About Wayne County
Wayne County is located in the east-central Coastal Plain region of North Carolina, covering approximately 557 square miles. Wayne County seat is Goldsboro, which is the primary commercial and governmental hub for Wayne County's population of approximately 117,000 residents as of recent estimates. Wayne County was established in 1779 and named after Revolutionary War General Anthony Wayne, known as 'Mad Anthony' for his bold military tactics. Wayne County is strategically positioned at the intersection of U.S. Highway 70 and Interstate 795, providing excellent transportation access to both Raleigh and the North Carolina coast. Major landmarks include Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, one of the largest employers in eastern North Carolina, and the historic downtown Goldsboro district. Wayne County's economy has historically been anchored by agriculture, particularly tobacco, cotton, and hog farming, though military operations and manufacturing now play significant roles. Wayne County Courthouse is located at 224 E. Walnut Street in Goldsboro, housing various county offices. Wayne County Register of Deeds office, responsible for recording land records, operates from the same courthouse complex. Wayne County Tax Assessor's office, which maintains property valuation records, is located at 301 N. Herman Street in Goldsboro. Wayne County includes the municipalities of Goldsboro, Mount Olive, Fremont, Pikeville, and Eureka, each contributing to the diverse character of Wayne County. Wayne County's unique position as both an agricultural center and home to a major military installation creates a distinctive blend of rural traditions and military culture.
- Wayne County Register of Deeds office, responsible for recording land records, operates from the same courthouse complex.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Law Enforcement & Arrests
- Citizens can request arrest records by submitting written requests to the Sheriff's Office or the appropriate municipal police department where the arrest occurred.
- Processing times for records requests vary, and fees may apply for copies.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Jail & Inmate Records
- The bond and bail process in North Carolina allows for the release of inmates pending trial, and information on posting bail can be obtained through the detention center.
Courts & Case Records
- Small claims matters for disputes under $10,000 are also handled through District Court.
- Wayne County courthouse also houses the Register of Deeds office, which records land instruments but is separate from court operations.
- Court calendars and scheduled hearings are available through the Clerk's office and may be posted online.
Property & Public Records
Property records for Wayne County, North Carolina are maintained by the Wayne County Register of Deeds. This office maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements for properties in Wayne County.
Vital Records
Vital records for this county include birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates issued under state vital statistics law.
- Birth certificates cost $24 for the first copy and $15 for each additional copy ordered at the same time, while death certificates follow the same fee structure.
- Processing times vary from same-day service at the local Register of Deeds office to 10-15 business days for mail requests submitted to the state office.
- Marriage licenses are issued by Wayne County Register of Deeds office with both parties typically required to appear in person with valid photo identification and Social Security numbers.
- The marriage license fee is $60, and there is no waiting period in North Carolina, with licenses valid for 60 days from issuance.
- Online ordering of vital records is available through the North Carolina Vital Records website at vitalrecords.nc.gov, though additional vendor fees apply for this convenience.
Business & Licensing
Business records, licenses, and permits for this county are processed by the County Clerk and local government offices.
- Fictitious name registrations (assumed name certificates or 'Doing Business As' filings) are filed with Wayne County Register of Deeds office at as required under North Carolina General Statute § 66-68.
- This online system provides business entity names, registration dates, registered agent information, and status (active, dissolved, withdrawn).
- William Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530, provides business development resources and maintains a membership directory, though it does not have regulatory authority over business licensing.