St. George Public Records Database

St. George public records are available through the city recorder, the police department, the Fifth District Court, and the Washington County recorder's office. As the county seat of Washington County and the largest city in southern Utah, St. George maintains a wide variety of government records. Utah's GRAMA law gives residents the right to access most of those records. This guide explains how to find and request public records in St. George across the major record types.

St. George City Recorder

The St. George City Recorder is the official keeper of city government records. This office maintains City Council minutes, ordinances, resolutions, and city contracts. The Recorder processes GRAMA requests for city-level documents and also manages St. George city elections. Requests can be submitted in person during business hours or by contacting the office directly.

City Council agendas, minutes, and meeting videos are posted on the St. George city website. For documents not available online, a formal GRAMA request is the standard path. Under Utah Code section 63G-2, the city must respond to your request within 10 business days. Inspecting records in person is free. Printed copies cost $0.25 per page. Large requests may involve a fee for staff time to gather the documents.

The Recorder holds election records, codified city ordinances, and board and commission minutes that go back many years. Contracts and resolutions are also part of the public record. If you are not sure which department holds the records you need, call (435) 627-4000 and staff can help direct your request to the right office.

Washington County has its own separate recorder's office. Property records, deeds, and liens are held by the Washington County Recorder, located at 87 North 200 East in St. George. For property-related documents, start with the county recorder rather than the city.

St. George Police Department Records

The St. George Police Department maintains incident reports, arrest records, and accident reports for events within city limits. The Records Division handles public requests for these documents. Submit requests in person at the Records window during business hours.

When you request a report from St. George Police, bring the incident date and the name of at least one person involved. A case number helps, but it is not always required. Fees vary based on the type and length of the report. Call (435) 627-4300 before you visit to confirm what information you need and what the current fee is. Staff at the Records Division can walk you through the process.

Arrest records from St. George Police are entered into the Utah BCI database. For a statewide criminal history check, contact Utah BCI at (801) 965-4445 rather than the local police department. The police department only maintains records from incidents their officers handled within St. George. Incidents handled by the Washington County Sheriff would require a separate request to the county.

Note: Some police records are restricted, including active investigation files and records that would identify confidential informants. The department will tell you what portions of a report can be released when they process your request.

Court Records in St. George

St. George is served by the Fifth Judicial District Court. This court handles felony criminal cases, civil lawsuits, domestic matters, and probate for Washington County. The courthouse is located in downtown St. George at 206 West Tabernacle Street.

Court records from the Fifth District can be searched through the Utah Courts XChange system. XChange covers all district courts in Utah. You can search by name or case number and see case status, docket entries, and party information. Searches cost $0.35 each. A monthly plan for $40 gives unlimited access. Free public terminals are at the courthouse for those who prefer not to use the paid online option.

For certified copies of court documents, contact the Fifth District Court Clerk at (435) 986-5700. Certified copies cost more than plain copies. Most civil and criminal records are public. Some juvenile records and files with court-ordered restrictions are not available for general public access. The clerk can confirm what is open before you visit.

Criminal Background Records

Background checks in St. George go through the Utah Bureau of Criminal Investigation. BCI is the state agency that maintains the Utah Criminal History database. A name-based check costs $15. A fingerprint-based check costs $33.25. Both are available through the BCI website or by mail. BCI can be reached at (801) 965-4445.

Fingerprint-based checks are used for employment involving children, vulnerable adults, or professional licensing. Fingerprints can be taken at participating law enforcement agencies in the St. George area. Washington County Sheriff's Office may also assist with fingerprinting for background check purposes. Contact them or check with BCI to find the nearest location offering this service in southern Utah.

BCI only covers Utah criminal history. If you need a federal check or history from another state, those go through the FBI or the relevant state's criminal history agency. For many employer-based checks, BCI is the primary source and the only one required.

St. George Records Resources

The St. George Police Department website covers the Records Division, how to submit a public records request for police reports, and contact information for the department's Records staff.

The St. George Police Records Division can process requests for incident reports, arrest records, and accident reports from events within St. George city limits.

The Utah SILVER vital records system handles birth and death certificate orders for St. George residents through the state's online ordering portal.

St. George residents can order certified copies of birth and death certificates online through SILVER without visiting a state office in Salt Lake City.

Vital Records for St. George Residents

Birth and death records for St. George residents are held by the Utah Office of Vital Records, not the city or county. Certified copies can be ordered through the state's SILVER online system. Birth certificates cost $18 each. Death certificates cost $16. Most orders ship within a few business days after the request is processed.

Marriage licenses for St. George residents are issued by the Washington County Clerk, also located in St. George. The Washington County Recorder's office at 87 North 200 East handles property deeds, liens, and land records. For older records and historical documents, the Utah State Archives is the statewide repository. The Archives can be reached at (801) 531-3847. Many older St. George and Washington County government records are accessible through the Archives.

Legal Help in St. George

St. George residents who need help with a GRAMA denial or records dispute can contact Utah Legal Services to see if they qualify for free legal assistance. The Utah State Bar lawyer referral line at (801) 531-9077 connects residents with private attorneys in southern Utah. Many attorneys in the St. George area handle government records and administrative law matters. Appeals of denied GRAMA requests can go to the chief administrative officer of the city agency and then to the State Records Committee if the denial stands.

Washington County Public Records

St. George is the county seat of Washington County. The county maintains property records, county court filings, and records from county agencies. For more on Washington County public records, visit the county page below.

View Washington County Public Records

Nearby Utah Cities

Other cities in southwestern Utah also keep public records. Select a city below to find records resources near St. George.

View Major Utah Cities