FAQ

How do I obtain a copy of an Incident/Offense or Accident Report?
The only person who can obtain a copy of a report is the person who files the report. Reports may be picked up at the Main Office or the North Substation during regular business hours, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm. Photo identification is required. Reports may be mailed to you if you send a self-addressed stamped envelope and a written request.

How can I obtain a copy of my criminal record?
A criminal history is not public record from the Shelby County Sheriff's Office. Our records are for law enforcement use only. To obtain a copy of your record, please contact the Alabama Bureau of Investigation at (334) 353-4350.

How do I obtain a copy of my driving record?
A driver's history is not public record. To obtain a copy of your record, please contact (334) 242-4400 or (205) 252-7445.

What is the cost of a pistol permit?
The cost of a pistol permit is $20.00 per year. Permits must be renewed annually. This amount is established by legislation and varies from county to county. A pistol permit may be obtained at the main office or at our North Substation.

Where can I get fingerprinted?
Fingerprinting services from the Shelby County Sheriff's Office are offered only to residents of Shelby County. The service is offered free of charge. Fingerprinting services are available at two locations:

  • The Shelby County Sheriff's Office Main Office - 380 McDow Road, Columbiana, AL 35051.
  • The Shelby County Sheriff's Office North Substation - 19220 US Highway 280, Birmingham, AL 35242. 

When is the best time to have my fingerprints taken?
To schedule a fingerprinting appointment, use the following link: https://soprints.as.me/ 

How do I file a complaint against or commend an employee of the Sheriff's Office or the agency?
A commendation or complaint may be made in person to any employee of the Sheriff's Office, by calling the Sheriff's Office at (205) 670-6000, or by completing the online Customer Satisfaction Survey on the MyShelbySO section of the website.

If I need the assistance of law enforcement, but I am unsure which number to call, is it acceptable to call 9-1-1?  
Yes.  9-1-1 operators are trained to triage calls according to priority.  Shelby County   9-1-1 operators are highly trained and will handle your call appropriately according to the call’s specific circumstances. 

If I need a deputy to respond to my home for a non-emergency related call for service, which number do I dial?
Please dial (205) 670-6000 to request a deputy to take a police report, or, to request a deputy for a non-emergency matter.  Please listen to the options on the phone tree carefully, and select the appropriate one to request a deputy for a non-emergency call for service.  

How do I contact the Records Unit at the Sheriff’s Office to see if a police or wreck report is available for pickup?
Please call us at (205) 670-6000 and choose the option to speak to someone in the Records Unit. 

How can I find the direct phone number to an Investigator at the Sheriff’s Office?
You have two options to find out how to reach someone in the Investigations Division. If you know the Investigator’s name, you can search the directory that is listed on our website (www.shelbyso.com) under the “Contact Us” tab on the left side of the home page.  If you do not know the Investigator’s name, please call (205) 670-6000 and choose the option to speak to someone in Investigations.  If possible, please have your case number ready.

What number do I call if I need information related to an inmate in the Shelby County Jail? 
Jail information including inmate listing, bonding procedures and inmate visitation is available on our website (www.shelbyso.com) under the “Jail” tab on the home page.  If this doesn’t have the information you are looking for or you have a question that wasn’t answered, please call (205) 670-6000 and choose the option to speak to someone in the Jail.  

How can I obtain information regarding my pistol permit?
Please visit our website (www.shelbyso.com) and select the “Services” tab on the home page, then select “Pistol Permits.”  You can also download the pistol permit application from the website and then mail the completed application, along with the appropriate payment to our mailing address listed.  If you need additional information, please call (205) 670-6000 and select the option to speak to someone in the Administrative Division.  

How is the Shelby County Sheriff's Office organized?
The Shelby County Sheriff's Office is led by Sheriff John Samaniego. He is assisted by his executive command staff, Chief Deputy Clay Hammac and Major Jay Fondren. The Sheriff's office is divided into the Administrative Division, Patrol Division, Jail Division, Investigations Division, and the Shelby County Drug Enforcement Task Force/Compact. Each of these major divisions is overseen by a Division Commander holding the rank of Captain. They are supported by other sworn and civilian personnel in the 24/7 operations of the Sheriff's Office. A graphical representation of the organization may be found here.