Clear Lake Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Clear Lake, Minnesota government websites.
About Clear Lake City Government
Annual Budget
$1.2 million
Regular Meetings
Public Sessions
Clear Lake, Minnesota, operates under a city government structure known as the Clear Lake City Council. This governing body consists of five elected members, including a mayor and four council members. Each member is elected at-large and serves a term of four years. The current mayor is Linda T. Henneman, and the council members include John A. Anderson, Mary C. Johnson, Robert L. Smith, and Sarah K. Thompson.
For the fiscal year 2023, the city of Clear Lake has an approximate annual operating budget of $1.2 million. This budget encompasses various city services, infrastructure maintenance, and community programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents.
The Clear Lake City Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Clear Lake City Hall, located at 765 2nd Street NE, Clear Lake, MN 55319. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding local governance and community issues.
About Clear Lake, Minnesota
Nestled in the heart of Sherburne County, Clear Lake, Minnesota, is a quaint community that attracts both residents and visitors with its unique charm and natural beauty. With an estimated population of approximately 1,200, the city boasts a close-knit atmosphere where neighbors become friends and local events foster community spirit. Clear Lake was founded in 1856 and has retained its rural, small-town feel while also embracing modern conveniences. The city features several notable neighborhoods that exemplify this blend of tradition and progress, including the scenic area near the eponymous Clear Lake, which offers residents recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The economy of Clear Lake is supported by a mix of local businesses, healthcare services, and proximity to larger urban centers, enhancing job opportunities while maintaining a peaceful living environment. What sets Clear Lake apart is its commitment to preserving a sense of community, as reflected in its local events, parks, and community organizations, making it an appealing place for families and individuals seeking a serene lifestyle.
Law enforcement in Clear Lake is primarily handled by the Clear Lake Police Department, which works diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. In addition, the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office plays a vital role in addressing law enforcement needs throughout the broader area. For those seeking access to arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal history, the process involves several straightforward steps. First, individuals can contact the Clear Lake Police Department's records unit to inquire about local police records. If the required information pertains to an incident handled by the county sheriff, contacting the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office is essential. For comprehensive criminal history, one can also reach out to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, which serves as the state's criminal repository. Additionally, many of these agencies have online portals that facilitate easier access to public records, allowing residents to conduct searches and request documents with relative ease. While specific policies may vary, the online resources provide a user-friendly interface for accessing critical information regarding local law enforcement.
The judicial system serving Clear Lake is the Sherburne County District Court, where residents can obtain various public records. For court records, individuals can utilize the Minnesota Judicial Branch's online portal or visit the court clerk's office in person to request documents, such as case files and legal motions. Vital records, including birth, death, and marriage certificates, can be obtained through the Sherburne County Clerk-Recorder's office or the Minnesota Department of Health, which oversees vital records state-wide. Property records are also accessible through the county assessor and recorder, both of which maintain online databases that allow for convenient searches. Furthermore, Clear Lake residents can file general public records requests under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. Typically, agencies are expected to respond within 5 to 10 business days, allowing for residents to obtain the information they seek in a timely manner. This commitment to transparency underscores the importance of open government and the availability of vital information for the Clear Lake community.
About Clear Lake
Clear Lake is a small city in Sherburne County, Minnesota, located in the central part of the state approximately 50 miles northwest of Minneapolis-St. Paul. Incorporated in 1908, Clear Lake had a population of approximately 527 residents as of the 2020 Census. The city sits along the shores of Clear Lake itself, a body of water that has historically drawn residents and visitors for recreation and fishing. The community maintains a rural, small-town character while experiencing gradual growth as part of the expanding St. Cloud metropolitan area.
The city is primarily residential with modest commercial development along its main corridors, and it is known for its lake access, quiet neighborhoods, and community-oriented atmosphere. Clear Lake's economy is tied closely to agriculture, small businesses, and commuters who work in nearby St. Cloud and the Twin Cities metro area. Public records for Clear Lake residents are maintained by a combination of city, county, and state offices. The City of Clear Lake, located at 625 County Road 33, Clear Lake, MN 55319, handles local municipal records including city council meeting minutes, ordinances, building permits, and business licenses. The Sherburne County Government Center in Elk River serves as the primary repository for most public records affecting Clear Lake residents, including property records, court documents, vital records, and election information. The Sherburne County Sheriff's Office provides law enforcement services to Clear Lake and maintains arrest logs and incident reports. Minnesota's Government Data Practices Act (Minnesota Statutes Chapter 13) governs public access to government records, ensuring that most records are available for inspection and copying upon request unless specifically classified as private or confidential data.
Police Department & Arrest Records
Clear Lake, Sherburne County is served by several law enforcement agencies, including the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments. The Elk River Police Department, Big Lake Police Department, and Becker Police Department are the primary city law enforcement agencies. Each department is responsible for maintaining public safety within its respective city limits, while the Sheriff's Office handles law enforcement in unincorporated areas.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Sherburne County Jail, located in Elk River, is the primary detention facility for the county. It handles the booking process for individuals arrested within the county, where they are photographed and fingerprinted. Inmate information can be accessed through the county's online inmate lookup system. The facility has specific visitation rules, requiring visitors to schedule appointments in advance and adhere to security protocols. The bond and bail process follows Minnesota state guidelines, allowing for cash bail or bond through a bail bondsman.
Court Records
Clear Lake residents are served by the Minnesota Seventh Judicial District Court, Sherburne County Courthouse, located at 13880 Business Center Drive NW, Elk River, MN 55330. The court can be reached at (763) 765-4000. The Sherburne County District Court handles all criminal matters including felonies, gross misdemeanors, and misdemeanors, as well as civil cases, family law matters (divorce, child custody, child support), probate and estate cases, juvenile proceedings, and conciliation court (small claims) for disputes under $15,000.
Clear Lake does not operate a separate municipal court; all judicial matters are handled at the county level. The courthouse provides public access to case files during regular business hours, and court calendars are posted online. Minnesota courts participate in the statewide Minnesota Judicial Branch Public Access system, available at www.mncourts.gov/Access-Case-Records.aspx, which allows the public to search court records by party name, case number, or attorney. The system provides access to case summaries, docket entries, and filed documents for most case types, though certain records in family court and juvenile matters are sealed or restricted. Users can view case information free of charge, though there may be fees for certified copies or printed documents. Filing fees at Sherburne County District Court vary by case type: civil filing fees range from approximately $285 to $400 depending on the amount in dispute, small claims filings cost around $75, and certified copies of court documents are typically $14 for the first page and $5 for each additional page. Fee schedules are posted at the courthouse and on the Minnesota Judicial Branch website.
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Sherburne County encompass felony, misdemeanor, and traffic offenses, as well as the sex offender registry. The Sherburne County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records. Residents can request background checks through the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, which provides statewide criminal history information. The Bureau offers a public access system for checking criminal records, ensuring transparency and accessibility under Minnesota law.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Sherburne County are maintained by the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office. These records include information about the individual's arrest, charges, and booking details. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by submitting a formal request to the Sheriff's Office, either in person or through their website. Under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, these records are generally accessible to the public unless they are part of an ongoing investigation. Arrest records typically include the date of arrest, charges, and the arresting agency.
Public Records Access
Property and land records for Clear Lake are maintained by the Sherburne County Assessor's Office and the Sherburne County Recorder's Office, both located at the Sherburne County Government Center, 13880 Business Center Drive NW, Elk River, MN 55330. The Assessor's Office can be reached at (763) 765-4300 and provides information on property valuations, tax assessments, and parcel data.
The county maintains a free online property information system accessible through the Sherburne County website at www.co.sherburne.mn.us, where users can search by property address, parcel identification number (PIN), or owner name to view assessed values, property characteristics, tax history, and comparable sales data. The online system also includes aerial photographs and property sketches for most parcels in Clear Lake. The Sherburne County Recorder's Office, reachable at (763) 765-4000, is responsible for recording and maintaining official land records including deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, plats, and other documents affecting real property title. Minnesota law requires that most instruments affecting real property be recorded to provide public notice. The Recorder's Office provides online access to recorded documents through a subscription-based system or in-person searches at no charge at the Government Center. Document images are available online dating back several decades, with older records available on microfilm or in bound volumes. Recording fees vary by document type but typically start at approximately $46 for the first page and $2 for each additional page. The county also offers a Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping portal that integrates assessor data with parcel boundaries, zoning information, and other spatial data layers, available through the Sherburne County website for free public access.
Economy & Demographics
Clear Lake's economy is characterized by its small residential base, agricultural surroundings, and proximity to larger employment centers in Sherburne County and the greater St. Cloud-Twin Cities region. The city itself has limited commercial development, with most businesses consisting of small retail establishments, service providers, and home-based enterprises. Major employers in the immediate Clear Lake area include local school district staff (Clear Lake is part of ISD 742 - St. Cloud School District), small construction companies, and agricultural operations.
Many Clear Lake residents commute to nearby St. Cloud, approximately 15 miles to the northwest, or to the Twin Cities metro area for employment in healthcare, education, manufacturing, retail, and professional services. Sherburne County as a whole has experienced steady population and economic growth over the past two decades, driven by residential development and the expansion of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The county's economy includes a mix of agriculture, light manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and government services. Major employers in Sherburne County include Electrolux Home Products in St. Cloud, various school districts, Sherburne County government, and health care facilities. The median household income in Clear Lake and surrounding communities is generally in line with or slightly below the Sherburne County median, which was estimated at over $80,000 in recent years. Clear Lake retains a rural, residential character with lake-oriented recreational amenities, and its economy benefits from its location along County Road 33 and relatively affordable housing compared to more urbanized parts of the metro area. Agriculture, including crop farming and small livestock operations, remains an important part of the local economic landscape.
Law Enforcement & Arrest Records
Law enforcement services for Clear Lake, Minnesota, are provided primarily by the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office, as the city does not maintain its own police department. The Sherburne County Sheriff's Office is located at 13880 Business Center Drive NW, Elk River, MN 55330, and can be reached at (763) 241-2500. The Sheriff's Office website at www.co.sherburne.mn.us/sheriff provides information on services, crime prevention, and public records requests. Residents seeking police reports or incident records can submit requests in person at the Sheriff's Office, by mail, or through the online records request system. Reports typically include incident narratives, crash reports, and case summaries, though certain information may be redacted under Minnesota law to protect privacy or ongoing investigations.
Arrest and jail booking records for individuals detained in Sherburne County are available through the Sherburne County Jail Roster, accessible online at the Sheriff's Office website. The inmate roster is updated regularly and includes information such as the inmate's name, booking date, charges, bond amount, and booking photograph. The jail facility is located at the same address as the Sheriff's Office in Elk River. Requests for public records from law enforcement agencies in Minnesota are governed by the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (Minnesota Statutes Chapter 13), which presumes that all government data is public unless classified otherwise. Citizens can request arrest records, incident reports, and other law enforcement data by submitting a written request to the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office, identifying the specific records sought. Some records may require a nominal copying fee, and response times vary depending on the complexity of the request.
Arrest and jail booking records for individuals detained in Sherburne County are available through the Sherburne County Jail Roster, accessible online at the Sheriff's Office website. The inmate roster is updated regularly and includes information such as the inmate's name, booking date, charges, bond amount, and booking photograph. The jail facility is located at the same address as the Sheriff's Office in Elk River. Requests for public records from law enforcement agencies in Minnesota are governed by the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (Minnesota Statutes Chapter 13), which presumes that all government data is public unless classified otherwise. Citizens can request arrest records, incident reports, and other law enforcement data by submitting a written request to the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office, identifying the specific records sought. Some records may require a nominal copying fee, and response times vary depending on the complexity of the request.
Vital Records
Vital records for Clear Lake residents, including birth and death certificates, are issued by the Minnesota Department of Health, Office of Vital Records, located at P.O. Box 64499, St. Paul, MN 55164-0499. The office can be reached at (651) 201-5970. Birth certificates cost $26 for the first copy and $19 for each additional copy of the same record ordered at the same time. Death certificates cost $13 for the first copy and $7 for each additional copy.
Online ordering is available through VitalChek at www.health.state.mn.us/people/vitalrecords, though an additional convenience fee applies for online orders. Processing times are typically 3-4 weeks for mail requests and faster for online orders. Minnesota birth records less than 100 years old are private data and can only be released to the subject of the record, parents, legal representatives, or others with a tangible interest as defined by law. Death records are public data unless specifically classified as private. Marriage licenses for Clear Lake residents are issued by the Sherburne County Recorder's Office at 13880 Business Center Drive NW, Elk River, MN 55330, phone (763) 765-4000. The fee for a marriage license application is approximately $115. Both parties must apply in person, provide valid photo identification, and wait five business days before the license becomes valid, after which it is valid for six months. Marriage certificates (certified copies of the recorded marriage) can be obtained from the Sherburne County Recorder after the ceremony has been performed and the license returned. Divorce records (decrees of dissolution) are maintained by the Sherburne County District Court, as divorce is a judicial proceeding. Certified copies of divorce decrees can be requested from the court administrator at (763) 765-4000 for a fee. Minnesota law requires proof of identity and eligibility to obtain vital records, and applicants may need to complete request forms and provide acceptable identification documents.
Business & Licensing Records
Business licensing in Clear Lake is handled at both the city and county levels depending on the type of business activity. The City of Clear Lake requires certain businesses to obtain a local business license; inquiries should be directed to Clear Lake City Hall at 625 County Road 33, Clear Lake, MN 55319, phone (320) 743-2450. The city clerk can provide information on licensing requirements, fees, and renewal schedules. Business license requirements and fees vary depending on the nature of the business, and some home-based businesses may be exempt or subject to different regulations.
Clear Lake also enforces zoning regulations that may affect where certain types of businesses can operate within city limits. Fictitious business name filings (doing business as or DBA filings) in Minnesota are registered with the Minnesota Secretary of State rather than at the county level. Sole proprietorships and partnerships operating under an assumed name must file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the Secretary of State. Minnesota corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), and other formal business entities are registered through the Minnesota Secretary of State's Office, Business Services Division, located at 60 Empire Drive, Suite 100, St. Paul, MN 55103. The Secretary of State maintains a free online business database at www.sos.state.mn.us where the public can search for registered businesses, verify corporation and LLC status, view registered agents, review annual filings, and access organizational documents. The database is searchable by business name, file number, or registered agent. Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) financing statements, which create public notice of security interests in personal property and business assets, are also filed with the Minnesota Secretary of State and searchable online through the same portal. Property tax information for commercial properties in Clear Lake can be accessed through the Sherburne County Assessor's website, which provides assessed values, classification, and tax history for all taxable parcels including business properties. Business owners can search by property address or parcel number to review assessments and appeal procedures.
Elections & Voter Records
Voter registration and election services for Clear Lake residents are administered by the Sherburne County Elections Office, part of the Sherburne County Recorder's Office, located at 13880 Business Center Drive NW, Elk River, MN 55330. The office can be reached at (763) 765-4000, and election information is available at www.co.sherburne.mn.us/elections. Minnesota offers online voter registration through the Minnesota Secretary of State's website at mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us. Eligible citizens can register online up to 21 days before Election Day, or register in person at their polling place on Election Day. Minnesota allows Election Day registration, making it one of the most accessible states for voter participation. Voters must provide proof of residence, such as a valid Minnesota driver's license, state ID, or utility bill, along with current address.
Clear Lake holds municipal elections for mayor and city council members. The city operates under a statutory city form of government with a mayor and city council. Municipal elections are typically held in November of odd-numbered years, though specific election years and terms vary by office. Information about candidates for Clear Lake city offices, local ballot questions, and sample ballots can be obtained from the Sherburne County Elections Office or Clear Lake City Hall. Residents can find their assigned polling place by using the online Polling Place Finder at pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us or by contacting the county elections office. Clear Lake residents vote at precincts designated by the county, typically at community centers or public buildings in or near Clear Lake.
Election records in Minnesota are largely public. Voter registration lists are available to candidates, political parties, and the public for lawful election-related purposes. Campaign finance reports for local, county, and state candidates are accessible through the Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board at www.cfboard.state.mn.us. Candidate filings and precinct-level election results are public and available through the Sherburne County Elections Office and the Minnesota Secretary of State. In the November 2024 general election, Sherburne County reported strong voter turnout consistent with presidential election years, with thousands of county residents casting ballots.
On November 3, 2026, Clear Lake and Sherburne County voters will participate in the Minnesota gubernatorial and state legislative elections. Minnesota's governor is elected to a four-year term, and 2026 is a gubernatorial election year. All 134 seats in the Minnesota House of Representatives and portions of the Minnesota Senate will also be on the ballot. Additionally, voters will elect county offices including county commissioners, sheriff, county attorney, and other constitutional offices depending on term schedules. There are no U.S. Senate seats from Minnesota up for election in 2026, as Minnesota's Senate seats are contested in different cycle years. Voters should check with the Sherburne County Elections Office or the Minnesota Secretary of State for confirmed candidate lists and ballot measures as the election approaches. Minnesota offers no-excuse absentee voting, and residents can request an absentee ballot online at mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us or by contacting the Sherburne County Elections Office. Absentee ballots can be returned by mail or in person, and must be received by 8:00 PM on Election Day to be counted.
Clear Lake holds municipal elections for mayor and city council members. The city operates under a statutory city form of government with a mayor and city council. Municipal elections are typically held in November of odd-numbered years, though specific election years and terms vary by office. Information about candidates for Clear Lake city offices, local ballot questions, and sample ballots can be obtained from the Sherburne County Elections Office or Clear Lake City Hall. Residents can find their assigned polling place by using the online Polling Place Finder at pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us or by contacting the county elections office. Clear Lake residents vote at precincts designated by the county, typically at community centers or public buildings in or near Clear Lake.
Election records in Minnesota are largely public. Voter registration lists are available to candidates, political parties, and the public for lawful election-related purposes. Campaign finance reports for local, county, and state candidates are accessible through the Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board at www.cfboard.state.mn.us. Candidate filings and precinct-level election results are public and available through the Sherburne County Elections Office and the Minnesota Secretary of State. In the November 2024 general election, Sherburne County reported strong voter turnout consistent with presidential election years, with thousands of county residents casting ballots.
On November 3, 2026, Clear Lake and Sherburne County voters will participate in the Minnesota gubernatorial and state legislative elections. Minnesota's governor is elected to a four-year term, and 2026 is a gubernatorial election year. All 134 seats in the Minnesota House of Representatives and portions of the Minnesota Senate will also be on the ballot. Additionally, voters will elect county offices including county commissioners, sheriff, county attorney, and other constitutional offices depending on term schedules. There are no U.S. Senate seats from Minnesota up for election in 2026, as Minnesota's Senate seats are contested in different cycle years. Voters should check with the Sherburne County Elections Office or the Minnesota Secretary of State for confirmed candidate lists and ballot measures as the election approaches. Minnesota offers no-excuse absentee voting, and residents can request an absentee ballot online at mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us or by contacting the Sherburne County Elections Office. Absentee ballots can be returned by mail or in person, and must be received by 8:00 PM on Election Day to be counted.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: ✅ Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: ⚠️ State Office Required | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.5/10 — Sherburne County and Minnesota provide strong public records access with robust online search tools for court cases, property records, jail rosters, business entities, and election data, though vital records require state-level processing and fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Clear Lake, Sherburne County, Minnesota to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in Clear Lake, Minnesota, you will be transported to the Sherburne 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 Sherburne County Inmate Search portal allows online lookup of current inmates. Contact the Sherburne County Clerk of Courts for case information.
2 What are the school district and education performance data for Clear Lake, Sherburne County, Minnesota?
The Clear Lake area is served by public school districts in Sherburne County, Minnesota. School performance data, enrollment statistics, and district boundaries are available through the Minnesota 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 Clear Lake, Sherburne County, Minnesota?
Crime statistics for Clear Lake, Minnesota 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 Clear Lake Police Department on their official website. The Minnesota Attorney General also publishes annual crime statistics by jurisdiction.
4 What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Clear Lake, Sherburne County, Minnesota Library?
The Clear Lake Public Library provides residents with access to public records research tools. Library cardholders can access online genealogy databases, historical newspaper archives, and Minnesota government document repositories. Reference librarians can assist with records requests, ancestry searches, and government document navigation.
5 Where is the Clear Lake, Sherburne County, Minnesota Public Library located?
The Clear Lake Public Library main branch is located in Clear Lake, Minnesota. Check the Clear Lake city website or library system portal for branch addresses, hours of operation, and available services.
6 Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Clear Lake, Sherburne County, Minnesota?
Fingerprinting services in Clear Lake, Minnesota are available through the Clear Lake 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 Sherburne County Sheriff's Office or local law enforcement for walk-in fingerprinting options.
7 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Clear Lake, Sherburne County, Minnesota, and what information is provided in the records?
To obtain vital records in Clear Lake, Minnesota, contact the Minnesota Vital Statistics Unit. Birth and death certificates can be ordered online, by mail, or in person. Marriage licenses are issued by the Sherburne 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 Clear Lake, Minnesota can be obtained from the Clear Lake Police Department or the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office. Submit a request in person, by mail, or online with the incident report number, date, and your identification. Under the Minnesota Data Practices Act, most incident reports are public records. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days. Traffic accident reports may also be available through the Minnesota DMV.
9 About background check
A background check in Clear Lake, Sherburne County, Minnesota 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 Minnesota criminal history report through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Federal background checks are available through the FBI Identity History Summary program.