to the Virginia Department of Health's Vital Records office. This statewide resource provides access to a comprehensive database of vital events that have occurred within the Commonwealth of Virginia, including those specific to the Tazewell area. Individuals can submit requests for certified copies of these important documents, either online, by mail, or in person at the regional office location.
The Town of Tazewell plays a crucial role in overseeing the local business community. The town's Economic Development Office is responsible for issuing business licenses, processing zoning and permit applications, and providing assistance to entrepreneurs and small business owners. Residents or prospective business owners can contact this office to navigate the various requirements and regulations governing commercial activities within the Tazewell city limits. Additionally, the Tazewell Area Chamber of Commerce serves as an important resource, connecting local businesses, promoting economic g
The Tazewell County Clerk of the Circuit Court is the official custodian of all vital records in Tazewell County, Virginia. To obtain vital records, you must submit a written request to the Clerk's office. The request must include the full name of the person whose record is being requested, the date and place of the event, and the purpose of the request.

The Clerk's office can provide certified copies of birth, death, marriage, and divorce records. The records include the full name of the person, the date and place of the event, and the names of the parents or spouse, if applicable.

The Clerk's office is located at:

Tazewell County Clerk of the Circuit Court

P.O. Box 517

Tazewell, VA 24651

Phone: (276) 988-5900

Fax: (276) 988-5901

Email: tazewellclerk@tazewellcounty.org
The Tazewell County Public Schools district serves Tazewell, Tazewell County, Virginia. According to the Virginia Department of Education, the district's overall performance rating for the 2019-2020 school year was a "Meets Expectations" rating. The district's graduation rate was 95.2%, and the dropout rate was 0.7%. The district's average SAT score was 1020, and the average ACT score was 21.4.
According to the Virginia State Police, the total number of reported crimes in Tazewell County, Virginia in 2019 was 1,845. Of those, 1,717 were property crimes and 128 were violent crimes.
Yes, you can find public records in the Tazewell County Public Library. The library has a variety of resources available, including local and state records, genealogical records, and other historical documents.
The Tazewell County Public Library is located at 200 Main Street, Tazewell, VA 24651.
The Tazewell County Sheriff's Office provides fingerprinting services. The office is located at 100 Tazewell Street, Tazewell, VA 24651. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 4:30pm. Appointments are required and can be made by calling (276) 988-5900.
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