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Attorney

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1. How do I contact my public defender?

Public Defender's Office
416 South 6th St.
Suite 100
Brainerd, MN 56401
Phone:(218) 828-6134.

2. If I have a question regarding my driver’s license, who can I contact?

Contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services. Driver Services can be reached at (651) 297-3298 and Vehicle Services at (651) 297-2126.

3. I am a victim of a crime and I want charges dropped. Is this possible?

The decision to drop charges in any criminal prosecution can only be made by a prosecutor. The victim’s wishes alone do not dictate whether or not a case will be filed or dismissed. View the Minnesota Statues Chapter 611A for additional information.

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Auditor-Treasurer

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1. How may I find out if / when a property is going to forfeit because of past due taxes?

If you want to know about a particular parcel contact the auditor-treasurer’s office at (218) 824-1045. If you are interested in parcels that will be going up on a county land sale, contact the county public land management office at (218) 824-1115.

2. My spouse passed away and I need to remove his/her name from ownership on my property. How do I do so?

Please contact a real estate attorney or title company to assist you with obtaining the correct documents.

3. Where do I go to vote?

Click on the link to be directed to the Secretary of State Pollfinder

4. May I sell beer at an event I am having?

If located within the city limits, contact the city for information as to a license. If located within an unorganized territory or a township, please call our office for further information at (218) 824-1045.

5. How do I get an absentee ballot?

You must complete an absentee ballot application and return it for a ballot to be mailed. You may also vote by absentee in person at the Courthouse beginning 45 days prior to Election Day. Absentee Ballot Application

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County Board

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1. Who is my county commissioner?

Visit the Minnesota Secretary of State website and select your city or township and address to find your commissioner. Minnesota Secretary of State

2. How can I contact my county commissioner?

You can contact any of the five commissioners directly by phone, email, or regular mail. Contact information is available by clicking on the commissioner's name on the County Board page. You can also leave a message by contacting the County Administrator's Office at (218) 824-1067. Contact Information

3. When and where does the county board meet?

Regularly scheduled meetings of the county board are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month beginning at 9:00 am in the County Board Room located on the third floor of the Historic Courthouse, 326 Laurel Street, Brainerd, MN. The county board also holds an informational Committee of the Whole meeting on the third Tuesday of each month.

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Extension

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1. How can I submit a soil sample?

You may pick up instructions in the county Extension office or online.

2. I have gardening, trees, lawn and landscape questions. Who can I ask?

You may call the Crow Wing County Master Gardener helpline at (218) 824-1000 ext. 4040 or visit Yard and Garden News.

3. I have farm and/or household questions. Who can I ask?

Call the Household Experts line at (800) 854-1678, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to noon and 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm.

You may also call the Farm Information line at (800) 232-9077, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm.

4. Where do I go to have my pressure canner gauge calibrated?

Your pressure canner needs to be calibrated every year. Crow Wing County Extension does not test or calibrate pressure canner gauges. For more information on who to contact, please visit the website link provided. Testing of dial pressure canner gauges

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Extension - 4H

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1. Is there a cost to join 4-H?

4-H is a publicly funded program of University of Minnesota Extension.

Project costs vary, and many don't require a big investment. For example, members enrolled in crafts might use supplies from around the house to practice the skills they are learning and, therefore, would have no additional expenses. 4-H'ers who buy and keep a saddle horse, however, might have to make a large investment.

4-H Member Information

2. Is 4-H just for farm kids?

If you're enrolled in a 4-H club or as an independent member, 4-H has something for you! Explore all of the 4-H projects. If you don't see a project that interests you, just ask! We can help you create your own project.

4-H Projects

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Extension - Master Gardeners

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1. How can I become a Master Gardener?

For details on how to become a Master Gardener please visit our website. Crow Wing County Master Gardener Website

2. What's wrong with my plant?

This web page is designed to help gardeners in Minnesota Diagnose problems in the yard and garden caused by insects, diseases, and nonliving factors. U of M Extension Plant Diagnostic Website

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Extension - Shoreland & Water Resources

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1. What is a rain barrel?

A rain barrel is any type of container used to catch water flowing from a downspout. Rain barrels reduce the amount of stormwater runoff by collecting roof runoff and storing the rainwater for future use. Rain Barrel information sheet

2. What can I do to protect my lake home or cabin shoreland?

Free fact sheets – How to keep your lake shore property in tip top shape while enjoying it. Shoreland fact sheets

3. What is a rain garden?

Simply put, a rain garden is a shallow depression filled with selected trees, shrubs, flowering plants and grasses designed to allow rainwater run-off to absorb into the soil. Rain gardens help to filter pollutants, absorb nutrients and allow sediments to settle before entering the ground water. Rain gardens are also useful in controlling erosion by trapping and allowing the water to infiltrate rather than run down a slope. Also, rain gardens may add interest and beauty to a landscape, or add elements to attract butterflies and birds.
Rain Garden information

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GIS

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1. What does the subscription mapping service offer?

In addition to the features already available on our public mapping service, the subscription service also enables users to generate mailing labels and download parcel information. Please contact our GIS staff to learn more about the other features that are available. GIS Staff

2. Why does the mapping site show my property line splitting my neighbor’s house?

The parcel map is based on the legal descriptions of record on our tax rolls. It is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey and is intended to be used for reference purposes only.

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Highway

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1. Where do I get a swing-away mailbox support?

Supports are available at the Highway Department office located at 16589 County Road 142 in Brainerd. The cost is $25 for the hardware and $50 installed for residents on a county road (including roads in the 1st and 2nd Assessment Districts). Residents not on a county road may purchase the hardware for $50, no installation is available.

2. My E-911 sign has been damaged or is missing. Where do I get a replacement?

Replacement signs are available at the Highway Department office. Fill out an order form and submit it with the payment or call the office at (218) 824-1110 and ask for the form to be mailed to you.

3. There is a dead deer, tire, appliance, etc. in roadway or ditch. Who do I call?

The Highway Department will remove items along county roads (including roads in the 1st and 2nd Assessment Districts). Please call (218) 824-1110 for removal services. For items along a township road, call your township official. For items along a U.S. or state highway call MnDOT at (218) 828-5700.

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Human Resources

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1. May I apply online?

Yes, an online application is available in Job Opportunities.

2. May I submit an application even if there are no current openings?

No, we only accept applications at the time of a job posting. Current postings can be found in Job Opportunities.

3. May I submit a resume?

Yes, a resume may be submitted but not in lieu of the application. A Crow Wing County application must be submitted.

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Land Services- Environmental Services

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1. Do I have to stake my project area?

The project area is required to be staked out prior to the site visit by staff to ensure all standards are met prior to the issuance of the permit.

2. How do I find building permit fees and applications?

The application and fee schedule can be found under Permit Information.

3. How do I get a permit to install a septic system?

Contact a Minnesota Pollution Control Agency licensed designer to determine the appropriate septic system type, size and location for your property. After the septic system design is approved by the County, submit an application to Environmental Services with the appropriate fee. Once the permit is issued, it is required that the installer contact Environmental Services for an inspection.

4. What do I need to obtain a building permit?

All building permit requests require a completed application, site plan, appropriate fee and a current compliance inspection or certificate of installation. In addition, properties located in the shoreland district require evidence that the septic system has been maintained within the last three years.

5. What is the Development Review Team (DRT)?

DRT is a pre-application meeting that all applicants are required to attend prior to making application to the Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment for a plat, land use map amendment, conditional use permit or variance.

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Land Services- Environmental Services- Survey Resources

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1. Why get a boundary survey?

See Attached Brochure. Value of a Boundary Survey

2. Frequently asked survey questions?

Find your answers from the Minnesota Society of Professional Surveyors. Read On

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Land Services- Property Valuation & Classification

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1. What about homestead for property owned by a trust?

Most trusts can qualify for homestead. A Certificate of Trust must be submitted and approved by the county assessor or the complete signed trust must be provided for the assessor's review.

2. What about someone with a disability? (blind, disabled, veteran related disability)

A reduced class rate for homestead property is provided for any person who is blind or is permanently and totally disabled.

3. How often do I have to apply for homestead?

Once the property is granted the homestead classification, it will not be necessary for you to reapply for the classification, unless there is a change in ownership of any kind. However, at any time, the County Assessor may require you to provide an additional application or such proof as they deem necessary to verify that you continue to meet the requirements of the homestead classification.

4. What will happen if I file a false homestead claim?

A property owner who obtains or attempts to obtain homestead classification for a property other than his or her primary place of residence or the primary place of residence of his or her qualifying relative is under state law subject to a fine of up to $3000 and /or up to one year of imprisonment (Minnesota Statute 609.41). In addition, the property owner will be required to pay all tax, which is due on the property based on the correct property class plus a penalty equal to the same amount (Minnesota Statute 273.124, Subd. 13).

5. Why is the property classified as non-homestead?

In most situation, it is because application for the homestead has not been applied for in the assessor's office.

6. Why must I provide my social security number?

Even though social security numbers are private information, they must be provided before a homestead can be granted. Social security numbers will be used with the help of the Department of Revenue to determine if owners or relatives of owners have applied for more than one homestead.

7. What if I move?

If at any time the property is sold, or you change your primary residence, state law requires that you notify the County Assessor within 30 days. If you fail to notify the Assessor within the 30 days, you may be required to pay the tax, which is due on the property based on the correct property classification plus a penalty of the same amount.

8. What is a Notice of Valuation and Classification?

A Notice of Valuation and Classification is a computer-generated form specified for official use by the Commissioner of Revenue. It is used to inform taxpayers about general tax information, changes in their valuation and tax classification, and qualifying factors covering the scheduled appeal and equalization meetings as well as the Minnesota Tax Court option. This notice clearly identifies the property in terms of its assessor's parcel identification number and legal description. It shows tax classification, current and prior assessment, estimated market value, "Green Acres" value, if any, the value of new improvements, the qualifying amount of any market value subject to a plat deferment, the qualifying amount of certain improvements subject to a valuation exclusion under the exemption for "This Old House", the taxable market value, the assessor's office address and telephone number, and the dates, places, and times set for the meetings of the local board of appeal and equalization, the review process established for townships and cities who have elected to transfer the local board powers and duties to the county, and the county board of appeal and equalization.

9. Who receives a Notice of Valuation and Classification and when is it mail?

This notice is sent to those persons whose property is to be included on the assessment roll if the person's address is known to the assessor. This information is sent ordinary mail at least ten calendar days before the meeting of the local board of appeal and equalization scheduled to meet between April 1st and May 31st each year. In townships and cities that have elected to transfer the powers and duties of the local board of appeal and equalization to the county, it is mailed at least ten calendar days before the open book meetings with the assessor.

10. If a property owner fails to receive Notice of Valuation and Classification, what should be done?

The property owner should immediately contact the county assessor's office. There are times when this notice is lost in the mail, returned as undeliverable, or sent to another person because the ownership record and/or mailing address have not been updated by the responsible party. Whatever the cause for not receiving a notice of assessment, Minnesota Statute 273.121 states that in no way is the validity of the assessment, the resulting tax, procedures of any board of appeal and equalization, or the enforcement of delinquent taxes affected.

11. Does the Notice of Valuation and Classification address the property tax impact of the new assessment?

The probable property tax impact of the new assessment is not addressed through this notification. Tax impact information is published in November of each year on a notice of proposed property tax also known as a truth-in-taxation statement. At that time, the responsibility of elected officials in establishing the property tax levies is made clear. This latter notice provides property owners with an estimate of how much their property tax bill will either increase or decrease due to spending or other factors.

12. What is Estimated Market Value?

As referred to previously, the Assessor is responsible for valuing property at its Estimated Market value. Estimated Market value can be defined as the highest price in terms of money which a property will bring in a competitive and open market under all conditions requisite to a fair sale, the buyer and seller, each acting prudently, knowledgeably, and assuming that neither is under undue duress. According to state law, the Assessor's Estimated Market value is supposed to represent 100% of real value as expressed in the market place. The Minnesota Department of Revenue and the Minnesota Tax Court sit in judgment annually to determine whether the Assessor's Office has done its job according to statute. The performance of the Assessor's Office is measured statistically by the use of sales ratio analysis. By law, assessor's values are to be within 90% and 105% of sale price of the sales period of October 1, 2009 through September 30, 2010 for the 2011 Assessment. If this level of assessment is not achieved, the county is subject to valuation adjustments by the Department of Revenue or The Minnesota Tax Court.

13. How does the Assessor determine Estimated Market Value?

Minnesota state law requires that the value and classification of all real and personal property be established as of January 2nd each year. A mass appraisal process is used for estimating market values. Information from all sales that occur within the county is collected and closely analyzed by the Assessor's Office. The Assessor's Office then adjusts the Estimated Market Value accordingly.

14. What is the difference between assessment year and tax year?

Your property is assessed (or valued) in one year and taxed on that value in the next. For example, property valued for the 2009 assessment will pay taxes on that value in 2010.

15. Why does my value change when nothing has been done to my property?

Supply and demand create market value and assessors measure it. In an appreciating market, as demand increases and the cost of buying property increases, other property values will rise too. The same is true, in reverse in a declining market.

16. Why doesn't the Assessor's value reflect the sale price of my property?

The number one reason is that there is a lag between the time of the assessment and when the sale takes place. The Minnesota Department of Revenue has a fact sheet "My House is Worth What?" that explains in depth why many times the assessor's estimated market value and the sale price of a property are usually different.

17. I don't want the Assessor to view my property; can he/she change the value without viewing it?

The simple answer is yes and if you don't allow access to your property you lose your right to appeal the value that has been placed on your property. Minnesota Statute 273.20 states "Assessor may enter dwellings, buildings, or structures." Any officer authorized by law to assess property for taxation may, when necessary to the proper performance of duties, enter any dwelling-house, building, or structure, and view the same and the property therein. Any officer authorized by law to assess property for ad valorem tax purposes shall have reasonable access to land and structures as necessary for the proper performance of their duties. A property owner may refuse to allow an assessor to inspect their property. This refusal by the property owner must be either verbal or expressly stated in a letter to the county assessor. If the assessor is denied access to view the property, the assessor is authorized to estimate the property's estimated market value by making assumptions believed appropriate concerning the property's finish and condition.

18. Does the Estimated Market Value increase at the same rate on all properties?

No, it does not. There are differences between individual properties and between cities or townships. In one area the sales may indicate a large increase in value and in another area there may be very little or no change in value. Also, different types of property within the same area may show different value changes. There are numerous factors to be considered in each property which will cause value changes to differ. Some of the factors that can affect value are location, condition, size, quality, basement finish, garages, and many other factors.

19. Can the Estimated Market Value change even if the appraiser has not been inside my property?

Yes, the Assessor keeps records on the physical characteristics of each property in the county. Even though the assessor may have been unable to go through your property, the Estimated Market Value will be reviewed based on existing records and sales of similar property.

20. Why is the property assessment classification different than the zoning classification?

Property classification for property assessment purposes is based upon actual use or the highest and best use of the property.

21. Why has my value gone up?

The assessor has not created the value. People make value by their transactions in the market place. Property values are based on market values which fluctuate with general economic conditions such as interest rates, inflation rates, supply and demand and changes in tax laws. By Minnesota state law, as property values change in the marketplace, those changes will be reflected in the assessor's Estimated Market Value based on history of sales.

22. What will happen to my value if I improve my property?

Generally speaking, improvements that increase the market value of a property will increase the assessor's market value. The following are typical improvements that will increase the market value of your property: added rooms or garages; substantial updating of kitchen or bath; basement or lower level finishing; replacing old siding or windows; extensive remodeling

23. Will my value go up if I repair my property?

Good maintenance will help retain the market value of your property. Generally, your market value will not be increased for individual minor repairs such as those that follow. However, a combination of several of these items could result in an increase in your value: replacing water heater; repairing roof shingles; repairing steps or sidewalks; repair original siding; painting/decorating; replacing plumbing or electrical fixtures

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Land Services- Public Land Management

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1. Are all tax forfeited lands, as shown in the plat book, available for sale?

No, in general, the policy over the last two decades has been to retain the acreage tracts, as shown in the plat book and manage said lands for multiple use public benefits ie. timber management, recreation, wildlife, wetland protection, and similar benefits.

2. What tax forfeited lands are available for sale?

City lots, platted property, and small acreage.

3. Can I purchase parcels that did not sell at the public auction?

Yes, any parcel that did not sell at public auction may be purchased for the appraised value at the Public Land Management Office. These parcels are available for sale until such time as they are withdrawn from the list by county board action. Sale price is not negotiable; appraised value is required.

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Land Services- Tax Forfeited Land Sale

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1. Are all tax forfeited lands, as shown in the plat book, available for sale?

No, in general, the policy has been to retain the acreage tracts and manage these said lands for multiple use public benefits ie. timber management, recreation, wildlife, wetland protection, etc.

2. Are tax forfeited lands with structures ever sold at auction?

Yes, on occasion. Due to the additional liability to the county, our goal is to sell properties containing structures as soon as possible.

3. Can I purchase parcels that did not sell at the public auction?

Yes, any parcel that did not sell at public auction may be purchased for the appraised value in Land Services. These parcels are available for sale until such time as they are withdrawn from the list by County Board action. Sale price is not negotiable; appraised value is required.

4. Can I purchase under contract?

Yes, after paying the down payment, the balance is paid in five (5) annual payments for sales $101-$20,000 or Ten (10) annual payments for sales more than $20,000. If purchase price of tract is less than $100, payment in full is required.

5. How do I handle Special Assessments?

If special assessments are listed on the sale brochure, the assessments must be paid in full at the time of sale. Check with City/Township clerks for any pending special assessments of which Land Services is not aware.

6. How do I receive a land sale brochure?

Call the Land Services Department to be placed on the mailing list. Or, check Crow Wing County's Web page for availability of the list of parcels. Additionally, the Auditor-Treasurer's Office automatically mails a notice to all property owners within 350 feet of the parcel being offered for sale.

7. What are the payment requirements after the sale?

If you have successfully purchased a tract, you must make payment and, if applicable, finalize contract arrangements in Land Services prior to 5:00 p.m. on the day of the sale. Cash, check, money order, cashiers check are all acceptable methods of payment. No credit cards.

8. What is the interest rate?

The state dictates the interest rate and may fluctuate from year to year. Currently the interest rate is 10%.

9. What tax forfeited lands are available for sale?

City lots, platted property, and small acreage.

10. What type of deed is used to transfer title?

When the property has been paid in full, the Minnesota Department of Revenue will convey title by means of a State Deed.

11. Who determines the tracts to be offered for sale?

The Land Commissioner makes the preliminary determination and develops a preliminary land sale list for County Board review. Tracts are placed on the preliminary list after considering individual requests and Division recommendations.

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Main

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1. How do I contact a county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

3. How do I contact Court?

(218) 824-1310

4. Where do I pay a fine?

Court Administration, Judicial Center, (218) 824-1310

5. Where do I get a passport?

County Auditor-Treasurer's Office, Historic Courthouse, (218) 824-1300

6. Where do I get my birth certificate?

County Auditor-Treasurer's Office, Historic Courthouse, (218) 824-1300

7. How do I schedule a visit with an inmate?

Contact the County Jail at (218) 824-7050

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Recorder

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1. Is my property abstract or torrens?

Please contact our office at (218) 824-1280 for this information. You will need to have your legal description to determine whether it is abstract or torrens. We are unable to search by parcel identification number or address.

2. Do I have an easement for my property?

In order to determine if there is an easement of record for your property, a search would need to be done. The recorder's office does not provide searches. You will need to contact an attorney or title company, or you can search our records in our public research room.

3. How do I fill out the documents for recording?

We do not provide legal advice on how to fill out or prepare documents for recording. If you have questions you will need to contact an attorney or a title company.

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Sheriff - Boat & Water

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1. Do I need a permit for a water event?

Yes, an application must be completed along with payment of required fee.

2. Do I need a permit for a water structure?

An application must be completed along with payment of required fee.

3. Who do I speak to regarding permits for slalom courses?

Contact should be made with the sergeant in charge of the Boat and Water Division. The sergeant handles these applications and may be reached at (218) 829-4749.

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Sheriff - Permit to Carry

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1. How do I apply for a permit to carry a handgun?

Stop into the Sheriff's Office (304 Laurel Street) during regular business hours to fill out an application or fill out an online application. The completed application along with the necessary documents must be turned in to the Sheriff's Office in person.

2. What do I need to provide along with the application?

The applicant needs to provide a current driver's license showing the correct address. The applicant also needs to provide the original training certificate showing that they have completed the course by a BCA certified instructor. A copy of the certificate will be made and kept with the application and the original is given back to the applicant for their records.

3. What is the fee for the permit?

The cost to the applicant is $75 for a new permit. Renewal permits are
$60 before expiration, $60 within 30 days of expiration, and $75 for renewals that are submitted more than 30 days past the expiration date.

4. How long is the permit valid for?

The permit is valid for five years.

5. How do I renew my permit?

The same process needs to be followed as if you were getting a new permit. Each time you apply (every five years) a current driver's license is required as well as firearms training.

6. What do I do if I move?

If the applicant moves within the county they receive the permit, they need to contact the Sheriff's Office where they received the permit. If the applicant moves outside the county where the permit was issued and the permit is still valid, they still contact the issuing Sheriff's Office until the permit is no longer valid. However, if the applicant moves outside the county where the permit was issued and the permit expires, they need to contact that county and apply for a new permit. The Sheriff's Office needs to be notified within 30 days of moving per Minnesota state law.

7. How old do you have to be to apply?

The applicant must be at least 21 years of age.

8. How long does the application process take?

By state law the Sheriff's Office has within 30 days of receipt to either accept or deny the application.

9. How will I know if I've been approved for the permit?

If approved, your permit will be sent to you in the mail. If denied, you will receive a letter stating the reason.

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Sheriff - Permit to Purchase

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1. What do I need to provide along with the application?

Applicant needs to provide a current driver's license showing correct address.

2. What is the fee for the permit?

There is no cost associated with this permit.

3. How long is the permit valid for?

The permit is valid for one year.