Records Unit

The Records Unit manages all requests for police department data in compliance with Minnesota Data Practices laws (Minnesota Statute 13.82) and department policy. Services include processing public data requests, providing reports, and maintaining accurate records.


 

Requesting Information

Public data is available by written request using the Data Request Form.

  • Requests are processed in the order received.
  • Fees apply for printed materials, reports, and local record checks.
  • Records staff will confirm any charges before processing.


 

Fees

Charges vary based on the type and amount of data requested. Payment instructions will be provided once the request is reviewed. A full Fee Schedule is available online. 

 


 

Important Notes

  • Some data may be restricted under Minnesota law.
  • Estimated processing times vary depending on the complexity of the request.
  • Requests can be submitted by mail, email, or in person.

 


 

Hours of Operations

Monday – Friday: 8 am – 4:30 pm
Closed on weekends and holidays.

For questions or assistance call 218.299.5120.

Additional Resources

The Records Unit provides access to a variety of services beyond data requests. These resources are designed to assist residents with common needs such as fingerprinting, animal control, pet licensing, ticket and license payments, and ATV permits. Select a topic below for more information.

The Records Unit manages all requests for police department data in compliance with Minnesota Data Practices laws (Minnesota Statute 13.82) and department policy. Services include processing public data requests, providing reports, and maintaining accurate records.

Visit Data Record Request page for more information. 

Fingerprinting services are provided by the Clay County Jail, not the Moorhead Police Department.

To schedule an appointment and learn more, visit the Clay County Public Fingerprinting page.

Parking Tickets

For questions or to retrieve your ticket number, call 218.299.5118 (Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.). After hours, leave a voicemail and your call will be returned the next business day.


Licenses

All dogs and cats over six months of age must be licensed annually by February 15 (City Code 3-7-2). Licensing helps reunite lost pets with their owners and avoids additional fees if an unlicensed animal is found. Licenses can be purchased online.

Key Animal Control Rules:

  • Pets must be leashed when off property (City Code 3-7-5).
  • Provide sanitary housing, clean food, and water (City Code 2-10-6).
  • Animals running at large may be impounded for at least five business days (City Code 3-7-6). 
  • The animal's owner can reclaim the animal if they pay the impound fees.
  • Leashed pets are allowed in most parks; prohibited in Mattson Field, Centennial Athletic Complex, and Southside Regional Park, except walking paths. (City Code 6-1-4).
  • Owners must clean up animal waste and prevent excessive barking (City Code 3-7-9).

Dangerous Dogs:
Dogs may be designated as dangerous if they cause serious harm, kill another animal without provocation, or repeatedly act aggressively after being deemed potentially dangerous. Additional restrictions apply, including leashing and adult supervision (City Code 3-7-13).

Pet Limits:
No more than four dogs or four cats over six months of age per dwelling. Special permits may be requested for rescue or shelter operations (City Code 3-7-4).

Lost Your Pet?

  • Contact local pounds:
    • Moorhead: FM Animal Hospital – 218.236.9059
    • Fargo: 701.232.7312
    • West Fargo: 701.232.2898
  • Post ads in newspapers or hang flyers in local stores.

Online applications for ATV permits are now available. Before applying, review the Moorhead City Ordinance 5-4-2 and Minnesota State Statute 84.92 to confirm eligibility.

  • Permit Duration: Valid for three calendar years; renewal begins in the fourth year (e.g., purchased 11.01.2021, renew after 01.01.2024).
  • Cost: $30 for three years; replacement permits $5. Mailing option add $2.
  • Prorated Fees: Calculated based on your DNR permit expiration date and displayed during payment.
  • Display: Permit must be clearly visible on the rear of the ATV.

How to Apply:

  • Online: Complete the ATV Permit Application and pay electronically.
  • In Person: Visit Moorhead Police Department, 911 11th St. N., with MN driver’s license and proof of insurance. Approved permits are mailed to your residence.

Restrictions & Requirements:

  • Proof of registration and insurance required at application.
  • Operators must be at least 16 years old with a valid MN driver’s license.
  • Helmets required for riders under 18; seatbelts if provided by manufacturer.
  • Turn signals or hand signals required; eyewear unless ATV has a windshield.
  • ATV cannot operate on trunk highways (e.g., Hwy 10, Hwy 75).
  • Required equipment: rearview mirror, standard mufflers, functional brakes, brake light, headlights, and tail lamps (lit at all times).
  • No towing of people; passengers limited to manufacturer design.

Additional Resources:

Map of Prohibited Use