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1. I thought this office was Civil Defense?

Emergency Management was known as Civil Defense until 1974 when congress enacted the Disaster Relief Act (PL 93-288). That is the time when there was a shift from enemy attack mentality, to natural disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery. That same year gave birth to the Department of Emergency Management for the state and FEMA for the federal government.

2. What functions does the office perform when there is either a man-made or natural disaster?

The Emergency Management Director basically coordinates the response to an emergency and ensures that the response to an emergency is running as safely and efficiently as possible by coordinating the allocation and use of resources. We work hand-in-hand with Law Enforcement, Fire, Public Health, Social Services Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Environmental Services, the Minnesota National Guard (when called upon) and volunteer agencies like Red Cross and Salvation Army to make sure that the Disaster Response is as effective and efficient as possible.

3. What functions does the office do when there isn't a disaster?

Responding and recovery from disaster is just a small part of functions of the Emergency Management Office. We are responsible for updates and revisions to the County Emergency Operations Plan, coordinating various exercises to test the plan, conducting public education, providing assistance to local jurisdictions and county agencies before, during and after disaster strikes, applying for State and Federal Grants, participating in on-going trainings in Emergency Management, and compiling periodic reports and reviews that need to be submitted to state offices.

Sibley County Emergency Management works closely with local, state and federal officials and cooperatively with neighboring jurisdictions, to better prepare for and respond to incidents ranging from tornadoes to terrorism to pandemics.

4. How can I make sure my family is prepared for a disaster?

As with the Emergency Management Office, it is important for all families to have a disaster plan and to practice their plan. Each family should also have a family disaster kit with items in it such as flashlights, water, portable radio, and extra batteries.

For further information on how you can plan for your family before a disaster strikes, look under Emergency Management and go to the links provided on our web page for "Family Preparedness."

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1. Who needs an hazardous materials endorsement (HME)?

Anyone who transports materials found to be hazardous for the purpose of the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and that require the motor vehicle to be placarded under Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, parts 100 to 185.

2. How do I get an HME?

1. Take and pass the HME knowledge test at a driver exam station.
2. Apply for or renew the Commercial Driver's License.
3. Complete a Security Threat Assessment application.
4. Submit your fingerprints at an authorized collection site.

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1. Why Leading Sibley Together?

This county-wide leadership program offers community members an opportunity to network, develop leadership skills, and gain an increased awareness and understanding of the assets of Sibley County. The results are more skilled individuals, increased networks, and stronger links between communities to address local issues.

2. How does the program work?

Participants gather one day each month in communities throughout the county. Each day includes leadership learning activities, meeting with community leaders, and tours of businesses and organizations in that particular community. Participants tour together, learn together, and dine together. Each day ends with reflection and discussion around the day's events.

3. Who can participate?

Each class is comprised of a maximum of 24 participants who either live or work in Sibley County. Participants can be either current or emerging leaders with an interest in the future of our county. Selected participants are notified in mid- August.

Acceptance is based on:

• Desire to better understand and improve leadership skills
• Demonstrated interest in the Sibley County area
• Interest in future community involvement
• Ability to commit the time needed to attend program sessions
• Representation from all diverse segments of the county

4. How do employers benefit?

Gain employees who:

• Create connections throughout the county to promote their respective business or organization
• Develop their personal leadership, communication, and team skills
• Develop greater personal vision and ability for "big picture" thinking
• Increase their capacity to address critical issues and challenges

5. How do participants benefit?

• Increase ability to lead and work more effectively with others
• Build personal and professional networks with community leaders and organizations
• Gain a greater awareness of resources and assets within the county and local communities Identify ways to "make a difference" and give back to the community

Skill development sessions are led by highly trained personnel and may include:

• Art of Hosting
• Communication Skills
• Conflict Management
• Effective Followership
• Facilitating More Effective Meetings
• Leading with Strengths
• Navigating Change
• Visioning
• Working with Different Generations

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1. Why do my property taxes vary each year?

View the Fact Sheet: 14 Reasons Why Property Taxes Vary From Year To Year (PDF) for more information.

2. Who is my Appraiser?

The law requires physical inspection of all property at least once every five years for property tax purposes. Look below to see which appraiser appraises your property. If you should have any questions concerning the valuation of your property, a phone number is included with each appraiser's name. This is a business phone and can be used to contact an appraiser Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm. If you are unable to contact us during normal business hours, you are welcome to leave a message on voicemail.

The staff appraisers employed by the County Assessor are professionals. Stringent training and experience requirements are set by the State Board of Assessors, which governs and administers the licensure of Ad-Valorem property appraisers.

View the Assessor's Staff in the Staff Directory for more information.

3. Can an Appraiser view my property without me present?

Yes, any officer authorized by law to assess property for taxation may, when necessary to the proper performance of their duties, enter any dwelling, house, building, or structure and view the same and the property therein. (M.S. 273.20) Any officer authorized by law to assess property for ad valorem tax purposes shall have reasonable access to land and structures as necessary for the proper performance of their duties.

A property owner may refuse to allow an assessor to inspect their property. This refusal by the property owner must be either verbal or expressly stated in a letter to the county assessor. If the assessor is denied access to view a property, the assessor is authorized to estimate the property's estimated market value by making assumptions believed appropriate concerning the property's finish and condition. (M.S. 273.20), however, as stated in the Property Tax Administration Manual: Neither Local Boards of Appeals and Equalization (LBAE) nor County Board of Appeals and Equalization (CBAE) can make changes in favor of a property owner who refuses access to the Assessor.

4. Who does what in property taxes?

County (or City) Assessor

The county (or city) assessor classifies property by use (commercial, agricultural, residential, etc.) and estimates the value of the property for tax purposes. The assessor also sends out valuation notices each spring.

County Auditor

The county auditor determines tax rates and administers delinquent real property taxes, elections, and the overall accounting functions of the county. The auditor also keeps a record of all taxable property in the county and delivers a list of property owners and their respective taxes to the county treasurer.

County Treasurer

The county treasurer collects and distributes current property taxes and special assessments, administers delinquent personal property taxes, and is responsible for sending out Truth in Taxation Notices and Property Tax Statements.

County Recorder

The recorder maintains the county's vital records (births, deaths, and marriages) and records all transfers of property, liens, mortgages, satisfactions and other official documents.

Minnesota Department of Revenue (DOR)

Property taxes in Minnesota are primarily administered by your county. The Department of Revenue's Property Tax Division provides counties with general guidance, oversight, and education to ensure proper administration of the state's property tax laws.

The department also distributes funds to local governments, such as Local Government Aid, and conducts property tax research and data analysis. The department's Individual Income Tax Division is responsible for processing property tax refunds.

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1. Where to go for a C&TC?

You can take your child to get a checkup at your local clinic! Please see our provider list f you don't already have a clinic.

A visit to the dentist is recommended starting with the eruption of the first tooth or age 1, whichever is first. Dental visits are then encouraged every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist. Please see our dental provider list to find a dentist.

• C&TC Provider List - English (DOC)
• C&TC Provider List - Espanol (DOC)
• Dental Provider List - English (DOC)
• Dental Provider List - Espanol (DOC)

2. When to get a C&TC?

Checkups should occur at the following ages:

• Between birth and 1 month old
• At 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24 and 30 months
• Every year after age 3 and up to age 20
• Whenever sports physicals are needed

3. What if I need help?

We can help with:

• Finding a clinic
• Finding a dentist
• Making appointments
• Arranging transportation to appointments
• Finding an interpreter
• Preparing to see a doctor

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1. Who is eligible to vote?

You are eligible to vote in Minnesota if you are least 18 years of age or older, a citizen of the United States and a resident of Minnesota for at least 20 days immediately preceding the election day.

2. How do I register to vote?

Complete a Voter Registration Application (PDF). Drop off or send completed application to:

Sibley County Auditor-Treasurer Office
400 Court Avenue
P.O. Box 51
Gaylord, MN 55334

or register online at the Minnesota Secretary of State Office.

3. Why should I pre-register to vote?

Voting will be faster and easier if you are registered to vote when you arrive at the polls on election day. You can register on Election Day; however, you will need to bring proof of residence with you.

4. How do I register on Election Day?

To register on Election Day, you must have proof of residence in your precinct. Only proofs authorized by law will be accepted.

Valid proof of identity includes any of the following:

• MN Driver's License, Learner's Permit, or Identification card showing a current address (or receipt for any of these)
• Valid, previous registration from the same precinct
• Notice of Ineffective or Late Registration" from the County Auditor-Treasurer's office
• A registered voter from your precinct who personally knows you reside in the precinct and will vouch for your identity
• A photo ID and a current utility bill showing your name and address in the precinct

5. What are the options for Absentee Voting?

Absentee ballots are available 46 days before each election. Individuals interested in absentee voting may do so either by mail or in person at the Office of the Sibley County Auditor-Treasurer. Standard office hours are 8 am to 4:30 pm. Monday through Friday. The office is also open for absentee voting the Saturday before an election from 10 am to 3 pm and until 5 pm on the evening before the election. You do not have to be a registered voter to vote by absentee ballot (you will register during the absentee voting process). Beginning 7 days before the election, applicants voting in-person will be able to deposit their ballot directly into the tabulator/ballot box at the Auditor-Treasurer Office.

Applications & Documents

• Regular Absentee Ballot Application (PDF)
• Military/Overseas Absentee Ballot Application (PDF)
• Application to Automatically receive Absentee Ballot Applications (PDF)
• Online Absentee Ballot Request

6. What is the process for Voting by Mail (Mail Balloting)?

The following precincts will vote by mail for all State Primary and General Elections:

• Green Isle City
• Arlington Township
• Bismarck Township
• Cornish Township
• Faxon Township
• Henderson Township
• Kelso Township
• Sibley Township
• Washington Lake Township

If you live in one of Sibley County's mail ballot precincts, your traditional polling place will not be open on Election Day. Instead, if you are a registered voter, you will receive a ballot in the mail approximately one month before Election Day for each election. See options below for returning your ballot, including voting in person:

1. Return your ballot by mail using the prepaid return envelope included with your ballot packet. Please note: the envelope must be received by election day for your vote to count.
   Voters have several options to ensure their vote is counted in the State Elections:
   • Voters can track their ballot on the Minnesota Secretary of State website.
   • Voters can deliver their ballots to the Sibley County Auditor-Treasurer's office by hand (or have someone they trust hand-deliver it for them).
   • Voters can cast their vote in person with an absentee ballot at the Sibley County Auditor-Treasurer's office until 5 pm the day before each election.
   • Voters in a mail ballot precinct (voters who don't have a traditional polling place) can cast their votes on Election Day until 8 pm at the Sibley County Auditor-Treasurer's office.
2. Return your ballot (in the provided envelopes) in the locked drop box outside the west entrance to the Courthouse or inside the Courthouse in the drop box in the lobby of the Auditor-Treasurer's Office. We must receive it by 8 pm on Election Day for your vote to count.
3. Vote in person at the Auditor-Treasurer Department at the Courthouse in Gaylord. In addition to normal business hours of Monday through Friday 8 am to 4:30 pm, we are also open from 10 am to 3 pm the Saturday prior to each election and from 8 am to 5 pm the Monday (day before) each election. *Note - As a registered voter, you will need to provide either the last 4 digits of your Social Security number or your Driver's License number. More information may be required for a new registrant.
4. Return your ballot (in the provided envelopes) in person or by designated agent OR vote in person on Election Day at the Auditor-Treasurer's Department at the Courthouse in Gaylord. We are open from 6 am to 8 pm. Election Day. Note: You cannot place your ballot directly into the ballot box on Election Day.
5. Starting 7 days before each election, you can put your ballot directly into the tabulator/ballot box (you will need to complete an application to do so)

7. How do I file for office?

An individual who desires to become a candidate for an office shall file an affidavit of candidacy at the location as listed:

• Federal File with Secretary of State
• State File with Secretary of State or County Auditor of the County in which candidate resides
• County File with County Auditor-Treasurer
• City File with City Clerk
• Township File with Township Clerk
• School File with School
• Soil and Water File with County Auditor-Treasurer

For more information on Becoming a Candidate, visit the Secretary of State's website.

8. Who May Be An Election Judge?

An election judge must be:

1. Eligible to vote in the State of Minnesota
2. Able to read, write, and speak English
3. Appointed by the appointing authority (county, city, township, or school board)
4. Trained and currently certified as an election judge.

An election judge cannot be:

1. A candidate in that election (i.e. is running for an office on the ballot used in that precinct)
2. The husband, wife, parent, child, brother, or sister of a candidate or another judge in the same precinct
3. A challenger.

9. Who may be an Election Judge Trainee?

High school students 16 and 17 years of age can be trainee election judges. Students who are 18 years of age or older can serve as regular election judges.

To serve as trainee election judges students must be:

1. At least 16 years of age;
2. Serve in the county where they reside;
3. Be in good academic standing;
4. Have completed or are enrolled in a course on government; and
5. Have permission from their school and parents.

Trainee election judges can serve for all elections. They cannot serve past 10 pm and cannot number more than 1/3 of the election judges in any one precinct. Trainee election judges, like other election judges, are not required to serve the entire day. Because trainee judges serve without party affiliation, they cannot perform tasks that must be carried out by two judges of different political parties, such as curbside voting. However, trainee election judges can perform any other election judge tasks and should be assigned those duties just as other election judges are assigned. Trainees do not count toward the minimum number of election judges required to serve.

Clerks & Election Judges Training Schedules

Before serving in an election, all election judges and student trainee election judges must complete election judge training and be certified as an election judge. This course is offered by the County Auditor-Treasurer. Every judge who completes training receives an election judge certificate that is valid for two years. To stay current with changing election law and ballot counting technology, election judges will renew their election judge certificate by again completing the training course every two years.

In addition to election judge training and certification, head election judges complete an additional hour of training every two years to be certified as head election judge.

Election judges assisting with Health Care Facility absentee voting complete one hour of training every two years (in addition to election judge training) to be certified as HCF absentee election judges.

If you are interested in serving as an election judge in Sibley County, contact the Office of the Sibley County Auditor-Treasurer or submit the Sibley County Election Judge Interest Form (PDF) to the Auditor-Treasurer Office.

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1. What is the Follow Along Program?

A fun way to learn about your child's health and development from birth to age 3 and get ideas about "what to teach" and "at what age" to teach it.

A simple way to ask questions about how your child is hearing, moving, seeing, playing, talking, learning, growing, and acting.

An easy way to learn about other services you may want for your child.

2. How does the Follow Along Program work?

Enrollment is easy! You can enroll online by visiting the Follow Along website. If you prefer paper enrollment, contact Public Health for assistance.

Questionnaires are sent to you when your child reaches different ages such as 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 30, and 36 months. Each questionnaire asks how your child is growing, playing, talking, moving, and acting. Separate questionnaires are sent regarding your child's social and emotional development at 12 and 24 months.

Sheets with fun activities to do with your child until the next questionnaire comes are also sent to you.

The results of the questionnaires will be shared with you. If there are any concerns, a nurse or other professional from the program will contact you. Together, you can talk about choices for further evaluation or activities that will promote development in the area of concern.

After your child is 36 months old, you will get information about the next step, Early Childhood Screening.

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1. How does a property I own qualify for a homestead exclusion?

To qualify for a homestead, you must meet all of the following requirements:

• You must be one of the owners of the property, or be a qualifying relative of at least one of the owners. Details on qualifying relatives are on the homestead applications and vary depending on classification. Corporations, partnerships, trusts and life estates may also be eligible for a homestead exclusion in certain situations.
• You must own and occupy the property as your primary place of residence by December 31st of the assessment year.
• You must be a Minnesota resident. (If a residential property is the primary residence of a qualifying relative of an owner, it is not necessary for the owner to be a Minnesota resident.)
• You must apply for homestead by December 31stof the assessment year. This application requires that you supply the names and Social Security numbers of all of the owners of the property and if the property is not owner occupied, the names and Social Security numbers of the owner's qualifying relatives who occupy the property. You may make application in one of the following ways:
  • In person at:
    • Sibley County Assessor's Office
      400 Court Avenue
      Gaylord, MN 55334
  • Call the Assessor's Office at 507-237-4078 and an application can be sent by mail or email
  • Print the homestead application from our website

It is recommended that you make application as soon as possible after you purchase a property, even though the deadline may be many months from the date of your purchase.

Other special circumstances may exist that would allow homestead status on a property. Please contact the Assessor's Office if you have questions regarding your particular situation.

2. Why must I provide my Social Security Number?

State law (MS 273.124, Subd. 13, Par. c) requires that every property owner applying for homestead classification must provide the County Assessor with a Social Security number of each occupant who is listed as owner of the property on the deed of record, including each owner's spouse who occupies the property. Each owner and their spouse who occupy the property must sign the application. In the case of a relative homestead, each relative and spouse occupying the property must provide a Social Security number and sign the application.

Social Security numbers provided to this office are considered to be confidential information and will not be disclosed to the public. Under state law (MS 273.124, Subd. 13, Par. g,h) they may be given by the County Assessor to the Minnesota Department of Revenue to determine whether you have applied for the homestead classification for other properties.

3. Are homesteads on all property the same?

No. The homestead exclusion amount is based on a number of factors. First, the homestead exclusion amount decreases as the property's market value increases over a certain level established by law. Second, not all properties are eligible for full (100%) homestead. Third, there may be other exclusions or reductions attached to homestead properties including but not limited to blind/disabled homesteads and Veteran's Exclusions.

4. I own and live in a manufactured home located in a mobile home park, are the homestead rules the same?

The basic rules allowing homestead status are the same for manufactured homes located on rented sites (these manufactured homes are taxed as personal property) as they are for all other real estate. The application deadline, however, is May 29th of the assessment year, which is also the year in which the taxes are due for personal property.

5. What if I fail to comply with homestead laws or file a false homestead application?

A property owner who obtains or attempts to obtain homestead classification for a property other than his or her primary place of residence or the primary place of residence of his or her relative is, under Minnesota Statute 609.41, subject to a fine of up to $3,000 and/or up to one year of imprisonment. In addition, a penalty equal to 100% of the total homestead benefit will be added to the corrected tax amount under Minnesota Statute 273.124, subd. 13.

6. What if the owner moves to a nursing home or assisted living facility?

As long as the home is maintained as the owner's homestead, the property may remain homestead. If the property is rented, offered for sale, or otherwise occupied by someone other than the owner, the property will become non-homestead for the following assessment year.

7. My neighbor goes “South” every winter. How long can an owner be gone without losing their homestead?

An owner of property may be away from home for a reasonable length of time without depriving the property of the homestead classification provided it is maintained as a home awaiting the owner's return. An owner cannot maintain the property as a homestead if it is rented in the owner's absence. The owner must retain their Minnesota residency in order to continue to claim homestead.

8. We own two properties in Minnesota and live at each for 6 months, can we claim homestead at both?

No. An owner may not have the benefits of the homestead classification in more than one place.

9. What if the owner is in the military and is absent due to active service?

The owner of a property that is on active duty in the military, or away from home due to service in the Peace Corps or VISTA, is entitled to homestead if they intend to return to the home after they are discharged or their service is completed and they continue to claim the property as their homestead.

10. Can I claim homestead in one home and my spouse claim homestead in another home?

The general answer to this question is no. There are a few limited exceptions (listed below) that would allow married couples to claim two homesteads:

• Legal separation (documentation must be provided)
• Employment or self-employment in another location. In this case, both spouses must be employed or self-employed and the places of employment or self-employment must be at least 50 miles apart. Additionally, the properties must be at least 50 miles apart (documentation of employment must be provided)
• Other personal circumstances, not including intent to obtain two homestead classifications

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1. Do I need a reservation for camping overnight in the park?

No reserved camping spaces. Please notify the sheriff's office at 507-237-4330 if you plan on staying overnight. 

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1. How do I find childcare providers in Sibley County?

You can search for licensed childcare providers in your area by searching MN DHS Licensing Lookup.

Search here!

2. How do I apply for Rental Assistance/Section 8 housing?

For information or applications, contact:

•  Minnesota Valley Action Council (MVAC) at 507-237-2981 or visit https://www.mnvac.org/programs/housing/ 
• South Central Minnesota Mulit-County HRA at 507-345-1977 or visit https://www.scmmchra.org/

3. Do you have medical equipment for rent or use?

Yes. Sibley County Public Health and Human Services has a variety of non-electric medical equipment that can be loaned to the public. Call 507-237-4000 for additional information.

4. I lost my SNAP/EBT card, what do I do?

Replacement cards cannot be issued at our office. To request a replacement EBT card, call customer service at 888-997-2227. Replacement cards will be mailed to you by DHS and are typically received within 5 days.

Please visit https://edocs.dhs.state.mn.us/lfserver/Public/DHS-3315A-ENG for additional information.

5. How do I apply for health insurance?

Individuals interested in applying for health care can: 

• Visit https://www.mnsure.org/ to find more information. 
• Call the Public Health and Human Services office and ask for a health care application to be mailed to you. 
• Call the Public Health and Human Services office and speak to an eligibility worker.

6. Where you I find Well Water testing kits?

Sibley County Public Health and Human Services has test kits available free of charge. The tests can be picked up during regular business hours. 

7. Where do I find Radon testing kits?

Sibley County Public Health and Human Services has test kits available free of charge. The tests can be picked up during regular business hours. 

8. How can I get more mileage sheets?

 Mileage sheets can be picked up at the Sibley County Public Health and Human services office during regular business hours. You can also call 507-237-4000 and request that mileage sheets be mailed to you. 

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1. What is the difference between Abstract and Torrens property?

Abstract:

Abstract title property is the most common form of title found in the United States.  An abstract of title is a condensed history of all deeds, mortgages and other documents relating to a particular piece of land, which affect the title

Torrens:

Torrens is a system for registration of land under which, upon the landowner's application, the court may after appropriate proceedings, direct the issuance of a certificate of title to the property.  Any liens or encumbrances that have been recorded are referenced on the certificate.  When ownership of the property changes, the old certificate of title will be cancelled and a new certificate will be issued in the name of the new owner.  The Certificate of Title is kept in the office of the Registrar of Titles.  With the "abstract system" an abstract is evidence of title.  In the "Torrens System" the certificate of title is the title.

2. What is a legal description?

A legal description is a description of a tract of land in legally acceptable terms that identifies its precise location.  The legal description on a tax form is only an abbreviated reference to a parcel of land and is not a legal description.

3. Where can I get my Abstract updated?

The Sibley County Recorder's Office provides abstracting services.  An abstract is an abbreviated history of all documents of record affecting the property.  If you would like your abstract updated, please call us at 507-237-4080.

4. Why should I go to an Attorney?

The Sibley County Recorder's office does not have a licensed attorney on staff, therefore, we cannot give any legal advice, provide advice on forms, nor complete forms. A party is proceeding at their own risk if they do not consult a competent attorney on legal matters. The Sibley County Recorder's Office will advise you to consult with a Licensed Attorney familiar with Minnesota Law

5. Where are blank real estate forms located?

Minnesota  Uniform Conveyance Blank forms are available online at  Minnesota Department of Commerce

6. How can I obtain a copy of my legal description?

Your legal description will be on your deed or Certificate of Title.  You can request a copy in person, by phone or by mail.  

Please provide as much information as possible when making your request:

• Legal description of property involved
• Approximate purchase date
• Grantor/ Grantee
• Certificate of Title number (if applicable)

Copy fees must be paid in advance.

• Copies of most Sibley County documents may be obtained at the cost of $1.00 per page
• There is a $5.00 fee for all documents sent via email.

7. How do I change names/ownership on my property?

The County can only make changes to names or ownership records with a legal document such as a new deed.  Please seek legal advice as we are unable to advise you on the topic or to help prepare documents.

8. Can I get a certified copy of a document?

The public may request certified copies of most documents filed in the Recorder's Office.  Fees do apply.  

9. Where can I get forms notarized at the court house?

There are notaries available in the Auditor/Treasurer's Office,  Assessor's Office, County Attorney's Office, and the License Center.

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1. Do Land Notification Alerts cost anything?

This is a free service to property owners provided by the County. You only need to sign up.

2. What do I need to sign up?

You will need an email account with Google, Yahoo, AOL, or OpenID to sign up for the land notification alerts.

3. Will I receive unwanted emails?

You will receive an email only when a document with the name you provided is recorded in the official real estate records. You can unsubscribe to the service at any time.

4. What is property fraud?

Property fraud is when someone illegally uses your name on records related to your property for financial gain or acquisition of your assets.

5. How often does property fraud happen?

Mortgage and real estate fraud does occur and is a growing crime in our society. Monitoring records on your property is one of the steps in prevention of this crime.

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1. Who performs the ceremony?

• Karen V. Messner, Sibley County Court Administrator
• Timothy J. Looby, Judge of District Court or
• Thomas G. McCarthy, Judge of District Court

2. Where do I get a marriage license?

You can apply for a marriage license at the Sibley County Recorder's Office. By the time of the ceremony, you must have a valid Minnesota marriage license and two witnesses.

Contact the Sibley County Recorder at 507-237-4080.

3. How do I schedule a wedding?

To schedule a wedding contact Karen Messner at 507-237-4053, or Sibley County Court Administration at 507-237-4051.

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1. Does my property need an E911 address?

The Sibley County E911 Ordinance (PDF) describes which properties are required to have an address and sign.

In general, if your property has structures and there is access to those structures, you will need an address and sign. Even if there is no access to the structures, an address may still be required. Contact Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for more information.

2. How do I obtain an address?

Download and complete this E911 New Address and Sign Application Form, and return the form to:
Jesse Lutterman
GIS Coordinator
P.O. Box 231
Gaylord, MN 55334

We will contact you with your assigned address.

Email GIS

3. I need a blue E911 house number sign, how can I get one?

For new construction please download the E911 New Address and Sign Application Form (PDF) or pick one up at the Public Works office. Fill out the required information and return the form to:
Jesse Lutterman
GIS Coordinator
P.O. Box 231
Gaylord, MN 55334

Email GIS

We will contact you with your assigned address.

Your property will then be assigned an address, and Public Works will make a sign for you. If you have a damaged sign or need to replace your existing one, contact us at 507-237-4092. We will contact you when the sign is ready to be picked up. The cost of a new sign is $30 each and a sign post is $15 (tax not included).

4. My blue E911 house number sign is missing or has been damaged, where can I get a new one?

Please call the Public Works office at 507-237-4092 or bring in your damaged sign and we will make a new one for you. The cost of a new sign is $30 each and a sign post is $15 (tax not included).
Public Works
111 8th Street (Sibley County Service Center)
Gaylord, MN 55334

Please note: It is the responsibility of the homeowner to maintain your sign and always have one up. Public Works will not bill insurance companies to replace these signs. For more information on this, please review our E911 Ordinance (PDF).

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1. How do I know who is responsible for plowing the road I live on?

To find information about which agency manages and maintains which road click here.

2. When does snow plowing begin?

Per the Sibley County Snow and Ice Removal Policy:

The County's goal is to have all routes passable when reasonably possible after the snowfall has stopped. The higher traffic volume roads will receive higher priority for snow and ice control operations. The decision to plow or sand will be made by the Public Works Director and the Highway Maintenance Manager based on the following guidelines:

1. Appreciable accumulations of snow, generally two inches.
2. Drifting of snow which seriously affects travel.
3. Icy conditions which seriously affect travel.

The county is staffed for one shift of snow and ice removal. The standard early start time is 5 am. Factors that often delay snow and ice removal include; severe cold, strong winds, and limited visibility.

The staff and department budgets do not allow for 24-hour coverage.

No travel advisories issued by the State Patrol and/or the Sheriff also apply to the county snow and ice removal crews.

3. What gets plowed?

The county plows County State Aid Highways (CSAH) and County Roads (CR). View a map of our snow plow routes (PDF).

4. What is the plowing procedure?

Per the Sibley County Snow and Ice Removal Policy:

The county does not assure a completely bare road and will not sand entire sections of roadway. Sanding is done at problem locations such as hills, curves, intersections and bridges.

5. My mailbox was damaged what should I do?

Per the Sibley County Snow and Ice Removal Policy:

Mailboxes and fences damaged during snow removal are evaluated case by case.

Only those mailboxes and fences that were properly located and installed, and which were damaged by actual contact with county equipment will be repaired at the county's expense.

6. What if I get stranded or stuck?

Per the Sibley County Snow and Ice Removal Policy:

County staff may assist stranded motorists by contacting law enforcement and/or emergency personnel. The county will not attempt to remove a stuck vehicle except to eliminate a safety hazard.