About Chippewa County
Chippewa County is located in the eastern Upper Peninsula of Michigan, occupying 2,698 square miles with approximately 37,000 residents. The county seat is Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan's oldest city founded in 1668, situated on the St. Marys River across from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Chippewa County is home to the world-famous Soo Locks, which enable ships to transit between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes, making it one of the most critical waterways in North America.
The county includes Sugar Island, Neebish Island, and Drummond Island (partially), as well as significant portions of Hiawatha National Forest. The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians maintains a significant presence with tribal lands and enterprises throughout the county.
Major landmarks include the International Bridge connecting to Canada, Lake Superior State University, and extensive shoreline along three Great Lakes. The Chippewa County Recorder's office is located at 319 Court Street, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, handling deed and land record filings.
The Chippewa County Clerk, also at 319 Court Street in the courthouse, maintains court records, marriage licenses, and election administration. The County Equalization Department serves as the central property assessment authority. The county's economy historically relied on shipping, timber, and fishing, but has diversified into tourism, tribal gaming, education, and international commerce.
Winter temperatures frequently drop below zero Fahrenheit, while summer brings tourists seeking wilderness recreation, fishing, and maritime history.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
The Chippewa County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order throughout the county, particularly in unincorporated areas. The office oversees the Chippewa County Correctional Facility, manages patrol operations, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The Sheriff's Office is also involved in community outreach programs and has specialized divisions such as marine patrol and search and rescue, which are vital given the county's extensive waterways and wilderness areas.
Police Departments
Law enforcement in Chippewa County is provided by the Chippewa County Sheriff's Office and several municipal police departments. The Sault Ste. Marie Police Department serves the city of Sault Ste. Marie, focusing on urban policing and community safety. Other municipal departments include the Kinross Township Police Department, which handles local law enforcement in Kinross and surrounding areas. These agencies coordinate on major crimes and emergencies, often collaborating with state and federal law enforcement for comprehensive crime prevention and response strategies.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
The Chippewa County Sheriff's Office, located at 319 Court Street, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, provides law enforcement services throughout the county's unincorporated areas and contract policing for several townships. The Sheriff's Office operates the Chippewa County Jail and Correctional Facility at the same address, phone (906) 635-6300. Inmate lookup and current custody information can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office website or by calling the jail directly during business hours. Booking information typically includes name, charges, bond amount, and booking date.
- Written requests should be directed to the Chippewa County Sheriff's Office or the specific arresting agency.
- Processing times for FOIA requests typically range from 5-15 business days, and agencies may charge reasonable fees for copying and labor.
Municipal police departments operating within Chippewa County include the Sault Ste. Marie Police Department serving the city of Sault Ste. Marie, and Michigan State Police maintains a post in the county for highway patrol and investigative services.
The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians operates its own Tribal Police Department with jurisdiction over tribal lands and members, coordinating with county and state agencies. Arrest records in Chippewa County are public records accessible under Michigan's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), MCL 15.231 et seq.
Mugshot and booking photos are generally available through the jail's booking records, though some records may be restricted for ongoing investigations or juvenile matters. The Sheriff's Office also maintains sex offender registry information as mandated by Michigan law, accessible through the Michigan Public Sex Offender Registry online.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in Chippewa County encompasses various types of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Chippewa County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, which are accessible to the public under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act. Residents can request background checks through the Michigan State Police, which provides comprehensive criminal history reports.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Chippewa County are maintained by the Chippewa County Sheriff's Office. These records document the circumstances of an individual's arrest, including charges, arresting officer details, and booking information. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records through the Sheriff's Office, often requiring a formal request under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Chippewa County arrest records typically include personal information, details of the alleged offense, and the arresting agency.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Chippewa County Correctional Facility, located in Sault Ste. Marie, is the primary detention center for individuals arrested within the county. The facility handles the booking process, which includes fingerprinting, photographing, and documenting personal information of detainees. Inmate lookup services are available through the Sheriff's Office, allowing family members and legal representatives to find information about current detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, typically requiring prior scheduling and adherence to security protocols.
- The bond and bail process follows Michigan state guidelines, allowing for the release of detainees pending court appearances, with bail amounts set by the courts based on the severity of charges and flight risk.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Chippewa County are taken and retained by the Chippewa County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These photographs are part of the public record and can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office or online databases that may host such information. While Michigan does not have specific laws for mugshot removal, individuals can petition for removal or sealing of records in certain circumstances, such as expungement of charges.
Courts & Case Records
Chippewa County courts are headquartered at the Chippewa County Courthouse, 319 Court Street, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783. The 50th Circuit Court, phone (906) 635-6300, handles felony criminal cases, civil matters over $25,000, domestic relations including divorce and child custody, and appeals from lower courts. Judge James J. Jamo presides over Circuit Court proceedings.
- The Michigan One Court of Justice case search system provides online access to many Chippewa County case records at courts.michigan.gov, though some sensitive cases are restricted.
- In-person searches at the courthouse are free; certified copies cost $10 plus $1 per page after the first.
- Requests for older archived records may require advance notice and additional research fees.
The 91st District Court, same courthouse location, phone (906) 635-6313, has jurisdiction over misdemeanor cases, civil claims up to $25,000, landlord-tenant disputes, small claims up to $6,500, and preliminary examinations for felonies. Traffic violations and most criminal arraignments begin in District Court. Chippewa County Probate Court, also located in the courthouse, handles estates, wills, trusts, guardianships, conservatorships, mental health proceedings, and juvenile delinquency and neglect cases.
Court records are public under Michigan Court Rule 8.119 and MCR 1.109, with certain exceptions for juvenile, mental health, and adoption records. The Clerk's office accepts cash, checks, and credit cards. Hours are Monday-Friday 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding holidays.
Property & Public Records
The Chippewa County Register of Deeds office, located at 319 Court Street, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, phone (906) 635-6304, maintains and records all land-related documents including warranty deeds, quit claim deeds, mortgages, land contracts, liens, easements, right-of-way agreements, surveys, and plat maps. Records date back to the county's formation in 1826, with many historical documents digitized.
- The Register of Deeds provides online property record searches through a subscription-based system accessible via the county website, allowing searches by name, parcel number, or legal description.
- Document images can be viewed and printed for a per-page fee.
- Recording fees for deeds are $30 for the first page and $3 for each additional page, pursuant to Michigan statute.
- Property tax records including assessed values, taxable values, and tax payment history are available through the County Treasurer's office and online through the county's GIS parcel viewer at no charge.
- The GIS system provides aerial imagery, parcel boundaries, ownership information, and assessment data searchable by address or parcel number.
Vital Records
Birth and death certificates for events occurring in Chippewa County are available through the Chippewa County Clerk's office at 319 Court Street, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, phone (906) 635-6300. Birth certificates cost $34 for the first certified copy and $16 for each additional copy ordered simultaneously; death certificates are $34 for the first copy and $16 for additional copies. Processing typically takes 1-2 weeks for mail requests and immediate to same-day for walk-in requests if the record is readily available.
- VitalChek offers online expedited ordering for Michigan vital records at michigan.gov/mdhhs with additional service fees and credit card payment.
- The marriage license fee is $20 for Michigan residents and $30 for non-residents, with a three-day waiting period that can be waived by the probate court for an additional fee.
- Certified marriage certificates cost $10 per copy.
Applicants must provide valid photo identification and demonstrate eligibility under Michigan's Vital Records law, MCL 333.2882. Birth certificates are restricted to the individual (if age 18+), parents listed on the certificate, legal guardians, or legal representatives with documented authority. Death certificates are available to immediate family members, legal representatives, and individuals with demonstrated legal interest.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Vital Records office in Lansing serves as the state repository for all Michigan vital records and can fulfill requests for Chippewa County certificates; phone 517-335-8655, fee schedule is identical. Marriage licenses must be obtained from the Chippewa County Clerk before the ceremony; both applicants must appear in person with photo ID and Social Security numbers. Divorce decrees are court records obtained through the Circuit Court Clerk, not the County Clerk's vital records division.
Business & Licensing
Business licensing and registration in Chippewa County involves multiple agencies depending on business type and activity. The Chippewa County Clerk's office at 319 Court Street, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, phone (906) 635-6300, accepts filings for assumed name certificates (Doing Business As/DBA) as required under MCL 445.1. DBA certificates cost $10 and must be filed before conducting business under a name other than the owner's legal name.
- The Michigan Business Entity Search at cofs.lara.michigan.gov/corpweb provides free online access to all registered Michigan businesses, including active status, registered agent, formation date, and entity type.
- Sales tax permits are issued by the Michigan Department of Treasury; all retailers must register for sales tax collection.
- Marie, MI 49783, phone (906) 632-3301, website saultchamber.com, provides business networking, economic data, and support services for local enterprises.
The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) handles all corporate filings, LLC formations, partnerships, and business entity registrations through its Corporations Division. Professional licenses for occupations such as contractors, electricians, plumbers, cosmetologists, and health professionals are issued by LARA through its online portal. The City of Sault Ste.
Marie requires local business licenses for businesses operating within city limits; contact City Hall at 225 E. Portage Avenue, phone (906) 632-5705. Building permits, electrical permits, and mechanical permits are issued by the Chippewa County Building Department or municipal building departments for incorporated cities.
Zoning compliance and land use permits are managed by the Chippewa County Planning Department, phone (906) 635-6393. The Sault Area Chamber of Commerce, 2581 I-75 Business Spur, Sault Ste.
Elections & Voter Records
The Chippewa County Clerk's office serves as the County Election Coordinator, located at 319 Court Street, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, phone (906) 635-6300. The Clerk oversees election administration, processes absentee ballot applications, maintains voter registration records, and certifies election results for all county precincts. Voter registration in Michigan is available online at michigan.gov/vote, in person at the County Clerk's office or any Secretary of State branch office, or by mail using a Michigan Voter Registration Application.
- Absentee ballot applications can be requested online, by mail, or in person; Michigan voters may request absentee ballots without stating a reason following passage of Proposal 3 in 2018.
- Citizens may observe ballot counting and canvassing processes under Michigan election law MCL 168.1 et seq.
Michigan implemented same-day voter registration through Election Day via constitutional amendment, allowing eligible residents to register and vote simultaneously at their city or township clerk's office with proof of residency. Traditional registration through the County Clerk closes 15 days before each election. Voters can verify registration status, find polling locations, and view sample ballots at michigan.gov/vote by entering their name and birth date.
Applications should be submitted to the local city or township clerk, not the County Clerk. Chippewa County contains multiple townships and the City of Sault Ste. Marie, each with its own clerk who administers elections locally.
Precinct polling places are listed on the County Clerk's website and assigned based on residence address. The November 2024 general election saw approximately 67% turnout in Chippewa County, consistent with Michigan's Upper Peninsula rural voting patterns. The next major election is November 3, 2026, featuring U.S.
House of Representatives races, Michigan State Senate and House districts, county commissioners, and local offices. Public election records include certified results by precinct, voter registration lists (available for election purposes under MCL 168.522), campaign finance disclosures filed with the County Clerk for county-level candidates, and candidate filing documents. Campaign finance reports for state and federal candidates are available through the Michigan Secretary of State and Federal Election Commission respectively.
Absentee ballot statistics, poll books, and election audit records are public under Michigan's Freedom of Information Act. Chippewa County posts unofficial election results on election night and certified results after canvass completion, typically 7-14 days post-election.
Economy & Demographics
Chippewa County's economy is anchored by diverse sectors including international shipping, tribal gaming and hospitality, higher education, healthcare, government, tourism, and cross-border commerce. Lake Superior State University employs several hundred faculty and staff and contributes significantly to the local economy through student spending and research activities. Kewadin Casinos, operated by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, includes multiple properties in Chippewa County and is one of the region's largest employers with over 1,000 employees.
- Median household income in Chippewa County is approximately $48,000, below the Michigan state average, reflecting the rural nature and economic challenges of the Upper Peninsula.
War Memorial Hospital serves as a major healthcare employer. The Soo Locks, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, facilitate passage of approximately 80 million tons of commercial cargo annually, making the waterway vital to Great Lakes shipping of iron ore, coal, grain, and manufactured goods.
The locks themselves employ federal workers and generate substantial economic activity through shipping services, piloting, and marine support. Unemployment rates typically run 1-2 percentage points higher than state averages, with seasonal variation due to tourism and construction. The timber industry remains economically important with logging, sawmills, and forest products manufacturing.
Commercial fishing, though diminished from historical levels, continues as a small sector. Tourism represents a growing share of the economy with visitors attracted to the Soo Locks visitor center (one of Michigan's most visited attractions), Lake Superior shoreline, snowmobiling, fishing, and Canadian shopping access. The International Bridge connecting to Ontario facilitates cross-border commerce and duty-free shopping.
Economic development initiatives focus on expanding year-round tourism, attracting remote workers, and leveraging the deep-water port facilities.
Transparency Score
Court Records: ✅ Online via state system | Property: ✅ Free GIS/Assessor Search | Arrest/Jail: ⚠️ Phone/In-Person | Vital Records: ⚠️ In-Person or Mail | Business: ✅ Online (State) | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall Score: 7/10 — Chippewa County provides good digital access to property and court records; vital records and jail records require direct contact.
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Cities & Towns in Chippewa County
Explore public records for 16 cities and communities in Chippewa County, Michigan.
Nearby Counties
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