Click on the Department FAQ name to see all it's questions and related answers.
County FAQ
How has the role of county governments evolved?
In addition to serving as an administrative arm of the state, counties rapidly moved into other areas of government support, including social services, corrections, child protection, library services, hospitals and nursing homes, public health services, planning and zoning, economic development, parks and recreation, water quality, and solid waste management,
Where do counties get their revenue?
In Minnesota, local governments derive the majority of their funding from property taxes and from state and federal grants. Fees, fines, forfeitures, sale of public lands, investments and special assessments are other revenue sources that augment these major revenue sources. The property tax is the chief source of revenue for Minnesota counties. Most counties receive between 30 and 50 percent of their revenues from property tax collections. All property except that owned by governments, churches, charitable institutions and certain other tax exempt entities, is subject to the "ad valorem" property tax. However, the state does put restrictions on these levies, further hampering the county budgeting process.
During what hours is the Government Center open?
Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., except for holidays.
Who makes up the Board of Commissioners?
County Commissioners are the elected officials who oversee county activities and work to ensure that citizen concerns are met, federal and state requirements are fulfilled, and county operations run smoothly. Newly elected commissioners take office the first Monday in January following their election. County Board Chairs are elected at the board's first meeting in early January. County Commissioners' salaries vary from county to county. Individual county boards set salaries at the beginning of each year. Most commissioner elected to the county board are considered part-time.
How are counties governed?
Board of Commissioners are the governing bodies of Minnesota's Counties. County Commissioners are elected by district, serve a four-year term that are staggered among the board (not all elected at the same time), and are responsible for the operation of the county and the delivery of county services. The number of commissioners on a county board is five. Counties with a population of over 100,000 people may, by board resolution, increase the size of the county board from five to seven members. Six counties currently have seven member county boards.
Do counties have complete autonomy in budgetary decisions?
No. Generally, when county boards begin working on the county budget, many of the expenditures have already been determined by mandates. Mandates are legal requirements imposed by the federal and state governments. Local government mandates are often passed without appropriate funding by state and federal lawmakers. In these cases, local governments must pay the cost of implementing the mandates.
Some examples of unfunded mandates are those setting requirements for waste management, pollution control, treatment of prisoners, providing court-appointed legal representation for those citizens who cannot afford it, providing disabled citizens with easy access to government buildings, voter registration, public health, welfare and social services, training for various licensed personnel, etc. Because the county budget must be balanced, only a portion of the budget is left to pay for everything else that county citizens want or need.
Do all counties provide the same services?
No. When you look at the types of services that counties choose to provide, you see that no two counties provide exactly the same set of services. Rather, each provides its own unique mix of a broad range of services, including street, maintenance, garbage pick-up, landfills, hospitals, libraries, parks and recreation, police and fire protection and water and sewer facilites.
Minnesota Counties also provide extensive health and human services as the administrative entity responsible for the delivery of these services. For some counties, providing such services is relatively new and reflects the shifting and expanding responsibilities counties and county commissioners must undertake.
What rights to information does the public have to county government proceedings?
The Open Meeting Law requires that public business be conducted in public. The public has a right to attend the meeting and observe the transaction of public business. Under the Open Meeting Law, counties are requried to maintain, in a journal, a record of all votes taken at open meetings. This journal must be available to the public during regular business hours. Anyone who believes the county board has violated the open meeting law can seek legal action against individual members of the board.
In 1999, Minnesota county expenditures totaled nearly $3.7 billion dollars. The largest percentage of those expenditures are in the area of human services. The second largest expenditure area for counties is public safety and the third largest is general government.
What are counties and why were they established?
Counties, in their infancy, were organized to be administrative agencies of the state as well as local governments. Traditionally, counties performed state mandated duties which included assessment of property, record keeping (i.e. propoerty and vital statistics), maintenance of rural roads, administration of election and judicial functions, maintaining peace in rural areas, and poor relief. The Minnesota county structural model is similar to those found in Wisconsin, Ohio, New York and many other states. There are 87 counites in Minnesota.
How are counties managed?
Counties are managed in a number of ways. Many counties have a central administration led by either a county administrator or a county coordinator. In some counties the county auditor provides the administrative function.
Are the Commissioners the only decision makers in county government?
Because some other county officials are elected, county commissioners cannot directly control all county activies. Even though commissioners approve a budget for these offices, county commissioners have little say in how these offices operate. County Commissioners (as well as citizens) need to understand that their power is limited in this way. Other elective offices of county government include county attorney, county auditor, county treasurer, and county sheriff. Many counites have reduced the number of elected officials in their counties. Public school systems in Minnesota operate independently of county government and the county board does not excericise control over its local school district, school boards or school tax levies.
What is Chisago County's Mission Statement?
Chisago County was created by the State of Minnesota to serve, to protect, and to enhance the quality of life for those we serve. We perform our duties and obligations in an ethical, democratic, and respectful manner.
Assessor
What is estimated market value?
Estimated Market Value – This value is what the assessor estimates your property would likely sell for
on the open market. State law requires assessors to value property at 100 percent of market value.
What is limited market value?
Limited Market Value – Limits how much the taxable value of certain properties can increase. With the exception of new improvements, the value is limited to the greater of: 1) 15 percent increase over last year’s limited market value or 2) 33 percent of the difference between this year’s estimated market value and last year’s limited market value. This only applies to agricultural, residential, timberland, or noncommercial seasonal recreational residential (cabins) property.
How do I apply for homestead?
You may contact our office for the application that you need. 651.213.8550 or assessor@co.chisago.mn.us
or you may click on the following link:
This application may be printed then either brought into or mailed to our office.
State law requires that the value and classification of real estate be established as of January 2 each year. All good sales and transactions of property are reviewed annually through statistical analysis to make determinations about market conditions and adjustments that are required to meet the Minnesota Department of Revenue guidelines for equalization. The valuation process includes the following:
Sales analysis and review
A review and analysis of all good sales for every property classification and jurisdiction is performed.
Gathers information
The appraiser gathers information on all physical characteristics of the property that affect market value, such as size, age, quality, basement finish and extra features, such as fireplaces, extra baths, walkouts, etc.
Views property
Appraisal staff has been assigned a quartile review to meet the state requirements of viewing properties approximately every fifth year. In addition, all new construction, alterations or improvements that contribute to market value will be viewed in the appropriate year.
Estimates value
All physical property characteristics are entered into a computerized system which creates a model to value the properties and is driven by actual sales. The market values estimated by the assessor should be at, or very close to, the amount the property would sell for if placed on the open market as required by Minnesota Statutes. The State Board of Equalization reviews our annual assessment and had standards requiring the overall level of assessment to be between 90% and 105% of market value. The State Board of Equalization does and will make adjustments to our annual assessment to ensure compliance with this policy.
Auditor
When is the primary election?
Tuesday September 12, 2006. For additional information click here.
County Administration
Who is my County Admin?
John Moosey
County Probation
What do you do?
Our department is responsible for supervising your compliance with the Court's order at sentencing. We supply you with information and referrals so you can meet this criteria. We also notify the Court of non-compliance and violation issues.
Where are you located?
We are located in the lower level of the Governement Center in Room 124.
Who is my Probation Officer?
If you were sentenced to probation on a gross misdemeanor or misdemeanor level offense, stop by our office or call 651-213-8350. Felony level offenses are handled by the Department of Corrections, which is located in downtown Center City. You can reach the Department of Corrections at 651-213-2258.
What is the Local Correctional Fee? Why do I need to pay it?
This fee is charged to persons under the supervision of our correction agency to help defray costs associated with your file.
How can I make a fine payment?
Contact Court Administration, which is located on the top level of the Government Center in Room 358 or call 651-213-8650 for more information.
How much is my fine?
Contact Court Administration, which is located on the top level of the Government Center in Room 358 or call 651-213-8650 for more information.
Is there a warrant out for me?
Contact Court Administration by calling 651-213-8650 or contact the Sheriff's Deparment at 651-213-4100.
Can I get an extension on my fine?
Contact Court Administration, which is located on the top level of the Government Center in Room 358 or call 651-213-8650 for more information.
Can I change my court date?
Contact Court Administration, which is located on the top level of the Government Center in Room 358 or call 651-213-8650 for more information.
Can I get a copy of my court record?
Contact Court Administration, which is located on the top level of the Government Center in Room 358 or call 651-213-8650 for more information.
Environmental Services
Do I need a building permit?
A building permit is required for all structures over 120 square feet, although setbacks would need to be adhered to and tie downs may be required for structures under 120 square feet. Any interior structural or mechanical work requires a permit. Cosmetic remodeling such as new kitchen cabinets would not. Roofing requires a permit. Residing or window replacement does not, if the windows are of the same size or smaller. If installing a larger window, or egress window for a bedroom a permit would be required. Specific questions regarding remodeling and alteration should be directed to our department.
What is a CUP?
While some uses are permitted in a zoning district, (such as a single family dwelling in a residential district) others might be allowed as a conditional use (such as a church in a residential district). A conditional use permit or CUP would be required allowing the County Planning Commission and County Board of Commissioners to place conditions on the use.
Is my zoning district on my tax statement?
No, your tax statement shows your tax classification. Your property could be zoned Agricultural, meaning you could have agricultural type uses on your property, and be taxed residential. To determine what your property is zoned, please refer to the township zoning maps located on the Environmental Services page of this website.
Can I put a mobile home on my property?
Mobile homes have to meet the same requirements as stick built or modular homes in the County.A minimum of 960 square foot is required on the ground floor, with a minimum width of 20 feet. Additions to manufactured or mobile homes shall not be allowed in consideration of the dimensional criteria. All residential structures must be placed on a permanent full perimeter frost foundation (at least 42 inches below grade). Manufacturer’s specifications regarding how to set specific pre-fab homes on a permanent perimeter foundation will be required. The requirements are different for temporary mobile homes which may be allowed in some cases of medical hardship, or while building a new home. Questions regarding specific cases should be directed to our department.
Heartland Express
Who can ride?
Everyone! No restrictions to age, income, ability or disability. All vehicles are handicapped accessible.
Human Resources
What type of tests are given?
Testing and assessment varies for each position. The examination may be a computer test, written test, oral interview, a training and experience rating, or a combination of these. Testing is usually scheduled during normal business hours.
Will a physical examination or drug testing be required?
Appointment to some positions requires condidates to take medical examinations. These positions include public works, law enforcement and others. Some positions require a drug test and some also require a psychological examination and complete background check.
How do I apply for a job?
We accept applications for open positions only (except for Human Services - see question below for applying). Please be sure to specify the job title for which you wish to apply on the required application form. Applications that do not indicate a specific position will be rejected.
A completed Chisago County Application Form and supplemental application form (if applicable) must be received in the Administrator's Office by the time and date listed on the job posting. Late applications will not be accepted.
Be sure to sign and date the application form where indicated.
Do I need to live in Chisago County?
County residence is not required to apply or be hired unless stated in the job posting. Some jobs may have a response time requirement.
What happens after I submit my application?
If your completed application indicates that you meet the minimum qualifications for the position, you will be notified by mail or phone of the next step in the selection process. The next step could be a written test, oral interview, or other assessment. If your application is not longer being considered, you will be notified by mail within two weeks of the closing of the position.
What if I need special testing accommodations?
Should you have a disability that would prevent you from testing a position under standard conditions, pleae notify the Human Resources Director at 651-213-8868, so that every reasonable accommodation can be made.
How do I find out what jobs are open at Chisago County?
You may call our 24-hour Jobline at 651-213-8860 and request an application packet be mailed to you.
You may view or print the application materials for current openings from our Employment Opportunites page.
You may pick up an application packet at the Chisago County Administrator's office, 313 North Maint Street, Room 174, Center City, MN 55012
How do I apply for a job with Human Services?
Human Services is covered under Minnesota Merit System and has a separate application to complete. After submitting an application to the MN Merit System, they will notify you of an exam time. Based on passing scores, a register is compliled by the State. When a position is open, an agency requests a register to interview from. For more information go to: www.dhs.state.mn.us/agencywd/jobs/default.htm.
Information Systems
Where do I find help on the Interactive GIS Map?
In the upper right corner (just above the map), click on the help button. This will open a PDF help file to show all the tools available on the site. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this help file.
Can I search by Parcel Number or Address on the Interactive GIS Map?
At this time, we are not offering a search function on the site. To acquire more information on a parcel, use the zoom/pan tools. Once you find the parcel, use the "identify" tool to select it. When the parcel is selected the report tab will show on the left with more data about that parcel.
Public Health
What is WIC?
WIC is a program that provides health management and nutrition source for mom and baby up to 5 years of age
How do I know if I qualify for WIC?
To see if you qualify, view the enclosed guideline
What is CD?
Chemical Dependency.
Public Works
Q. Can you help me with street nameing and house numbering?
A. The GIS department is responsible for this information.
Q. Where can I find a Bench Mark?
A. We have 23 HARN bench marks scattered around the County. We also have a few along a couple of the newly constructed roads. When in a City, it would be best to check with that city’s engineer.
Q. Where can I get Flood Zone information.
A. The Environmental-Zoning department handles flood zone questions
Q. Do you have topographic maps?
A. We have copies of the USGS Quadrangle maps. They show 10 foot contour lines at a scale of one inch equals 2000 feet.
Q. Can you give me the coordinates for my property corners?
A. A private surveying company should be contacted for property boundary information. The CountySurveyor maintains the Section corner data, but cannot perform private surveys.
Q. What information will be available on your County website?
A. The MICS department is determining what information will be available on the public website.
Q. Does the County have Section Breakdown information and Corner Ties?
A. Most of the County is now completed with GPS coordinates for the Section corners. If there is a corner which is not currently in the ground that you need to use for a survey, we will assist you in re-establishing it.
Q. How much does a survey cost?
A. Each property has unique characteristics. A private surveying company could give you an estimate based on your legal description and the features of your land.
When do I need a Access Permit?
When ever new access is created or there is change of use in property.
Q. Do you have a copy of a survey of my property?
A. We have copies of the original plats, so if you own a Lot in a Block of a Subdivision we can make you a copy for a small fee. If you own a parcel in the rural area with a metes and bounds description, then we do not have a copy ofany survey that was made by a private surveying company.
Recorder
Can I access land records via the internet?
Chisago County will make Tract Index and Recorded Documents available April 1, 2008 to system subscribers. Escrow Accounts and LandShark Agreements are required.
Is this property abstract or Torrens?
Call the Recorder's office at 651-213-8580. You will need to provide us with the legal description of the property in question.
How can I search a property?
You may either contact a title company, an attorney, or come in to the office and a staff member will get you started.
How do I find the size of my lot?
You may come into the Recorder's office and look at the official plat or contact the Public Works Department at 651-213-8700.
What needs to be on a document for recording purposes?
Among other things County staff reviews documents presented for recording against the requirements listed below. Failure to meet these, among other possible requirements, may cause your document to be rejected:
DATE OF EXECUTION
NAME OF GRANTOR/GRANTEE / MORTGAGOR/MORTGAGEE
COMPLETE LEGAL DESCRIPTION
PROPER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ( NOTARY SEAL/STAMP, SIGNATURES, MARITAL STATUS WHEN APPLICABLE
"DRAFTED BY" STATEMENT
OTHER DOCUMENTS MAY REQUIRE:
REFERENCE DOCUMENT NUMBER
STATE AND COUNTY OF VENUE
MORTGAGE- SECURED AMOUNT
DEEDS/CONTRACT FOR DEED-CRV (REQUIRED if sale involved)
TOTAL CONSIDERATION STATEMENT
DEEDS/CONTRACT FOR DEED- WELL STATEMENT /DISCLOSURE
DEEDS/CONTRACT FOR DEED -GRANTEE STATEMENT (NAME AND ADDRESS OF GRANTEE)
Please note: When drafting a legal document, it is advisable to seek legal advice from an attorney to ensure your document has the intended effect. County staff does not give out legal advice.
Where can I get blank forms to transfer property?
The Minnesota Department of Commerce Website has links to Minnesota Uniform Conveyance Blanks for use in completing real estate transactions and transfers.
Will the Recorder's/Registrar's Office help me fill out my forms?
NO! We are not attorneys and do not practice law; therefore, we will not help in anyway with the preparation of a document or give any advice regarding its preparation. Please contact an attorney or title company for assistance. This policy is strongly enforced.
How do I obtain a copy of my deed?
You may request a copy either in person, by mail or by fax. Copies are $1.00 per page in person, $5.00 per document by mail or fax.
How do I obtain a copy of a birth certificate?
You may come into the Recorder's office or apply by mail for a Minnesota birth certificate. If you were born in Minnesota you can obtain a copy of your birth certificate from any Minnesota Vital Statistics Office. Click here for more information Birth and Death Records
Bring your ordination to the Recorders's office along with valid identification. We will witness your signature and make a copy of the ordination and your identification for filing. You will also be asked to read and sign a "Certificate of Filing". The fee is $5.00. If you wish to do this by mail, please call our office at 651-213-8580 for details.
How do I become a Notary?
Contact the Minnesota Secretary of State website at
You may use the Recorder's office like a public library and search in the books or use the MNVRV database computer system for birth and death records. Older marriage records are also available to the public.
Please visit the County Administration Offices to pay your fines.
How do I get a permit to carry?
Go to the Sheriff's Office website and go to the page entitled "Permits to Carry a Firearm"
Treasurer
Can I pay my taxes with a Credit Card?
Yes, as of May 1, 2006 Chisago County will be accepting payments for property taxes by Credit Card. Payment for delinquent taxes (taxes not paid from a previous year) are not accepted by Credit Card. Click Here to pay your current year taxes by Credit Card.
When paying property taxes, can I make a partial payment?
The Chisago County Treasurers Office does not accept payments on a monthly basis, however, we will accept partial payments on current year taxes only. A person making partial payments should be aware that the due dates still apply and any portion of the tax not paid by the due date is subject to penalty. To see Penalty schedule.
Does the Treasurer's Office need to receive payment for taxes by the due date or if mailing, do they need to be postmartked by the due date.
This is a question that we answer every year for many taxpayers. When sending in your tax payment by mail, it needs to be postmarked on or before the due date. We suggest that you hand deliver to the postmaster if it is being mailed on the due date. If you are paying your taxes in person, you need to pay on or before the due date to avoid paying a penalty.
Do I need to write a separate check if I'm paying on more than one parcel?
When a taxpayer is paying on several parcels, it is not necessary to write more than one check. However, it is helpful if you reference the parcel numbers on your check or submit all tax stubs with your payment.
What if I pay my property taxes late?
If you pay your taxes late there will be a penalty assessed. To figure your penalty due click here for the penalty schedule.
When are property taxes due?
Click here to see the schedule for when property taxes are due.
Will I receive a reminder if I forget to pay my taxes by the due date?
No reminders will be sent out! Tax statements are sent out once a year with payment stubs showing the due dates on them.
What if I purchase my property after the tax statements have already been mailed?
Property Tax Statements are mailed out once a year. If you purchase your property after the tax statements have already been mailed out, you will NOT receive a tax statement from us. Instead, you will receive a "courtesy letter" stating the taxes due for the year.
You will receive this letter regardless if your mortgage company is escrowing for your taxes and intend to pay them. If you would like to obtain acopy of the tax statement click here. You will need to provide your parcel identification number or your address.
What if I've lost or misplaced my tax statement? Can I obtain another copy of my Property Tax Statement?
Don't worry, copies of your 2005 and 2006 tax statements can be obtained from the following website. Click here for a copy of your tax statement. You will need to have available your parcel identification number or property address.
What if my total tax is less than $50.00?
When the total tax due for the year is $50.00 or less, payment must be made in full by May 15th.
Why have I received a bill (tax statement) when my mortgage company should be paying the taxes?
Good question and one that is most often asked! We will always send out a copy of the Tax Statement to the property owner for your records. A separate listing is sent to each mortgage company providing the necessary information they will need to make your payment.
When will we receive our tax statements?
You will receive your Real Estate Tax Statement once a year by the end of March.
Mobile Home Tax Statements are mailed out in July.
Veterans Services
Does the Chisago County Veterans Van go to St. Cloud for appointments?
No.
What day does the Chisago County van go to the Minneapolis VA?
Even numbered calendar days. (example: 2, 4, 6, 8)
Who is my Chisago County, Minnesota contact at VA Services?
Jim Halstrom, Veterans Service Office
Located in North Branch, MN
651-674-5725