Background Checks, Report Copies & Gun Permits

Local Criminal Background Checks

Local criminal background checks are sometimes required for employment, adoptions, overseas travel, etc. A local background check is only a check of East Grand Rapids Public Safety’s records. It is not a statewide check.

We provide local background checks for East Grand Rapids residents between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Requests must be made in person with a photo ID. The charge is $20 per background check. Statewide criminal background checks are available through the Michigan State Police in Rockford, or on the Internet through ICHAT.

Report Copies

To obtain a copy of a police report, come to the Department of Public Safety. You will be required to complete a Freedom of Information Request. FOIA request form. Alternatively, you may submit your request for records via email to dispatch@eastgrmi.gov. Be sure to include as much detail as possible in your request, such as the date, location, and nature of the incident, to facilitate the search process. Once your request is received, it may take a few days for the department to process and retrieve the records. If approved, you will be notified when the report is ready for pick-up or receive it via email if requested. Please keep in mind that some information may be redacted for privacy reasons, in accordance with legal guidelines. If you have any questions or need assistance, the friendly staff at the Department of Public Safety will be happy to help.

Gun Permits

Firearm purchase licenses are available at the Department of Public Safety from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday. There is no fee for obtaining a purchase permit; however, a valid ID is required. If you are not a resident of East Grand Rapids, we will coordinate with your local jurisdiction to verify any recent contacts, which may take a few days. Rest assured, we will process your application as efficiently as possible. Please note that all applicants must undergo a background check as part of the licensing process. This ensures the safety and well-being of our community. Once your application is approved, you will receive a notification detailing the next steps. We appreciate your cooperation and patience.

Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) application packets can be obtained from the Kent County Sheriff’s Department located at 701 Ball Ave NE. For further inquiries, please contact them at 616-632-6200.