About Ramsey County
Ramsey County is located in northeastern North Dakota, established in 1883 and named after Alexander Ramsey, a former U.S. Senator and governor of Minnesota. Ramsey County Seat is Devils Lake, which is also the largest city and is the commercial and governmental hub for Ramsey County. Ramsey County covers approximately 1,186 square miles and had a population of around 11,605 according to recent census estimates.
Ramsey County is most famous for Devils Lake itself, North Dakota's largest natural body of water, which has experienced dramatic water level fluctuations over the past decades, significantly impacting local development and infrastructure. The lake is a major recreational destination, drawing anglers and outdoor enthusiasts from across Ramsey County for walleye, perch, and white bass fishing. Key county agencies include Ramsey County Recorder located at 524 4th Avenue, Devils Lake, ND 58301, Ramsey County Auditor/Treasurer at the same address in Ramsey County Courthouse, and Ramsey County Director of Tax Equalization's Office.
Ramsey County's economy historically relied on agriculture, particularly wheat, barley, and sunflower production, though tourism related to Devils Lake has become increasingly significant. Ramsey County is also home to the Spirit Lake Dakota Nation, which occupies a reservation within county boundaries and contributes to Ramsey County's cultural diversity and economic activity. Ramsey County courthouse, a historic structure, stands as a landmark in downtown Devils Lake and houses most county administrative offices and district court operations.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
Ramsey County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order in the unincorporated areas of Ramsey County. This office is tasked with patrolling these areas, managing Ramsey County jail, processing arrests, and maintaining criminal records. Notable divisions within the office include the patrol division and the investigations unit, which work together to address both routine and complex criminal activities within Ramsey County.
Police Departments
Law enforcement in Ramsey County is provided by Ramsey County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments. The Devils Lake Police Department serves the city of Devils Lake, handling law enforcement within city limits. These agencies coordinate on major crimes and public safety initiatives, making sure of full coverage across Ramsey County. Each department has jurisdictional authority within its respective area, but they often collaborate on investigations and community policing efforts.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Law enforcement in Ramsey County is primarily provided by Ramsey County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at 524 4th Avenue, Devils Lake, ND 58301. Within Ramsey County, the Devils Lake Police Department is the primary municipal law enforcement agency for Ramsey County Seat, located at 320 5th Street, Devils Lake, ND 58301
- To request arrest records, citizens may contact the Sheriff's Office directly or submit written requests citing NDCC 44-04.
- Booking photos and mugshots are considered part of the arrest record and are generally available upon request, though Ramsey County does not currently maintain an online searchable database.
- Requests for specific arrest records should include the individual's name and approximate date of arrest.
The Spirit Lake Tribal Police Department maintains separate jurisdiction on the Spirit Lake Dakota Nation Reservation within county boundaries. Arrest records in Ramsey County are public records under North Dakota Century Code Chapter 44-04, the state's open records law. Ramsey County jail, operated by the Sheriff's Office, houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates.
Inmate lookup information can be obtained by calling the jail at or visiting the facility in person during business hours. The Spirit Lake Tribal Police operate independently under tribal jurisdiction for offenses occurring on reservation lands, maintaining their own detention facilities and booking procedures separate from county operations.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
The criminal records ecosystem in Ramsey County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. Residents can conduct background checks through the Bureau, which provides full criminal history reports. The North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation offers services to Ramsey County residents, including access to statewide criminal records and fingerprinting services for various purposes.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Ramsey County are maintained by Ramsey County Sheriff's Office. These records document the circumstances of an individual's arrest, including charges and booking information. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records through the Sheriff's Office, following the guidelines set by North Dakota's public records law, known as the North Dakota Open Records Statute. A Ramsey County arrest record typically includes the individual's personal details, arrest date, charges, and any related court information.
Jail & Inmate Records
Ramsey County Jail, located in Devils Lake, is the primary detention facility for people arrested within Ramsey County. The booking process at the jail involves photographing, fingerprinting, and documenting personal information of the detainees. Inmate lookup services are available to the public, allowing individuals to find information about current inmates. Visitation rules at Ramsey County Jail are specific, requiring visitors to schedule appointments and adhere to strict guidelines.
- The bond and bail process in North Dakota allows for the release of inmates under certain conditions, and information on recently arrested individuals can be obtained through the Sheriff's Office.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Ramsey County are taken and retained by Ramsey County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the public record and can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office or online databases that compile such information. While North Dakota does not have specific mugshot removal laws, individuals seeking to remove their mugshots from public view may need to pursue legal avenues or contact third-party websites directly.
Courts & Case Records
Ramsey County is served by the Northeast Judicial District of North Dakota, with Ramsey County District Court located at 524 4th Avenue, Devils Lake, ND 58301 Ramsey County Court has general jurisdiction over all civil, criminal, juvenile, and probate matters arising within Ramsey County. North Dakota operates a unified court system, meaning there is no separate superior or circuit court; the District Court handles all matters from small claims to felony cases.
- Copies of court documents can be requested in person at the Clerk of District Court office within the courthouse, with fees of $1.00 per page for standard copying and $10.00 for certified copies.
- The court maintains records dating back to Ramsey County's founding, with older records archived but still accessible upon request.
- Online filing is available through the state's e-filing portal for registered attorneys and approved filers.
The court provides both civil and criminal case searches, and the North Dakota Supreme Court operates a statewide case search portal accessible at www.ndcourts.gov, where users can search Ramsey County cases by name, case number, or attorney. Public access to court records is governed by North Dakota Court Administrative Rule 41, which establishes that most court records are presumptively open to the public unless sealed by court order or protected by statute. Certain sensitive cases, including juvenile proceedings and some family court matters, have restricted access.
Municipal courts in Devils Lake handle traffic violations and city ordinance violations separately from the District Court. Probate matters, including estate administrations and guardianships, are filed with the District Court Clerk and are public record unless sealed.
Property & Public Records
Ramsey County Recorder's Office, located at 524 4th Avenue, Devils Lake, ND 58301, maintains all land and property records for Ramsey County. The Recorder can be reached at and is responsible for recording deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, plat maps, UCC filings, and other documents affecting real property. The office operates under North Dakota Century Code Title 11, which governs county recorders' duties and responsibilities.
- While walk-in searches are free, certified copies cost $10.00 for the first page and $3.00 for each additional page.
- The Assessor's Office provides property tax statements and assessment information to the public.
- All recording fees are established by state statute and include a $10.00 base fee plus additional charges depending on page count and document type.
Property records in North Dakota are public information, and Ramsey County Recorder maintains an indexing system dating back to Ramsey County's establishment. Ramsey County Director of Tax Equalization's Office, also located in the courthouse at 524 4th Avenue, phone, maintains property tax assessment records, property characteristics, ownership information, and valuations. Ramsey County participates in the North Dakota State Land Information System, and property records may be searchable through county or state GIS portals, though access varies.
Ramsey County Treasurer, phone, handles tax payment records and can provide information on current and delinquent taxes. Plat maps and surveys are available for review at the Recorder's Office, with copies available for purchase. Online property search capabilities may be limited, and most detailed research requires in-person or phone contact with the Recorder's Office.
Vital Records
Vital records for Ramsey County, North Dakota, are maintained both at Ramsey County level and by the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Vital Records. Birth and death certificates occurring in Ramsey County can be requested through Ramsey County Recorder's Office at 524 4th Avenue, Devils Lake, ND 58301 The fee for a certified birth or death certificate is $7.00 for the first copy and $4.00 for each additional copy of the same record ordered at the same time, as established under North Dakota Century Code Chapter 23-02.1.
- Processing time for in-person requests is typically immediate during business hours, while mail requests may take 1-2 weeks.
- The marriage license fee is $65.00, and there is no waiting period in North Dakota.
Applicants must provide valid photo identification and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record, such as being the registrant, immediate family member, or legal representative. The North Dakota Division of Vital Records in Bismarck is the centralized state repository and can be reached at or online at www.health.nd.gov/vital records, offering online ordering with credit card payment and expedited shipping options. Marriage licenses are issued by Ramsey County Recorder, requiring both parties to appear in person with valid identification.
Divorce decrees are filed with the District Court Clerk at and are part of the court record. North Dakota has maintained statewide vital records registration since 1893, though early records may be incomplete. Certified copies are required for most legal purposes, including passport applications, social security benefits, and estate settlement.
Business & Licensing
Business and licensing records in Ramsey County are maintained by multiple agencies depending on the type of business activity. Ramsey County Recorder's Office at 524 4th Avenue, Devils Lake, ND 58301, phone, accepts filings for trade names (doing business as/DBA) and certain local business registrations.
For full business entity searches, including corporations, limited liability companies, and partnerships, the North Dakota Secretary of State maintains the statewide Business Information Tracker database accessible online at firststop.sos.nd.gov, which provides free searches of registered business entities, including formation documents, registered agents, and annual report filings. The Secretary of State's Office in Bismarck can be contacted through the office’s website. Professional licenses, including those for contractors, cosmetologists, and healthcare providers, are regulated by various state boards rather than at Ramsey County level. The North Dakota Office of State Tax Commissioner handles sales tax permits and can be contacted for Building permits and zoning regulations in Ramsey County are administered by Ramsey County Planning and Zoning Department and by individual municipalities for incorporated areas.
The City of Devils Lake Building Department, phone, handles building permits, electrical permits, and occupancy certificates within city limits. The Devils Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce, located at 208 Highway 2 West, Devils Lake, ND 58301, phone, website www.devilslakend.com, provides business development resources, networking opportunities, and information about local business climate. Chamber membership directories and economic development information are available to entrepreneurs and businesses considering Ramsey County operations.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Ramsey County are administered by Ramsey County Auditor's Office, which is the election authority. The office is located at 524 4th Avenue, Devils Lake, ND 58301, and can be contacted through the office’s website. Voter registration in North Dakota operates uniquely compared to most states: North Dakota does not require voter registration. Eligible residents can vote by simply providing proof of residency and identification at their polling place on Election Day, as established under North Dakota Century Code Title 16.1.
- Mail-in absentee ballots must be requested and returned according to statutory deadlines.
Acceptable identification includes a North Dakota driver's license, non-driver ID card, or tribal ID. Voters can find their polling place by contacting Ramsey County Auditor or visiting the North Dakota Secretary of State website at vip.sos.nd.gov. While pre-registration is not required, residents may contact the Auditor's office to confirm their eligibility and polling location.
Absentee voting is available for residents who will be absent from Ramsey County on Election Day, have a disability, or meet other qualifying criteria. Absentee ballot applications can be obtained from the County Auditor's Office or downloaded from the Secretary of State website, with applications due by 5:00 PM the day before the election. Election records that are public include precinct-level results, candidate filings, and ballot measure information.
Campaign finance filings for local candidates are maintained by the Secretary of State's office in Bismarck. Voter lists are not publicly posted in the traditional sense due to North Dakota's no-registration system, but qualified voter information is available for legitimate purposes. In the 2024 general election, Ramsey County reported turnout of approximately 63-68% of eligible voters, consistent with North Dakota's traditionally high participation rates.
The next major election is November 3, 2026, featuring U.S. House and Senate races along with North Dakota state legislative and statewide offices. Citizens seeking election records or information about campaign finance should contact the County Auditor or visit the Secretary of State's transparency portal at sos.nd.gov.
Economy & Demographics
Ramsey County's economy represents a diverse blend of agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and government services. Agriculture remains foundational, with Ramsey County's 800-plus farms producing wheat, barley, soybeans, sunflowers, and canola across approximately 700,000 acres of cropland. Cattle ranching and dairy operations also contribute significantly to agricultural output.
- The median household income in Ramsey County is estimated at approximately $56,000, slightly below the state median.
- Manufacturing presence includes agricultural equipment sales and service, food processing related to agricultural products, and small-scale industrial operations.
Tourism centered on Devils Lake fishing and recreation generates substantial economic activity, particularly during the summer fishing season when the walleye and perch fishing draws thousands of anglers annually. The lake's water level fluctuations, which peaked in the early 2000s, created both challenges and opportunities, flooding property while creating new fishing habitat. Major employers in Ramsey County include Lake Region State College, which employs approximately 200 full and part-time staff, Essentia Health Devils Lake with over 300 employees, the Spirit Lake Casino and Resort operated by the Spirit Lake Dakota Nation, and various school districts.
Ramsey County unemployment rate typically tracks close to North Dakota's low statewide rate, generally between 2.5% and 3.5%. The Spirit Lake Dakota Nation contributes significantly through casino gaming, hospitality, and government services on reservation lands. Recent economic development initiatives have focused on diversifying beyond agriculture and tourism, including efforts to attract technology businesses and expand healthcare services.
The Devils Lake region benefits from its position along U.S. Highway 2, providing transportation connectivity across northern North Dakota.
Transparency Score
Court Records: Yes: Online (State Portal) | Property: Limited: Online, In-Person Available | Arrest/Jail: Limited: Phone/In-Person Only | Vital Records: Yes: In-Person & State Online | Business: Yes: Online (State Portal) | Elections: Yes: Results Online, No Registration Required | Overall Score: 7/10, Ramsey County provides reasonable access to public records, with strong state-level portals for courts and business records, though local databases remain limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Cities & Towns in Ramsey County
Explore public records for 10 cities and communities in Ramsey County, North Dakota.