Chaseley Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Chaseley, North Dakota government websites.
About Chaseley, North Dakota
Government Type
City Council
Chaseley is a city in Wells County, North Dakota. Use the official town and county resources on this page to reach the clerk, court, assessment, public records, and Freedom of Information request pages serving residents and researchers.
Economically, Chaseley has a strong agricultural presence, with many residents engaged in farming and related industries.Chaseley is also characterized by its proximity to the scenic Lake Isabel, providing recreational opportunities for Everyone. The city operates under the leadership of Mayor John H. Huber and the city council, which includes members such as Councilman David L. Johnson and Councilwoman Sarah K. Miller, who work together to address local needs and enhance community life.
Law Enforcement
Law enforcement services for Chaseley, Wells County are handled by the Wells County Sheriff's Office along with municipal police departments in Harvey and Fessenden. The Sheriff's Office covers rural areas throughout the county, while city police departments operate within their own municipal boundaries. When major crimes or emergencies arise, these agencies work together to ensure response and coverage. Coordination between departments extends to investigations and public safety initiatives, with each operating within its jurisdiction while supporting broader county-wide efforts.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Wells County Jail in Fessenden is the primary detention facility for Wells County. When individuals are arrested anywhere in Wells County, they're processed and booked at this facility, where they remain pending court appearances or until bail is posted. The Sheriff's Office provides inmate lookup services for family members and legal representatives seeking information about detainees. Visitation at the facility follows specific rules and typically requires advance scheduling along with adherence to security protocols.
Arrest Records
The Wells County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records for the county, documenting the circumstances of arrests made throughout the area. These records capture details including the nature of offenses and arresting officer information. Residents and attorneys seeking access to arrest records can contact the Sheriff's Office directly, following procedures outlined under the North Dakota Open Records Statute. Typical records include personal information of the arrested individual, charges filed, and the arrest date.
Court Records
Court proceedings and filings for Chaseley, North Dakota are maintained by the Wells County Clerk of Court. The office keeps civil and criminal case files along with probate and estate records. Residents can access these public records by visiting Wells County Courthouse or submitting a records request. The North Dakota Supreme Court offers online access to select court records as well, allowing researchers to search for information on cases involving residents of the community.
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in Wells County covers various types of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Wells County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, while the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation provides additional resources for background checks. Residents can request criminal background checks through the Bureau, which compiles information from multiple law enforcement agencies across the state.
Public Records Access
Property deeds, mortgage records, and land surveys for Chaseley, North Dakota are kept by the Wells County Recorder's Office. These public records are available both online and in person at Wells County Courthouse. The North Dakota State Archives in Bismarck also houses historical records related to the community and surrounding region. Researchers can search the online catalog or visit the archives in person to access these resources, which offer valuable insights into the area's past.
Vital Records
The North Dakota Department of Health maintains vital records for Chaseley, including birth, marriage, and death certificates. These records can be requested online or by mail, with fees and processing times varying. The Wells County Register of Deeds also keeps some vital records, such as marriage licenses, which can be accessed through the Wells County office. Individuals seeking their own vital records or researching their family history can use these public record sources.
Business & Licensing Records
The North Dakota Secretary of State's office maintains a business registry that includes information on companies and organizations registered in Chaseley, North Dakota. This database can be searched online to find details on local businesses, including legal names, registration dates, and registered agents. The Wells County Auditor's Office also keeps records related to business licenses and permits issued within Wells County, providing additional insights into the local economy.
Economy & Demographics
Public records related to the economy of Chaseley, North Dakota, can be found through various sources. The U.S. Census Bureau provides data on the city's population, income levels, and employment statistics, which can be accessed online. The North Dakota Job Service also collects information on local businesses, employment opportunities, and economic development initiatives in the Chaseley area. The Wells County Economic Development Corporation may have records related to the city's economic activities and growth.
Elections & Voter Records
The Wells County Auditor's Office is the election authority for voters in the Chaseley area. Located at the Wells County Courthouse, 700 Railroad Avenue, Fessenden, ND 58438, the office can be reached at (701) 547-3125. The Auditor administers all election functions for area residents, from voter registration support to absentee voting, polling place operations, and canvassing results. North Dakota stands alone among U.S. States in not requiring voter registration. Qualified residents simply present valid identification at their polling place on election day.
Acceptable IDs include a North Dakota driver's license, non-driver ID card, tribal government-issued ID, or other documents establishing residency. While there's no registration deadline or online portal, voters wanting absentee ballots by mail or those who've recently moved should contact the Wells County Auditor to update their records. As an unincorporated community, Chaseley holds no municipal elections for mayor, city council, or local offices because it has no incorporated municipal government. Residents participate only in Wells County, state, and federal elections. County voters elect commissioners, sheriff, auditor, treasurer, recorder, state's attorney, and other county offices in cycles determined by state law. Precinct boundaries established by the county determine polling place assignments. Residents should contact the Wells County Auditor at (701) 547-3125 to confirm their assigned polling location, typically a school, community center, or public building in or near the area. Early voting is available at the Wells County Auditor's office beginning 15 days before any election. In the November 2024 general election, Wells County showed strong Republican performance in federal races, with voter turnout estimated at approximately 75-80% of eligible voters, reflecting North Dakota's traditionally high civic engagement. For the November 3, 2026 general election, voters in the area will decide several significant races. At the federal level, North Dakota's U.S. Senate seat currently held by Kevin Cramer is not up for election in 2026 (North Dakota's Senate seats are up in 2024 and 2028); however, North Dakota's single U.S. House seat will be on the ballot. At the state level, 2026 is not a gubernatorial election year (the governor is elected in presidential years), but half of the North Dakota Senate and all North Dakota House seats will be contested, including representatives for the legislative district covering Wells County. County offices including sheriff, auditor, commissioners, and other positions may also appear on the 2026 ballot depending on term cycles. Voters can find information on candidates, sample ballots, and election results through the North Dakota Secretary of State's election portal at vip.sos.nd.gov. North Dakota's open records laws make most election records publicly accessible. Voter lists showing who voted in past elections are available from county auditors, though they don't include party affiliation or ballot choices. Campaign finance reports for state and local candidates are accessible through the Secretary of State's website. Precinct-level election results for all Wells County precincts, including those serving the community, are published by the Wells County Auditor after certification and compiled in statewide databases. Voters requesting absentee ballots can contact the Wells County Auditor's office. Applications are available on the Secretary of State's website and must be received by the Wells County Auditor by 5:00 PM the day before the election, though earlier application is recommended to ensure timely mail delivery. Absentee ballots can be returned by mail or delivered in person to the auditor's office.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: Yes: Online Statewide Portal | Property: Limited: Partial Online (Assessor/Recorder in-person primarily) | Arrest Logs: No: Request Required (no online roster) | Vital Records: Yes: Online Ordering (state VitalChek) | Business: Yes: Free State Database (Secretary of State) | Elections: Yes: Online Registration Not Required (no voter registration in ND) & Results Online | Overall: 6.5/10, Wells County maintains essential records at the Fessenden courthouse with helpful staff, but lacks online property search tools and jail rosters, though North Dakota's statewide court and business portals provide excellent transparency for those record types
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What are the school district and education performance data for Chaseley, Wells County, North Dakota?
Public schools in Chaseley, Wells County, North Dakota are administered by the local school district. School performance data, enrollment information, and district boundaries are available through the North Dakota Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics at nces.ed.gov.
2 What are the crime statistics for Chaseley, Wells County, North Dakota?
Crime data for Chaseley, Wells County, North Dakota is maintained by local law enforcement agencies and reported to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program. Residents can access crime statistics through the FBI Crime Data Explorer or by contacting the Chaseley police department or the Wells County Sheriff's Office.
3 What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Chaseley, Wells County, North Dakota Library?
The Chaseley Public Library provides access to public records resources including online databases, historical archives, and government document collections. The Wells County library system may offer additional resources. Contact the library for available databases and research assistance.
4 Where is the Chaseley, Wells County, North Dakota Public Library located?
The Chaseley Public Library serves residents of Chaseley and the surrounding Wells County area in North Dakota. Contact the library or visit the Wells County library system website for current address, hours, and services.
5 Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Chaseley, Wells County, North Dakota?
Fingerprinting services for Chaseley, North Dakota residents are available through the local police department and authorized providers in Wells County. Services cover background checks, professional licensing, and employment screening. Contact the Chaseley Police Department or Wells County Sheriff's Office for scheduling and fees.
6 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Chaseley, Wells County, North Dakota, and what information is provided in the records?
Vital records for Chaseley, Wells County, North Dakota including birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses are available through the North Dakota Department of Health. Requests can be made online, by mail, or in person. The Wells County Clerk's office may also issue certified copies. Valid identification and proof of eligibility are required.
7 How do I register to vote in Chaseley, North Dakota?
To register to vote in Chaseley, North Dakota, residents can register online through the North Dakota Secretary of State's website, by mail, or in person at the Wells County elections office. North Dakota requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the North Dakota Secretary of State's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Chaseley, contact the Wells County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
8 How do I look up property records in Chaseley, North Dakota?
Property records for Chaseley, North Dakota are maintained by the Wells County Director of Tax Equalization's Office and the Wells County Clerk and Recorder. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within Wells County, including parcels in Chaseley. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The Wells County Clerk and Recorder maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many North Dakota counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. For in-person requests, visit the Wells County offices at the county courthouse. The Wells County Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
9 How do I get a birth or death certificate in Chaseley, North Dakota?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Chaseley, North Dakota residents are available through both county and state offices. The North Dakota Department of Health, Division of Vital Records, located in Bismarck, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in North Dakota. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Wells County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for Wells County. Birth and death certificates may also be available through local vital records offices. Requestors typically need to provide valid photo identification and proof of their relationship to the person named on the record. Processing times and fees vary by office and record type.
10 How do I find business license records in Chaseley, North Dakota?
Business licensing for Chaseley, North Dakota operates at municipal, county, and state levels. The Chaseley town or city clerk's office handles local business permits, zoning approvals, and any municipal license requirements for businesses operating within Chaseley limits. Wells County may require additional registrations for businesses in unincorporated areas or county-level sales tax licensing. At the state level, all North Dakota businesses must register with the North Dakota Secretary of State and obtain applicable state tax identification numbers from the North Dakota Department of Revenue. Professional licenses for regulated occupations are issued by the relevant North Dakota licensing boards. For a complete list of requirements for starting a business in Chaseley, contact the Chaseley clerk's office and the Wells County economic development office.