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Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find information that might help you understand how to find things or learn about information you might need to know about your city or town.

Assessor

6

  • The Assessor's main function is to appraise and place a value and classification upon all property within the county. Equalization of value is the most important aspect of the assessment function.
    Assessor

  • The law specifically requires that assessors view each parcel of real estate to appraise its market value. Property values change continuously with changing market conditions. In addition to market changes, numerous physical changes affect the value of land and buildings. Such changes may include draining and clearing the land, improving the adjacent public streets and installing utilities, and adding to or remodeling buildings.

    All factors are considered in estimating the value of property. This requires physical inspection of all property subject to assessment.

    The Assessor also determines the classification, or use, of each parcel. For instance, property may be residential homestead (owner-occupied), residential non-homestead, agricultural, commercial, etc. Each classification is taxed at a different percentage of taxable market value.
    Assessor

  • Under state law, properties are to be viewed at least once every 5 years. Values can be changed on an annual basis (based upon changing market conditions); however, an inspection and appraisal review should be conducted every 5th year. In addition, all new construction or alterations are viewed in the current year.
    Assessor

  • The Minnesota property tax system is based upon the Ad Valorem system. Ad Valorem utilizes the premise that taxation should be based upon value. Well maintained property will be commanding more value from buyers, and hence will experience a higher value than properties that are not maintained.

    Assessor

  • Annual Homestead Applications are no longer required. The 1993 Homestead Application serves as our base homestead application year, and changes in ownership and changes in occupancy would require a new Homestead Application.
    Assessor

  • Yes. The owner / occupant must also apply, and meet the requirements.
    Assessor

Sheriff > Administration

6

  • To obtain a copy of a police report, Email the Records Division or call (218) 299-5151.

    Sheriff > Administration

  • Please Click Here to visit Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services for more information.

    Sheriff > Administration

    • Vehicles are only released to the registered owner.
    • All vehicles must have proper registration prior to release.
    • Vehicles are released during regular business hours Monday through Friday.
    • Impound fees include a $20 administrative cost, wrecker expense, and any storage.
    • Storage is $10 per day, not counting the day of impound nor the day of release.
    • Impound fees must be paid in cash, money order, or certified check unless pre-approved by an administrative supervisor.
    Sheriff > Administration

  • We need a release of information statement from the owner or driver of the vehicle, or anyone else involved in the accident. There is a fee for the copy. If the person involved in the accident is under 18 years of age, the parent or guardian may receive, or authorize release of the accident report. Release forms are available at the Sheriff’s Office.
    Sheriff > Administration

  • We are in the Law Enforcement Center at 911 11th Street North, Moorhead, MN. Our building is located directly north of the Clay County Courthouse. After entering the Law Enforcement Center, ask for the Sheriff‘s Office at the front counter. You will be directed to the Administrative Office.

    Sheriff > Administration

  • Fingerprinting is available to the public by appointment at the Clay County Correctional Facility: 800 9th St N, Moorhead, MN 56560.

    To make an appointment Click Here

    If you have questions call 218-299-7267 or email anna.buss@claycountymn.gov

    Sheriff > Administration

Attorney > Vehicle Insurance

1

  • View the Proof of Insurance webpage for full details.
    Attorney > Vehicle Insurance

Correctional Facility

7

  • Log in to an account at www.reliancetelephone.com to register.

    Correctional Facility

  • Visit www.reliancetelephone.com.

    Correctional Facility

  • Visit www.team3.inmatecanteen.com or visit the Correctional Facility to drop off money in the Public Lobby Kiosk.

    Correctional Facility

  • Visitation is offered Monday through Friday, starting at 8:00 a.m.  The last visit begins at 8:30 p.m.  Each visit is 20 minutes in length.

    Correctional Facility

  • Call the inmate message line at 218-303-1674 .

    Correctional Facility

  • Fingerprinting is available to the public by appointment at the Clay County Correctional Facility: 800 9th St N, Moorhead, MN 56560.

    To make an appointment Click Here

    If you have questions call 218-299-7267 or email anna.buss@claycountymn.gov

    Correctional Facility

  • The Correctional Facility is located at 800 9th St. N,, Moorhead, Minnesota.  Report to door number 1, located on the north entrance of the building. A phone is available inside the lobby to notify jail staff you are reporting.

    Correctional Facility

Auditor > Elections / Voting

5

  • You must complete a voter registration card and return it to the Auditor's Office no later than 20 days before the next election. These voter registration cards are available in the Auditor's Office, with your driver's license application, in your state income tax booklet, or in most state offices.

    The questions are simple, such as: name, address, birthday, and last address where you were registered.

    For additional information, view the Voter Registration and Information webpage.

    Auditor > Elections / Voting

  • No. Your registration is permanent unless you move, change your name or fail to vote for the last 4 years. If you move or change your name you must complete a new voter registration card, so we can update our records. This is true even if you just move to a new apartment in the same building.

    All voters who have not voted in the last 4 years are purged from our files, so then you would need to re-register, as well.

    Auditor > Elections / Voting

  • You must be 18 years old by election day, a citizen of the United States and have resided in Minnesota for at least 20 days before the election.

    Auditor > Elections / Voting

  • Yes. You can register at the polls on election day. However, you do need proof of residence for an election day registration. View the Election Day Voter Registration webpage for more details.

    Auditor > Elections / Voting

  • Polling places are listed on the card you received from the Secretary of State verifying your address when you registered. If that polling place is changed for any reason, you will receive a new card. If you cannot locate this card or if you have any other questions regarding elections, call the Auditor's Office at 218-299-5006.

    For more information, view the Polling Places webpage.

    Auditor > Elections / Voting

Environmental Health

5

  • The 2 tests that have the most health significance are coliform bacteria, an indicator of bacterial pollution, and nitrate nitrogen, an indicator of a failing septic system, fertilizers or natural occurrence.  If you have questions, call 218-846-1465.

    Environmental Health

  • The lab can only tell the consumer their water is safe to drink based on the results of the test provided; this does not guarantee that something else isn't in the water.

    Environmental Health

  • When water smells like rotten eggs it usually means hydrogen sulfide is in the water supply. This can be eliminated by chlorinating the well and the distribution system.
    Environmental Health

  • The county ordinance requires that the on-site septic system be inspected and certified by the county upon transfer of ownership. It is the responsibility of the selling party to submit a request for a compliance inspection. The cost of updating a system can be a bargaining tool for the seller and buyer. It is important to have the system looked at before any papers are signed.
    Environmental Health

  • The Clay County Sewer Ordinance requires that, upon transfer of ownership, the on-site sewer be inspected and certified by the county. If the system does not meet code, it will need to be updated.
    Environmental Health

Treasurer

9

  • You can pay taxes online or via conventional options.

    Treasurer

  • Real Estate and Personal Property Tax statements and Manufactured Home tax statements are mailed once a year. The mailing deadline for Real Estate and Personal Property tax statements is March 31st. The mailing deadline for Manufactured Home tax statements is July 15th.
    Treasurer

  • See Real Estate and Personal Property Tax or Manufactured Home Tax for related information.
    Treasurer

  • Taxes unpaid through December 31st will be considered delinquent on January 2nd and interest will accrue on a monthly basis. If the delinquent taxes are not paid by the 2nd Monday in May, the forfeiture process will begin with a court judgment being entered against the property for the unpaid tax, penalty, interest, and costs.
    Treasurer

  • Yes. The maximum amount of a single online tax payment is $99,999.00.
    Treasurer

    • Visit the Minnesota Department of Revenue website
    • Order forms by phone at 800-657-3676, day or night.
    • Order forms by mail:
      Minnesota Tax Forms
      Mail Station 1421
      St. Paul, MN 55146-1421
    • Pick up forms at public libraries.
    • You will need your current year tax statement in order to file. The statements are mailed out in late March.
    Treasurer

  • In the late 1970s there was a program referred to as the Senior Citizens Tax Freeze. That program was changed and expanded to include home owners and renters and is called the Property Tax Refund Program.
    Treasurer

  • No. A deed signed by the owner is required to change ownership.
    Treasurer

  • Contact the Clay County Treasurer's Office with tax questions you may have. The Clay County Assessor's Office can help with classification or valuation questions.
    Treasurer

Sheriff > Civil Process

6

  • The most common service is the Summons and Complaint. These are usually the beginning of a civil suit involving 1 party suing another for unpaid services provided to the Defendant.
    Sheriff > Civil Process

  • Yes. View other Civil Process responsibilities and fees.
    Sheriff > Civil Process

  • We provide a Certificate of Service for all civil papers served. The serving deputy may be issued a subpoena to testify in court as to the service. We also have a wide variety of resources available to assist us in locating individuals for service.
    Sheriff > Civil Process

  • Yes. There is a service fee, unless a court order is being served. The fees for service are $35 plus mileage. Mileage costs start at $7.17 and increase based upon distance from the Clay County Courthouse.
    Sheriff > Civil Process

  • The first step: the landlord (plaintiff) must present the tenant (defendant) with a written notice stating the reasons for the notice and a time period within which the tenant must reply or act.

    The second step: apply for an Eviction Summons and an Eviction Complaint. This process is the first step in a legal action against the tenant. The Summons portion of the matter is the court date when both parties must appear to present their case for the judge. The Eviction Complaint states the specifics of the action, i.e., non-payment of rent, lease violations, criminal activity, etc. Once hearing both sides, the judge will make a ruling.

    The third step: with the ruling for the tenant, the tenant will stay. If the ruling is for the landlord, a Writ of Recovery will be issued. The plaintiff presents the Writ of Recovery to the Sheriff’s Office for service. Once the Writ has been served or posted upon the premises, the tenant has 24 hours to remove their belongings and leave the premises. The Sheriff’s Office will remove a tenant at this point if they do not comply.
    Sheriff > Civil Process

  • The Civil Process conducts mortgage foreclosure sales, redemption of properties, collection of judgments via Writ of Execution or as a result of legal action, as well as assisting other divisions of the Sheriff’s Office with day to day operations.
    Sheriff > Civil Process

Sheriff > Warrants & Transport

2

  • Yes, your bail may be posted at any county, but a court date must be set for your appearance, by Clay County, for an appearance in Clay County.
    Sheriff > Warrants & Transport

  • The court assesses a $50 warrant fee when the warrant is issued.
    Sheriff > Warrants & Transport

West Central Regional Juvenile Center

5

  • Young people between the ages of 10 and 19  years who have committed a crime which is punishable in the adult system as well as youth who have been sentenced by the Courts. Youth on Extended Juvenile Jurisdiction (EJJ) may remain in the facility until their 21st birthday.

    West Central Regional Juvenile Center

  • Young people ages 11 and 18 who need emergency care, consequences, or a 30-day evaluation.

    West Central Regional Juvenile Center

  • The facility maintains a highly structured and comprehensive schedule. While at the facility, youth attend onsite school, physical education, various group programming, counseling sessions, and other programmed activities. Staff work closely with youth to teach pro-social behaviors and to provide insight into how their thinking controls their behavior.

    West Central Regional Juvenile Center

  • The overall average stay is about 16 days. However, However, a variety of factors determine the youth's overall stay including offense, prior history, Court involvement, family involvement, and community safety. 

    West Central Regional Juvenile Center

  • Only parents, immediate family, court personnel, and attorneys can visit. There are certain visitation hours to follow. Calls can be made to or received from the above listed people on a limited basis. Mail is acceptable anytime.
    West Central Regional Juvenile Center

Veterans Services

4

  • Your entitlement to a VA guaranteed home loan can be restored if you sell the home you previously bought and pay the VA loan in full, allow a veteran to assume your home loan and substitute his or her entitlement for yours, or if you pay your VA loan in full and exercise your 1 time option to have your entitlement restored, even though you still own the home.
    Veterans Services

  • Yes. These homes are available for resale to both veterans and non-veterans.
    Veterans Services

  • No. The amount of entitlement relates only to the amount the VA will guarantee the lender against loss.
    Veterans Services

  • A VA guaranteed loan cannot be used to buy undeveloped land unless it is part of a package that includes the building of your home.
    Veterans Services

Planning & Zoning

7

  • Any construction in rural Clay County requires a building (zoning) permit. Including:

    • Additions
    • Garages
    • Outbuildings
    • Sheds


    A permit must be issued before any construction can begin. A Building Permit Application can be printed at home or picked up at the:

    The Planning Office

    3510 12th Avenue South

    Moorhead, MN 56560


    After an applicant or contractor completes an application, it must be presented to the township for their approval. Some township officers will just sign them independently, but some townships require the applicant to come to a township meeting. After that, the application must be returned to the Planning Office, with payment, to receive final approval.

    Planning & Zoning

  • No. The building permits for the cities within Clay County are issued through the city halls.
    Planning & Zoning

  • After a completed building permit application is returned to the Planning Office with a township signature and payment, an applicant should allow 7-10 days for the permit to be processed.
    Planning & Zoning

  • There is a base fee of $25, plus $1 per $1,000 of the value of the structure / addition.

    For example, the fee for a $200,000 house would be $225.
    Planning & Zoning

  • Learn more about Clay County zoning here.
    Planning & Zoning

  • The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are available on the Clay County website. The Planning and Zoning staff can assist with looking up flood zones for specific parcels on the maps, they can be reached by telephone at 218-299-5005 or by email.

    Planning & Zoning

  • Use the "Find My Fire District Tool" to identify your Fire District and obtain contact information.
    Planning & Zoning

Public Health > Seasonal Flu

6

  • The following are symptoms of the flu:
    • Extreme fatigue and tiredness
    • Fever 100° F to 104° Fahrenheit
    • Severe headache
    • Sometimes a dry cough, runny nose and sneezing
    • Sore throat
    • Sudden onset of severe muscle aches
    They may experience vomiting and diarrhea along with symptoms mentioned above.
    Public Health > Seasonal Flu

    • Extreme fatigue and tiredness
    • Fever 100° F to 104° F
    • Severe headache
    • Sometimes a dry cough, runny nose and sneezing
    • Sore throat
    • Sudden onset of severe muscle aches
    Public Health > Seasonal Flu

    • Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
    • Bluish or gray skin color
    • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
    • Fever with a rash
    • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and have a worse cough
    • Not drinking enough fluids
    • Not waking up or not interacting
    Public Health > Seasonal Flu

    • Confusion
    • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
    • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
    • Severe or persistent vomiting
    • Sudden dizziness
    Public Health > Seasonal Flu

    • Avoid public gatherings.
    • Call your healthcare provider.
    • Drink plenty of clear fluids.
    • Limit your contact with other people as much as possible.
    • Stay home from work or school until your fever has ended and you are able to do daily activities.
    • Stay home while you have a fever (prepare to be at home for 7-10 days).
    • Use over the counter medications (no aspirin).
    Public Health > Seasonal Flu

  • It is important to get your seasonal flu shot when the vaccine is available. Clay County Public Health offers influenza vaccinations at the Family Service Center. It is located at 715 11th Street N. Moorhead, MN 56560 Please call for an appointment at 218-299-7777. The cost is $56. If you have Medicare and Minnesota Medical Assistance, claims can be filed to insurance. Insurance cards are required.

    Public Health > Seasonal Flu

Human Resources

7

  • The Human Resources Department is open from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday.
    Human Resources

  • Job openings appear in the Wednesday and Sunday editions of the Fargo Forum and are posted on the Clay County website.

    You can call our office at 218-299-5002 for more information.
    Human Resources

  • The Currently Open Positions with Clay County are available online.
    Human Resources

  • Visit our Employment page and click the Notify Me Icon in the Job Alert section.
    Human Resources

  • Applications must be submitted between the opening and closing date for the posted position.
    Human Resources

  • No. An application needs to be filled out for each position.
    Human Resources

  • No. A resume can be attached to the online application form.
    Human Resources

Probation

6

  • We provide probation and supervised release supervision for adult misdemeanor / gross misdemeanor and all juvenile offenders in Clay County. Evidence-based best practices are incorporated in providing this supervision, including assessment, motivational interviewing, case planning and management.

    Our goal is to ensure public safety by providing this community based service.

    This agency works closely with the Restorative Justice program in Clay County in an effort to repair the harm done to the victims of crime.
    Probation

  • Probation is a court disposition that allows a juvenile or adult to remain within the community under the supervision of a probation officer when adjudicated or found guilty of a criminal act.

    Supervised release is supervision in the community after a juvenile or adult is released from a commitment to the Commissioner of Corrections and is returning to the community from a state correctional facility.
    Probation

  • Please view our Community Service Work page for more information.
    Probation

  • Clay County Probation uses a portion of the adult supervision fees collected in the county for the Juvenile Offender Restitution Program.


    These monies are used to repay a crime victim that has documented a personal financial loss. If a juvenile does not have the ability to repay the victim they can be assigned to this program and complete community work service hours.


    These hours are computed at $10 per hour and a check is sent to the victim by Court Administration.

    Probation

  • Clay County has both a Drug Court and a Domestic Violence Court. The agents in our office provide supervision and case management to the offenders involved in these specialty courts.
    Probation

  • Read more about out of home placement on our website.
    Probation

Highway

7

  • The landowner must contact the Highway Department and they will view the ditch, and make an engineering survey if necessary. The Highway Department will stake the project, if necessary, and the landowner will remove the silt at their expense.
    Highway

  • Yes. Any request for an access connection (new, changed, modified, altered, re-constructed, etc.) onto a county highway or public right-of-way, which includes any field entrance, driveway or public / private roadway, requires a permit. This includes any type of access such as permanent, temporary or field opening.

    See the Clay County Access Management Policy section of the county Highway Department's website for details and a permit application.
    Highway

  • Contact the Highway Department by calling 218-299-5099 and they will investigate and issue a moving permit if the department feels the highway will not be damaged.
    Highway

  • Mailbox posts can be purchased from the Highway Department, but must be installed by the mailbox owner. The cost is currently $124. Mounting instructions and an assembly sheet is provided with each mailbox post.


    Please see the Clay County Mailbox Placement and Maintenance Policy for detailed information regarding mailboxes.

    Highway

  • Before any work is done on any utilities within a Clay County right-of-way, the persons involved must call the Highway Department to get a utility permit. The permit details location and the work to be done. This permit is reviewed by the County Engineer and recommendations are provided for the completion of the work.

    Anytime there is to be any digging, a call must be made to Gopher 1 State Call. Gopher 1 is responsible for utility locates and can be reached at 800-252-1166.
    Highway

  • For detailed information, see speed limits in Minnesota on the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) website.
    Highway

  • For detailed information, videos and a brochure, see roundabouts in Minnesota on the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) website.
    Highway

Public Health > Medical Reserve Corps

9

  • The Clay County Medical Reserve Corps is a countywide resource for health care professionals and other volunteers. The Medical Reserve Corps is part of the Citizens Corps, a national initiative to mobilize and coordinate volunteers so communities across America can better respond to disasters. The Clay County Medical Reserve Corps is coordinated by staff in the Clay County Public Health Department.
    Public Health > Medical Reserve Corps

  • The majority of our Clay County communities have some volunteer emergency responders. This may not be enough. We need to be prepared for anything. We don’t know what type of disaster/emergency we may be faced with. The more trained volunteers we have the greater our chances for survival. A quote from the U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona: "Prepared communities make stronger communities".
    Public Health > Medical Reserve Corps

  • The Clay County Medical Reserve Corps is currently enrolling only citizens of Clay County. If you are a resident of North Dakota, please contact your local public health agency. If you are a resident of Pope, Stevens / Traverse / Grant, Wilkin, Ottertail, and Douglas counties, please contact your county public health department and ask about the West Central Region Medical Reserve Corps.
    Public Health > Medical Reserve Corps

  • Many roles in the Medical Reserve Corps do not require a license. Your training and experience will still be a valuable asset to an emergency response. All Medical Reserve Corps volunteers will learn about the range of positions available during orientation.
    Public Health > Medical Reserve Corps

  • Clay County’s Medical Reserve Corps is recruiting health care professionals such as:
    • Dentists
    • EMTs/Paramedics
    • Health Professional Students
    • Medical assistants and technicians
    • Mental Health Professionals (Psychologists, LSWs, Counselors)
    • Nurses / Parish Nurses / Advanced Practice Nurses
    • Pharmacists
    • Physicians
    • Respiratory, Occupational or Physical Therapists
    • Veterinarians
    We also need non-licensed volunteers in the event of a public health emergency whom are willing to work with a variety of people with various skills to better their community.
    Public Health > Medical Reserve Corps

  • All healthcare professionals are requested to fill out an application with Minnesota Responds at http://www.health.state.mn.us/minnesotaresponds. MN Responds is the state data base for volunteers. Medical Reserve Corps county coordinators have access to the data base for their area only. This is a secured website. If you do not have access to the internet to complete an application, contact the Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator and an application will be mail you.
    Public Health > Medical Reserve Corps

  • The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has developed Minnesota Responds!, a volunteer registry of people who are willing to volunteer during a community emergency. Names of the registrants will be made available to the Clay County Medical Reserve Corps during an emergency. Enrollment in the Clay County Medical Reserve Corps ensures that your information will be available to your local health department and that you will be credentialed and trained before being called upon to respond to an emergency.
    Public Health > Medical Reserve Corps

  • In the event of an emergency, a wide range of skills and abilities could be needed. The Clay County Medical Reserve Corps is looking for licensed healthcare professionals and non-licensed people who enjoy working with others to make a difference in the health of the public. Some jobs will require people who have computer skills, clerical skills, foreign language skills, data entry skills or handy person skills. Other jobs will require licensed medical professionals such as nurses, physicians, pharmacists, dentists, nurse practitioners and physician's assistants. The main qualification is the willingness to help. All volunteers will learn about the range of positions available during orientation.
    Public Health > Medical Reserve Corps

  • The location of the site will vary depending on the emergency. The purpose is to volunteer for Clay County. Additionally, there could be an opportunity to volunteer in the West Central Region in Minnesota if you choose. Because Medical Reserve Corps is a national organization, you may have opportunities outside of your local area if you so choose.
    Public Health > Medical Reserve Corps

Highway > Access Management Policy & Ordinance 2012-04 Implementation

12

  • Yes, in December of 2012 the Clay County Board of Commissioners adopted a comprehensive Access Management Ordinance (2012-04), which effectively amended and repealed certain sections of the county Development Code.
    Highway > Access Management Policy & Ordinance 2012-04 Implementation

  • Prior to adoption of Ordinance 2012-04, the county Development Code only included a few nondescript regulations pertaining to access management. The “development” definition per the code was not all inclusive and in certain circumstances the county would have no oversight or approval authority on access connections.

    Ordinance 2012-04 addressed these issues and appropriately provides the county Highway Department with the proper standards and procedures for access permitting.
    Highway > Access Management Policy & Ordinance 2012-04 Implementation

  • Yes. Any request for an access connection (new, changed, modified, altered, re-constructed, etc.) onto a county highway or public right-of-way, which includes any field entrance, driveway or public / private roadway, requires a permit. This includes any type of access such as permanent, temporary or field opening.
    Highway > Access Management Policy & Ordinance 2012-04 Implementation

  • The access permit fee shall be $100, which includes all necessary inspections. Normal maintenance and repair can be completed without a permit.
    Highway > Access Management Policy & Ordinance 2012-04 Implementation

  • Yes. As acknowledged by the Clay County Policy Statement adopted by the County Board on November 20, 2012 the county may provide the necessary culvert(s) for access onto a highway for an abutting landowner, upon issuance of an access permit. For additional information, see the Clay County Drainage Structure Policy.
    Highway > Access Management Policy & Ordinance 2012-04 Implementation

  • Yes. Consistent with the ordinance, a final inspection is required and the request must be submitted in writing to the county Highway Department.
    Highway > Access Management Policy & Ordinance 2012-04 Implementation

  • Once you submit an access permit, the county has 3 working days to determine whether the application is complete. Following acceptance of a complete application a final decision needs to be rendered within 30 days.
    Highway > Access Management Policy & Ordinance 2012-04 Implementation

  • Access permits are valid for 2 years. If construction has not been completed within this time frame and an extension has not been granted per ordinance requirements, the permit shall become null and void.
    Highway > Access Management Policy & Ordinance 2012-04 Implementation

  • Yes. Section 8.3.6(G)(2) defines the minimum standards for roadways and driveways and requirements for full and limited access connections. Spacing standards vary based on the roadways functional classification, the posted speed limit and whether the access will be full movement or limited.
    Highway > Access Management Policy & Ordinance 2012-04 Implementation

  • There is an appeal process established within Ordinance 2012-04. An applicant has 10 days to appeal the decision, which must be done in writing. Appeals are handled by the county Board of Adjustment pursuant to Section 8.4.4 of the County Code and Minnesota Statute Section 394.27.
    Highway > Access Management Policy & Ordinance 2012-04 Implementation

  • View a full copy of the Access Management Policy.
    Highway > Access Management Policy & Ordinance 2012-04 Implementation

  • Any questions regarding the permitting process or specific questions relating to the issuance of an access permit can be directed to the Clay County Highway Department by calling 218-299-5099.
    Highway > Access Management Policy & Ordinance 2012-04 Implementation

Recorder

9

  • View the Marriage License webpage for information.

    Recorder

  • Clay County can issue Certified Birth Certificates for people born in Minnesota to an authorized requestor.  Birth records prior to 1932 may require additional processing times.  Identification, such as a government issued photo ID, is required to obtain a certified birth certificate.

    Check Vital Records Services at the U.S. Department of State for information on where to call or write for vital records in other states.

    Recorder

  • To obtain copies of divorce records please contact the Clay County Court Administrator's Office at 218-227-7040.

    Recorder

  • To determine if a piece of property is abstract or torrens, search the parcel on the Clay County GIS Map and the property type will display

    Recorder

  • The records in the Clay County Recorder's Office can be viewed in person at:

    3510 12th Ave S
    Moorhead, MN 56560

    Hours:
    Monday - Friday
    8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

    Records are available to search online at www.landrecords.net for a fee.

    If you have a document number and need a copy mailed or e-mailed, the Clay County Recorder’s Office will be happy to help you at the time of payment.  

    Recording is the 1st priority. If a request is mailed or e-mailed, we will do limited research at no charge as we have time available. There is a charge for copies. Requests are processed in the order they are received. If you need research done quickly, contact an abstractor, attorney, title company or some other type of researcher to help you.

    Recorder

  • Clay County does not sell any legal real estate forms. 

    The Minnesota Department of Commerce provides free public access to forms as a convenience for the public.  Our staff is prohibited from providing legal advice, including which form you need for your situation for how to fill in a form.  If you have questions regarding these forms, we strongly recommend you speak with an attorney.

    Minnesota Department of Commerce

    Recorder

  • The Clay County Recorder’s Office does not provide notary service. To find a notary public you can check with your personal banker.

    Recorder

  • The Recorder's Office does not have a license to practice law, so you will need to contact your own attorney for legal advise and for help completing forms.

    Recorder

  • Foreclosures are not filed with the courts in Minnesota like they are in North Dakota. We do not automatically have a list of pending foreclosures.

    To view upcoming sales, view the Sheriff’s Office Calendar

    Recorder

Recorder > Torrens Title

4

  • The Torrens system was developed by Sir Robert Richard Torrens (1814-1884), an Australian customs officer and reformer of Australian land laws. He subsequently became a Registrar of Deeds. Sir Robert Torrens was looking for 5 qualities:
    Low Cost
    Reliability
    Simplicity
    Speed
    Suitability
    Recorder > Torrens Title

  • It is a system for registration of land under which, upon the landowner’s application, the court may, after appropriate proceedings, direct the issuance of a certificate of title.

    With the abstract system an abstract is evidence of title.

    In the Torrens system the certificate of title is the title.
    Recorder > Torrens Title

  • The Torrens system was originally a ship registry system whereby each ship owner was assigned a certificate that included various information. When a vessel was sold, the seller surrendered the certificate for cancellation and a new certificate was given to the new owner.
    Recorder > Torrens Title

  • The purpose of the system is to simplify the transfer of real estate.

    The County Recorder directs the office of the Registrar of Titles.

    District Court, however, controls the registration of the land and directs the Registrar of Titles.

    An Examiner of Titles is the legal advisor to the Registrar of Titles and is appointed by the District Court.
    Recorder > Torrens Title

Extension > Horticulture

2

  • A good rule of thumb is shrubs that bloom in late spring (old wood) should be pruned right after flowering. Shrubs that bloom on the current season’s growth (new wood) should be pruned in late winter or early spring before growth begins. Pruning should be avoided in fall because pruning wounds will remain open over winter which could cause drying and dieback at the pruning site. As with any good rule of thumb there are always exceptions; to learn more please view the pruning trees and shrubs.
    Extension > Horticulture

  • Smooth hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens) can be pruned to the first set of buds above ground. Panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata) can also be pruned in spring to retain form, generally by removing lateral branches.
    Extension > Horticulture

Geographic Information System (GIS)

4

  • In the strictest sense, a Geographic Information System (GIS) is a system capable of assembling, storing, manipulating, and displaying geographically referenced information, i.e. data identified according to their locations.
    Geographic Information System (GIS)

  • View the Geographic Information System webpage for information.
    Geographic Information System (GIS)

  • View the maps online webpage.
    Geographic Information System (GIS)

  • All data is in Clay County coordinates of feet.
    Geographic Information System (GIS)

Social Services > Child Support

6

  • If there is no court order in place at the time of application for services, it could take several months or more to establish an order. Many factors affect the length of time it takes to establish an order including, but not limited to: is paternity an issue, does one party reside in a different state/country, do we have financial information, can we locate the other parent, etc.
    Social Services > Child Support

  • Yes, you can represent yourself by using forms created by the courts to file motions for many different types of actions. Some actions, like custody or parenting time, must be heard in the District Court. Most child support issues are heard in the Expedited Process.
    Social Services > Child Support

  • Clay County contracts with the Father’s Resource Program through Mahube-Otwa Community Action Partnership to assist clients with completing Pro Se forms for various court actions such as modifying their child support order, establishing custody, or establishing parenting time. Call 218-632-3600 or 218-530-1474 or email lnesland@mahube.org for more information. 

    Father's Resource Program (PDF)

    Social Services > Child Support

  • Call your child support worker to have your PIN mailed to you if you don’t have it. The local child support office does not provide payment information or printouts as it is available by phone at 1-800-657-3512 or online at
    Social Services > Child Support

  • Generally the state child support office does not mail out checks (unless it is a refund to the payor of child support). There are two options for parents to choose from to receive their child support payments. They are:
    • a ReliaCard which is a debit card offered by U.S. Bank. This card can only be used for child support.
    • direct deposit into a checking or savings account.
    Social Services > Child Support

  • You will need to contact the Court Administrator’s Office in the county where your order was entered. The child support office does not provide copies of court orders.
    Social Services > Child Support

Social Services > Financial Assistance

9

  • Yes. mnbenefits.mn.gov is Minnesota’s secure, online system you can use to apply for cash assistance, SNAP (food support), emergency help, and childcare assistance programs. To apply for health care coverage please visit mnsure.org.

    Social Services > Financial Assistance

  • Inquire via mnsure.org. If you need assistance in applying for health care, you may contact a MNsure navigator to set up an appointment or you can contact your county office for more information. If you are 65 or over, certified disabled through Social Security Administration, or are receiving Medicare, please contact your county office for the appropriate application.

    Social Services > Financial Assistance

  • SNAP can help you get the food you need for sound nutrition and well‐balanced meals. The program issues electronic benefits that can help stretch your food budget. SNAP is not intended to meet all your food budget needs.

    Social Services > Financial Assistance

  • GA helps Minnesotans with little or no income meet their basic needs. It offers a small monthly cash grant to people with serious illnesses, disabilities, or other issues that limit their ability to work. GA is "interim aid" to help while other sources of income are put in place.

    Social Services > Financial Assistance

  • MFIP is Minnesota’s program that assists low‐income families with children to economic stability through work. The MFIP grant includes a cash grant, food assistance, and employment services. Parents must meet work rules immediately or their MFIP grant will be reduced.

    Social Services > Financial Assistance

  • Please call 1‐888‐997‐2227 for a replacement EBT card to be mailed to you.

    Social Services > Financial Assistance

  • Please contact our office at 218-299-5200.  You can also submit an application through mnbenefits.mn.gov.

     

    Social Services > Financial Assistance

  • Please call our office at 218‐299-5200

    Social Services > Financial Assistance

  • Please visit https://www.childcareawaremn.org/  for the most up to date list.

    Social Services > Financial Assistance

Social Services > Welfare Fraud & Collections

1

  • All payments must include your case number and/or social security number to ensure payment is applied to the correct case. Clay County Collections has several options to accept payment. We accept cash, checks, money orders, or credit/debit cards. 

    • Mail - You can mail your payment to Clay County Collections Division, 715 11th ST N Suite 102, Moorhead MN 56560.
    • In Person - You can bring your payment (cash, check, money order, or credit/debit card) to our agency for a receipt.
    • Phone - You can make a credit/debit card payment by phone by calling 844-272-9468 and using the Entity Code of 100866.
    • Online - You can pay online by going to https://www.paylocalgov.com/ClayCounty-SocialServices/   

    *A percentage of the payment amount is charged for using this service. Credit and debit cards will be charged 1.95% of the payment amount. Personal Visa debit cards have a flat rate of $1.95. The minimum fee for all payment methods is $1.95

    Social Services > Welfare Fraud & Collections

Environmental Health > Lodging

7

  • Yes it is. Anytime you offer lodging to more than 1 person, a license is necessary.
    Environmental Health > Lodging

  • A Bed and Breakfast is only allowed to serve breakfast, unless there is a commercial kitchen and zoning approval.
    Environmental Health > Lodging

  • If your resort is going to be offering lodging for 5 or more, a license is needed. If it's going to offer for less than 5, no license is needed. Make sure local zoning rules allow you to have this sort of business before doing so. Local laws may be more restrictive than state rules or statutes.
    Environmental Health > Lodging

  • A Board and Lodge with Special Services might meet your needs. These types of facilities can provide help with making medical appointments, special diets, monitoring and reminding resident to take their medications, help with dressing and so on.
    Environmental Health > Lodging

  • The license isn't transferable; you'll have to get your own. However, if it has been licensed in the year that you buy it, you only have to pay half of the required fees.
    Environmental Health > Lodging

  • The cost depends on the number of bedrooms you offer. Each licensee pays a base fee along with an amount per lodging room. If you offer a swimming pool, spa pool, food, beverages or have a public water supply or septic system there is an extra charge.
    Environmental Health > Lodging

  • View the Plan Review link below and fill out an application for plan review. Follow the directions for developing your plans, getting zoning approvals and so on. Once the plans have been submitted, approved and returned, construction may begin. Contact your sanitarian for a final inspection and pay the required annual license fee.
    Environmental Health > Lodging

Clay County

  1. PO Box 280

  1. Moorhead, MN 56560

  1. Phone: 218-299-5012

  1. Directory

  1. Get Directions

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