Becker County News - All Departments

The Becker County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing at 9:00 am on April 21, 2026. The purpose of the public hearing is to consider the adoption of an ordinance establishing a Local Housing Trust Fund. The proposed Housing Trust Fund is intended to support the development, preservation, and rehabilitation of affordable and workforce housing initiatives within Becker County. Public Notice (PDF).

The Becker County Board of Commissioners will make three appointments to the Board of Managers of the Pelican River Watershed District. The appointments are to fill terms expiring on May 25, 2026. Appointments will be considered at the Board Meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. Public Notice (PDF).

The West Lake Drive Phase 3 and city beach improvements project is underway. Project information on the completion of the final phase from Legion Rd to Washington Ave is available on the project website.

2026 property tax statements have been mailed (mailing also includes your 2027 valuation notices). Please review both forms for upcoming deadlines and hearing dates. To access your property tax statements, visit our Tax Statements Online page.

Becker County is soliciting proposals from qualified engineering firms to provide ongoing, as-needed technical support with general engineering services for stormwater and land alteration permitting. Proposals will be accepted until April 13, 2026. Notice (PDF). Request for Proposals (PDF). 

The 2026 spring load restrictions are in effect on roads within Becker County. Dates and gross axle weight restrictions are detailed on the 2026 Spring Load Restriction map (PDF).

Becker County will temporarily be closing the following forest roads/trails until further notice, or when barricades are removed. Mary Yellowhead, Rat Lake, South Tulaby, Camp 5 & Camp 6 Trail, South Greenwater, Old Many Point, Mud Lake Spur, Sockeye Lake, Moulton, Bear Creek, Sugar Bush, South Mckenzie, 470th Ave by Snellman, Pike Lake. Trails are temporarily closed to prevent damage to them during spring thaw.

Becker County is seeking to identify qualified organizations to respond to the opioid crisis through opioid epidemic response strategies, including prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction. The goal of this approach is to fund projects in Becker County that will have high impact for the communities impacted by the opioid crisis. RFP submittals are due by March 31, 2026. RFP Details (PDF).

The Becker County Highway Department is now providing access to an online portal where citizens can swiftly connect and report road issues within our County. The reporting form supports mapping locations and photo uploads if needed. The Highway Department encourages you to share any road concerns you come across via this Citizen Portal.

Effective August 1, 2025, a Land Revision Worksheet is now required to accompany the recording of a survey. Please complete the top section of this worksheet prior to obtaining the necessary information completed by Zoning staff and Auditor-Treasurer staff.

The Becker County Sheriff's Office would like to remind residents that they can sign up for severe weather alerts through the CodeRED automated alert system. More information | CodeRED Flyer (PDF).

A Naloxone Access Point (NAP) is a publicly accessible pick up site for life-saving overdose reversal medication. Public Health partners with Steve Rummler HOPE Network (SRHN) to provide these free kits to the public - no questions asked. NAP Flyer (PDF). More information from the CDC: Lifesaving Naloxone & What to Do if you Think Someone is Overdosing.

Becker County has been actively engaged in opposing SF#3480 and HF#4304. Becker County is urging our legislative representatives and the Governor to not support these bills. On March 5, 2024, Becker County Board passed a resolution 03-24-1C in opposition to these bills. There has been a collaborative effort between staff and board members gathering and presenting information to law makers in opposition to these bills. For more information on the recent committee hearing , please view Committee on Environment, Climate and Legacy - 03/07/24 (YouTube).

Becker County Emergency Management is seeking public feedback from residents and businesses as the county's Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) is being updated. Your comments, concerns, and questions regarding natural disasters and potential mitigation actions will be considered during this update process. More information (PDF).

The Crow Wing River One Watershed, One Plan (1W1P) Partnership is working to develop a Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan for the Crow Wing River Watershed. The plan is expected to be completed by late 2024. You can view the progress here.

Becker County Human Services is looking for Volunteer Drivers to provide transports. Mileage reimbursement at the current rate. Applicants must have a reliable vehicle, valid driver's license and insurance and a cleared medical statement from their physician. If interested, please contact Shannon F. or Christy R. at 218-847-5628.

MN Statute 471.701 SALARY DATA: A city or county with a population of more than 15,000 must annually notify its residents of the positions and base salaries of its three highest-paid employees. This notice may be provided on the home page of the primary Web site maintained by the political subdivision for a period of not less than 90 consecutive days, in a publication of the political subdivision that is distributed to all residents in the political subdivision, or as part of the annual notice of proposed property taxes prepared under section 275.065.

County Sheriff, Todd Glander, $163,746
County Attorney, Brian McDonald, $167,205
County Administrator, Carrie Smith, $180,916

Starting July 1, 2014, Becker County will have a 0.5 percent transit sales and use tax. The tax will be administered by the MN Dept. of Revenue and the revenue will be used to fund Becker County road projects (SMART). General notice (PDF).  |  More info.

Effective August 1, 2025, a Land Revision Worksheet is now required to accompany the recording of a survey. Please complete the top section of this worksheet prior to obtaining the necessary information completed by Zoning staff and Auditor-Treasurer staff.

Eligible first-time homebuyers in Becker County have access downpayment and closing cost assistance through Minnesota Housing. More Information (PDF).

Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing is available through a join-powers agreement with Becker County and the Saint Paul Port Authority. MinnPACE reduces the burden of up front cost with low interest long-term financing up to 100% of energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy installations on both new construction and retrofit projects. More info on eligibility and benefits here.

Becker County Environmental Services is having a FREE Electronic Waste Drop-Off event in October! October 1-4 at the Becker County Transfer Station in Detroit Lakes, October 4th at the Osage Transfer Station. Bring your non-functioning/no longer wanted TVs, computers, monitors, tablets, laptops etc. for free disposal during these days. Limits apply, please see the flyer (PDF).

On September 18, Becker County Environmental Services will begin collecting organics recycling to help keep food scraps, food soiled paper, and other compostable materials out of landfills. Household kits for organics recycling will be available on Thursday, Sept. 18! They can be picked up at the Environmental Services office on the third floor at the Becker County Courthouse on weekdays from 8:00-4:30. More information is available on the Organics Recycling page, including what is accepted and how to participate.

Becker County Environmental Services has put together program packages for businesses and muti-unit housing managers trying to implement a recycling program. Within them, you'll find tips and resources to help your recycling effort. Please see the 'More info' tab on our Recycling page, or download the Business package (PDF), Multi-Unit package (PDF), or Signage (PDF).

In an effort to increase recycling in our community, Becker County provides a 'special event' recycling program for its residents. Whether it is a picnic, reunion, sporting event, or show, we can provide assistance, guides and bins for your use during your event. More info (PDF).  |  Guide (PDF).

The West Lake Drive Phase 3 and city beach improvements project is underway. Project information on the completion of the final phase from Legion Rd to Washington Ave is available on the project website.

The 2026 spring load restrictions are in effect on roads within Becker County. Dates and gross axle weight restrictions are detailed on the 2026 Spring Load Restriction map (PDF).

The Becker County Highway Department is now providing access to an online portal where citizens can swiftly connect and report road issues within our County. The reporting form supports mapping locations and photo uploads if needed. The Highway Department encourages you to share any road concerns you come across via this Citizen Portal.  

Local governments, employers and nonprofits are working together to offer Home Ownership for Me (HOMe) Down-payment Loans in Becker County. This program is operated by MMCDC. Program Flyer (PDF)  |  MMCDC Website

Becker County is seeking to identify qualified organizations to respond to the opioid crisis through opioid epidemic response strategies, including prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction. The goal of this approach is to fund projects in Becker County that will have high impact for the communities impacted by the opioid crisis. RFP submittals are due by March 31, 2026. RFP Details (PDF).

A Naloxone Access Point (NAP) is a publicly accessible pick up site for life-saving overdose reversal medication. Public Health partners with Steve Rummler HOPE Network (SRHN) to provide these free kits to the public - no questions asked. NAP Flyer (PDF). More information from the CDC: Lifesaving Naloxone & What to Do if you Think Someone is Overdosing.

Documents can be emailed to Becker County Human Services at the following email address: officesupport@co.becker.mn.us. Please make sure to have a working phone number listed on your paperwork. Documents may also be mailed to our agency, or dropped off in the drop box located beside the front door of our building - see our address in the 'Contact This Department' section of this page.

Applications for SNAP, CASH, Emergency Assistance, and Daycare Assistance can be done online directly at MNbenefits. You can also apply for healthcare at MNsure.

Becker County Human Services is looking for Volunteer Drivers to provide transports. Mileage reimbursement at the current rate. Applicants must have a reliable vehicle, valid driver's license and insurance and a cleared medical statement from their physician. If interested, please contact Shannon F. or Christy R. at 218-847-5628.

The Motor Vehicle office is accepting walk-in appointments for Real ID and Enhanced Drivers License. Real and Enhanced ID's can be completed Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 8:30am to 11:00am. Advance appointments are not required, but please insure you have all your documentation with you.

Effective January 1, 2016 you are required to provide proof of insurance (company name, policy number and policy expiration date) for all motor vehicle and motorcycle renewals. In addition you must also provide this information for all motor vehicle and motorcycle title transfers.

Becker County will temporarily be closing the following forest roads/trails until further notice, or when barricades are removed. Mary Yellowhead, Rat Lake, South Tulaby, Camp 5 & Camp 6 Trail, South Greenwater, Old Many Point, Mud Lake Spur, Sockeye Lake, Moulton, Bear Creek, Sugar Bush, South Mckenzie, 470th Ave by Snellman, Pike Lake. Trails are temporarily closed to prevent damage to them during spring thaw.

Have you ever wondered why the county has tax forfeit forest land or how that forest land is managed? Check out the following presentation to learn more about Minnesota's County Forest Lands.

Becker County will temporarily be closing the following forest roads/trails until further notice, or when barricades are removed. Mary Yellowhead, Rat Lake, South Tulaby, Camp 5 & Camp 6 Trail, South Greenwater, Old Many Point, Mud Lake Spur, Sockeye Lake, Moulton, Bear Creek, Sugar Bush, South Mckenzie, 470th Ave by Snellman, Pike Lake. Trails are temporarily closed to prevent damage to them during spring thaw.

The Dunton Locks to Bucks Mill Heartland Trail feasibility study has been completed and is now available for public access. Please see the Planning/Projects page to access the study. 

Expectant and new parents are invited to join us for a Community Baby Shower event! Meet the Public Health Staff, learn about resources in our area, enter for drawings and get some COOL baby related items! Event to be held on April 30, 2026 from 4:00-6:00 PM at the Becker County Museum. Event Flyer (PDF).

A Naloxone Access Point (NAP) is a publicly accessible pick up site for life-saving overdose reversal medication. Public Health partners with Steve Rummler HOPE Network (SRHN) to provide these free kits to the public - no questions asked. NAP Flyer (PDF). More information from the CDC: Lifesaving Naloxone & What to Do if you Think Someone is Overdosing.

Effective August 1, 2025, a Land Revision Worksheet is now required to accompany the recording of a survey. Please complete the top section of this worksheet prior to obtaining the necessary information completed by Zoning staff and Auditor-Treasurer staff.

Effective July 1, 2025 - Marriage application license fees increase to $125.00, with the reduced license fee with educator's statement $50.00. Recording fee for Well Certificates increase to $54.00.

Also effective July 1, 2025 - Marriage Officiants - M.S. 517.04, Requires any person who wishes to officiate a civil marriage in Minnesota to register with a county in Minnesota and removes all other requirements or references to individuals who are currently authorized to perform civil marriages.

The Becker County Recorder's Office will be accepting routine passport applications by appointment only. Call the Recorder's Office at 218-846-7304 to schedule an appointment. Be advised, there can be delays before receiving your passport and documentation. See the travel.state.gov website for more information and current processing times.

The Recorder's Office is accepting marriage license applications by appointment only. Please call the Recorder's Office at 218-846-7304 to schedule an appointment.

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free online service for U.S. citizens who are traveling to or living in a foreign country. STEP allows you to enter information about your whereabouts abroad so that the Department of State can better assist you in an emergency. Read more (PDF).

As a reminder - the Recorder's office can provide a copy of recorded property deeds at no cost. Many residents have reported receiving unsolicited mailings (example (PDF)) that are attempting to charge money for something you can obtain for FREE. The office recommends you ignore mailings such as these.

Document searches and land record viewing has never been easier! Search Becker County land records 24/7 with a credit card at www.idocmarket.com.

Becker County Emergency Management is seeking public feedback from residents and businesses as the county's Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) is being updated. Your comments, concerns, and questions regarding natural disasters and potential mitigation actions will be considered during this update process. More information (PDF).

The Becker County Sheriff's Office would like to remind residents that they can sign up for severe weather alerts through the CodeRED automated alert system. More information | CodeRED Flyer (PDF).

The BCSWCD is seeking to fill a full-time Program Technician position. This position promotes, plans, and implements conservation provisions of various Federal and State wildlife and clean water conservation programs. Position Announcement (PDF). Position Description (PDF). Application (PDF).

The MN Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (MASWCD) has named Blue Line Farm of Frazee, MN as one of eight Area Finalists in the 2025 Outstanding Conservationist Award Program. The Trieglaff's will be recognized at the MASWCD's 89th annual convention in Bloomington. Read more (PDF). Photo.

The Crow Wing River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan is in final draft. This plan is a collaborative effort between Local Government Units to protect, enhance or restore our natural resources such as groundwater, surface water, soil health, biological health and forest management. We are seeking public input on the draft plan for 60 days. To view the plan and provide comments, visit this page.

The Becker SWCD recently completed a large shoreline restoration project at a resort on Island Lake. Watch along as a natural solution is implemented to deal with the problem of shoreline erosion. Watch video.

Lakes TV3 recently aired a 'Spotlight on Frazee' segment featuring a shoreline restoration project that involved the Becker Soil and Water Conservation District. Watch video. 

Becker County Transit is conducting a survey to gather input and answers from our customers. Please take a moment to share your input in a brief survey. Thank you! Survey link.

Consider Lakes Transit for your transportation needs in and around our area. Check out our new commericials, Lakes Transit Friends  & Lakes Transit Youth.

Becker County is soliciting proposals from qualified engineering firms to provide ongoing, as-needed technical support with general engineering services for stormwater and land alteration permitting. Proposals will be accepted until April 13, 2026. Notice (PDF). Request for Proposals (PDF). 

Effective August 1, 2025, a Land Revision Worksheet is now required to accompany the recording of a survey. Please complete the top section of this worksheet prior to obtaining the necessary information completed by Zoning staff and Auditor-Treasurer staff.