About Waukesha County
Waukesha County is located in southeastern Wisconsin, part of the Milwaukee metropolitan area. Waukesha County Seat is Waukesha, situated approximately 18 miles west of downtown Milwaukee. Established in 1846, Waukesha County includes 581 square miles and has a population of approximately 406,000 residents, making it the third-most populous county in Wisconsin. Waukesha County is named after the Potawatomi word meaning 'fox' or possibly 'land of the foxes.' Major cities include Waukesha County, Brookfield, New Berlin, Menomonee Falls, Muskego, and Pewaukee.
- Waukesha County Register of Deeds maintains property records at Waukesha County Courthouse.
- Waukesha County provides services through various departments housed in the Administration Center and Courthouse complex.
Waukesha County is known for its mix of suburban development, lakes, and preserved natural areas including Lapham Peak State Park, Kettle Moraine State Forest, and Waukesha County Park System with over 6,000 acres. Historically, the City of Waukesha County was known as a health resort destination in the 1800s due to its mineral spring waters. Waukesha County Courthouse is located at 515 W.
Moreland Blvd, Waukesha County, WI 53188. Waukesha County Clerk's office, responsible for vital records and elections, is located at 515 W. Moreland Blvd, Room AC260, Waukesha area, WI 53188.
Waukesha County's economy is diverse, ranging from manufacturing and healthcare to retail and professional services, with a strong tax base and well-regarded school districts.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
Waukesha County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order in Waukesha County's unincorporated areas. It operates Waukesha County jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The office is also involved in various community programs meant to enhancing public safety and supporting the community relations. Notable divisions within the Sheriff's Office include the Patrol Division, which handles routine law enforcement duties, and the Detective Bureau, which investigates major crimes within Waukesha County.
Police Departments
Law enforcement in Waukesha County is provided by Waukesha County Sheriff's Office and several municipal police departments. These include the Waukesha Police Department, Brookfield Police Department, New Berlin Police Department, and Menomonee Falls Police Department. Each department serves its respective city or town, handling local law enforcement duties and coordinating with the sheriff's office on major crimes and regional initiatives. This collaboration ensures full coverage and efficient response to incidents across Waukesha County.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Waukesha County Sheriff's Department is the primary law enforcement agency serving unincorporated areas and providing countywide services. The Sheriff's Office is located at 515 W. Moreland Blvd, Waukesha, WI 53188, and can be reached for The official website is sheriff.waukeshacounty.gov. Waukesha County Jail operates as a detention facility for pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. Inmate lookup is available online through the Sheriff's Department website, where the public can search current inmates by name, booking number, or date of birth.
- Citizens can request arrest records by contacting the arresting agency directly, either the Sheriff's Department or the municipal police department.
- Mugshots and booking photos are typically included in jail records and are accessible through the online inmate search system or by submitting a public records request.
- Most agencies require written requests for detailed arrest reports, which may involve fees for copying and processing.
- Response times vary but agencies must respond promptly under state law, typically within days of the request.
The jail roster includes booking information, charges, bond amounts, and expected release dates. Municipal police departments operate in cities throughout Waukesha County, including the local community Police Department, Brookfield Police Department, New Berlin Police Department, Menomonee Falls Police Department, Muskego Police Department, Pewaukee Police Department, Delafield Police Department, Oconomowoc Police Department, and others. Each county maintains its own police records.
Arrest records in Waukesha County are public records under Wisconsin Statutes § 19.31-19.39, the Wisconsin Public Records Law.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
The criminal records ecosystem in Waukesha County includes various types of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. Waukesha County Sheriff's Office, along with municipal police departments, maintains these records. Residents can conduct background checks through the Wisconsin Department of Justice's Crime Information Bureau, which provides statewide criminal history reports. The Wisconsin Bureau of Investigation also offers resources for residents seeking information on criminal activities and records within Waukesha County.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Waukesha County are maintained by Waukesha County Sheriff's Office and the various municipal police departments within Waukesha County. These records can be requested by residents and attorneys through formal applications, adhering to the Wisconsin Open Records Law. A Waukesha County arrest record typically includes details such as the individual's name, date of arrest, charges, and booking information.
- The process for obtaining these records involves submitting a request to the appropriate law enforcement agency, which then provides access to the records in compliance with state law.
Jail & Inmate Records
Waukesha County Jail, also known as Waukesha County Correctional Facility, is where individuals arrested in Waukesha County are booked and detained. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information. Inmate lookup services are available online, allowing the public to find information about current detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, with scheduled times and guidelines that visitors must follow.
- The bond and bail process in Wisconsin allows for the release of detainees under certain conditions, and information on this process is available through the jail's administrative office.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Waukesha County are taken and retained by Waukesha County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the public record and can be accessed through the sheriff's website or by submitting a request to the office. While Wisconsin does not have specific mugshot removal laws, individuals may petition for removal under certain circumstances, such as expungement of the related criminal record. The availability of mugshots online varies, with some third-party websites also providing access to these images.
Courts & Case Records
Waukesha County courts are part of Wisconsin's unified court system. Waukesha County Circuit Court has ten branches handling civil, criminal, family, probate, small claims, and juvenile matters. The courthouse is located at 515 W. Moreland Blvd, Waukesha, WI 53188, phone. Wisconsin Circuit Courts have general jurisdiction over all civil and criminal cases. The Consolidated Court Automation Programs (CCAP) provides free online access to Wisconsin court records at wcca.wicourts.gov, where users can search by name, case number, or attorney.
- Waukesha County Clerk of Circuit Courts maintains official court records and can provide certified copies for a fee, typically $1.25 per page plus certification fees.
- Record requests should be directed to the Clerk of Circuit Courts office, which can provide detailed fee schedules and copying services.
The CCAP system includes case summaries, parties, charges, dispositions, judgments, and court calendar information for Waukesha County cases. Municipal courts in cities like Waukesha County, Brookfield, and New Berlin handle local ordinance violations, traffic citations, and parking tickets; these are separate from Circuit Court. In-person research is available at the courthouse during business hours.
Online access through CCAP is free for most records, though certain sensitive cases (juvenile, mental health, certain family matters) are restricted. Wisconsin's public access policy is governed by Supreme Court Rule 60.02 and Wisconsin Statutes § 19.21(2), which establish presumptive public access to court records with specific exceptions for confidential matters.
Property & Public Records
Waukesha County Register of Deeds maintains property and land records at 515 W. Moreland Blvd, Room G22, Waukesha, WI 53188, phone. The office website is waukeshacounty.gov/registerofdeeds. Available records include warranty deeds, quit claim deeds, mortgages, satisfactions, liens (mechanic's liens, tax liens, judgment liens), easements, plat maps, condominium declarations, and other land-related documents dating back to Waukesha County's founding. Wisconsin is a race-notice state for recording priority.
- The Register of Deeds provides a free online property search tool called mix, accessible through Waukesha County website, where users can search by owner name, address, parcel number, or document number.
- Recording fees vary by document type but are established by Wisconsin Statutes § 59.43.
- Certified copies cost $5 for the first page and $1 for each additional page.
- This interactive mapping tool is free and accessible to the public.
- Document requests can be made in person, by mail, or online through the Register of Deeds website.
Vital Records
Vital records for Waukesha County are maintained by multiple agencies depending on the record type and date. Waukesha County Register of Deeds office at 515 W. Moreland Blvd, Room G22, Waukesha, WI 53188, maintains birth and death records for events occurring in Waukesha County from October 1907 forward, pursuant to Wisconsin Statutes § 69.01-69.24. Birth certificates cost $20 for the first copy and $3 for each additional copy ordered simultaneously. Death certificates cost $20 for the first copy and $3 for additional copies. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days.
- Requesters must provide valid photo identification and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record (parent, legal guardian, person named on the certificate, legal representative, etc.).
- Marriage license applications require both parties to appear in person with valid photo ID and Social Security numbers; the fee is $110 and there is a six-day waiting period.
- Online ordering for Wisconsin vital records is available through VitalChek at vitalchek.com, which processes requests for the state office with additional service fees.
Marriage licenses are issued by Waukesha County Clerk's Office at 515 W. Moreland Blvd, Room AC260, the local community, WI 53188, phone. Marriage records and certified copies are available from the County Clerk.
Divorce records (divorce decrees) are maintained by the Clerk of Circuit Courts at the courthouse as part of court records. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services Vital Records Office in Madison is a statewide backup repository and can provide certified copies of any Wisconsin vital record for events from 1907 onward; their website is dhs.wisconsin.gov/vitalrecords, phone. Wisconsin law restricts access to vital records to protect privacy while balancing public health and legal needs.
Business & Licensing
Business and licensing records in Waukesha County are available through multiple agencies. Waukesha County Clerk's Office at 515 W. Moreland Blvd, Room AC260, Waukesha, WI 53188, phone, maintains certain local business filings, though most formal business entity registrations occur at the state level.
- This database includes the business name, registered agent, filing date, status, and principal office address.
- For state-level professional licenses (doctors, nurses, contractors, cosmetologists, etc.), the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services provides online license lookup at https://online.drl.wi.gov.
The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions maintains the statewide business entity database, accessible free online at https://www.wdfi.org/apps/CorpSearch/Search.aspx, where users can search corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, and other registered business entities. Trade names (doing business as or DBA filings) and fictitious name registrations may be filed with individual municipalities or Waukesha County. Sales tax permits and employer identification numbers are handled by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
Building permits and zoning compliance in Waukesha County vary by county, as most cities have their own planning and zoning departments. Unincorporated areas use Waukesha County Planning and Zoning Department, located at 515 W. Moreland Blvd, Room AC255, Waukesha County, WI 53188, phone.
Business licenses for specific activities (liquor licenses, restaurant permits, home occupation permits) are typically issued by municipal clerks. Waukesha County Business Alliance (waukeshacountybusinessalliance.com) is a regional chamber of commerce providing business resources, networking, and economic development support across Waukesha County.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Waukesha County are administered by Waukesha County Clerk's Office, located at 515 W. Moreland Blvd, Room AC260, Waukesha, WI 53188. The office can be reached, and election information is available at waukeshacounty.gov/elections. Voter registration in Wisconsin can be completed online at myvote.wi.gov, by mail, in person at Waukesha County clerk's office or municipal clerk's office, or at the polling place on Election Day. Wisconsin offers same-day registration, meaning eligible residents can register and vote on Election Day by providing proof of residence.
- For those registering before Election Day, the deadline is 20 days before the election if registering online or by mail.
- To find your polling place in Waukesha County, visit myvote.wi.gov and enter your address; the site provides polling location, hours, and a sample ballot.
- Waukesha County has historically high voter turnout; in the November 2024 general election, turnout was approximately 82% of registered voters, reflecting strong civic engagement.
- Absentee ballots in Waukesha County can be requested online at myvote.wi.gov, by mail, email, or in person at your municipal clerk's office.
- Absentee ballot requests must be received by the Thursday before the election, though it's recommended to request early.
Wisconsin requires voters to present an acceptable photo ID when voting, including Wisconsin driver's license, state ID card, military ID, passport, or certain student IDs. Election records that are public in Wisconsin include voter registration lists, campaign finance reports filed with Waukesha County clerk or state, candidate nomination papers and filings, election results by ward and county, and absentee ballot statistics. Individual voter history (which elections a person voted in, but not how they voted) is also public.
The next major election is November 3, 2026, featuring U.S. House races, potential U.S. Senate race, Wisconsin Governor, state legislative seats, county offices, and local referenda.
Wisconsin's election transparency is governed by Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 5-12 and administered locally by municipal clerks who conduct elections under county oversight. Citizens may observe vote counting, request election records under the public records law, and file complaints with the Wisconsin Elections Commission.
Economy & Demographics
Waukesha County has a strong and diverse economy, consistently ranking among Wisconsin's most prosperous counties. The median household income is approximately $87,000, significantly higher than the state median. Waukesha County's economy is anchored by several key sectors including advanced manufacturing, healthcare, financial services, professional and technical services, retail trade, and education.
Major employers include Quad/Graphics (printing and marketing services headquartered in Sussex), GE Healthcare (medical imaging and diagnostics in Waukesha), Kohl's Corporation (retail headquarters in Menomonee Falls), Generac Power Systems (portable generators in Waukesha County), ProHealth Care (regional healthcare system), Froedtert Health, Carroll University, and Waukesha County Technical College. Waukesha County benefits from proximity to Milwaukee's economic infrastructure while maintaining its own employment base. Manufacturing remains significant, producing machinery, medical devices, electronics, printed materials, and food products.
The unemployment rate in Waukesha County typically runs below both state and national averages, often around 2-3% in recent years. Economic development initiatives are coordinated through Waukesha County Center for Growth, which works with municipalities to attract and retain businesses. Recent development projects include expansions in the I-94 corridor, the Innovation Campus adjacent to Carroll University, downtown revitalization in the City of Waukesha County, and continued commercial growth in Brookfield and New Berlin.
Waukesha County's strategic location along Interstate 94 between Milwaukee and Madison, excellent schools, quality of life amenities, and skilled workforce continue to attract businesses and residents. Tourism and recreation contribute economically through Waukesha County's lakes, parks, trails, golf courses, and seasonal events.
Transparency Score
Court Records: Yes: Online (CCAP) | Property: Yes: Free Search (Mix/GIS) | Arrest/Jail: Yes: Online Inmate Lookup | Vital Records: Limited: In-Person or Mail Required | Business: Yes: Online (State Database) | Elections: Yes: Online (MyVote.wi.gov) | Overall Score: 9/10, Waukesha County provides excellent digital access to most public records with online portals for courts, property, inmates, and elections.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Cities & Towns in Waukesha County
Explore public records for 31 cities and communities in Waukesha County, Wisconsin.