Westby Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Westby, Wisconsin government websites.
About Westby, Wisconsin
Key landmarks in Westby include the Westby Area Performing Arts Center, which hosts various cultural events, and the Westby Historical Society Museum, where visitors can explore local history. The city is also home to the charming neighborhood of East Side, known for its residential appeal and proximity to local amenities. Economically, Westby has a strong agricultural base, with the dairy industry playing a significant role in the local economy. The city is also known for its production of cheese, with several local creameries contributing to the region's reputation as a dairy hub. The city operates on an budget information is available through official city records, reflecting its commitment to maintaining public services and community development.
Law Enforcement
Vernon County relies on several law enforcement agencies to maintain public safety, including the Vernon County Sheriff's Office and municipal departments in Viroqua, Westby, and Hillsboro. Each police department handles law enforcement within its own city limits, with the Westby Police Department serving local residents. When major crimes or emergencies arise, these agencies work together to coordinate responses that require resources beyond what a single department can provide.
Jail & Inmate Records
Located in Viroqua, the Vernon County Jail is the primary detention facility for Vernon County. The booking process includes fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of arrestees. Family members and legal representatives can access inmate lookup services online to find information about current detainees. Visitation at the facility requires advance scheduling and adherence to strict guidelines. Wisconsin's bond and bail process allows inmates to be released pending trial, with courts setting specific conditions for each case.
Arrest Records
The Vernon County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records for the county, documenting details of each arrest, charges filed, and personal information about those arrested. Residents and attorneys can request these records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. Under the Wisconsin Open Records Law, arrest records are publicly accessible, though certain information may be redacted for privacy or legal reasons. The records offer a view of an individual's interactions with law enforcement throughout Vernon County.
Court Records
Court records for Westby, Wisconsin, are handled by the Vernon County Clerk of Courts at 400 Courthouse Square, Viroqua, WI 54665. This office preserves and provides access to court related documents, including civil and criminal case files, judgments, and other legal proceedings. The Clerk of Courts website offers guidance on accessing and requesting copies of court records: https://vernoncountywi.org/departments/clerk-of-courts/
Criminal Records
The criminal records ecosystem in Vernon County covers various types of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. Residents can request background checks to obtain criminal history information, which is crucial for employment, housing, and other personal or professional purposes.
Public Records Access
Public records in Westby, Wisconsin, are maintained by the Vernon County Register of Deeds office at 400 Courthouse Square, Viroqua, WI 54665. The office records and preserves real estate transactions, vital records, and other official documents related to the city and its residents. Searchable databases and instructions for requesting copies of public records are available through the Register of Deeds website: https://vernoncountywi.org/departments/register-of-deeds/
Vital Records
Vital records in Westby, Wisconsin, including birth, marriage, and death certificates, are maintained by the Vernon County Register of Deeds office. Requests for these records can be made by submitting an application form and the appropriate fees. The office's website provides detailed information on the application process and fees: https://vernoncountywi.org/departments/register-of-deeds/vital records/
Business & Licensing Records
Business related public records in Westby, Wisconsin, are primarily maintained by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). This state agency registers and regulates businesses, including filing articles of incorporation, annual reports, and other business related documents. Searchable business databases and instructions for obtaining copies of public records are available through the DFI's website: https://www.wdfi.org/
Economy & Demographics
Economic and employment-related public records in Westby, Wisconsin, can be found through various state and local agencies. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) maintains records on employment, unemployment, and other labor-related statistics for the state, including the Westby area. The Vernon County Economic Development Association (VCEDA) also provides information on local businesses, economic development initiatives, and other economic data for the region: https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/, https://www.vernoncounty.org/vceda/
Elections & Voter Records
Westby voters are served by the Vernon County Clerk's Office at 400 Courthouse Square, Room 106, Viroqua, WI 54665 (phone: 608-637-5346, website: vernoncountywi.gov/county-clerk). The County Clerk administers all federal, state, and county elections for local residents, maintains voter registration records, manages absentee voting, certifies results, and provides information on candidates and ballot measures. Wisconsin residents can register online at myvote.wi.gov, the state's official voter information portal, up to 20 days before any election.
The state also offers in-person registration at polling places on Election Day with proof of residence. Acceptable ID includes a Wisconsin driver's license, Wisconsin state ID card, U.S. Passport, military ID, naturalization certificate, or certain student IDs from Wisconsin universities (with specific requirements). Westby holds municipal elections for mayor and city council seats, typically in the spring of odd-numbered years (April), with the next municipal election scheduled for April 2025. The mayor and city council members serve staggered terms, and information on candidates, sample ballots, and local measures can be obtained through Westby City Hall (608-634-3115) or the Vernon County Clerk's office. Residents also participate in all state and federal elections held in even-numbered years. To find their assigned polling place, voters can use the MyVote Wisconsin portal at myvote.wi.gov by entering their address. Polling locations are also listed on the Vernon County Clerk's website and in local notices. Wisconsin public records law makes voter registration lists available for inspection (though not for commercial purposes), and campaign finance reports, candidate filings, and precinct-level election results are public records accessible through the Wisconsin Elections Commission (elections.wi.gov) and the Vernon County Clerk. On November 3, 2026, Westby and Vernon County voters will decide several significant races. Wisconsin does not have a U.S. Senate seat up for election in 2026, but voters will elect a Governor (Scott Evers or a challenger, as Wisconsin holds gubernatorial elections in midterm years), all members of the Wisconsin State Assembly, odd-numbered Wisconsin State Senate districts (District 32 covers Vernon County), constitutional officers including Attorney General and Secretary of State, and county offices such as County Board supervisors, District Attorney, Sheriff, Clerk, Treasurer, and Register of Deeds. Wisconsin voters may also decide on state constitutional amendments or referendums if placed on the ballot. To request an absentee ballot in Wisconsin, voters can apply online through myvote.wi.gov, by mail, email, or in person at the Vernon County Clerk's office. Applications must be received by the Thursday before Election Day for regular absentee voting, though in-person absentee voting at the clerk's office is available until the Sunday before Election Day. Wisconsin requires photo ID for absentee ballot requests and includes a copy of acceptable ID with the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
6 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Westby, Vernon County, Wisconsin, and what information is provided in the records?
Vital records for Westby, Vernon County, Wisconsin including birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses are available through the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. Requests can be made online, by mail, or in person. The Vernon County Clerk's office may also issue certified copies. Valid identification and proof of eligibility are required.
7 How do I register to vote in Westby, Wisconsin?
To register to vote in Westby, Wisconsin, residents can register online through the Wisconsin Elections Commission's website, by mail, or in person at the Vernon County elections office. Wisconsin requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the Wisconsin Elections Commission's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Westby, contact the Vernon County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
8 How do I look up property records in Westby, Wisconsin?
Property records for Westby, Wisconsin are maintained by the Vernon Municipal Assessor's Office and the Vernon County Register of Deeds. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within Vernon County, including parcels in Westby. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The Vernon County Register of Deeds maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many Wisconsin counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. For in-person requests, visit the Vernon County offices at the county courthouse. The Vernon County Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
9 How do I get a birth or death certificate in Westby, Wisconsin?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Westby, Wisconsin residents are available through both county and state offices. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Vital Records, located in Madison, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in Wisconsin. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Vernon County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for Vernon County. Birth and death certificates may also be available through local vital records offices. Requestors typically need to provide valid photo identification and proof of their relationship to the person named on the record. Processing times and fees vary by office and record type.
Bekkum Memorial Public Library
206 N. Main St., ZIP 54667 • (608) 634-4419
Source: IMLS Public Libraries Survey FY2022
Source: IMLS Public Libraries Survey FY2022