About Cass County
Cass County, Michigan is located in the southwestern corner of the state, bordering Indiana to the south and just east of Lake Michigan. Established in 1829 and organized in 1831, the county was named after Lewis Cass, Governor of Michigan Territory and later U.S. Secretary of State. The county seat is Cassopolis, a small village that serves as the administrative center. Cass County encompasses approximately 508 square miles and has a population of around 51,000 residents according to recent census estimates.
- The Cass County Register of Deeds maintains property records and can be reached at the same building.
The county is characterized by rolling farmland, numerous lakes including Magician Lake, Diamond Lake, and portions of the St. Joseph River watershed. Major communities include Dowagiac, the largest city in the county, along with Edwardsburg, Marcellus, and Vandalia.
The county's economy has historically been rooted in agriculture, particularly fruit production and corn farming, though manufacturing and tourism related to lake recreation play significant roles today. The Cass County Administration Building is located at 120 N Broadway, Cassopolis, MI 49031, housing many county offices. The Cass County Clerk's office manages vital records, elections, and county board proceedings.
The Cass County Equalization Department serves as the Assessor, overseeing property valuations throughout the county. What makes Cass County unique is its rich Underground Railroad history, with several documented safe houses and routes, commemorated at various historical sites. The county also features a significant Pokagon Band of Potawatomi presence, with tribal lands and the Four Winds Casino Resort contributing to the local economy and culture.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
The Cass County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order across the county, particularly in unincorporated areas. It oversees the operations of the Cass County Jail, manages patrols, and handles criminal investigations. The office also processes arrests and maintains criminal records. The Sheriff's Office is involved in community policing initiatives and operates specialized divisions such as a K-9 unit and a marine patrol to ensure safety on the county's numerous lakes.
Police Departments
In addition to the Cass County Sheriff's Office, several municipal police departments operate within the county. These include the Dowagiac Police Department and the Edwardsburg Police Department. Each department serves its respective city, handling local law enforcement duties and coordinating with the sheriff's office on larger investigations and emergencies. These agencies work together to ensure comprehensive coverage and public safety throughout Cass County.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
The Cass County Sheriff's Office, located at 321 M-62, Cassopolis, MI 49031, serves as the primary law enforcement agency for unincorporated areas of the county. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at (269) 445-1560, and maintains a website at casscopd.com where some public information is available. The Cass County Jail, operated by the Sheriff's Office at the same location, houses inmates for the county and provides inmate lookup services. Citizens can search for current inmates by contacting the jail directly or visiting the Sheriff's Office in person during business hours.
- Under Michigan's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), codified as MCL 15.231 et seq., arrest records are considered public records and can be requested from the arresting agency.
- Written FOIA requests should specify the records sought and can be directed to the Sheriff's Office or municipal police departments.
- Processing fees may apply for copying and labor.
- For arrest records involving tribal police, requests should be directed to the tribal government.
- The Sheriff's Office website provides some booking information, and individuals can call the jail at (269) 445-1494 for inmate information including booking date, charges, and bond status.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Cass County encompass felony, misdemeanor, and traffic offenses, as well as entries in the sex offender registry. The Cass County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records. Background checks can be conducted through the Michigan State Police, which provides access to statewide criminal history information. The Michigan Bureau of Investigation offers additional resources for residents seeking comprehensive background checks.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Cass County are maintained by the Cass County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges, and personal information of the arrestee. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records through the sheriff's office, either in person or via written request, in accordance with the Michigan Freedom of Information Act. Arrest records typically contain the date of arrest, charges, and any court proceedings related to the arrest.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Cass County Jail, located in Cassopolis, is the primary detention facility for individuals arrested within the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of detainees. Inmate information can be accessed through the sheriff's office, which provides an online inmate lookup tool. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, requiring appointments and adherence to a strict schedule. Bail and bond procedures follow Michigan's legal framework, allowing for cash bonds or surety bonds through approved agencies.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Cass County are taken by the Cass County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These photos are part of the arrest records and can be accessed through the sheriff's office. Mugshots may be available online through the sheriff's website or by request. Michigan law does not have specific provisions for mugshot removal, but individuals can petition for removal under certain circumstances if charges are dropped or if they are found not guilty.
Courts & Case Records
Cass County's judicial system consists of several courts with different jurisdictions. The Cass County Circuit Court, located at 120 N Broadway, Cassopolis, MI 49031, has jurisdiction over felony criminal cases, civil cases exceeding $25,000, and family matters including divorce and child custody. The Circuit Court phone number is (269) 445-4454. The 8th District Court serves Cass County and handles misdemeanor criminal cases, civil matters up to $25,000, landlord-tenant disputes, and traffic violations.
- Fees for certified copies of court documents are established by Michigan Court Rules and statute, generally $10 for certification plus copying costs of $1 per page for the first page and 50 cents for additional pages.
- Requests for records can be made in person, by mail, or in some cases by email to the clerk's office.
The District Court is also located in Cassopolis at 120 N Broadway and can be reached at (269) 445-4456. The Cass County Probate Court, phone (269) 445-4458, handles estates, wills, trusts, guardianships, conservatorships, and mental health commitments. Michigan courts provide online case lookup through the Michigan Court Access Portal at courts.michigan.gov/micase, where users can search by case number, party name, or attorney name for cases in Cass County.
Some records may be restricted from online viewing. In-person record searches are available at the respective court clerk offices during business hours, typically Monday through Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Under MCL 600.917, Michigan court records are presumed to be public unless specifically exempted by statute or court rule.
Property & Public Records
The Cass County Register of Deeds, located at 120 N Broadway, Cassopolis, MI 49031, maintains all land records for the county including warranty deeds, quit claim deeds, mortgages, land contracts, liens, easements, surveys, and plat maps. The office can be reached at (269) 445-4455. Land records in Michigan are public under MCL 565.25 and subsequent statutes governing recording. The Register of Deeds office provides an online search portal accessible through the county website at www.casscountymi.org, where users can search by name, parcel number, or document type.
- Document copies cost $1 for the first page and 50 cents for each additional page, with certified copies requiring an additional fee.
- The county maintains a GIS parcel viewer accessible online that provides property boundaries, tax information, ownership data, and property characteristics.
- Recording fees for new documents vary by document type, with deeds typically costing $30 for the first page and $3 for each additional page.
Some basic searches may be free, but obtaining copies of documents typically requires payment. Property tax records are maintained by the Cass County Treasurer's office at (269) 445-4457 and the Equalization Department at (269) 445-4440. This service allows citizens to view aerial imagery, zoning, and assessed values.
To obtain certified copies of recorded documents, requesters must visit the Register of Deeds office in person or submit a written request by mail with specific document information including book and page number or liber and page reference. The office accepts cash, checks, and credit cards for payment. All records from 1831 to present are maintained, with older records available on microfilm and recent records digitized.
Vital Records
Vital records for Cass County, Michigan are primarily handled through the Cass County Clerk's office located at 120 N Broadway, Cassopolis, MI 49031, phone (269) 445-4452. Birth certificates for births occurring in Cass County can be requested from the County Clerk for events from 1867 forward, though the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Division for Vital Records and Health Statistics in Lansing maintains statewide records and is often more efficient for requests. The state office can be reached at (517) 335-8655.
- Birth certificate fees are $34 for the first copy and $16 for additional copies ordered at the same time from the state, while county fees may vary.
- Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks by mail or immediate for in-person requests if records are available.
- Marriage licenses must be obtained from the Cass County Clerk's office, where couples must apply in person with valid identification and pay the license fee of $30.
- VitalChek, an online vendor, offers expedited vital records ordering for Michigan at www.michigan.gov/mdhhs for an additional processing fee.
Under MCL 333.2882, birth records less than 100 years old are confidential and only available to the person named on the certificate (if 18 or older), parents, legal guardians, or legal representatives with proper identification. Death certificates follow similar procedures under MCL 333.2882, with access restricted to immediate family members, legal representatives, or those demonstrating legitimate interest. There is no waiting period in Michigan, and the license is valid for 33 days.
Marriage records are public and can be searched at the County Clerk's office. Divorce records are maintained by the Circuit Court, not the Clerk's office. Acceptable identification includes driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID.
Business & Licensing
Business records and licensing in Cass County involve multiple agencies depending on the business type and activity. The Cass County Clerk's office at 120 N Broadway, Cassopolis, MI 49031, phone (269) 445-4452, maintains assumed name (DBA - Doing Business As) registrations for businesses operating under fictitious names in the county. These filings are public records searchable at the Clerk's office.
- The Michigan business entity search is available online at www.michigan.gov/corpentitysearch where users can search by business name, ID number, or registered agent.
- This free database provides information on business status, formation date, registered office, and officers.
However, most business entity formations including corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and nonprofit organizations are registered with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) through the Corporations Division. Professional licenses for occupations such as contractors, cosmetologists, and healthcare providers are issued by state-level licensing boards under LARA, not the county. Sales tax licenses are obtained through the Michigan Department of Treasury.
Local business licensing varies by county, with the City of Dowagiac and other incorporated communities maintaining their own business licensing requirements. Building permits, zoning approvals, and land use permits are handled by the Cass County Planning Department and local municipal building departments. The Planning Department can be reached at (269) 445-4489.
For zoning information and building permits in unincorporated areas, contact the Cass County Building and Zoning Department. The Southwestern Michigan Economic Growth Alliance and local chambers of commerce, including the Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce (www.dowagiac.com), provide business development resources and networking opportunities for county businesses.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Cass County, Michigan are administered by the Cass County Clerk, who serves as the County Election Coordinator. The Clerk's office is located at 120 N Broadway, Cassopolis, MI 49031, and can be reached at (269) 445-4452. Election information is available on the county website at www.casscountymi.org. Voter registration in Michigan is available online through the Michigan Voter Information Center at www.michigan.gov/vote, where eligible residents can register, update their registration, check voter status, and view sample ballots.
- Michigan offers same-day voter registration, allowing residents to register and vote at their clerk's office through Election Day, or register by mail or online up to 15 days before an election.
- To register, applicants must be U.S.
- The Cass County Clerk maintains these records and provides election results on the county website following each election.
- Any registered voter in Cass County can request an absentee ballot by submitting an application to their city or township clerk.
- Absentee ballots can be requested for any election and voters can choose to be placed on the permanent absentee voter list.
citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of Michigan and their community for at least 30 days before the election. Voters can find their polling place by visiting the Michigan Voter Information Center and entering their name and date of birth, or by contacting the County Clerk. In Cass County, polling places are located in various township halls, fire stations, and community centers throughout the county's 16 townships and municipalities.
Election records that are public in Michigan include voter registration lists (available for purchase for election-related purposes under MCL 168.522-523), campaign finance reports filed with the County Clerk for local candidates, candidate filing information and petitions, precinct-level election results, and poll books. In the November 2024 general election, Cass County experienced voter turnout of approximately 64%, consistent with presidential election cycles in mid-sized Michigan counties. The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, featuring U.S.
House of Representatives races for Michigan's Congressional districts, potential U.S. Senate races, Michigan Governor (if 2026), Michigan Secretary of State, Attorney General, State Senate, State House, county commissioners, and various local offices and ballot proposals. Michigan voters have access to no-reason absentee voting under a constitutional amendment approved in 2018.
Applications are available at www.michigan.gov/vote or through local clerk offices. Transparency in Cass County elections is strong, with detailed precinct results published online, public testing of voting equipment before elections as required by MCL 168.798, and access to election materials under Michigan's Freedom of Information Act.
Economy & Demographics
Cass County's economy is diverse, blending agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and tribal gaming enterprises. Agriculture remains foundational, with the county producing significant quantities of soybeans, corn, wheat, and specialty crops including grapes for Michigan's growing wine industry. Dairy farming and livestock operations contribute substantially to the agricultural economy. The median household income in Cass County is approximately $54,000, slightly below the Michigan state average.
Major employers include the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, whose Four Winds Casinos (including the flagship Four Winds Resort in New Buffalo just west of the county and facilities in Hartford) employ hundreds of county residents and generate substantial economic impact through gaming, hospitality, and entertainment. Manufacturing has historically been important, with companies like DEPCO, a steel fabrication company in Dowagiac, and various automotive suppliers providing industrial jobs. The Lee Memorial Health System and Cass County Medical Care Facility are significant healthcare employers.
Tourism centered on the county's numerous lakes drives seasonal economic activity, with vacation rentals, marinas, restaurants, and recreation services supporting year-round and seasonal residents. The unemployment rate in Cass County typically tracks slightly above the state average, ranging from 4-6% in recent non-pandemic years. Economic development efforts focus on diversifying the economy, improving broadband infrastructure in rural areas, and supporting small business growth.
The county benefits from proximity to major markets including South Bend, Indiana and Kalamazoo, Michigan. Recent development projects include downtown revitalization in Dowagiac and expansion of industrial parks along M-51 and US-12 corridors. Workforce development partnerships with Lake Michigan College and Southwestern Michigan College address skills gaps in manufacturing and healthcare sectors.
Transparency Score
Court Records: ✅ Online via MiCASE | Property: ✅ Free GIS/Paid Documents | Arrest/Jail: ⚠️ Phone/In-Person | Vital Records: ⚠️ In-Person/Mail | Business: ✅ Online (State) | Elections: ✅ Online | Overall Score: 7.5/10 — Cass County provides good online access to property, court, and election records, though arrest logs and vital records require direct contact with offices.
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Cities & Towns in Cass County
Explore public records for 7 cities and communities in Cass County, Michigan.
Nearby Counties
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