Chase Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Chase, Kansas government websites.
About Chase City Government
Annual Budget
$1.2 million
Regular Meetings
Public Sessions
Chase, Kansas, operates under a Mayor-Council government structure, specifically known as the Chase City Council. The council consists of five elected members, including the mayor, who serve four-year terms. Council members are elected at-large, meaning they represent the entire city rather than specific districts.
For the fiscal year 2023, the City of Chase has an approximate annual operating budget of $1.2 million. This budget supports various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.
The Chase City Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Mondays of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Chase City Hall, located at 101 E. 1st Street, Chase, KS 67524. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding local governance and community issues.
About Chase, Kansas
Nestled in the heart of Rice County, Chase, Kansas, serves as a charming small town that embodies the spirit of rural America. With a population of approximately 1,080 residents, this vibrant community is known for its tight-knit atmosphere and welcoming demeanor. Founded in the late 19th century, Chase has grown from its origins as a railroad hub to encompass a variety of neighborhoods, including the residential areas adjacent to the town center and a mix of agricultural zones. The local economy primarily revolves around agriculture, with farming and related industries providing employment opportunities. Additionally, small businesses contribute to the economic landscape, fostering a sense of local pride and community engagement. What truly sets Chase apart, however, is its rich heritage and commitment to preserving its historical landmarks, offering residents and visitors alike a glimpse into its storied past.
Public safety in Chase is overseen by the Chase Police Department, which is dedicated to maintaining law and order within the community. For broader concerns, the Rice County Sheriff’s Office also plays a crucial role, ensuring the safety of all residents throughout the county. Individuals seeking access to arrest records, mugshots, booking records, and other criminal history information can do so through a straightforward process. Initially, one should contact the Chase Police Department directly, where staff can assist in retrieving local police records. For cases that may fall under the jurisdiction of the county, the Rice County Sheriff’s Office can provide additional resources. Additionally, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) serves as the state’s repository for criminal records and offers an online portal for public access to criminal history information. This allows residents to conduct background checks and obtain criminal history summaries from the comfort of their homes. Overall, while the process may require some navigation through local and state channels, the combined efforts of the Chase Police Department and the Rice County Sheriff ensure that residents can access crucial public safety information in a timely manner.
In terms of judicial proceedings, Chase is served by the Rice County District Court, a critical institution responsible for handling a range of legal matters. Individuals seeking court records can submit requests through the court's online portal, which facilitates access to case information and documents. For those who prefer to make inquiries in person, the court clerk's office is available for direct assistance. Vital records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, can be obtained through the Rice County Clerk-Recorder’s office or the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Vital Records office. Property records, essential for residents and businesses alike, can be accessed through the Rice County Assessor's office and the County Recorder. Both entities offer online portals for property inquiries, enabling users to quickly retrieve information about property ownership and assessments. Additionally, public records requests can be made under the Kansas Open Records Act, which usually allows for responses within a timeframe of 5 to 10 business days, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all residents. Through these various avenues, the citizens of Chase can stay informed and engaged with both their local governance and legal matters.
About Chase
Chase is a small city in Rice County, Kansas, located in the central part of the state along U.S. Highway 56, approximately 12 miles northeast of the county seat, Lyons. Founded in 1886 during the railroad expansion era, Chase was named after an official of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. With a population of approximately 450 residents according to recent census estimates, Chase serves as a quiet agricultural community in the heart of Kansas wheat country.
The city is characterized by its grain elevators that dominate the skyline, its historic downtown buildings, and its position along the Union Pacific Railroad line. Notable local features include Chase Elementary School, which serves as a community gathering point, and the city's water tower, a landmark visible for miles across the flat Kansas prairie. The economy is primarily agriculture-based, with farming and grain storage operations providing most employment. Public records for Chase residents are maintained by a combination of city, county, and state agencies. The City of Chase maintains municipal records including city ordinances, business licenses, and building permits at Chase City Hall. Law enforcement records for Chase are handled by the Rice County Sheriff's Office, as Chase does not maintain its own police department. Most vital records, property records, and court documents are managed at the county level in Lyons, the Rice County seat. The Rice County Clerk's Office maintains marriage licenses and election records, the Rice County District Court handles criminal and civil case files, the Rice County Assessor manages property valuations, and the Rice County Register of Deeds records land transactions. Kansas state law, specifically the Kansas Open Records Act (K.S.A. 45-215 et seq.), governs public access to these documents, ensuring that most government records are available to the public upon request with limited exceptions for confidential information.
Police Department & Arrest Records
Law enforcement in Chase, Rice County is provided by the Rice County Sheriff's Office and several municipal police departments. The Lyons Police Department serves the city of Lyons, while the Sterling Police Department covers the city of Sterling. Each department is responsible for maintaining public safety within its jurisdiction, handling local crime, and collaborating with the Sheriff's Office on county-wide issues. These agencies work together on major investigations and emergency response efforts to ensure comprehensive coverage across the county.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Rice County Jail, located in Lyons, is the primary detention facility in the county. It handles the booking process for individuals arrested within the county, where they are processed and held pending court appearances or bail. Inmate information can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office, which provides details on current detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, typically requiring prior scheduling and adherence to security protocols. The bond process follows Kansas state guidelines, allowing for the posting of bail to secure an inmate's release pending trial.
Court Records
Chase residents are served by the Rice County District Court, which is located at 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, Kansas 67554, phone (620) 257-2232. The Rice County District Court is part of the 20th Judicial District of Kansas and handles all criminal cases including felonies and misdemeanors, civil cases, domestic relations (divorce and child custody), probate and estate matters, juvenile cases, and small claims disputes up to $4,000. Chase does not operate a separate municipal court; all traffic violations and city ordinance violations are processed through the Rice County District Court.
Kansas District Courts have general jurisdiction over virtually all legal matters arising in the county. Court records for Rice County can be searched online through the Kansas Courts Public Access Portal at www.kansas.gov/apps/districtcourt, which provides free access to case information including party names, case numbers, filing dates, charges or claims, hearing dates, and case dispositions. The online system does not provide full document images for most cases, but offers docket summaries and case status. To obtain certified copies of court documents, judgments, or case files, requests must be made to the Rice County Clerk of the District Court at the Lyons courthouse. Certified copies typically cost $1.00 per page plus a certification fee. The court accepts requests in person, by mail, or by phone for record searches. Marriage license applications are filed through the District Court at a fee of approximately $85, and divorce records are maintained as part of the court's domestic relations case files. Small claims filings cost approximately $50-$100 depending on the amount claimed.
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Rice County encompass felony, misdemeanor, and traffic offenses, maintained by the Rice County Sheriff's Office and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI). The KBI provides a centralized database for background checks, accessible to residents and employers seeking comprehensive criminal history information. The county also maintains a sex offender registry, ensuring public awareness and safety. Access to these records is governed by the Kansas Open Records Act, which outlines the procedures for requesting criminal history information.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Rice County are maintained by the Rice County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges filed, and personal information of the arrestee. Residents and legal representatives can request copies of arrest records through the Sheriff's Office, following the procedures outlined by the Kansas Open Records Act. Arrest records provide a comprehensive account of the incident, including the date, location, and nature of the offense.
Public Records Access
Property and land records for Chase, Kansas are maintained by Rice County offices in Lyons. The Rice County Appraiser's Office, located at 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, Kansas 67554, phone (620) 257-2258, maintains all property assessment records for Chase and the entire county. The Appraiser's website at ricecountyks.gov provides online access to property records through a searchable database where users can look up parcels by address, owner name, or parcel identification number.
The online system displays current assessed values, property descriptions, building characteristics, sales history, and tax information. Property owners can view their assessment notices and compare valuations online. The Rice County Appraiser conducts regular reappraisals to maintain current market values for tax purposes. For recorded land documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, and other instruments affecting real property, the Rice County Register of Deeds maintains the official records at 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, Kansas 67554, phone (620) 257-2456. The Register of Deeds office has been recording documents since Rice County was organized in 1871. While some Kansas counties offer free online access to recorded documents, Rice County currently requires in-person or mail requests for copies of recorded instruments, though indexes may be searchable online. Recording fees vary by document type, typically starting at around $20 for the first page and $3 for each additional page. The office is open during regular business hours Monday through Friday. Rice County does not currently offer a comprehensive GIS parcel viewer, but property boundaries and basic information can be viewed through the Appraiser's online search system.
Economy & Demographics
Chase's economy is predominantly agricultural, reflecting its location in the heart of Kansas wheat country in Rice County. The city's economic base centers on farming operations, grain storage, and agricultural services. The Chase Co-op Association, which operates grain elevators and provides farm supplies, is one of the largest employers in the immediate area, serving farmers from Chase and surrounding communities. Many Chase residents are involved in wheat, corn, and soybean production, with farm operations ranging from family-owned properties to larger commercial agricultural enterprises.
The Union Pacific Railroad, which runs through Chase along the historic route of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway, continues to serve as a major grain shipping point, connecting local agricultural products to national and international markets. Chase Elementary School, part of USD 397 Centre, provides educational services and employment. The median household income for Chase is estimated at approximately $50,000-$55,000, slightly below the Kansas state median but typical for small rural communities in central Kansas. The city has experienced modest population decline over recent decades, consistent with trends in many rural Kansas communities as agricultural consolidation has reduced the number of farm families. Recent economic development has focused on maintaining agricultural infrastructure and supporting existing businesses rather than attracting new industries. Chase's economy is closely tied to Rice County's overall agricultural economy, with the county being one of Kansas's leading wheat-producing counties. The city serves as a service point for surrounding farms, with the local co-op, grain elevators, and agricultural businesses providing essential support to the rural economy. Tourism is minimal, though the area's agricultural heritage and prairie landscape attract some visitors interested in rural Kansas life.
Law Enforcement & Arrest Records
Chase, Kansas does not operate its own municipal police department; law enforcement services for Chase and the surrounding area are provided by the Rice County Sheriff's Office, located at 109 West Washington Street, Lyons, Kansas 67554. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at (620) 257-2911 and operates 24 hours a day. The department's website at ricecountyks.gov provides information about services, but does not offer online records requests. To obtain police reports, incident records, or accident reports involving Chase addresses, residents must contact the Sheriff's Office directly, either in person at the Lyons office or by written request. The Rice County Sheriff's Office maintains jurisdiction over all unincorporated areas of Rice County and provides patrol, investigation, and emergency response services to Chase. For arrest records and jail bookings, the Rice County Jail maintains an inmate roster that can be accessed by calling the Sheriff's Office at (620) 257-2911. The jail roster typically includes inmate names, booking dates, charges, bond amounts, and booking photos when available. Public access to law enforcement records in Kansas is governed by the Kansas Open Records Act, codified at K.S.A. 45-215 through 45-223. Under this statute, most law enforcement records are considered public unless they are part of an ongoing investigation or contain confidential information protected by law. Requesters must submit a written request describing the records sought, and the agency must respond within three business days. The Sheriff's Office may charge reasonable fees for copying and staff time to compile records. Kansas law also provides public access to arrest logs, dispatch records, and incident reports, though certain investigative materials and records involving juveniles may be withheld.
Vital Records
Vital records for Chase, Kansas residents are managed primarily at the state level, with some services available through Rice County offices. Birth and death certificates are issued by the Kansas Office of Vital Statistics, Curtis State Office Building, 1000 SW Jackson Street, Suite 120, Topeka, Kansas 66612-2221, phone (785) 296-1400, website www.kdheks.gov/vital. Birth certificates cost $15 for the first copy and $15 for each additional copy of the same record ordered at the same time. Death certificates cost $15 each.
Kansas vital records can be ordered online through the VitalChek service at www.vitalchek.com, with additional processing fees applied for expedited service. Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks for mail requests and 2-3 weeks for online orders. Birth records in Kansas are confidential for 100 years and can only be obtained by the person named on the certificate, immediate family members, or legal representatives with proper authorization. Death records are public after becoming final. Marriage licenses for Chase residents are issued by the Rice County District Court Clerk at 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, Kansas 67554, phone (620) 257-2232. The marriage license fee is approximately $85, and there is no waiting period in Kansas after the license is issued; licenses are valid for six months. Kansas law requires both parties to appear in person to apply for a marriage license, and valid photo identification is required. Marriage records are maintained by the District Court Clerk and are public records. Divorce records are also maintained by the Rice County District Court as part of domestic relations case files, and certified copies can be obtained from the Clerk of the District Court. Kansas vital records have been maintained since July 1, 1911, though county-level records for earlier years may exist in courthouse archives.
Business & Licensing Records
Business licensing and registration for Chase, Kansas operates at multiple governmental levels. The City of Chase does require business licenses for most commercial operations within city limits. Business license applications and renewals are handled through Chase City Hall, located at 202 Main Street, Chase, Kansas 67524, phone (620) 938-4234. Local business owners should contact City Hall directly to determine specific licensing requirements, fees, and renewal schedules, which vary by business type. Chase City Hall is typically open weekdays during regular business hours.
For businesses operating in unincorporated Rice County areas or requiring county-level permits, the Rice County Clerk's Office at 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, Kansas 67554, phone (620) 257-2232, can provide information. Fictitious business name filings (Doing Business As or DBA registrations) in Kansas are filed with the individual county Register of Deeds office; for Rice County, this is at 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, Kansas 67554, phone (620) 257-2456. State-level business entity registration is managed by the Kansas Secretary of State's Office. All corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and other formal business entities must register with the state. The Kansas Business Entity Search can be accessed free online at www.sos.ks.gov/business/business-entity-search.html, where users can look up any registered business entity, view its current status (active, inactive, dissolved), see registered agent information, review officers and directors, and check filing history. The Secretary of State's Office is located at Memorial Hall, 120 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, Kansas 66612, phone (785) 296-4564. UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) lien searches and filings are also handled by the Kansas Secretary of State and can be searched online. Business property owners in Chase can look up their commercial property tax assessments through the Rice County Appraiser's online database at ricecountyks.gov, which shows assessed values for all real and personal property.
Elections & Voter Records
Chase, Kansas voters are served by the Rice County Clerk's Office, which administers all elections for the county. The Rice County Clerk is located at 101 West Commercial Street, Lyons, Kansas 67554, phone (620) 257-2232, website ricecountyks.gov. This office handles voter registration, maintains voter rolls, processes absentee ballot applications, conducts early voting, and certifies election results for all federal, state, county, and local elections affecting Chase residents. Kansas voters can register online through the Kansas Secretary of State's website at www.kdor.ks.gov/Apps/VoterReg, or by submitting a paper application to the Rice County Clerk. The voter registration deadline in Kansas is 21 days before any election. Valid identification or the last four digits of a Social Security number is required for registration. Chase operates as a city of the third class under Kansas law and holds municipal elections for mayor and city council members; these elections are typically held in odd-numbered years, with the next municipal election scheduled for April 2025. Voters can find sample ballots and information about local candidates through the Rice County Clerk's Office closer to election dates. To locate their assigned polling place, Chase residents can use the Kansas Voter View system at myvoteinfo.voteks.org or contact the Rice County Clerk directly. Most Chase voters cast ballots at a polling location within the city limits on election day. Under Kansas open records law (K.S.A. 45-215 et seq.), voter registration lists are public records available for inspection, though certain information like Social Security numbers is redacted. Campaign finance reports for local and state candidates can be accessed through the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission at ethics.kansas.gov, while county-level campaign finance records may be filed with the County Clerk. Election results by precinct are public and posted on the Rice County website after certification. In the November 2024 presidential election, Rice County reported approximately 63-67% voter turnout, with about 2,400 ballots cast out of roughly 3,600 registered voters, consistent with rural Kansas turnout patterns. The November 3, 2026 general election will be significant for Chase and Rice County voters. Kansas voters will decide several major races, including all four U.S. House seats, state legislature seats including the Kansas Senate District 24 and Kansas House District 115 which cover Rice County, the Kansas Governor's race (Governor Laura Kelly's term expires January 2027), and various county offices including Rice County Commission seats, County Clerk, Register of Deeds, Treasurer, Sheriff, and County Attorney positions. Kansas does not have a U.S. Senate seat up in 2026 (Senator Roger Marshall's term runs through 2026, Senator Jerry Moran's through 2028). Chase voters may also decide on local city council or mayoral positions depending on term schedules. Kansas offers advance voting by mail (absentee voting); any registered voter may request an advance ballot application from the Rice County Clerk, which must be received by the Tuesday before the election. Ballots must be returned by mail (postmarked by election day and received within three days) or delivered in person to the County Clerk's office by 7:00 PM on election day. Kansas does not require an excuse to vote by advance ballot.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal | Property: ⚠️ Partial Online (Assessor online, Recorder in-person) | Arrest Logs: ⚠️ Limited Online (phone inquiry required) | Vital Records: ⚠️ State Office Required | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 6.5/10 — Rice County provides good access to court and business records through state systems and property assessments online, but recorded documents require in-person requests and arrest information is not available through online databases, placing the county at average transparency for rural Kansas counties
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Chase, Rice County, Kansas to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in Chase, Kansas, you will be transported to the Rice County Detention Center for booking and processing. During booking, officers record personal information, take fingerprints, and photograph the arrestee. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment, or released on bail. The Rice County Inmate Search portal allows online lookup of current inmates. Contact the Rice County Clerk of Courts for case information.
2 What are the school district and education performance data for Chase, Rice County, Kansas?
The Chase area is served by public school districts in Rice County, Kansas. School performance data, enrollment statistics, and district boundaries are available through the Kansas Department of Education website. School report cards, test scores, and demographic data are published annually for all public schools.
3 What are the crime statistics for Chase, Rice County, Kansas?
Crime statistics for Chase, Kansas are reported annually to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting program. Local crime data including incident reports, arrest statistics, and calls for service are typically published by the Chase Police Department on their official website. The Kansas Attorney General also publishes annual crime statistics by jurisdiction.
4 What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Chase, Rice County, Kansas Library?
The Chase Public Library provides residents with access to public records research tools. Library cardholders can access online genealogy databases, historical newspaper archives, and Kansas government document repositories. Reference librarians can assist with records requests, ancestry searches, and government document navigation.
5 Where is the Chase, Rice County, Kansas Public Library located?
The Chase Public Library main branch is located in Chase, Kansas. Check the Chase city website or library system portal for branch addresses, hours of operation, and available services.
6 Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Chase, Rice County, Kansas?
Fingerprinting services in Chase, Kansas are available through the Chase Police Department and authorized IdentoGO or Fieldprint enrollment centers. Fingerprinting is required for employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, real estate), concealed carry permits, and adoption applications. Contact the Rice County Sheriff's Office or local law enforcement for walk-in fingerprinting options.
7 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Chase, Rice County, Kansas, and what information is provided in the records?
To obtain vital records in Chase, Kansas, contact the Kansas Vital Statistics Unit. Birth and death certificates can be ordered online, by mail, or in person. Marriage licenses are issued by the Rice County Clerk's office. Certified copies require valid government-issued photo ID and a processing fee. Online ordering is available through VitalCheck or the state health department portal.
8 About Police Reports
Police reports from Chase, Kansas can be obtained from the Chase Police Department or the Rice County Sheriff's Office. Submit a request in person, by mail, or online with the incident report number, date, and your identification. Under the Kansas Open Records Act, most incident reports are public records. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days. Traffic accident reports may also be available through the Kansas DMV.
9 About background check
A background check in Chase, Rice County, Kansas typically includes a review of criminal history records, arrest records, court judgments, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards frequently request background checks. You can request a Kansas criminal history report through the Kansas Department of Public Safety. Federal background checks are available through the FBI Identity History Summary program.