Lakeland Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Lakeland, Minnesota government websites.

  About Lakeland City Government
Annual Budget $1.2 million
Regular Meetings Public Sessions

The governing body of Lakeland, Minnesota, is the Lakeland City Council, which consists of five members. Council members are elected at-large, serving staggered terms of four years each. The current council includes Mayor David H. Houghton and Council Members Lisa H. Lentz, John A. Dwyer, and two additional members whose names may vary with elections.

For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for the City of Lakeland is $1.2 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development.

The Lakeland City Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Lakeland City Hall, located at 1897 Laverne Avenue North, Lakeland, MN 55043. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding local governance and community issues.

  About Lakeland, Minnesota

Lakeland, Minnesota, is a city located in Washington County, with a current population of approximately 1,865 residents as of the 2020 Census. This small community is situated along the scenic St. Croix River, providing picturesque views and recreational opportunities. Notable neighborhoods within Lakeland include the historic area of Lake St. Croix Beach and the residential community of Oak Park Heights.

Among the landmarks that define Lakeland are the Lakeland Park, which offers a variety of outdoor activities, and the nearby St. Croix River, a designated National Scenic Riverway. The city is also home to the historic Lakeland School, which has served the community since the early 1900s and reflects the city’s commitment to education and community development.

Economically, Lakeland has a rich history tied to agriculture and river commerce, which played a crucial role in its development during the late 19th century. The city has transitioned over the years, but it retains its small-town charm while providing access to larger metropolitan amenities in nearby cities like Stillwater and Woodbury.

  Lakeland, Minnesota Public Records & Government Resources

About Lakeland

Lakeland, Washington County, Minnesota is a city with a population of 1,637 as of the latest census. It is located in the state's eastern region, situated along the scenic St. Croix River. The city offers a range of public records and government resources for its residents, including information on city government, parks, staff, and more.

Police Department & Arrest Records

In addition to the Lakeland, Washington County Sheriff's Office, several municipal police departments operate within the county, including those in Woodbury, Cottage Grove, and Forest Lake. Each city department handles law enforcement within its jurisdiction, focusing on local crime prevention and community safety. These departments often collaborate with the Sheriff's Office on major investigations and regional law enforcement initiatives, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the county.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Washington County Jail, located in Stillwater, is the primary detention facility for the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the arrestee. Inmate lookup services are available online, allowing the public to search for current detainees. Visitation rules require scheduling in advance, with specific hours designated for visits. In Minnesota, the bond or bail process allows for the release of detainees pending trial, and information on posting bail can be obtained from the jail's administration office.

Court Records

For information on criminal case histories and court records in Lakeland, residents can visit the Minnesota Judicial Branch's public access portal at https://mncourts.gov/access-case-records. This website allows users to search for and view court records, including criminal cases, civil proceedings, and more.

Criminal Records

Criminal records in Washington County encompass felony, misdemeanor, and traffic offenses, as well as the sex offender registry. The Washington County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records. Residents can conduct background checks through the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, which provides statewide criminal history information. The Bureau offers online access to public criminal records, facilitating transparency and public safety.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Washington County are maintained by the Washington County Sheriff's Office. These records document the circumstances of an individual's arrest, including charges and booking details. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records through the Sheriff's Office, often requiring a formal request under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. Arrest records typically include the individual's name, date of arrest, charges, and booking information.

Public Records Access

The City of Lakeland maintains a comprehensive records portal on its official website at https://ci.lakeland.mn.us/. This section provides access to a wide variety of public records, including meeting minutes, ordinances, resolutions, and other important city documents. Residents can also find information about Lakeland's recorded documents at https://ci.lakeland.mn.us/index.asp?SEC=61F78451-EBC7-4C65-8A35-CC68F7ECDA8A.

Economy & Demographics

Lakeland's local economy is supported by a mix of small businesses, retail establishments, and service providers. The city's economic development initiatives and business resources can be found on the city's website at https://ci.lakeland.mn.us/index.asp?SEC=B345B5C2-8733-4B3F-8545-B19B6C7EA14A. This section also includes information on local employment opportunities and economic trends within the community.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

Law enforcement services for Lakeland are provided by the Washington County Sheriff's Office. Residents can find information about local law enforcement, including contact details, crime statistics, and public safety resources, on the sheriff's office website at https://www.co.washington.mn.us/150/Sheriffs-Office.

Vital Records

Vital records for Lakeland, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, are maintained by the Washington County Vital Records Office. Residents can access information and request copies of these records through the county's website at https://www.co.washington.mn.us/194/Vital-Records. The city's parks and recreation information can be found at https://ci.lakeland.mn.us/index.asp?SEC=F932A452-433F-4252-9FEC-D04091FE8D2D.

Business & Licensing Records

The City of Lakeland's website features a dedicated section for local businesses, providing resources and information on business licensing, permits, and other relevant data. Entrepreneurs and business owners can find this information at https://ci.lakeland.mn.us/index.asp?SEC=B345B5C2-8733-4B3F-8545-B19B6C7EA14A. The city also maintains a directory of local businesses and economic development initiatives.

Elections & Voter Records

Lakeland residents vote in federal, state, county, and municipal elections administered by the Washington County Elections Office, located at the Washington County Government Center, 14949 62nd Street North, Suite 300, Stillwater, MN 55082, phone (651) 430-6175, website www.co.washington.mn.us/elections. The Elections Office handles voter registration, absentee voting, polling place information, and election results for all residents in the county including Lakeland. Minnesota offers online voter registration at mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us, available until 11:59 PM twenty-one days before an election; after that deadline, eligible voters can register in person at their polling place on Election Day with proof of residence. Acceptable ID includes a Minnesota driver's license, state ID, tribal ID, student ID from a Minnesota high school or college, or a utility bill, bank statement, or government document with current name and address. Lakeland holds municipal elections for Mayor and City Council, typically in November of odd-numbered years. The next municipal election is November 2025, with positions including Mayor (four-year term) and two Council seats (four-year terms). Candidates file with the City Clerk at Lakeland City Hall, 19050 Ipava Avenue West. Local ballot measures, if any, are also decided during municipal elections. Lakeland residents can find their assigned polling place by visiting the Minnesota Secretary of State's Polling Place Finder at pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us or by contacting the Washington County Elections Office. In the November 2024 presidential election, Washington County reported approximately 71% voter turnout with over 165,000 ballots cast out of approximately 233,000 registered voters, reflecting strong civic engagement typical of suburban Twin Cities communities. The November 3, 2026 election will include races for Minnesota Governor (four-year term), all constitutional officers including Attorney General, Secretary of State, and State Auditor, all 134 seats in the Minnesota House of Representatives (two-year terms), odd-numbered seats in the Minnesota State Senate (four-year terms), and Washington County offices including County Commissioner seats, Sheriff, and County Attorney depending on the district and expiration schedules. No U.S. Senate seat from Minnesota is up in 2026, as Minnesota's senators are elected in 2024 and 2028. Lakeland residents vote in Minnesota House District 55B and Senate District 55, with specific incumbents and challengers to be determined as filing opens in 2026. Minnesota allows no-excuse absentee voting by mail or in-person at the county elections office. Applications for absentee ballots can be submitted online at mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us starting 46 days before an election, with completed ballots due by 3:00 PM on Election Day. Minnesota election records that are public include voter registration lists (available to candidates and parties with restrictions), campaign finance reports filed with the Minnesota Campaign Finance Board at cfb.mn.gov, candidate filings and statements, and precinct-level election results published by the Secretary of State at electionresults.sos.state.mn.us.

Public Records Transparency Score

Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal (MNCIS free public access) | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor+Recorder (full parcel search and document images) | Arrest Logs: ✅ Online Inmate Roster (Washington County Sheriff current bookings) | Vital Records: ⚠️ State Office Required (mail/online ordering through state, not instant) | Business: ✅ Free State Database (Secretary of State searchable portal) | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results (full online registration and precinct results) | Overall: 8.5/10 — Washington County and Minnesota provide excellent online access to most public records with free court case search, comprehensive property databases, and robust election information, though vital records require state processing rather than instant online access.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Lakeland, Washington County, Minnesota to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the City of Lakeland, Minnesota, you will be transported to the Washington County Jail for booking and processing. During booking, officers will record your personal information, take fingerprints and photographs, and log personal belongings. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment before the Washington County Court. Under Minnesota law, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney; if you cannot afford legal representation, a public defender will be appointed. Bail may be set at arraignment depending on the charges, your criminal history, and flight risk. Criminal history records are maintained by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA). The Washington County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.doc.state.mn.us/publicviewer/ where you can look up current detainees.
The Lakeland School District is located in Washington County, Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Education, the district has an overall score of 73.2 out of 100, which is above the state average of 71.7. The district has a graduation rate of 95.2%, which is higher than the state average of 83.2%. The district also has a student-teacher ratio of 16.3, which is lower than the state average of 16.7.
According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, the crime rate in Lakeland, Washington County, Minnesota is lower than the national average. In 2019, the total number of reported crimes in Lakeland was 5, with 1 violent crime and 4 property crimes. The violent crime rate was 0.2 per 1,000 people, and the property crime rate was 4.2 per 1,000 people.
The Lakeland Public Library in Washington County, Minnesota provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Minnesota government records. The reference staff can assist with locating court records, property records, and vital records through the library's online catalog and interlibrary loan network. The library maintains materials on how to submit public records requests under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, which governs access to government documents in Minnesota. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Lakeland Minnesota Archives and Genealogy at https://www.mnhs.org/genealogy. Contact the Lakeland Public Library reference desk at (651) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
The Lakeland, Washington County, Minnesota Library is located at 3540 Lakeland Ave N, Lakeland, MN 55043.
Fingerprinting services for Lakeland, Minnesota residents are provided at the Lakeland Police Department, which serves Washington County. Fingerprinting is required for a variety of purposes, including pre-employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, law, real estate), volunteer work with children or the elderly, immigration and naturalization applications, firearm purchases, and FBI Identity History Summary requests. To schedule fingerprinting, call the Lakeland Police Department at (651) or visit in person. Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) and any required agency forms. Fingerprint cards are typically forwarded to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) at https://cch.bca.state.mn.us/.
To obtain vital records from Lakeland, Washington County, Minnesota, you must contact the Washington County Recorder's Office.

The vital records available from the Washington County Recorder's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. To obtain any of these records, you must provide a valid photo ID and proof of your relationship to the person named on the record. You must also provide a fee for each record requested.
Police reports from Lakeland, Minnesota can be obtained from the Lakeland Police Department, located in Washington County. To request a police report, visit the Records Division in person or submit a written request by mail. You will typically need the report number, date of incident, and your valid photo ID. A fee may be charged per page for copies. Under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, most police reports are public records in Minnesota, though portions related to active investigations, juvenile records, or sensitive personal information may be redacted. Contact the Lakeland Police Department Records Division at (651) for information on fees, hours, and online request options. For statewide criminal records, visit https://cch.bca.state.mn.us/.
A background check in Lakeland, Washington County, Minnesota typically includes a review of criminal history, driving records, credit history, employment verification, education verification, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards commonly request background checks in Minnesota. Criminal background checks are processed through the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Minnesota residents. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) provides official criminal history checks at https://cch.bca.state.mn.us/. Under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, individuals have the right to request their own records. Federal background checks are available through the FBI's Identity History Summary program. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs how background check information may be used by employers and landlords.
  Nearby Cities in Washington County, Minnesota

Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:

New Scandia Denmark Afton Birchwood Cottage Grove Forest Lake