Frequently Asked Questions

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Civil cases involving amounts greater than $3,500 are filed in the Oktibbeha County Chancery Court.

For civil cases involving less than that amount, download a Civil Declaration and file it with the Oktibbeha County Justice Court.

Contact the Chancery Clerk's Office at 662-323-5834.

The Veterans Service Office can assist you with a copy in the Chancery Clerk’s Office, or you can contact the Chancery Clerk’s Office directly.

Fees for copies made by the public are $0.25 per page. The fee for copies made by our staff is $0.50 per page. There is an additional fee for certifying a copy of a document. Requests for copies sent by mail must be accompanied by a check or money order covering the cost of the copies, and a stamped self-addressed envelope. The request should reasonably identify the document to be copied. Checks should be made payable to the Oktibbeha County Chancery Clerk.

Coming soon. On the Chancery Clerk's page, you will click Online Searches, then click How to Search Land Records; there you will find detailed instructions.

There are different requirements depending on the type of document, so they all cannot be listed here. 

It is the responsibility of the person offering the document for recording to make sure

• That the document is original
• That it is signed and that the signatures are properly acknowledged before a notary public
• That it is complete and contains the required information such as
  • Grantor and Grantee information
  • Address
  • Phone numbers
  • Legal description of property being conveyed
  • Indexing instructions
• That it is accompanied by the proper fees
• That it is accompanied by a stamped self-addressed envelope so that it can be returned to the party offering it for recordation

The office accepts cash, checks made payable to Oktibbeha County Chancery Clerk, and money orders made payable to Oktibbeha County Chancery Clerk.

If a check for recording fees is short, the document will be returned with a request for the proper filing fee.

Documents are recorded at the time they are received in the Chancery Clerk's Office. They are available for viewing by the public the next day.

The minutes of the Boards of Supervisors can be found in the Chancery Clerk Office.

At the Chancery Clerk's Office via cash, money order, or check.

In the Chancery Clerk’s Office, or you may search the land redemption records online.

Land records refer to those record series that may involve real estate. These include documents traditionally recorded in Deed Books and Plat Cabinets, such as Deeds, Deeds of Trust, Authorities to Cancel, Plats, Oil and Gas Leases, and many other documents. The Land Records Division also dockets and indexes judgments and files certain Uniform Commercial Code transactions that are a lien on real estate.

Yes, land records are available for public inspection from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

The following are just a few of the records housed in the Chancery Clerk office.

• Roster of Discharged Veterans, 1922 - Present
• Chancery Court Minutes, 1874 - Present
• Will Books, 1834 - Present
• Land Records, 1834 - Present
• Board of Supervisors Minutes, 1880 - Present

No.

You can register to vote at the age of 17 only if you will be 18 by election day.

You have to be 21 years old to be selected for jury duty.

Passport hours are 8 am until 4:30 pm only.

You will need

• Birth certificate with mother and father listed (long form)
• Photo I.D. (if out of state you will also need one more form of Identification)
• 2 x 2 passport photos made by Walgreens, CVS, etc.

Fees

• Passport Book: Adult 16 years and above, $130 (good for 10 years)
• Passport Book: Child under 16, $100 (good for 5 years)
• Passport Card: Adult 16 and above, $30 (good for 10 years)
• Passport Card: Child under 16, $15 (good for 5 years)

Check or Money Order made Payable to U.S. Department of State.

There is a separate execution fee of $35 per person payable to the Circuit Clerk.

It takes four to six weeks for the normal process. If needed sooner, you can expedite by adding an additional $60. The process will then take two to three weeks.

***  Passport fees are subject to change at any time based on directives from the federal government.  We recommend you call our office at 662-323-1356 for current pricing***

Both parties need to be present with valid photo identification along with a total of $37.

You no longer need blood work, and the license is issued on the same day.

Presidential Election: First Tuesday after the first Monday in November. Even-numbered years, every four years.

Gubernatorial Election: Odd-numbered years.

U.S. Senate and U.S. House Elections: Even-numbered years.

State Senate and House Elections: Odd-numbered years.

County and other Office Elections: Odd-numbered years.

Municipal (City) Elections: Odd-numbered years.

Election Commissioners: Even-numbered years.

All marriage licenses are issued by the Circuit Court Clerk in the Oktibbeha County Circuit Court Complex at 108 West Main Street. You must have a picture I.D. You must be 21 years of age to apply for a marriage license without parental consent, and both parties must be present to apply. If you are under the age of 21, you must have notarized authorization from the parent or the parent needs to be present.

Search Oktibbeha Marriage Records online

The Circuit Clerk's Office only takes payment for felonies.

We do not take payments for seatbelt violations or for proof of insurance.

Citations by City Police: Municipal Court, 662-323-1491

Citations from Sheriff's Department: Justice Court, 662-324-3032

Citations from Highway Patrol: Justice Court, 662-324-3032

You may register to vote either by mail or by visiting the Circuit Clerk (Circuit Court Annex Building) or Municipal Clerk (usually City Hall).

You may also register to vote when applying for or renewing your driver's license or when applying for services at numerous state and federal government agencies.

• Voter Registration Form (PDF)

• A resident of Mississippi, except persons judicially declared incompetent, who is at least 18 years old (or will be by date of election).
• A resident of the state, county, and supervisor's district for 30 days.
• Has never been convicted of any crime listed in Section 241 of the Mississippi constitution. See Disenfranchising Crimes (PDF).
• Once you are registered, you generally remain registered indefinitely, unless you move or no longer meet one of the qualifications to vote.

What is CodeRED and what is it used for?

CodeRED is a web-based critical communication solution that enables local public safety personnel to notify residents and businesses by telephone, text message, email, and social media of time-sensitive information, emergencies, or urgent notifications. The system can reach hundreds of thousands of individuals in minutes to ensure information such as evacuation notices, missing persons, inclement weather advisories, and more are quickly shared. Only authorized officials have access to send alerts using the CodeRED system.

When will CodeRED be used?

Any message regarding the safety of our residents and community will be disseminated using CodeRED. We will send out alerts via phone, text, email, and social media in a variety of situations including boil water notices, gas leaks, evacuation notices, police activity, fire emergencies, missing persons, and more. This is a community alert system to ensure you remain informed of important information. Please keep in mind that as you register to receive CodeRED alerts, you have the ability to select the types of messages you wish to receive and your preferred means of communication.

Is there a cost to register for CodeRED?

No, registering for CodeRED phone calls, text messages, and email are free. Simply sign up on our enrollment website and select your preferred means of communication.

How do I sign up?

Please go to the CodeRED page. This is the quickest way to sign up because the information you supply is immediately registered in the system. If you do not have internet at home, please consider visiting a library or asking a friend or family member for assistance. You can also call our office and we will be happy to assist you in getting registered at 662-338-1076.

How will I know when CodeRED is calling?

A CodeRED message will have the caller ID Number 866-419-5000 for emergencies and caller ID Number 855-969-4636 for non-emergencies. We suggest that you program these numbers into your cell phone as a new contact and use "CodeRED" as the contact name. If you need to replay the message received, you can dial this number and listen to the message again in its entirety.

Why is CodeRED important to me?

CodeRED is an important tool to help keep you informed and prepared for any emergencies that may occur in our area. Officials will send messages to alert you of emergency details, instructions, or precautions that you need in order to make well-informed decisions and remain safe. This system is precise enough to geotarget residents within an exact area of impact so that only those people who are affected by emergency situation are notified.

Please email damage reports and / or pictures to us directly or call 662-320-7250 or 662-320-7251. As always, if you are in need of immediate assistance, please call 911.

You should call 311 to request city services and information. Examples of typical 311 calls include:

• Animal control problems
• Potholes
• Trash pickup problems
• Tree in the road
• Water line breakage
• Illegally parked vehicles or vehicles blocking alleys or driveways but that are not blocking traffic flow
• For county agency phone numbers, addresses, and hours of operation

More information about 311

We are always looking for enthusiastic individuals, who have a strong desire to serve their community. A great way to join is to visit your local fire station during a training session. If you are unsure which district you are in, need the meeting times, or just have questions before joining, email us.

The Oktibbeha County Fire Department does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability in the provision of our programs or services.

Oktibbeha County firefighters are trained in basic first aid and CPR and some are trained emergency medical technicians. The trucks are equipped with first aid and lifesaving equipment. Fire stations are located throughout the county and can usually get to an emergency scene first to begin to administer aid until an ambulance arrives.

The training provided to Oktibbeha County firefighters is very similar to what you would expect from a career/paid fire department, this is because the hazards volunteer firefighters face are no different. The differences are in how our classes are taught. Typically 99% of our classes are taught here in Oktibbeha County, and our instructors work with the students to try to minimize the impact to their work or school schedules. We do however pride ourselves on professionalism, and all of our instructors are certified to the national standard level relating to instruction (NFPA 1041). Typical courses include basic fire fighting, emergency medical training, the incident command system, and hazardous material response. Our more advanced courses are geared towards technical rescue, advanced firefighting skills, and the development of future management. While we bring most of our training here to Oktibbeha County, additional training is provided at the State Fire Academy, the National Fire Academy, and several other accredited institutions. Oktibbeha County firefighters do not pay for any of their training or equipment.

Oktibbeha County functions under a volunteer system. Members are not paid. However, they currently receive a reimbursement for expenses based upon how much an individual participates. The reimbursement is funded by a federal grant. All of our members' equipment and training are provided at no cost to the individual.

Applicants must be 18 years of age and possess a valid driver's license. Background checks are conducted by the Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Department and are required of all new applicants.

Teenage drug and alcohol abuse affects families in every part of Oktibbeha County regardless of location, race, or economic status. The Mississippi Department of Human Services - Division of Youth Services can assist families in identifying treatment options. In addition to referral to treatment facilities, the Youth Court offers a Juvenile Drug Court program consisting of intensive supervision, counseling, and drug testing. For more information, please call the Mississippi Department of Human Services Division of Youth Services at 662-323-8564.

The Oktibbeha County Youth Court functions to assist families who have children with conduct issues that are disruptive to the home, school, or community. In some cases, the Oktibbeha County Office of Youth Services can offer informal counseling to the child and family. In other cases, it may be necessary to refer the family for psychiatric or psychological intervention. There will be instances when the Youth Court will bring the child into court for adjudication and probation. For further information, please call the Mississippi Department of Human Services Division of Youth Services at 662-323-8654 or the Oktibbeha County Chancery Clerk's Office. If your child is between the ages of 10 and 17, you may contact these offices for assistance:

Mississippi Department of Human Services Division of Youth Services
City Hall Building 1
01 Lampkin Street
Starkville, MS 39759

Oktibbeha County Youth Court
Oktibbeha County Courthouse
101 East Main Street
Starkville, MS 39759
Phone: 662-323-5834

Oktibbeha County Youth Court Defender Cecelia Cook 
Phone: 662-324-0219

Traffic tickets from the Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Department, the Mississippi State Highway Patrol, and MSU Campus Police may be paid for at the Oktibbeha County Justice Court.

The amount to be paid for speeding violations can be found by clicking the link below. Bring your payment to the Oktibbeha County Justice Court.

Payments must be made with cash or money order. No checks or credit cards accepted.

Fines for Speeding Violations

The county measures the right of way 50 feet from the center of the road to each side of the road. If within those 50 feet, the entrance of your drive is the first 5 or 10 feet, the county will gravel. Anything outside of those 50 feet is illegal. 

If your drive is an official bus turnaround, then the rule is different.

The Golden Triangle Planning and Development District, located at 106 Miley Drive in Starkville, is where you will get your address.

You must first have an address, and then you may contact the road department at 662-323-5752. Be sure to have the area marked with stakes or flags where you would like your culvert.

All old appliances, old furniture, and / or batteries are to be taken to the rubbish landfill located on North Montgomery Street right at the city limits line (the beginning of Rockhill Road). You can reach the landfill at 662-324-1180 for more information.

If there is an emergency road hazard, please dial 911 and report the emergency; otherwise, email the Oktibbeha County Road Department or call them at 662-323-5752.

A Privilege License is a license allowing a person to do business in Oktibbeha County for a profit. Please contact the Tax Assessor/Collector's office at 662-323-1273 for more information.

CodeRED is a web-based critical communication solution that enables local public safety personnel to notify residents and businesses by telephone, text message, email, and social media of time-sensitive information, emergencies, or urgent notifications. The system can reach hundreds of thousands of individuals in minutes to ensure information such as evacuation notices, missing persons, inclement weather advisories, and more are quickly shared. Only authorized officials have access to send alerts using the CodeRED system.

Please email damage reports and/or pictures or call 662-320-7250 or 662-320-7251. As always if you are need of immediate assistance, please call 911.

The county measures the right-of-way 50 feet from the center of the road to each side of the road. If within those 50 feet the entrance of your drive is the first 5 or 10 feet, the county will gravel. Anything outside of those 50 feet is illegal. *If your drive is an official bus turnaround then the rule is different.

The Golden Triangle Planning and Development District located at 106 Miley Drive in Starkville is where you will get your address.

You must first have an address, and then you may contact the road department at 662-323-5752. Be sure to have the area marked with stakes or flags where you would like your culvert.

We are always looking for enthusiastic individuals, who have a strong desire to serve their community. A great way to join, is to visit your local fire station during a training session. If you are unsure which district you are in, need the meeting times, or just have questions before joining; send an email to the Fire Department Recruitment team.

The Oktibbeha County Fire Department does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability in the provision of our programs or services.

Oktibbeha County firefighters are trained in basic first aid and CPR and some are trained emergency medical technicians. The trucks are equipped with first aid and lifesaving equipment. Fire stations are located throughout the county and can usually get to an emergency scene first to begin to administer aid until an ambulance arrives.

The training provided to Oktibbeha County Firefighters, is very similar to what you would expect from a career/paid fire department, this is because the hazards volunteer firefighters face are no different. The differences are in how our classes are taught. We typically 99% of our classes are taught here in Oktibbeha County, and our instructors work with the students to try to minimize the impact to their work or school schedules. We do however pride ourselves on professionalism, and all of our instructors are certified to the national standard level relating to instruction (NFPA 1041). 

Typical courses include basic fire fighting, emergency medical training, the incident command system and hazardous material response. Our more advanced courses are geared towards technical rescue, advanced firefighting skills, and development of future management. While we bring most of our training here to Oktibbeha County, additional training is provided at the State Fire Academy, the National Fire Academy, and several other accredited institutions. Oktibbeha County Firefighters do not pay for any of their training or equipment.

Oktibbeha County functions under a volunteer system. Members are not paid, however they currently receive a reimbursement for expenses based upon how much an individual participates. The reimbursement is funded by a federal grant. All of our members equipment and training are provided at no cost to the individual.

Applicants must be 18 years of age, and posses a valid drivers license. Background checks are conducted by the Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Department, and are required of all new applicants.

Information about the Oktibbeha County Justice Court can be found on the Justice Court Department page.

Also, check out this document listing what the Justice Clerk's Office can and cannot do for you.

Passport hours are 8 am until 4:30 pm only.

You will need:

• Birth certificate with mother and father listed (long form)
• Photo identification (if out of state you will also need one more form of Identification)
• 2 by 2 passport photo made by Walgreens, CVS, etc.
• Fees: 
  • Passport Book - Adult 16 years and above: $110 (good for 10 years)
  • Passport Book - Child under 16: $80 (good for 5 years)
  • Passport Card - Adult 16 and above: $30 (good for 10 years)
  • Passport Card - Child under 16: $15 (good for 5 years)
• Check or Money Order made payable to U.S. Department of State.
• There is a separate execution fee of $35 per person payable to the Circuit Clerk.

It takes four to six weeks for normal process. If needed sooner, you can expedite by adding an additional $60. The process will then take two to three weeks.

The Circuit Clerk's Office only takes payment for felonies.

We do not take payments for seat belt violations or for proof of insurance.

• Citations by City Police - Municipal Court: 662-323-1491
• Citations from Sheriff Department - Justice Court: 662-324-3032
• Citations from Highway Patrol - Justice Court: 662-324-3032

Both parties need to be present with valid photo identification along with a total of $37.

You no longer need blood work, and the license is issued on the same day.

You should call 311 to request city services and information. Examples of typical 311 calls include:

• Animal control problems
• Potholes
• Trash pickup problems
• Tree in the road
• Water line breakage
• Illegally parked vehicles or vehicles blocking alleys or driveways but that are not blocking traffic flow
• County agency phone numbers, addresses, and hours of operations

More information about 311.

You may register to vote either by mail or by visiting the Circuit Clerk (Circuit Court Annex Building) or Municipal Clerk (usually City Hall).

You may also register to vote when applying for or renewing your driver's license or when applying for services at numerous state and federal government agencies.

Download the Voter Registration Form (PDF).

• Presidential Election - First Tuesday after the first Monday in November. Even-numbered years, every four years
• Gubernatorial Election - Odd-numbered years
• U.S. Senate and U.S. House Elections - Even-numbered years
• State Senate and House Elections - Odd-numbered years
• County and other Office Elections - Odd-numbered years
• Municipal (City) Elections - Odd-numbered years
• Election Commissioners - Even-numbered years

• A resident of Mississippi, except persons judicially declared incompetent, who is at least 18 years old (or will be by date of election).
• A resident of the state, county, and supervisor's district for 30 days.
• Has never been convicted of any crime listed in Section 241 of the Mississippi constitution. See Disqualifying Crimes.
• Once you are registered, you generally remain registered indefinitely, unless you move or no longer meet one of the qualifications to vote.

You have to be 21 years old to be selected for jury duty.

You can register to vote at the age of 17 only if you will be 18 by election day.

Traffic tickets from the Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Department, the Mississippi State Highway Patrol, and Mississippi State University (MSU) Campus Police may be paid for at the Oktibbeha County Justice Court.

View a list of fines for speeding violations for the amount to be paid for speeding violations. Bring your payment to the Oktibbeha County Justice Court.

Payments must be made with cash or money order. No checks or credit cards accepted.

All marriage licenses are issued by the Circuit Court Clerk in the Oktibbeha County Circuit Court Complex at 108 West Main Street. You must have a picture identification. You must be 21 years of age to apply for a marriage license without parental consent, and both parties must be present to apply. If you are under the age of 21, you must have notarized authorization from the parent or the parent needs to be present.

Search Oktibbeha Marriage Records online.

Residential Mississippi license plates may be obtained throughout the year from the Tax Office in the Oktibbeha County Courthouse. Residents have 30 days after establishing residency to secure car tags.

View information about specialty plates.

Property tax facts, as well as information on Homestead and other exemptions, may be obtained from the Oktibbeha County Tax Assessor/Collector.

Details about Property Assessment and an online Property Tax Search are also available.

The state levies a 7% sales tax, 2% of which is returned to the municipality on all sales within the corporate limits of the municipality. Additionally, the city has a 2% food and beverage tax and a 2% hotel/motel tax.

For more information, visit the Mississippi Department of Revenue website.

Licenses are available for purchase at most sporting goods stores and variety stores.

The Veterans Service Office can assist you with a copy in the Chancery Clerk's Office, or you can contact the Chancery Clerk's Office directly.

The Board of Supervisors meets the first Monday of each month at the Oktibbeha County Courthouse on 101 E Main Street in Starkville.

Section 19-13-11 of the Mississippi Code Annotated states:

In counties having only one court district, the board of supervisors shall hold regular meetings at the courthouse or in the chancery clerk's office in those counties where the chancery clerk's office is in a building separate from the courthouse. However, the board of supervisors may meet in any other county-owned building if such building is located within one mile of the courthouse and if, more than 30 days prior to changing the meeting place, the board posts a conspicuous, permanent notice to that effect in the chancery clerk's office and in one other place in the courthouse, publishes notice thereof in a newspaper published in the county, or if there be no newspaper published in the county, then in a newspaper having general circulation in the county, once each week, for at least three consecutive weeks, and enters an order upon its minutes designating and describing in full the building and room to be used as the meeting room of the board of supervisors. The board of supervisors shall meet on the first Monday of each month. However, when such meeting date falls on a legal holiday, then the said meeting shall be held on the succeeding day.

The minutes of the Boards of Supervisors can be found in the Chancery Clerk Office.

All old appliances, old furniture, and/or batteries are to be taken to the rubbish landfill located on North Montgomery Street right at the city limits line (the beginning of Rockhill Road). You can reach the landfill at 662-324-1180 for more information.

If there is an emergency road hazard please dial 911 and report the emergency otherwise, contact the Oktibbeha County Road Department via email or at 662-323-5752.

In the Chancery Clerk’s Office, or you may search the land redemption records online.

The office accepts cash, checks made payable to Oktibbeha County Chancery Clerk, and money orders made payable to Oktibbeha County Chancery Clerk.

Documents are recorded at the time they are received in the Chancery Clerk's Office. They are available for viewing by the public the next day.

There are different requirements depending on the type of document, so they all cannot be listed here. It is the responsibility of the person offering the document for recording to make sure:

1. That the document is original
2. That it is signed and that the signatures are properly acknowledged before a notary public
3. That it is a complete writing and contains the required information such as Grantor and Grantee information, address, phone numbers, legal description of property being conveyed, and indexing instructions
4. That it is accompanied by the proper fees
5. That it is accompanied by a stamped self-addressed envelope so that it can be returned to the party offering it for recordation

Fees for copies made by the public are $0.25 per page. The fee for copies made by our staff is $0.50 per page. There is an additional fee for certifying a copy of a document. Requests for copies sent by mail must be accompanied by check or money order covering the cost of the copies and a stamped self-addressed envelope. The request should reasonably identify the document to be copied. Checks should be made payable to the Oktibbeha County Chancery Clerk.

The following are just a few of the records housed in the Chancery Clerk Office:

• Roster of Discharged Veterans 1922 to Present
• Chancery Court Minutes 1874 to Present
• Will Books 1834 to Present
• Land Records 1834 to Present
• Board of Supervisors Minutes 1880 to Present

Yes, land records are available for public inspection from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

Land records refer to those record series that may involve real estate. These include documents traditionally recorded in Deed Books and Plat Cabinets, such as Deeds, Deeds of Trust, Authorities to Cancel, Plats, Oil and Gas Leases, and many other documents. The Land Records Division also dockets and indexes judgments and files certain Uniform Commercial Code transactions that are a lien on real estate.

At the Chancery Clerk's Office via cash, money order, or check.

Contact the Chancery Clerk's Office at 662-323-5834.

Civil cases involving amounts greater than $3,500.00 are filed in the Oktibbeha County Chancery Court.

For civil cases involving less than that amount, download a Civil Declaration (PDF) and file it with the Oktibbeha County Justice Court.

Teenage drug and alcohol abuse affects families in every part of Oktibbeha County regardless of location, race, or economic status. The Mississippi Department of Human Services - Division of Youth Services can assist families in identifying treatment options. In addition to referral to treatment facilities, the Youth Court offers a Juvenile Drug Court program consisting of intensive supervision, counseling, and drug testing. For more information, contact the Mississippi Department of Human Services - Division of Youth Services at 662-323-8564.

The Oktibbeha County Youth Court functions to assist families who have children with conduct issues that are disruptive to the home, school, or community. In some cases, the Oktibbeha County Office of Youth Services can offer informal counseling to the child and family. In other cases, it may be necessary to refer the family for psychiatric or psychological intervention. There will be instances when the Youth Court will bring the child into court for adjudication and probation. For further information, contact the Mississippi Department of Human Services - Division of Youth Services at 662-323-8654 or the Oktibbeha County Chancery Clerk's Office. If your child is between the ages of 10 and 17, you may contact these offices for assistance:

• Mississippi Department of Human Services - Division of Youth Services
  City Hall Building 1
  01 Lampkin Street
  Starkville, MS 39759
• Oktibbeha County Youth Court
  Oktibbeha County Courthouse
  101 East Main Street
  Starkville, MS 39759
  Phone: 662-323-5834
• Oktibbeha County Youth Court Defender Cecelia Cook 662-324-0219

Property taxes (Real or Personal) and other special assessments are due and payable by February 1, of each year. Thereafter, a penalty of 1% per month accrues on any unpaid taxes until the tax sale in August of that same year. As a courtesy of this office, your tax collector notifies the land and business owners in Oktibbeha County that their taxes are due and payable.

Your taxes may be paid at the Oktibbeha County Court House. You may also pay your taxes by mail, using a check.

Should you desire to make an installment payment, or partial payment you may:

1. Pay 1/2 of the total before February 1.
2. Pay 1/4 by May 1, with appropriate interest on the part you pay.
3. Pay 1/4 by July 1, with appropriate interest on the part you pay.

Payment for your taxes is still due as shown on your notice. If the assessment on your property is reduced or changed and you have overpaid, a refund will be issued.

Delinquent taxes must be paid first before current taxes will be accepted.

Your deed must be filed in the Chancery Clerk's Office by December 31st of the previous year for your taxes to be listed in your name. Property taxes are paid one year in arrears.

The property will appear in your name on the land roll following the year your deed was filed. Property taxes are paid one year in arrears.

Property taxes are paid one year in arrears. Your deed may not have been filed within the proper time frame for the Tax Assessor to pick up on your deed for that particular land roll.

We will begin accepting tax payments the 1st day of November.

Your taxes may increase because of:

• an increase in city and / or county millage
• a county-wide reappraisal
• loss of homestead
• an improvement placed on your property
• a special assessment

A property owner has two years from the date of that years tax sale in which to redeem their property before a tax deed may be issued.

You or anyone may pay your taxes, Records are not kept of who paid your taxes.

The sale is held on the last Monday in August each year and begins at 9 am.

In the Oktibbeha County Court House upstairs in large court room.

Yes. However anyone may obtain a registration form from the tax office.

From January 1 through April 1, in the Homestead Office:

Oktibbeha County Courthouse
101 E Main Street Suite 102
Starkville, MS 39759

If you are 65 on or before  January 1, you qualify for the additional exemption.

You will need:

• Tag Receipts or Tag Numbers
• Warranty Deed
• Closing Paperwork on Your Home
• Your Social Security Card (you need to bring the actual card not just the number)

Total disability qualifies for a special homestead exemption. You must be 100% disabled and bring proof that shows disability from the Social Security office form (TPQY).

You have seven (7) working days beginning with the next day after purchase. Thereafter, a 5% penalty will apply per month up to 25%.

Credit slips are issued on license plates brought to the office of the Tax Collector for a vehicle that has been sold. There must be time remaining on the plate and the original credit slip may be used towards the purchase of another license plate.

New residents must retitle their vehicles in the State of Mississippi. If you own your vehicle outright with no lienholder, you will need your title from the other state, your registration from the other state, proof of residency in Oktibbeha County, and your out-of-state license plate. Whoever is listed on the front of the out-of-state title as the owner must appear the first time to apply for a Mississippi title. If you have a lien holder, you will need the current full name and address of your lien holder, proof of residency in Oktibbeha County, and the out-of-state license plate. If you have a leased vehicle, you will need a POA from the Lease Company along with the license plate and registration from the other state.

You will need the ordinal title signed by the seller or sellers as shown on the front of the title. The buyer or buyers must be present the first time to apply for a Mississippi title.

Yes. The difference would be the application of sales tax at the rate of 5% on vehicles less than ten years old.

The VIN or Vehicle Identification Number from your vehicle is entered into the state/county computer, which pulls a value acquired by the State Tax Commission from R. L. Polk Black Book, a supplier of the Manufacture's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). This amount is multiplied times the millage rate for the area in which you reside, less the tag credit you receive in Mississippi when you purchase or renew your plate on time, plus any penalty if applicable.

Use / tax is the same as sales tax, but is charged on vehicles purchased out of state from a dealer at the rate of 5% on the purchase price less the trade-in.

The greatest amount is 25% with no legislative tag credit.

This is a percentage credit granted by the Mississippi Legislature in 1994 towards the purchase price of your license plate. The percentage is set each year by the Mississippi State Tax Commission. You receive the reduction on passenger vehicles and trucks, when you purchase your plate at the proper time.

New residents of the State have thirty (30) days after the establishment of residency in which to retitle and purchase a license plate.

The month in which you purchased your vehicle is the renewal or anniversary date of you license plate.

You have until the 15th day of the following month to renew your plate.

Renewal notices are mailed on the last working day of the month preceding the renewal date of your plate. Should you not receive your notice through the mail at this time. It is your responsibility as a taxpayer to renew your plate.

The license plate and / or placards are available through an application file signed by your physician.

If the vehicle has a current plate, there is a one time cost of $28.50 The vehicle must be 25 years old.

The state levies a 7% sales tax, 2% of which is returned to the municipality on all sales within the corporate limits of the municipality. Additionally, the city has a 2% food and beverage tax and a 2% hotel/motel tax.

For more information, visit the Mississippi Department of Revenue website.

A Privilege License is a license allowing a person to do business in Oktibbeha County for a profit. Please contact the Tax Assessor / Collector's office at 662-323-1273 for more information.

Property tax facts, as well as information on Homestead and other exemptions, may be obtained from the Tax Office.

Details about Property Assessment and an online Property Tax Search are also available.

Residential Mississippi license plates may be obtained throughout the year from the Tax Office in the Oktibbeha County Courthouse. Residents have 30 days after establishing residency to secure car tags.

A Privilege License is a license allowing a person to do business in Oktibbeha County for a profit. Please contact the Tax Assessor/Collector's office at 662-323-1273 for more information.

What is CodeRED and what is it used for?

CodeRED is a web-based critical communication solution that enables local public safety personnel to notify residents and businesses by telephone, text message, email, and social media of time-sensitive information, emergencies, or urgent notifications. The system can reach hundreds of thousands of individuals in minutes to ensure information such as evacuation notices, missing persons, inclement weather advisories, and more are quickly shared. Only authorized officials have access to send alerts using the CodeRED system.

When will CodeRED be used?

Any message regarding the safety of our residents and community will be disseminated using CodeRED. We will send out alerts via phone, text, email, and social media in a variety of situations including boil water notices, gas leaks, evacuation notices, police activity, fire emergencies, missing persons, and more. This is a community alert system to ensure you remain informed of important information. Please keep in mind that as you register to receive CodeRED alerts, you have the ability to select the types of messages you wish to receive and your preferred means of communication.

Is there a cost to register for CodeRED?

No, registering for CodeRED phone calls, text messages, and email are free. Simply sign up on our enrollment website and select your preferred means of communication.

How do I sign up?

Please go to the CodeRED page. This is the quickest way to sign up because the information you supply is immediately registered in the system. If you do not have internet at home, please consider visiting a library or asking a friend or family member for assistance. You can also call our office and we will be happy to assist you in getting registered at 662-338-1076.

How will I know when CodeRED is calling?

A CodeRED message will have the caller ID Number 866-419-5000 for emergencies and caller ID Number 855-969-4636 for non-emergencies. We suggest that you program these numbers into your cell phone as a new contact and use "CodeRED" as the contact name. If you need to replay the message received, you can dial this number and listen to the message again in its entirety.

Why is CodeRED important to me?

CodeRED is an important tool to help keep you informed and prepared for any emergencies that may occur in our area. Officials will send messages to alert you of emergency details, instructions, or precautions that you need in order to make well-informed decisions and remain safe. This system is precise enough to geotarget residents within an exact area of impact so that only those people who are affected by emergency situation are notified.

Please email damage reports and / or pictures to us directly or call 662-320-7250 or 662-320-7251. As always, if you are in need of immediate assistance, please call 911.

We are always looking for enthusiastic individuals, who have a strong desire to serve their community. A great way to join is to visit your local fire station during a training session. If you are unsure which district you are in, need the meeting times, or just have questions before joining, email us.

The Oktibbeha County Fire Department does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability in the provision of our programs or services.

Oktibbeha County firefighters are trained in basic first aid and CPR and some are trained emergency medical technicians. The trucks are equipped with first aid and lifesaving equipment. Fire stations are located throughout the county and can usually get to an emergency scene first to begin to administer aid until an ambulance arrives.

The training provided to Oktibbeha County firefighters is very similar to what you would expect from a career/paid fire department, this is because the hazards volunteer firefighters face are no different. The differences are in how our classes are taught. Typically 99% of our classes are taught here in Oktibbeha County, and our instructors work with the students to try to minimize the impact to their work or school schedules. We do however pride ourselves on professionalism, and all of our instructors are certified to the national standard level relating to instruction (NFPA 1041). Typical courses include basic fire fighting, emergency medical training, the incident command system, and hazardous material response. Our more advanced courses are geared towards technical rescue, advanced firefighting skills, and the development of future management. While we bring most of our training here to Oktibbeha County, additional training is provided at the State Fire Academy, the National Fire Academy, and several other accredited institutions. Oktibbeha County firefighters do not pay for any of their training or equipment.

Oktibbeha County functions under a volunteer system. Members are not paid. However, they currently receive a reimbursement for expenses based upon how much an individual participates. The reimbursement is funded by a federal grant. All of our members' equipment and training are provided at no cost to the individual.

Applicants must be 18 years of age and possess a valid driver's license. Background checks are conducted by the Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Department and are required of all new applicants.

Please visit the Justice Court page.

Passport hours are 8 am until 4:30 pm only.

You will need

• Birth certificate with mother and father listed (long form)
• Photo I.D. (if out of state you will also need one more form of Identification)
• 2 x 2 passport photos made by Walgreens, CVS, etc.

Fees

• Passport Book: Adult 16 years and above, $110 (good for 10 years)
• Passport Book: Child under 16, $80 (good for 5 years)
• Passport Card: Adult 16 and above, $30 (good for 10 years)
• Passport Card: Child under 16, $15 (good for 5 years)

Check or Money Order made Payable to U.S. Department of State.

There is a separate execution fee of $35 per person payable to the Circuit Clerk.

It takes four to six weeks for the normal process. If needed sooner, you can expedite by adding an additional $60. The process will then take two to three weeks.

Citations by City Police: Municipal Court, 662-323-1491

Citations from Sheriff's Department: Justice Court, 662-324-3032

Citations from Highway Patrol: Justice Court, 662-324-3032

Both parties need to be present with valid photo identification along with a total of $37.

You no longer need blood work, and the license is issued on the same day.

You should call 311 to request city services and information. Examples of typical 311 calls include:

• Animal control problems
• Potholes
• Trash pickup problems
• Tree in the road
• Water line breakage
• Illegally parked vehicles or vehicles blocking alleys or driveways but that are not blocking traffic flow
• For county agency phone numbers, addresses, and hours of operation

More information about 311

Traffic tickets from the Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Department, the Mississippi State Highway Patrol, and MSU Campus Police may be paid for at the Oktibbeha County Justice Court.

The amount to be paid for speeding violations can be found by clicking the link below. Bring your payment to the Oktibbeha County Justice Court.

Payments must be made with cash or money order. No checks or credit cards accepted.

Fines for Speeding Violations

All marriage licenses are issued by the Circuit Court Clerk in the Oktibbeha County Circuit Court Complex at 108 West Main Street. You must have a picture I.D. You must be 21 years of age to apply for a marriage license without parental consent, and both parties must be present to apply. If you are under the age of 21, you must have notarized authorization from the parent or the parent needs to be present.

Search Oktibbeha Marriage Records online

The state levies a 7% sales tax, 2% of which is returned to the municipality on all sales within the corporate limits of the municipality. Additionally, the city has a 2% food and beverage tax and a 2% hotel/motel tax.

For more information, visit the Mississippi Department of Revenue website.

Licenses are available for purchase at most sporting goods stores and variety stores.

A Privilege License is a license allowing a person to do business in Oktibbeha County for a profit. Please contact the Tax Assessor/Collector's office at 662-323-1273 for more information.

CodeRED is a web-based critical communication solution that enables local public safety personnel to notify residents and businesses by telephone, text message, email, and social media of time-sensitive information, emergencies, or urgent notifications. The system can reach hundreds of thousands of individuals in minutes to ensure information such as evacuation notices, missing persons, inclement weather advisories, and more are quickly shared. Only authorized officials have access to send alerts using the CodeRED system.

Please email damage reports and/or pictures or call 662-320-7250 or 662-320-7251. As always if you are need of immediate assistance, please call 911.

The county measures the right-of-way 50 feet from the center of the road to each side of the road. If within those 50 feet the entrance of your drive is the first 5 or 10 feet, the county will gravel. Anything outside of those 50 feet is illegal. Please note: If your drive is an official bus turnaround then the rule is different.

We are always looking for enthusiastic individuals, who have a strong desire to serve their community. A great way to join, is to visit your local fire station during a training session. If you are unsure which district you are in, need the meeting times, or just have questions before joining; send an email to Fire Department Recruitment.

The Oktibbeha County Fire Department does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability in the provision of our programs or services.

Oktibbeha County firefighters are trained in basic first aid and CPR and some are trained emergency medical technicians. The trucks are equipped with first aid and lifesaving equipment. Fire stations are located throughout the county and can usually get to an emergency scene first to begin to administer aid until an ambulance arrives.

The training provided to Oktibbeha County Firefighters, is very similar to what you would expect from a career/paid fire department, this is because the hazards volunteer firefighters face are no different. The differences are in how our classes are taught. We typically 99% of our classes are taught here in Oktibbeha County, and our instructors work with the students to try to minimize the impact to their work or school schedules. We do however pride ourselves on professionalism, and all of our instructors are certified to the national standard level relating to instruction (NFPA 1041). Typical courses include basic fire fighting, emergency medical training, the incident command system and hazardous material response. Our more advanced courses are geared towards technical rescue, advanced firefighting skills, and development of future management. While we bring most of our training here to Oktibbeha County, additional training is provided at the State Fire Academy, the National Fire Academy, and several other accredited institutions. Oktibbeha County Firefighters do not pay for any of their training or equipment.

Oktibbeha County functions under a volunteer system. Members are not paid, however they currently receive a reimbursement for expenses based upon how much an individual participates. The reimbursement is funded by a federal grant. All of our members equipment and training are provided at no cost to the individual.

Applicants must be 18 years of age, and posses a valid drivers license. Background checks are conducted by the Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Department, and are required of all new applicants.

Information about the Oktibbeha County Justice Court can be found on the Justice Court Department page.

Also, check out this document listing what the Justice Clerk's Office can and cannot do for you.

Passport hours are 8 am until 4:30 pm only.

You will need:

• Birth certificate with mother and father listed (long form)
• Photo identification (if out of state you will also need one more form of Identification)
• 2 by 2 passport photo made by Walgreens, CVS, etc.
• Fees: 
  • Passport Book - Adult 16 years and above: $130 (good for 10 years)
  • Passport Book - Child under 16: $100 (good for 5 years)
  • Passport Card - Adult 16 and above: $30 (good for 10 years)
  • Passport Card - Child under 16: $15 (good for 5 years)
• Check or Money Order made payable to U.S. Department of State.
• There is a separate execution fee of $35 per person payable to the Circuit Clerk.

It takes four to six weeks for normal process. If needed sooner, you can expedite by adding an additional $60. The process will then take two to three weeks.

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• Citations by City Police - Municipal Court: 662-323-1491
• Citations from Sheriff Department - Justice Court: 662-324-3032
• Citations from Highway Patrol - Justice Court: 662-324-3032

Both parties need to be present with valid photo identification along with a total of $37.

You no longer need blood work, and the license is issued on the same day.

You should call 311 to request city services and information. Examples of typical 311 calls include:

• Animal control problems
• Potholes
• Trash pickup problems
• Tree in the road
• Water line breakage
• Illegally parked vehicles or vehicles blocking alleys or driveways but that are not blocking traffic flow
• County agency phone numbers, addresses, and hours of operations

More information about 311.

• Presidential Election - First Tuesday after the first Monday in November. Even-numbered years, every four years
• Gubernatorial Election - Odd-numbered years
• U.S. Senate and U.S. House Elections - Even-numbered years
• State Senate and House Elections - Odd-numbered years
• County and other Office Elections - Odd-numbered years
• Municipal (City) Elections - Odd-numbered years
• Election Commissioners - Even-numbered years

Property tax facts, as well as information on Homestead and other exemptions, may be obtained from the Oktibbeha County Tax Assessor/Collector.

Details about Property Assessment and an online Property Tax Search are also available.

The state levies a 7% sales tax, 2% of which is returned to the municipality on all sales within the corporate limits of the municipality. Additionally, the city has a 2% food and beverage tax and a 2% hotel/motel tax.

For more information, visit the Mississippi Department of Revenue website.

The Board of Supervisors meets the first Monday of each month at the Oktibbeha County Courthouse on 101 E Main Street in Starkville.

Section 19-13-11 of the Mississippi Code Annotated states:

In counties having only one court district, the board of supervisors shall hold regular meetings at the courthouse or in the chancery clerk's office in those counties where the chancery clerk's office is in a building separate from the courthouse. However, the board of supervisors may meet in any other county-owned building if such building is located within one mile of the courthouse and if, more than 30 days prior to changing the meeting place, the board posts a conspicuous, permanent notice to that effect in the chancery clerk's office and in one other place in the courthouse, publishes notice thereof in a newspaper published in the county, or if there be no newspaper published in the county, then in a newspaper having general circulation in the county, once each week, for at least three consecutive weeks, and enters an order upon its minutes designating and describing in full the building and room to be used as the meeting room of the board of supervisors. The board of supervisors shall meet on the first Monday of each month. However, when such meeting date falls on a legal holiday, then the said meeting shall be held on the succeeding day.

The minutes of the Boards of Supervisors can be found in the Chancery Clerk Office.

In the Chancery Clerk's Office, or you may search the land redemption records online.

The office accepts cash, checks made payable to Oktibbeha County Chancery Clerk, and money orders made payable to Oktibbeha County Chancery Clerk.

Fees for copies made by the public are $0.25 per page. The fee for copies made by our staff is $0.50 per page. There is an additional fee for certifying a copy of a document. Requests for copies sent by mail must be accompanied by check or money order covering the cost of the copies and a stamped self-addressed envelope. The request should reasonably identify the document to be copied. Checks should be made payable to the Oktibbeha County Chancery Clerk.

At the Chancery Clerk's Office via cash, money order, or check.

Civil cases involving amounts greater than $3,500.00 are filed in the Oktibbeha County Chancery Court.

For civil cases involving less than that amount, download a Civil Declaration (PDF) and file it with the Oktibbeha County Justice Court.