About Chippewa County
Chippewa County is located in west-central Wisconsin, bordered by the Chippewa River which flows through the heart of the region. The county seat is Chippewa Falls, situated approximately 12 miles north of Eau Claire. Established in 1845, Chippewa County encompasses approximately 1,009 square miles and has a population of roughly 66,000 residents according to recent census estimates. The county was carved from Crawford County and named after the Chippewa (Ojibwe) people who historically inhabited the region.
- Key county offices include the Chippewa County Clerk at the courthouse, the Register of Deeds office also at 711 North Bridge Street, and the Chippewa County Assessor's office which maintains property valuations.
Major municipalities include Chippewa Falls, the largest city, along with Bloomer, Lake Hallie, and Stanley. The county is known for its lumber industry heritage, particularly the historic Leinenkugel Brewery founded in 1867, and the annual Northern Wisconsin State Fair held in Chippewa Falls. The landscape features rolling hills, extensive forests, and numerous lakes including Lake Wissota, Wisconsin's second-largest lake created by a hydroelectric dam.
The Chippewa County Courthouse is located at 711 North Bridge Street in Chippewa Falls. The county's economy historically centered on timber, agriculture, and brewing, with modern diversification into manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail passes through the county, attracting hikers and nature enthusiasts year-round.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
The Chippewa County Sheriff's Office is responsible for law enforcement in the unincorporated areas of the county. It operates the county jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The office is also involved in community policing initiatives and has specialized divisions such as a drug task force and a K-9 unit. The Sheriff's Office plays a crucial role in ensuring public safety and coordinating with other law enforcement agencies in the county.
Police Departments
In addition to the Chippewa County Sheriff's Office, several municipal police departments operate within the county, including the Chippewa Falls Police Department and the Bloomer Police Department. These agencies have jurisdiction within their respective cities and collaborate with the Sheriff's Office on major crimes and investigations. The coordination between these departments ensures comprehensive law enforcement coverage across the county, addressing both urban and rural needs.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
The Chippewa County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at 711 North Bridge Street, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729, provides primary law enforcement services throughout the unincorporated areas of the county. The Sheriff's Office operates the Chippewa County Jail, a detention facility that houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates. Inmate lookup services are available through the Chippewa County Sheriff's website at co.chippewa.wi.us or by calling 715-726-7701.
- Under Wisconsin Statutes §19.31-19.39, the state's public records law, arrest records are generally considered public information and may be requested from the law enforcement agency that made the arrest.
- Written requests should specify the individual's name and approximate date of arrest.
- Mugshots and booking photos are typically included in jail records and available through the Sheriff's Office, though some agencies may charge copy fees per Wisconsin Statutes §19.35(1)(c).
- Response time for public records requests must be as soon as practicable and without delay, though complex requests may require more time.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
Chippewa County's criminal records system includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, while the Wisconsin Department of Justice provides statewide background checks. Residents can request criminal records through the appropriate agency, and the Wisconsin Bureau of Investigation offers additional resources for comprehensive background checks. This system ensures that criminal history information is accessible for legal and personal purposes.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Chippewa County are maintained by the Chippewa County Sheriff's Office. These records can be requested by residents and attorneys through the Sheriff's Office, following the guidelines set by the Wisconsin Open Records Law. An arrest record typically includes the individual's personal details, the nature of the offense, and the arresting agency. The process ensures transparency and accessibility to public records while safeguarding sensitive information.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Chippewa County Jail, located in Chippewa Falls, is the primary detention facility for the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the arrestees. Inmate information can be accessed through the county's online inmate lookup tool. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, with scheduled times and guidelines that must be adhered to. The bond and bail process in Wisconsin allows for the posting of bail to secure the release of an inmate, and this can be arranged through the jail or a bail bondsman.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Chippewa County are taken and retained by the Chippewa County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office website or by submitting a formal request. Wisconsin does not have specific laws for mugshot removal, but individuals can petition for removal or sealing under certain circumstances. The availability of mugshots is subject to public records laws, ensuring they are accessible while protecting privacy rights.
Courts & Case Records
Chippewa County is served by the Chippewa County Circuit Court, part of Wisconsin's unified court system under the Tenth Judicial District. The courthouse is located at 711 North Bridge Street, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729, with general information available at 715-726-7784. The Circuit Court has broad jurisdiction over civil cases exceeding $10,000, criminal felonies and misdemeanors, family law matters including divorce and custody, probate and estate cases, juvenile proceedings, and small claims up to $10,000.
- The Chippewa County Clerk of Circuit Court maintains official court records and charges fees for certified copies: $5.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page per Wisconsin Statutes §814.61(5).
- Record requests should be directed to the Clerk of Circuit Court office during business hours Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Wisconsin operates a statewide online case access system called Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) available at wcca.wicourts.gov, providing free public search capability for circuit court cases by party name, case number, or attorney. The system includes case summaries, party information, court calendar entries, and case dispositions, though some sensitive records like certain juvenile matters and sealed cases are restricted. Municipal courts operate in Chippewa Falls, Bloomer, and other municipalities, handling local ordinance violations, traffic citations, and certain state traffic offenses.
These municipal court records may be accessed through each individual county rather than through the county system. Wisconsin Supreme Court Rule 72 governs public access to court records, establishing a presumption of public access while protecting confidential information such as social security numbers, financial account numbers, and sensitive personal information in family law cases.
Property & Public Records
The Chippewa County Register of Deeds office, located at 711 North Bridge Street, Suite 252, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 (phone 715-726-7774), maintains land and property records dating back to the county's establishment. The office records and preserves deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, plat maps, condominium declarations, survey records, and other documents affecting real property title in Chippewa County. Under Wisconsin Statutes §59.43, the Register of Deeds must record instruments in the order received and maintain indexes searchable by grantor, grantee, and property description.
- Chippewa County offers an online property search system through its website at co.chippewa.wi.us, allowing users to search property records by owner name, parcel number, or address.
- Recording fees are established by Wisconsin Statutes §59.43(2) with a base fee of $30 for the first page and $2 for each additional page.
- Certified copies cost $5.00 for the first page and $1.00 per additional page.
- Property tax information including assessed values, tax amounts, and payment history can be searched through the county's online property information system.
Public access to these records is guaranteed under Wisconsin's public records law. Document images may be viewable online or require in-person visit for complete file review. The Chippewa County Assessor's Office, also located in the courthouse, maintains property tax assessment records, parcel maps, and assessment rolls.
The county maintains a Geographic Information System (GIS) accessible at gis.co.chippewa.wi.us providing interactive mapping tools, aerial photography, and parcel data layers. The Treasurer's Office at 715-726-7789 handles property tax collections and can provide tax payment history and delinquency information.
Vital Records
Vital records for events occurring in Chippewa County are maintained by both the Chippewa County Register of Deeds (which serves as the local vital records custodian) and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services Vital Records Office. Birth certificates for births occurring in Chippewa County can be requested from the Register of Deeds office at 711 North Bridge Street, Suite 252, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729, or by calling 715-726-7774. The fee for a certified birth certificate is $20 for the first copy, with processing typically taking 5-10 business days for in-person or mail requests.
- Death certificates are also available through the same office for $20 per certified copy.
- Both parties must appear in person to apply, pay a $110 fee, and provide identification.
- Marriage certificates confirming the recorded marriage are available after the ceremony for $20.
- For events occurring elsewhere in Wisconsin or for expedited service, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services Vital Records Office in Madison accepts requests online at dhs.wisconsin.gov/vitalrecords, by mail to P.O.
- Online ordering through VitalChek costs $34 with expedited shipping options available.
Applicants must provide valid photo identification and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest under Wisconsin Statutes §69.20-69.21, which restricts access to immediate family members, legal representatives, or individuals with a property right or claim. Marriage licenses must be obtained from the Chippewa County Clerk's office at 711 North Bridge Street, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 (phone 715-726-7980). A 6-day waiting period applies before the license becomes valid, though it can be waived by court order.
Divorce records (officially called dissolution of marriage) are court records maintained by the Clerk of Circuit Court at the courthouse and accessed through that office. Box 309, Madison, WI 53701-0309, or by phone at 608-266-1371.
Business & Licensing
Business licensing and registration in Chippewa County involves multiple levels of government oversight. Local business licenses and permits are issued through individual municipalities rather than the county; businesses operating in Chippewa Falls should contact the City Clerk at 715-723-9771, while Bloomer businesses contact 715-568-2389. The Chippewa County Clerk's office at 711 North Bridge Street, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 (715-726-7980) accepts and records trade name registrations (DBA - doing business as) and fictitious name filings under Wisconsin Statutes §134.16.
- These registrations cost $25 and must be renewed every five years.
- This free database includes entity names, registered agents, formation dates, and status information.
- Bridge Street, Chippewa Falls (website chippewachamber.org, phone 715-723-0331), provides business networking, economic development information, and resources for entrepreneurs and established businesses in the region.
To search for corporations, limited liability companies, and other business entities registered in Wisconsin, use the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions Business Entity Search at corporationsearch.wicourts.gov. Professional licenses including those for contractors, electricians, plumbers, and cosmetologists are issued by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services, searchable at dsps.wi.gov. Wisconsin sellers permits (sales tax licenses) are obtained through the Wisconsin Department of Revenue at revenue.wi.gov.
Building permits, zoning approvals, and land use permits are handled by the Chippewa County Zoning Department at 711 North Bridge Street, phone 715-726-7979. Commercial construction requires both county zoning approval and local building permits from the county. The Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, located at 10 S.
Elections & Voter Records
The Chippewa County Clerk's Office, located at 711 North Bridge Street, Suite 213, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 (phone 715-726-7980), serves as the county's election administration hub. The office coordinates elections, maintains voter registration records, certifies results, and provides support to municipal clerks throughout the county. Wisconsin offers online voter registration through the MyVote Wisconsin website at myvote.wi.gov, where eligible residents can register, check registration status, find polling places, view sample ballots, and track absentee ballots.
- These records can be requested through the County Clerk's office under Wisconsin Statutes §19.35.
- Absentee voting in Wisconsin allows any registered voter to request a ballot without providing a reason.
- Absentee ballot requests for Chippewa County voters should be submitted through the MyVote Wisconsin portal at myvote.wi.gov or by contacting your municipal clerk's office.
- The deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail is 5:00 PM on the Thursday before Election Day, though in-person absentee voting is available at clerk's offices until 5:00 PM on the Sunday before Election Day.
Voter registration in Wisconsin requires proof of residence and can be completed online up to 20 days before an election, by mail up to 20 days before, or in person at the municipal clerk's office up through Election Day. Same-day registration is available at polling places on Election Day with proper identification and proof of residence under Wisconsin Statutes §6.29. To find your specific polling place in Chippewa County, visit myvote.wi.gov and enter your address, or contact your municipal clerk's office.
Wisconsin's Voter ID law requires voters to present acceptable photo identification such as a Wisconsin driver's license, state ID card, military ID, passport, or other approved documents. Election records considered public under Wisconsin law include voter registration lists (with certain personal information redacted), campaign finance reports filed by candidates and committees, candidate nomination papers and declarations, and precinct-by-precinct election results. Chippewa County's voter turnout in the November 2024 general election was approximately 77-79%, reflecting Wisconsin's traditionally high civic engagement, particularly in presidential election years.
The next major election occurs on November 3, 2026, featuring U.S. Senate and U.S. House races, Wisconsin state constitutional offices including Governor, and state legislative seats.
Wisconsin does not have U.S. Senate races in 2026 specifically, but will have one U.S. Senate seat if scheduled.
Wisconsin Statutes §7.51 and §7.52 govern absentee voting procedures ensuring ballot security and voter access.
Economy & Demographics
Chippewa County's economy represents a diverse mix of manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, retail, and tourism sectors with an estimated median household income around $67,000 based on recent American Community Survey data. Manufacturing remains the largest employment sector with major employers including Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company (owned by Molson Coors), Barron County Seymour Community Schools, Cray Inc.
(supercomputer design and manufacturing in nearby Eau Claire with operations affecting Chippewa County), and various wood products manufacturers reflecting the county's timber heritage. Agriculture continues as a significant economic driver with dairy farming, crop production (corn, soybeans, hay), and increasingly diversified operations including organic farms and agritourism. Healthcare employment centers on HSHS St.
Joseph's Hospital in Chippewa Falls and numerous clinics throughout the county. The service sector has expanded significantly with retail concentrated in Chippewa Falls and Lake Hallie, which has become a regional shopping destination with big-box retailers along Highway 53. Tourism contributes substantially through Lake Wissota State Park, the Chippewa River State Trail, the Northern Wisconsin State Fair, and recreational activities on Lake Wissota and surrounding waters.
The county's unemployment rate typically tracks below or near the Wisconsin state average, ranging between 2.5-4.5% in recent years depending on seasonal variations. Economic development initiatives focus on downtown revitalization in Chippewa Falls, business park development, and leveraging proximity to Eau Claire's growing economy. The Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation works to attract and retain businesses through various incentive programs.
Notable projects include industrial park expansions and infrastructure improvements along the Highway 53 corridor connecting to Interstate 94.
Transparency Score
Court Records: ✅ Online (WCCA) | Property: ✅ Free Search Online | Arrest/Jail: ✅ Online Roster | Vital Records: ⚠️ In-Person or Mail | Business: ✅ Online (State) | Elections: ✅ Online Portal | Overall Score: 8.5/10 — Chippewa County provides excellent digital access to most public records with robust online systems for court cases, property searches, and jail information, though vital records still require traditional request methods.
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Cities & Towns in Chippewa County
Explore public records for 9 cities and communities in Chippewa County, Wisconsin.
Nearby Counties
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