About Dade County

County Seat Greenfield
Named After Major Francis

Dade County is located in southwestern Missouri, bordered by Lawrence County to the north, Barton County to the west, Cedar County to the east, and the Missouri-Arkansas state line to the south. Dade County Seat is Greenfield, a city of approximately 1,300 residents situated near the center of Dade County. Dade County was organized on January 29, 1841, and named after Major Francis L. Dade, a U.S. Army officer killed in the Second Seminole War in 1835. Dade County includes approximately 490 square miles of gently rolling Ozark hills and agricultural land.

As of recent census estimates, Dade County has a population of roughly 7,800 residents, making it one of Missouri's smaller rural counties. The economy is predominantly agricultural, with cattle ranching, hay production, and row crops forming the backbone of local commerce. Dade County Courthouse, located at 300 West Water Street in Greenfield, houses the County Clerk, Recorder of Deeds, Assessor, Collector, and other county offices.

Other incorporated communities include Lockwood, the second-largest town, and Everton. The Sac River flows through the eastern portion of Dade County, providing recreational opportunities and scenic beauty. Stockton Lake, though primarily in Cedar County, borders Dade County and attracts tourists for fishing, boating, and camping.

Dade County maintains a rural character with family farms, wooded hills, and a close community atmosphere that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement

Sheriff & Law Enforcement

Dade County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order across Dade County, particularly in unincorporated areas. The office oversees Dade County jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The Sheriff's Office also engages in community policing efforts and operates various programs meant to crime prevention and public safety. Notable divisions within the office include patrol, investigations, and a dedicated team for handling emergency response situations.

Police Departments

Law enforcement in Dade County is provided by both Dade County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments within Dade County. The Greenfield Police Department serves the city of Greenfield, while other cities like Lockwood and Everton have their own local police departments. These agencies work in coordination to handle law enforcement duties, with the Sheriff's Office typically managing larger investigations and unincorporated areas. Collaboration between these departments ensures full coverage and response to major crimes across Dade County.

Law Enforcement & Arrests

Dade County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at 300 West Water Street in Greenfield, Missouri 65661, is the primary law enforcement agency for unincorporated areas of Dade County. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at and is responsible for patrol operations, criminal investigations, civil process service, court security, and operation of Dade County Jail. The jail, located at the same address as the Sheriff's Office, houses pretrial detainees and sentenced misdemeanor offenders.

  • Inmate information and jail rosters are available by calling the Sheriff's Office directly, though online inmate lookup services may not be consistently maintained.
  • Citizens may request arrest records, booking logs, and incident reports by submitting written requests to the Sheriff's Office or respective municipal police departments.
  • Mugshots and booking photos are generally considered public records in Missouri and may be obtained through formal public records requests to the Sheriff's Office.
  • Processing times and copy fees apply according to Missouri statute, typically not exceeding ten cents per page for standard documents.

The cities of Greenfield and Lockwood maintain their own municipal police departments with jurisdiction within city limits. The Greenfield Police Department handles law enforcement within Dade County Seat, while the Lockwood Police Department serves that community. Arrest records in Dade County are public documents under Missouri's Sunshine Law, specifically Chapter 610 of the Missouri Revised Statutes, which governs public records access.

Some records may be withheld if they are part of ongoing investigations or contain confidential information protected by statute. Dade County does not operate a regional detention center and houses inmates locally or transfers them to neighboring facilities when capacity requires.

Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records

Criminal Records

Criminal records in Dade County cover a range of documentation, including felony and misdemeanor charges, traffic violations, and entries in the sex offender registry. Dade County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, while the Missouri State Highway Patrol provides additional resources for background checks. Residents can request background checks through the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS), which provides access to statewide criminal records.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Dade County are maintained by Dade County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges filed, and personal information about the arrestee. Residents and attorneys can request access to these records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. Under the Missouri Sunshine Law, arrest records are considered public information, although certain details may be redacted for privacy or legal reasons. The records typically include the date of arrest, charges, and any court dates scheduled.

Jail & Inmate Records

Dade County Jail, located in Greenfield, is the primary detention facility for people arrested within Dade County. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the 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, with scheduled visiting hours and requirements for visitor identification.

  • The bond and bail process follows Missouri state guidelines, allowing detainees to secure release pending court appearances.

Mugshots & Booking Photos

Mugshots in Dade County are taken and retained by Dade 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 compile such information. While Missouri does not have specific mugshot removal laws, individuals seeking to have their mugshots removed from online platforms may need to pursue legal avenues or contact the hosting websites directly. The availability of mugshots may vary depending on the case and privacy considerations.

Courts & Case Records

Dade County is served by the 39th Judicial Circuit Court of Missouri, which also includes Cedar County. Dade County Circuit Court is located at Dade County Courthouse, 300 West Water Street, Greenfield, MO 65661, and can be reached for The Circuit Court has general jurisdiction over all civil and criminal matters, including felonies, civil cases exceeding $25,000, domestic relations, probate, and juvenile matters. The Associate Division of the Circuit Court handles misdemeanors, traffic violations, small claims up to $5,000, and municipal ordinance violations.

  • Case information can be accessed through the Missouri CaseNet system at www.courts.mo.gov/casenet, which provides free online searching of civil, criminal, and traffic cases filed in Missouri courts.
  • Certified copies of court documents must be obtained from the Circuit Clerk's office with fees established by statute: $3.00 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page, plus a $2.00 certification fee.
  • The Circuit Clerk's office maintains indices and files for all court proceedings and accepts requests in person, by mail, or by phone.
  • Payment is accepted in cash, check, or money order, with some offices now accepting credit cards with processing fees.

Property & Public Records

Dade County Recorder of Deeds, located at 300 West Water Street, Greenfield, MO 65661, phone, maintains all land records for Dade County including warranty deeds, quitclaim deeds, deeds of trust, mortgages, releases, liens, easements, rights-of-way, and plat maps. These records are public documents under Missouri law and are indexed by grantor, grantee, and legal description. The Recorder's office provides document research services during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

  • Copy fees are established by Missouri statute at $1.50 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page; certified copies require an additional $2.00 fee.
  • Recording fees for new documents vary based on the number of pages and type of instrument.
300 West Water Street, Greenfield, MO 65661

While Dade County does not currently maintain a full online property record search system, some records may be accessible through third-party vendors or by contacting the Recorder's office directly. Dade County Assessor's Office, also located at the courthouse, phone, maintains property tax assessment records including ownership information, property descriptions, assessed valuations, and tax history. Property tax bills and payment records are maintained by the County Collector.

The Assessor's office can provide property cards, comparable sales data, and assessment appeals information. Many Missouri counties participate in geographic information system (GIS) mapping programs, though availability varies; citizens should contact the Assessor directly to inquire about online parcel viewers or mapping tools. Dade County maintains grantor-grantee indices dating back to Dade County's formation in 1841, providing a full chain of title for all parcels.

Title companies and attorneys regularly use these records for real estate transactions and legal research.

Vital Records

Vital records for Dade County, Missouri, are maintained by both Dade County Recorder of Deeds and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Bureau of Vital Records. Birth and death certificates occurring in Dade County may be requested from the County Recorder at 300 West Water Street, Greenfield, MO 65661, phone. The fee for a certified copy of a birth or death certificate is $15.00 for the first copy and $13.00 for each additional copy of the same record ordered at the same time.

  • Processing time at Dade County level is typically immediate to three business days if records are on file.
  • Marriage licenses are issued by Dade County Recorder of Deeds; couples must apply in person with identification and pay the statutory fee.
  • Certified copies of marriage records cost $15.00.
  • Missouri allows online ordering of vital records through VitalChek, an authorized vendor, at additional cost with expedited processing available.
300 West Water Street, Greenfield, MO 65661

Applicants must provide valid photo identification and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record as required by Missouri statute Section 193.245 RSMo. Acceptable forms of ID include driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Birth certificates are restricted to the person named on the certificate (if of legal age), parents, legal guardians, or legal representatives.

Death certificates are available to immediate family members, legal representatives, or those with a documented legal interest. For older records or if Dade County cannot locate a record, applicants may contact the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Bureau of Vital Records, PO Box 570, Jefferson City, MO 65102, phone, or visit their website at health.mo.gov/data/vitalrecords. The state office maintains birth records from 1910 forward and death records from 1910 forward, with some earlier records available.

Divorce decrees are obtained from the Circuit Clerk's office where the divorce was granted, not the vital records office.

Business & Licensing

Business licensing and registration in Dade County, Missouri, involves both county and state agencies depending on the business type and activities. Dade County Clerk's office, located at 300 West Water Street, Greenfield, MO 65661, phone, handles certain local business filings including fictitious name registrations (doing business as or DBA) for sole proprietorships and partnerships operating under an assumed name. These filings are public records available for inspection during regular business hours.

  • The Secretary of State maintains a free online business entity search at www.sos.mo.gov/BusinessEntity/soskb/csearch.asp where users can look up registered businesses, view filing history, registered agents, and status.
300 West Water Street, Greenfield, MO 65661

For formal business entity formation including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and other registered entities, businesses must file with the Missouri Secretary of State's office. Professional licenses such as those for contractors, cosmetologists, real estate agents, and healthcare providers are issued by respective state licensing boards, not at Dade County level. Sales tax licenses are obtained through the Missouri Department of Revenue.

Building permits, zoning approvals, and land use permits in unincorporated Dade County are handled by the County Commission and Planning & Zoning office; municipalities issue their own permits within city limits. The Greenfield Chamber of Commerce and Dade County economic development organizations provide resources for new businesses including information on local regulations, incentives, and networking opportunities. Contact information for specific departments can be obtained through the County Clerk's office.

Businesses should verify all federal, state, and local licensing requirements specific to their industry and location, as requirements vary significantly based on business type and activities.

Elections & Voter Records

Elections in Dade County, Missouri, are administered by Dade County Clerk, who serves as Dade County's election authority. Dade County Clerk's office is located at 300 West Water Street, Greenfield, MO 65661, and can be reached for election related questions including voter registration, polling locations, absentee voting, and candidate filing. Voter registration in Missouri requires completion of an application at least 28 days before an election.

  • Dade County maintains transparency in elections by providing public access to results, allowing poll watchers from recognized political parties, and following state audit procedures for election equipment and processes.
300 West Water Street, Greenfield, MO 65661

Eligible citizens may register online through the Missouri Secretary of State's website at www.sos.mo.gov/elections/goVoteMissouri, in person at the County Clerk's office, by mail using a printed registration form, or at designated state agencies. Applicants must be U.S. Citizens, Missouri residents, at least 17.5 years old (18 to vote), and not serving a sentence for a felony conviction.

Voters can verify their registration status and find their polling place through the County Clerk or the state's online voter portal. Dade County typically operates multiple polling locations on Election Day based on precinct assignments; locations are published prior to each election and voters receive notification cards. Election records that are public under Missouri law include voter registration lists (excluding certain personal information like full birth dates and driver's license numbers), candidate filing documents, campaign finance reports filed with local jurisdictions, election results by precinct, and absentee ballot statistics.

Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 115 governs elections and specifies public access to election records. In the November 2024 general election, Dade County, like many rural Missouri counties, typically experiences turnout rates between 60-75% in presidential election years, with lower turnout in midterm and local elections. The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, featuring U.S.

House of Representatives races, contested U.S. Senate seats if applicable, Missouri statewide offices including Governor if scheduled, state legislative seats, and local county offices. Absentee voting in Missouri is available for voters who meet specific criteria including absence on Election Day, incapacity or confinement due to illness or disability, religious belief or practice, employment as an election authority, incarceration with retained voting rights, or participation in the address confidentiality program.

Absentee ballot applications must be submitted to the County Clerk by the statutory deadline (5:00 PM the second Wednesday before Election Day for mail ballots). Missouri also offers no-excuse absentee voting for those who prefer to vote early.

Economy & Demographics

Dade County's economy is predominantly agricultural, reflecting its rural character and rich soil resources. Cattle ranching represents the largest agricultural sector, with beef cattle operations ranging from small family farms to larger commercial ranches scattered throughout Dade County's rolling hills and pasturelands. Hay production, corn, and soybean cultivation support both local livestock operations and regional markets.

According to recent estimates, the median household income in Dade County is approximately $43,000, below both state and national averages, reflecting Dade County's rural agricultural economy and limited industrial base. The workforce participation rate centers on agriculture, retail trade, educational services, healthcare, and local government employment. Major employers include the Greenfield R-IV School District, Lockwood R-I School District, local healthcare facilities, agricultural cooperatives, and county government.

Small businesses, family farms, and self-employment constitute a significant portion of the economic activity. Tourism related to Stockton Lake on Dade County's eastern border brings seasonal visitors for fishing, camping, and water recreation, supporting local lodging, dining, and retail establishments. The unemployment rate in Dade County typically tracks slightly above state averages, with seasonal fluctuations related to agricultural cycles.

Economic development efforts focus on supporting existing businesses, improving infrastructure, promoting agritourism, and attracting light manufacturing or distribution operations compatible with the rural setting. Dade County lacks major corporate headquarters or industrial facilities but maintains a stable, locally-focused economy built on traditional sectors. Broadband internet expansion represents a key infrastructure priority for enabling remote work and modern business operations in this rural county.

Transparency Score

Court Records: Yes: Online via CaseNet | Property: Limited: In-Person/Phone (limited online) | Arrest/Jail: Limited: By Request/Phone | Vital Records: Limited: In-Person or State Portal | Business: Yes: State Online Search | Elections: Yes: Available via Clerk | Overall Score: 6/10, Dade County provides access to public records primarily through in-person requests and phone contact, with some state-level online systems available.

Official Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I search for someone recently arrested in Dade County, Missouri?
To search for someone recently arrested in Dade County, Missouri, you can contact the Dade County Jail, which is managed by the the area Sheriff's Office. The jail is located at 201 E Water St, Greenfield, MO 65661. You can call the Sheriff's Office at (417) 637-2312 for information on recent arrests. The Missouri Department of Corrections offers an online inmate search tool that may provide information on individuals currently held in custody.
Mugshots or booking photos in Dade County, Missouri, can be obtained from the Dade County Sheriff's Office. They maintain records of individuals processed through the this county Jail. For access to these records, you can visit the Sheriff's Office in person or call them at (417) 637-2312. Some information may also be available through online resources provided by the Missouri Department of Public Safety.
To obtain a criminal background check in Dade County, Missouri, you should contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol's Criminal Justice Information Services Division. They provide background checks through the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS). You can also visit the Dade County Sheriff's Office for assistance with local records. Fees may apply, and you will need to provide personal identification and consent forms.
You can look up sex offenders in Dade County, Missouri, by accessing the Missouri State Highway Patrol's Sex Offender Registry. This online database provides detailed information on registered sex offenders throughout the state, including those residing in Dade County. The registry is publicly accessible and can be searched by name, address, or proximity to a specific location.
To register to vote in Dade County, you must submit a voter registration application to the Dade County Clerk's office at 300 West Water Street, Greenfield, MO 65661, or register online at www.sos.mo.gov/elections/goVoteMissouri at least 28 days before an election. You must be a U.S. Citizen, Missouri resident, and at least 17.5 years old to register (18 to vote). The County Clerk can also provide information on absentee voting options and polling place locations for registered voters.
Property records in Dade County are maintained by the Recorder of Deeds and the Assessor's office, both located at the Dade County Courthouse, 300 West Water Street, Greenfield, MO 65661. The Recorder (417-637-2724) maintains deeds, mortgages, liens, and other recorded instruments, while the Assessor (417-637-2248) maintains property tax assessment records and ownership information. While online searching may be limited, you can contact these offices directly during business hours for record searches, and copies are available for statutory fees.
Birth and death certificates for events occurring in Dade County can be requested from the Dade County Recorder of Deeds at 300 West Water Street, Greenfield, MO 65661, phone (417) 637-2724. The fee is $15.00 for the first certified copy and $13.00 for additional copies of the same record. You must provide valid photo ID and demonstrate eligibility under Missouri statute Section 193.245 RSMo. Alternatively, you can order from the Missouri Bureau of Vital Records at health.mo.gov/data/vitalrecords or through VitalChek for expedited service.
For fictitious name (DBA) registrations in Dade County, contact the County Clerk's office at (417) 637-2271, located at 300 West Water Street, Greenfield. For formal business entities like corporations and LLCs, search the Missouri Secretary of State's free online database at www.sos.mo.gov/BusinessEntity/soskb/csearch.asp. Local business permits and zoning approvals are handled by the County Commission, while municipalities issue licenses within city limits. Professional licenses are issued by respective state licensing boards.

Cities & Towns in Dade County

Explore public records for 6 cities and communities in Dade County, Missouri.

Nearby Counties

Greene County MO Jasper County MO Lawrence County MO Polk County MO Cedar County MO Barton County MO