About Clark County
Clark County is located in central Wisconsin, established in 1853 and named after George Rogers Clark, the famous Revolutionary War general. The county seat is Neillsville, situated approximately 50 miles east of Eau Claire. Clark County encompasses approximately 1,219 square miles and has a population of roughly 34,500 residents according to recent census estimates. The county is characterized by rolling farmland, extensive forests, and numerous lakes and streams, making it part of Wisconsin's scenic central highlands.
- Major landmarks include the Levis Mound, one of the highest points in Wisconsin at 1,920 feet above sea level, and the historic Clark County Jail Museum in Neillsville.
- The Clark County Courthouse is located at 517 Court Street in Neillsville, housing the County Clerk, Register of Deeds, and other essential county offices.
- The Clark County Clerk's office maintains vital records, election administration, and various licenses, while the Register of Deeds office records property transactions, mortgages, and land records.
The county's economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, particularly dairy farming and cheese production, along with forestry and manufacturing. Clark County is home to several communities including Greenwood, Loyal, Owen, Thorp, and Abbotsford. The County Assessor's office, part of the Land Information Office, manages property assessments and tax information.
The county's natural resources include the Black River, which flows through the county, and portions of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in the northern sections. Clark County maintains a traditional Wisconsin county government structure with elected officials serving residents across its 29 townships and several incorporated municipalities.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
The Clark County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order in the county's unincorporated areas. This office oversees the Clark County Jail, manages the processing of arrests, and maintains criminal records. The Sheriff's Office is also involved in various community programs aimed at enhancing public safety and fostering community relations. Notable divisions within the office include patrol, investigations, and a K-9 unit, all dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of Clark County residents.
Police Departments
In addition to the Clark County Sheriff's Office, several municipal police departments operate within the county. These include the Neillsville Police Department, Greenwood Police Department, and Loyal Police Department, each responsible for law enforcement within their respective city limits. These agencies collaborate with the Sheriff's Office on major crimes and emergencies, ensuring a coordinated response across jurisdictions. The combined efforts of these departments help maintain public safety and enforce laws throughout Clark County.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
The Clark County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at 517 Court Street in Neillsville, Wisconsin 54456, serves as the primary law enforcement agency for the county's unincorporated areas and provides support to municipal departments. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at (715) 743-3157, and maintains a website at www.co.clark.wi.us/departments/sheriff where residents can find information about services, programs, and current initiatives.
- Requests for arrest records, incident reports, and booking information should be submitted in writing to the Clark County Sheriff's Office or the specific municipal police department that made the arrest.
- Wisconsin law allows agencies to charge reasonable fees for copying and processing records requests.
- Mugshots and booking photos are generally considered public records in Wisconsin and may be obtained through a formal records request to the Sheriff's Office, though the agency may charge fees for reproduction.
- Processing times vary depending on the complexity of the request, but agencies must respond within a reasonable timeframe as required by state law.
- The Sheriff's Office also provides civil process service, court security, and operates various community programs including the D.A.R.E.
The Clark County Jail, operated by the Sheriff's Office at the same address, houses inmates for both pre-trial detention and sentenced misdemeanor offenders. Inmate information can be obtained by calling the jail directly at (715) 743-3157 or visiting the Sheriff's Office in person during business hours. Wisconsin law does not mandate online inmate rosters, though some information may be available by contacting jail staff.
Municipal police departments operate in incorporated cities within Clark County, including the Neillsville Police Department, Greenwood Police Department, Loyal Police Department, and other municipal agencies that provide law enforcement services within their respective city limits. Arrest records in Clark County are public records under Wisconsin Statutes § 19.31-19.39, the Wisconsin Public Records Law. program in local schools.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in Clark County encompasses various types of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Clark County Clerk of Courts maintains these records, providing access to case information and court proceedings. Residents can request background checks through the Wisconsin Department of Justice's Crime Information Bureau, which offers comprehensive criminal history reports. This system ensures that Clark County residents have access to important legal information, supporting public safety and informed decision-making.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Clark County are maintained by the Clark County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges filed, and personal information of the arrestee. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by submitting a formal request to the Sheriff's Office, in compliance with the Wisconsin Open Records Law. A Clark County arrest record typically includes the date of arrest, charges, and court dates, providing a comprehensive overview of the individual's legal situation.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Clark County Jail, located in Neillsville, is the primary detention facility for individuals arrested within the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and documenting personal information. Inmate information can be accessed through the county's online inmate lookup system. Visitation rules are specific to this facility, requiring visitors to schedule appointments and adhere to strict guidelines.
- The bond and bail process follows Wisconsin state law, allowing for the release of detainees upon payment of bail, which can be arranged through the jail's administrative office.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Clark County are taken and retained by the Clark County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the arrest record and can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office website or by request. Wisconsin does not have specific laws governing the removal of mugshots from public records, meaning they generally remain accessible unless expunged by court order. The availability of mugshots is subject to the state's public records policies, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Courts & Case Records
Clark County court matters are handled by the Clark County Circuit Court, part of Wisconsin's unified court system, located at 517 Court Street, Neillsville, WI 54456. The Circuit Court can be reached at (715) 743-5148 and has jurisdiction over all criminal, civil, family, probate, juvenile, and small claims cases arising in Clark County. Wisconsin's Circuit Courts are courts of general jurisdiction handling felonies, civil cases exceeding $10,000, divorces, paternity actions, juvenile delinquency, traffic violations, and probate matters.
The Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) system provides free online access to most circuit court case information at wcca.wicourts.gov, where users can search by name, case number, or other criteria to view case histories, party information, case outcomes, and scheduled hearings for Clark County cases. Municipal courts in incorporated cities such as Neillsville, Greenwood, and Loyal handle ordinance violations, traffic citations, and other municipal code violations within their respective jurisdictions; these courts maintain separate records and should be contacted directly at city hall offices. Court records are presumptively open to the public under Wisconsin Statutes § 758.18 and § 19.31-19.39, though certain records involving juveniles, mental health commitments, adoption, and sensitive family law matters may be sealed or restricted.
To obtain certified copies of court documents, judgments, or case files, requests should be submitted to the Clark County Clerk of Circuit Court at the courthouse address above; fees typically include $5.00 per document plus copy charges at statutory rates. The Clerk of Circuit Court office maintains an index of all cases filed and can assist with records searches during regular business hours, Monday through Friday. Some historical court records may be archived and require advance notice for retrieval.
Property & Public Records
Property and land records for Clark County are maintained by the Clark County Register of Deeds office, located at 517 Court Street, Neillsville, WI 54456, phone (715) 743-5151. The Register of Deeds office records and maintains all documents affecting real property in the county, including warranty deeds, quit claim deeds, mortgages, mortgage satisfactions, land contracts, easements, restrictive covenants, liens (mechanic's liens, judgment liens, tax liens), plat maps, certified survey maps, and condominium declarations.
- Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 59 governs the duties and responsibilities of the Register of Deeds.
- Fees for online access vary, and certified copies of recorded documents can be ordered from the Register of Deeds office for statutory fees, typically $4.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page.
- The county provides a Geographic Information System (GIS) parcel viewer on its website, allowing free public access to parcel maps, property boundaries, tax parcel numbers, assessment values, and ownership information.
- Property tax bills, payment history, and assessed values can typically be searched by parcel number, owner name, or property address through the county's online tax system.
Clark County offers online access to recorded land records through a subscription-based system or pay-per-view access on the county website at www.co.clark.wi.us/departments/register-of-deeds, allowing users to search by grantor/grantee name, property description, or document number. Many documents are available as digital images for viewing and printing. Property tax information and assessment records are maintained by the Clark County Land Information Office and County Treasurer, accessible at (715) 743-5155.
This interactive mapping tool helps property owners, real estate professionals, surveyors, and researchers identify property characteristics and locate land records. The Land Information Office also maintains soil maps, zoning information, and other geographic data useful for land use planning and property research.
Vital Records
Vital records for Clark County, including birth certificates, death certificates, marriage records, and divorce records, are maintained by the Clark County Register of Deeds office at 517 Court Street, Neillsville, WI 54456, phone (715) 743-5151. Wisconsin began statewide vital records registration in 1907, though some earlier records exist. Birth certificates can be obtained from the county office if the birth occurred in Clark County; the current fee is typically $20.00 for a certified copy.
- Eligible requestors include the registrant (if of legal age), parents listed on the record, legal guardians, legal representatives, or individuals with a court order.
- Death certificates follow similar requirements and fees, with immediate family members, legal representatives, and those with property rights also eligible to request copies.
- Processing time for vital records requests is typically 7-10 business days when submitted in person or by mail with proper documentation and payment.
- The state office maintains records statewide and offers online ordering through VitalChek for expedited service with additional fees.
- Marriage records and certified copies of marriage certificates are also available from the Register of Deeds.
Applicants must complete a vital records application form, provide valid photo identification, and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record as required by Wisconsin Statutes § 69.20-69.24. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Vital Records Office in Madison serves as the state repository for all Wisconsin vital records and can be contacted at (608) 266-1371 or through their website at www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/vitalrecords. Marriage licenses are issued by the Clark County Register of Deeds office; couples must apply in person, provide identification, pay the license fee (typically $110), and observe the six-day waiting period before the license becomes valid.
Divorce records (final divorce decrees) are maintained by the Clark County Clerk of Circuit Court as part of family court case files and can be requested following court records procedures.
Business & Licensing
Business registration and licensing in Clark County involves both county-level and state-level filings depending on the type of business entity and activities. The Clark County Clerk's office at 517 Court Street, Neillsville, WI 54456, phone (715) 743-5140, handles certain local business registrations including fictitious name registrations (trade names or "doing business as" filings) for sole proprietorships and partnerships operating under an assumed name.
- Wisconsin Statutes § 134.16 requires businesses operating under a name other than the owner's legal name to register with the Register of Deeds office in the county where the business operates.
- The state business entity search database allows free public access to look up registered businesses, view registration status, registered agents, officers, and formation dates for entities doing business in Wisconsin.
- The Clark County Chamber of Commerce, serving the Neillsville area and broader county, provides resources and networking opportunities for local businesses and can be contacted through local business directories.
Formal business entities including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and other statutory entities must register with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions through the online Corporate Registration & Uniform Commercial Code system accessible at www.wdfi.org. Various professional and occupational licenses are issued at the state level by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services for regulated professions. Local business licensing requirements vary by county; businesses operating within incorporated cities should contact the respective city clerk's office in Neillsville, Greenwood, Loyal, or other municipalities regarding local business licenses, permits, and regulations.
Building permits, zoning permits, and land use approvals are handled by the Clark County Zoning Department, located at the Government Center in Neillsville, phone (715) 743-5166. The Clark County Economic Development Corporation works to promote business growth and can be reached through the county website. Sales tax permits are issued by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue for businesses collecting sales tax.
Elections & Voter Records
Election administration in Clark County is managed by the Clark County Clerk's office, located at 517 Court Street, Neillsville, WI 54456, phone (715) 743-5140. The County Clerk serves as the chief election official for the county, coordinating with municipal clerks in townships, villages, and cities to administer federal, state, and local elections.
- Voters can find their polling place, view sample ballots, check registration status, and access absentee ballot requests through the MyVote Wisconsin portal by entering their name and date of birth.
- Absentee voting in Clark County can be requested through the MyVote Wisconsin website, by contacting your municipal clerk directly, or by submitting a written request to the appropriate municipal clerk's office.
Voter registration in Wisconsin can be completed online through the MyVote Wisconsin website at myvote.wi.gov, in person at the County Clerk's office or municipal clerk offices, by mail using a voter registration form, or at the polling place on Election Day. Wisconsin allows Election Day registration with proof of residence, making it one of the most accessible states for voter participation. The deadline for advance registration by mail or online is 20 days before an election; after that deadline, voters must register in person at their municipal clerk's office during in-person absentee voting or at their polling place on Election Day with acceptable proof of residence documents.
Clark County election records that are public include voter registration lists (with certain personal information protected), campaign finance reports for county candidates, candidate filing paperwork and nomination papers, election results by precinct and county, and absentee voting statistics. Wisconsin Statutes §§ 5.05, 6.36, and 7.15 govern public access to election records while protecting voter privacy. In the November 2024 general election, Clark County experienced turnout consistent with Wisconsin's high participation rates, typically in the 70-75% range for presidential elections, though official certification figures should be verified through the County Clerk.
The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, featuring Wisconsin's gubernatorial race, state constitutional offices, State Legislature seats, one U.S. Senate seat, and Wisconsin's congressional delegation including U.S. House representatives.
Wisconsin law allows absentee voting by mail, early in-person absentee voting at clerk's offices (typically beginning two weeks before Election Day), and absentee voting for military and overseas voters. Transparency in elections is enhanced by public access to election materials, observation rights for partisan observers at polling places and canvass proceedings, and detailed reporting requirements for campaign contributions and expenditures filed with the Wisconsin Ethics Commission and accessible through their online database.
Economy & Demographics
Clark County's economy remains rooted in agriculture, manufacturing, and forestry, reflecting traditional Wisconsin industries while diversifying into modern sectors. Agriculture dominates the economic landscape with dairy farming as the cornerstone; Clark County hosts numerous dairy operations, contributing significantly to Wisconsin's status as a leading dairy state. The county produces substantial quantities of milk, cheese, and other dairy products, with several cheese factories and processing facilities operating in communities like Greenwood, Loyal, and Abbotsford.
- According to recent economic data, Clark County's median household income is estimated around $55,000-$60,000, somewhat below the state median, reflecting the rural nature and agricultural economy.
Beyond dairy, the agricultural sector includes beef cattle operations, crop farming (corn, soybeans, hay), and specialty agricultural products. Major employers in Clark County include Foremost Farms USA (dairy cooperative with processing facilities), Amerequip Corporation (agricultural equipment manufacturing in Greenwood), Northland Corporation (vehicle body manufacturing in Thorp), and numerous smaller manufacturers producing metal products, wood products, and industrial components. The forestry and wood products industry remains significant given the county's extensive forest lands, supporting sawmills, pallet manufacturers, and lumber operations.
Healthcare is a growing employment sector, with Memorial Health Center in Neillsville serving as a major employer providing medical services to the region. The unemployment rate typically tracks close to or slightly above the state average, with seasonal fluctuations related to agricultural cycles. Tourism contributes to the local economy through outdoor recreation opportunities including hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and ATV trails that attract visitors to the county's forests and rural landscapes.
The Levis Mound observation tower draws tourists and offers panoramic views. Economic development efforts focus on supporting existing industries, attracting manufacturing operations, and promoting entrepreneurship in small communities throughout the county.
Transparency Score
Court Records: ✅ Online (WCCA) | Property: ✅ Online Search Available | Arrest/Jail: ⚠️ Phone/In-Person Required | Vital Records: ⚠️ In-Person or Mail | Business: ✅ State Online Search | Elections: ✅ Online (MyVote WI) | Overall Score: 7.5/10 — Clark County provides solid digital access through state systems for court and election records, with county-level property records searchable online, though some services still require direct contact.
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Cities & Towns in Clark County
Explore public records for 14 cities and communities in Clark County, Wisconsin.
Nearby Counties
Explore public records in counties that border Clark County.