About Harwood North — In Depth
Jail & Inmate Records
Individuals arrested in Harwood are taken to the Cass County Jail in Fargo, which is the primary detention facility for the entire county. The booking process follows standard protocols: fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of each detainee. Family members and others seeking information about current inmates can use the online inmate lookup services provided by the facility. Visitation at the jail requires scheduling visits in advance and following strict guidelines specific to the facility.
North Dakota's bond and bail process allows for posting bail to secure an inmate's release, with procedures outlined by the court system. Those looking for someone recently arrested can contact the jail directly or use the online inmate search tool available through the sheriff's office.
Arrest Records
Arrest records for incidents in Harwood are maintained by both the Cass County Sheriff's Office and the Fargo Police Department, depending on which agency made the arrest. These records document the arrest details, charges filed, and personal information of the arrestee. Residents and attorneys seeking copies can request them by contacting the appropriate law enforcement agency. The North Dakota Open Records Statute generally permits public access to arrest records, though certain restrictions apply when ongoing investigations or sensitive information might be compromised.
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in Cass County covers various types of records, including felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Cass County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, which are accessible to the public under the North Dakota Open Records Statute. To run a background check, individuals can contact the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, which provides statewide criminal history information.
Vital Records
Vital records for Harwood, such as birth, marriage, and death certificates, are maintained by the Cass County Recorder's Office. Residents can request copies of these records by contacting the office directly or visiting their website at https://www.casscountynd.gov/our-county/recorder. The Harwood Education section on the city's website provides information on the local school district, which is part of the West Fargo Public Schools system.
Business & Licensing Records
The local business community in Harwood includes a range of enterprises, from retail shops and restaurants to professional services and light industrial operations. The city's website features a Clubs and Organizations page that offers a directory of community groups and civic organizations active in the area. Businesses and entrepreneurs can also find information on economic development resources and local business support through the city's website, which is a hub for connecting commercial interests with municipal services.
Economy & Demographics
Harwood's economy is primarily driven by its proximity to the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area, with many residents commuting to jobs in the larger cities. The city's own economic base includes a mix of small businesses, light industrial operations, and agricultural enterprises. The Harwood Clubs and Organizations page on the city's website provides information on local business and economic development resources available to support the community's economic growth.
Elections & Voter Records
Voters in Harwood receive election services through the Cass County Elections Office, which operates as part of the Cass County Auditor-Treasurer's Office. The office is located at 211 9th Street South in the Cass County Administration Building in Fargo, ND 58103. Residents can reach them at (701) 241-5660, and election information is available online at https://www.casscountynd.gov/our-county/departments-offices/auditor-treasurer/elections.
This office administers all federal, state, county, and municipal elections for the community, handling voter registration, absentee voting, polling place management, and election results certification. North Dakota stands apart from other states by not requiring voter registration. Residents can vote by showing valid identification proving North Dakota residency at their polling place on Election Day. Acceptable IDs include a North Dakota driver's license, non-driver ID card, or tribal government-issued ID with current residential address. When an ID shows a different address, voters can provide supplemental documentation such as a utility bill or bank statement. This system eliminates registration deadlines entirely, though voters who have moved must update their address with the Department of Transportation or provide current proof of residency. More information about voting requirements is available at https://vip.sos.nd.gov. Municipal elections for the city are held during the regular June election cycle for North Dakota municipal contests. Harwood elects a mayor and city council members on staggered terms, typically four-year cycles. The next city elections will occur in June 2026, with specific candidate filing deadlines and ballot measure certification dates set by the City Auditor in coordination with the Cass County Elections Office. Residents can find information about local candidates and issues through the City of Harwood website or by contacting city hall at (701) 282-5522. City council meetings are open to the public and typically held monthly. Residents can locate their assigned polling place using the North Dakota Secretary of State's polling place finder at https://vip.sos.nd.gov/PortalList.aspx. Polling locations are determined by precinct boundaries, with local voters typically assigned to a location within or near the city, often at the Harwood Community Center or Northern Cass School District facilities. Polls are open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Election Day, and any voter in line at 7:00 PM may vote. Election records publicly accessible in North Dakota include precinct-level election results, which are posted by the Secretary of State and county auditors following certification. Cass County posts detailed results by precinct on the Auditor-Treasurer website. Campaign finance reports are required for candidates and committees, filed with the Secretary of State and searchable at https://vip.sos.nd.gov/campaignfinance. Candidate nominating petitions and statements of interest are public records available through the Cass County elections office or city auditor. Voter history, who voted, though not how they voted, is considered public in North Dakota, while actual ballot selections remain secret. In the November 2024 general election, Cass County reported voter turnout consistent with its historical participation rates, with approximately 65-70% of eligible adults casting ballots in the presidential contest. The county tends to be more politically competitive than rural North Dakota counties, with closer margins in statewide races reflecting its urban and suburban character. Looking ahead to the November 3, 2026 general election, voters in the area will decide several important races. North Dakota's U.S. Senate seat currently held by Senator Kevin Cramer is not up for election in 2026 - his next election is in 2028 - but voters will elect one of North Dakota's at-large U.S. House representatives. State-level races will include all members of the North Dakota House of Representatives, who serve two-year terms, half of the North Dakota Senate on four-year staggered terms, and statewide executive offices if scheduled. County-level positions may include Cass County Commission seats, sheriff, state's attorney, and other county officers depending on term expirations. Any local ballot measures or special district elections would also appear. North Dakota offers absentee voting for any voter who prefers not to vote in person on Election Day. Absentee ballot applications can be requested from the Cass County Elections Office starting 40 days before an election, with completed ballots due by the close of polls on Election Day. Military and overseas voters have special provisions under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA). Early voting in person is available at the Cass County Elections Office for a period before each election, typically beginning about two weeks prior. The state does not have universal mail voting; absentee ballots must be specifically requested.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: Yes: Online Statewide Portal | Property: Yes: Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: Yes: Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: Limited: State Office Required | Business: Yes: Free State Database | Elections: Yes: Online Information & Results (No Registration Required) | Overall: 8.5/10, Cass County and North Dakota provide excellent free online access to court records, property data, business filings, and election information, with searchable databases that exceed most states' transparency standards.
Harwood Public Records Directory
Search county, state, and federal government records serving Harwood, North Dakota.
Official Government Resources
Harwood North Dakota Archives and Genealogy
North Dakota State Archives genealogy and historical records for Harwood.
Harwood North Dakota Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court District of North Dakota for Harwood.
North Dakota Courts, Harwood Case Search
North Dakota Courts case search for Harwood.
Harwood North Dakota Vital Records
North Dakota Department of Health vital records for Harwood.
Harwood North Dakota Inmate Search
North Dakota Department of Corrections inmate locator for Harwood.
Harwood North Dakota Missing Persons
North Dakota missing persons for Harwood.
Harwood North Dakota Sex Offender Registry
North Dakota Sex Offender Registry for Harwood.
Harwood North Dakota Census and Vital Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau quick facts, demographics, and population statistics for Harwood.
City of Harwood
Directory of Harwood city records and information.
Harwood City Government
Contact the mayor, commissioners and local board members.
Harwood Fire and Rescue
Information on the volunteer fire services.
Harwood Education
Find information local schools.
Harwood Clubs and Organizations
Contact information for civic and community clubs.
Harwood Parks
Obtain information on local parks and city recreational venues.
Harwood Highlites
View the local newspaper online.
Harwood North Dakota Official Criminal History Background Check
State Capitol 600 E. Boulevard Ave. Dept. 125 Bismarck, ND 58505 701 328-2210 TTY: 800 366-6888
Harwood Census Information
Recorded census data and demographics.
Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Quick search for missing children, sex offenders, Amber alerts, records and more public information.
Harwood Inmate Search
North Dakota Department of Correction 3100 Railroad Avenue Bismarck, ND 58501 Phone 701.328.6390
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I vote in Harwood, North Dakota?
North Dakota is the only U.S. state that does not require voter registration. To vote in Harwood, North Dakota, you must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and have lived in your North Dakota precinct for at least 30 days. Bring valid photo ID and proof of residency (such as a utility bill or current driver's license) to the polls. For more information, see the North Dakota Secretary of State elections page at sos.nd.gov. North Dakota requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the North Dakota Secretary of State's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Harwood, contact the Cass County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
How do I look up property records in Harwood, North Dakota?
Property records for Harwood, North Dakota are maintained by the Cass County Director of Tax Equalization's Office and the Cass County Clerk and Recorder. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within Cass County, including parcels in Harwood. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The Cass County Clerk and Recorder maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many North Dakota counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. For in-person requests, visit the Cass County offices at the county courthouse. The Cass County Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
How do I get a birth or death certificate in Harwood, North Dakota?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Harwood, North Dakota residents are available through both county and state offices. The North Dakota Department of Health, Division of Vital Records, located in Bismarck, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in North Dakota. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Cass County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for Cass County. Birth and death certificates may also be available through local vital records offices. Requestors typically need to provide valid photo identification and proof of their relationship to the person named on the record. Processing times and fees vary by office and record type.