All links go directly to official Scandia, Minnesota government websites.
About Scandia, Minnesota
Government TypeCity Council
The city government of Scandia, Minnesota, operates under the Scandia City Council, which consists of five elected members. Council members are elected at-large, serving four-year terms. The current council members include Mayor Fred.
Notable landmarks in Scandia include the historic Scandia Creamery, which has been a local fixture since 1922, and the picturesque William O'Brien State Park, offering recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and camping along the St. Croix River. The city is also home to the active community of Lindstrom, which hosts various events throughout the year, a strong sense of community among residents. Historically, Scandia was established by Swedish immigrants in the late 1800s, which is reflected in the city's cultural heritage. The annual Midsommar Daze festival celebrates this heritage, drawing visitors and locals alike to enjoy traditional Swedish food, music, and activities. The city's commitment to preserving its history and natural beauty is evident in its planning and community initiatives.
Law Enforcement
While Scandia relies on the Washington County Sheriff's Office for primary law enforcement, several municipal police departments operate elsewhere in the county. Woodbury, Cottage Grove, and Forest Lake each maintain their own departments, handling crime prevention and community safety within their respective jurisdictions. These municipal agencies frequently collaborate with the Sheriff's Office on major investigations and regional initiatives, creating law enforcement coverage across Washington County.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Washington County Jail in Stillwater is the primary detention facility for Washington County. When someone is booked, the process includes fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information. The public can search for current detainees through online inmate lookup services. Visitation requires advance scheduling, with specific hours set aside for visits. Minnesota's bond and bail process allows detainees to secure release pending trial, and those seeking information about posting bail can contact the jail's administration office directly.
Arrest Records
The Washington County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records for the county, documenting the circumstances surrounding each individual's arrest along with charges and booking details. Residents and attorneys seeking these records can submit requests through the Sheriff's Office, typically under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. The records themselves include the arrestee's name, date of arrest, charges filed, and booking information.
Court Records
The Washington County District Court maintains court records for Scandia residents at 14949 62nd St N, Stillwater, MN 55082. This court processes both civil and criminal cases involving those who live in the community. Public access to court records is available through the Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) system: https://www.mncourts.gov/Access-Case-Records.aspx
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Washington County cover felony, misdemeanor, and traffic offenses, as well as the sex offender registry. 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, helping with transparency and public safety.
Public Records Access
Washington County Government maintains public records for Scandia, Minnesota. Residents seeking vital records, property deeds, and other official documents can access them through the Washington County Recorder's Office at 14949 62nd St N, Stillwater, MN 55082. The office website outlines procedures for requesting and obtaining various public records: https://www.co.washington.mn.us/199/Recorder
Vital Records
Vital records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, for Scandia residents are managed by the Washington County Public Health & Environment department. The department's Vital Records Office is located at 14949 62nd St N, Stillwater, MN 55082. Individuals can request copies of vital records online, by mail, or in person: https://www.co.washington.mn.us/1100/Vital Records
Business & Licensing Records
Business records for Scandia, Minnesota are accessible through both the Washington County Recorder's Office and the Minnesota Secretary of State's office. The Recorder's Office maintains information on local business registrations, trade names, and other commercial documents. Statewide business filings can be accessed through the Secretary of State's office: https://www.co.washington.mn.us/199/Recorder, https://www.sos.state.mn.us/business-liens/
Economy & Demographics
Scandia, Minnesota has a diverse economy with a mix of agricultural, commercial, and industrial activities. The city's largest employers include local businesses, farms, and manufacturing companies. Economic data and business resources for Scandia can be found through the Washington County Economic Development Partnership and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development: https://www.co.washington.mn.us/311/Economic-Development, https://mn.gov/deed/
Elections & Voter Records
The Washington County Elections Office serves Scandia, Minnesota voters from its location within the Washington County Property Records and Licensing Services Division at 14949 62nd Street North, Stillwater, MN 55082. Residents can reach the office at (651) 430-6175 or visit www.co.washington.mn.us/elections. This office administers all federal, state, county, and municipal elections for local voters, maintains voter registration records, processes absentee ballots, and certifies election results.
Minnesota offers online voter registration through the Minnesota Secretary of State website at mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us, where eligible residents can register or update their registration up to 21 days before an election. The state also permits Election Day registration at polling places with proper proof of residence. Acceptable identification includes a Minnesota driver's license, state ID, tribal ID, or other documents showing name and current address. Municipal elections in Scandia select the mayor and city council members, typically on a four-year cycle with staggered council seats. The next municipal election is scheduled for November 2026, when voters will elect city council positions and consider any local ballot questions. City election information, candidate filings, and sample ballots appear on the City of Scandia website at www.scandiamn.org closer to election dates. Residents can locate their assigned polling place using the Polling Place Finder tool on the Minnesota Secretary of State website by entering their address, or by contacting the Washington County elections office. Under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 13 and Section 201.091, voter registration lists are public data available for inspection, though personal information like birthdates is classified as private. Campaign finance reports for candidates and ballot committees are public and searchable through the Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board at cfb.mn.gov. Election results by precinct are published by the county after each election as public records. In the November 2024 presidential election, Washington County reported approximately 72% voter turnout with over 180,000 ballots cast, reflecting strong civic engagement. The November 3, 2026 general election will include races for Minnesota Governor, Minnesota Attorney General, Minnesota Secretary of State, Minnesota State Auditor, U.S. Representative for Minnesota's 8th Congressional District (which includes Scandia), Minnesota State Senate District 35, Minnesota State House District 35A, Washington County Commissioner positions, Washington County Attorney, and city offices. Minnesota allows no-excuse absentee voting, and residents can request absentee ballots online through mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us starting 46 days before any election. Completed absentee ballots must be received by Election Day at 8:00 PM to be counted.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: Yes: Online Statewide Portal | Property: Yes: Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: Yes: Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: Yes: Online Ordering | Business: Yes: Free State Database | Elections: Yes: Online Registration & Results | Overall: 9.2/10, Washington County and Minnesota provide exceptional public records access with free online databases for court records, property documents, business entities, and election information, supported by responsive county offices and state-level transparency infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
1What are the school district and education performance data for Scandia, Washington County, Minnesota?
Public schools in Scandia, Washington County, Minnesota are administered by the local school district. School performance data, enrollment information, and district boundaries are available through the Minnesota Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics at nces.ed.gov.
2What are the crime statistics for Scandia, Washington County, Minnesota?
Crime data for Scandia, Washington County, Minnesota is maintained by local law enforcement agencies and reported to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program.
3What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Scandia, Washington County, Minnesota Library?
The Scandia Public Library provides access to public records resources including online databases, historical archives, and government document collections. The Washington County library system may offer additional resources. Contact the library for available databases and research assistance.
4Where is the Scandia, Washington County, Minnesota Public Library located?
The Scandia Public Library serves residents of Scandia and the surrounding Washington County area in Minnesota. Contact the library or visit the Washington County library system website for current address, hours, and services.
5Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Scandia, Washington County, Minnesota?
Fingerprinting services for Scandia, Minnesota residents are available through the local police department and authorized providers in Washington County. Services cover background checks, professional licensing, and employment screening.
6What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Scandia, Washington County, Minnesota, and what information is provided in the records?
Vital records for Scandia, Washington County, Minnesota including birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses are available through the Minnesota Department of Health. Requests can be made online, by mail, or in person. The Washington County Clerk's office may also issue certified copies. Valid identification and proof of eligibility are required.
7How do I register to vote in Scandia, Minnesota?
To register to vote in Scandia, Minnesota, residents can register online through the Minnesota Secretary of State's website, by mail, or in person at the Washington County elections office. Minnesota 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 Minnesota Secretary of State's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Scandia, contact the Washington County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
8How do I look up property records in Scandia, Minnesota?
Property records for Scandia, Minnesota are maintained by the Washington County Assessor's Office and the Washington County Clerk and Recorder. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within Washington County, including parcels in Scandia. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The Washington County Clerk and Recorder maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many Minnesota counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. For in-person requests, visit the Washington County offices at the county courthouse. The Washington County Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
9How do I get a birth or death certificate in Scandia, Minnesota?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Scandia, Minnesota residents are available through both county and state offices. The Minnesota Department of Health, Office of Vital Records, located in Saint Paul, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in Minnesota. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Washington County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for Washington 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.
10How do I find business license records in Scandia, Minnesota?
Business licensing for Scandia, Minnesota operates at municipal, county, and state levels. The Scandia town or city clerk's office handles local business permits, zoning approvals, and any municipal license requirements for businesses operating within Scandia limits. Washington County may require additional registrations for businesses in unincorporated areas or county-level sales tax licensing. At the state level, all Minnesota businesses must register with the Minnesota Secretary of State and obtain applicable state tax identification numbers from the Minnesota Department of Revenue. Professional licenses for regulated occupations are issued by the relevant Minnesota licensing boards. For a complete list of requirements for starting a business in Scandia, contact the Scandia clerk's office and the Washington County economic development office.
Nearby Cities in Washington County, Minnesota
Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county: