Vital Records & Certificates in Belle Fourche, South DakotaButte County Clerk of Courts

Belle Fourche residents often need vital records for enhanced driver’s licenses required for border crossings to Canada, passport applications for family trips to nearby national parks, school enrollment, and veterans benefits processing. As a ranching community, property transfers and estate planning also frequently require certified death certificates and marriage documentation.

As Butte County’s seat, Belle Fourche houses the Clerk of Courts office at 839 5th Avenue where residents obtain birth certificates for children born locally at Monument Health Belle Fourche Hospital or those delivered at regional medical facilities. The courthouse, a prominent landmark on Fifth Avenue, maintains meticulous records essential for residents applying for enhanced driver’s licenses for border crossings into Canada or Mexico. Local families often need these documents when registering children for Belle Fourche School District programs or when applying for youth hunting licenses through South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks. The clerk’s office processes requests efficiently, understanding the rural nature of the community where some residents travel considerable distances to reach the courthouse.

Couples planning weddings at scenic venues like the Belle Fourche Country Club or outdoor ceremonies at the Orman Dam Recreation Area obtain licenses through the Butte County Clerk of Courts. The historic courthouse on Fifth Avenue serves couples from across western South Dakota who choose Belle Fourche for its beautiful river valley setting. South Dakota requires no waiting period, making it attractive for couples seeking immediate ceremonies. Many choose the Center of the Nation Monument area for unique photographs, celebrating their union at America’s geographic heart.

Death certificates for Belle Fourche residents are issued by the Butte County Clerk of Courts at the Fifth Avenue courthouse. Families working with local funeral directors like Leverington Funeral Home require multiple certified copies for insurance settlements, Social Security notifications, and veterans benefits claims common in this military-supporting community. The clerk maintains comprehensive records for all county residents, whether death occurred at Monument Health Belle Fourche Hospital or other regional facilities.

Divorce records for Belle Fourche area residents are maintained by the Butte County Clerk of Courts in the courthouse on Fifth Avenue. Certified copies are needed for remarriage applications, property transfers, and updating records with local banks and credit unions. The clerk’s office provides both informational and certified copies depending on the intended use, with many residents requiring documentation for Social Security name changes or child custody modifications.

The Butte County Clerk of Courts operates from 839 5th Avenue in downtown Belle Fourche, open Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The courthouse is easily located on Fifth Avenue near the intersection with State Street, with free street parking available throughout downtown. The office accepts cash, checks, and money orders for all certificate requests. Given Belle Fourche’s role as regional center, residents from rural areas often combine certificate requests with other courthouse business. Mail-in requests are accepted for those unable to visit in person.

The Butte County Courthouse is located at 839 5th Avenue in downtown Belle Fourche, easily accessible from Highway 85 and Highway 34. Free parking available on surrounding streets.