Recorder

Real Estate - Torrens Title

*Torrens property lists do not indicate a certification of Torrens property. It is to be used for informational purposes only. Legal descriptions can be both Torrens and Abstract. A "PART OF" in front of a number or letter indicates that particular legal description is both Torrens and Abstract. Remember this listing is of Torrens property only. If a legal description is not found on either of the Torrens property lists, it is abstract.

Torrens Title

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. 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.

In Minnesota the County Recorder is the Registrar of Titles. The Registrar is an arm of the District Court and under its control. The Registrar must examine documents presented and determine that they meet the legal requirements to transfer the property and issue Certificates of Title which are proof of ownership for the purchaser.

Contact the Recorder's Office if you'd like to view or receive a copy of a recorded document.

Examiner of Titles

The Registrar also works closely with the Examiner of Titles. The Examiner is appointed by the court and is an advisor to the Registrar of Titles. In Sherburne County the Examiner of Titles is David Meyers.

Chapter 508 of Minnesota Statutes provides that certain instruments may not be accepted for filing by the Registrar unless certified by the Examiner (or Deputy Examiner) or pursuant to a Court Order.
Situations where a directive or certificate by the Examiner may be used instead of a court order.

Torrens Recording Fees:

  • $46.00 for a document transferring a certificate
  • $46.00 entry of memorial
  • $20.00 for multiple certificate entries thereafter
  • $56.00 for Plat/Registered Land Survey
  • $50.00 well certificate
  • $40.00 residue certificate
  • Exchange certificates $20.00 for each certificate canceled and $20.00 for each new certificate issued
  • $50.00 condition of title
  • $10.00 for certified copies - flat fee
  • $30.00 Return Check Charge

See Registrar's Fees - Minnesota Statutes Section 508.82

Recorder Contact:

Sherburne County Govt Center
ATTN: Recorder
13880 Business Center Dr NW
Elk River, MN 55330-1692

Office Location & Hours

Phone: 763-765-4420
800-719-2826
Fax: 763-765-3232

recorder@co.sherburne.mn.us