Washington County

Washington County is located in the northeastern coastal plain region of North Carolina, positioned along the Albemarle Sound. Washington County seat is Plymouth, a historic town that is the governmental and commercial center for Washington County's approximately 11,000 residents spread across 348 square miles of land and water. Established in 1799 from Tyrrell County, Washington County is named after George Washington and represents one of North Carolina's smaller counties by population. Washington County is bordered by Tyrrell County to the east, Martin County to the west, Bertie County to the north, and the waters of the Albemarle Sound to the south. Major landmarks include the Roanoke River, which flows through Washington County and provides both recreational opportunities and rich agricultural bottomlands, as well as the Somerset Place State Historic Site, a preserved antebellum plantation that offers insight into Washington County's complex history. Washington County's economy has historically centered on agriculture, particularly soybeans, corn, and timber production, though Washington County has faced economic challenges in recent decades. Washington County Government Center in Plymouth houses most county offices, including the Register of Deeds at 120 Adams Street, Plymouth, NC 27962. Washington County Clerk operates from Washington County Courthouse at the same address, handling court filings and vital records. The Tax Assessor's office, responsible for property valuations and tax assessment, is also located at the Government Center. Washington County's unique character stems from its waterfront location, agricultural heritage, and small-town atmosphere, offering Everyone a glimpse into eastern North Carolina's rural coastal culture.

• Washington County Government Center in Plymouth houses most county offices, including the Register of Deeds at 120 Adams Street, Plymouth, NC 27962.

Law Enforcement & Arrests

• Citizens seeking arrest records in Washington County should submit a public records request to the Sheriff's Office or the specific police department that made the arrest.
• Requests can be made in person, by mail, or by phone, and agencies may charge reasonable fees for copying and research time.

Jail & Inmate Records

• The bond process in North Carolina allows for cash bonds or bail bonds through a licensed bondsman, and recent arrest information can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office.

• District Court addresses misdemeanor criminal matters, civil cases up to $25,000, family law matters including divorce and child custody, juvenile cases, estates, and small claims up to $10,000.
• Certified copies of court documents can be requested from the Clerk of Superior Court's office for a fee of $3.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page, plus a $5.00 certification fee.

• Some deed indexing may be available through third-party services, but official certified copies must be obtained directly from the Register of Deeds office.
• Recording fees are set by state statute: $26.00 for the first 15 pages of a deed or deed of trust, with $4.00 for each additional page.
• Certified copies of recorded documents are available for $5.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page, plus a $3.00 certification fee.
• The Register of Deeds office accepts cash, checks, and in some cases credit cards for payment of fees.

Vital records for this county include birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates issued under state vital statistics law.

• Birth certificates cost $24.00 for the first copy and $15.00 for each additional copy ordered at the same time.
• Death certificates follow the same fee structure and require proof of relationship or legal interest.
• Marriage licenses are issued by the Register of Deeds office in Washington County, with both parties required to appear in person with valid photo identification and Social Security numbers.
• The marriage license fee is $60.00, and there is no waiting period or blood test required in North Carolina.
• VitalChek, an authorized third-party vendor, offers online and phone ordering of North Carolina vital records at www.vitalchek.com with expedited processing and delivery options for additional fees.

Business records, licenses, and permits for this county are processed by the County Clerk and local government offices.

• Washington County Chamber of Commerce, though not a government agency, provides resources for business development and networking; contact information can be found through local economic development resources.