Frequently Asked Questions
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Doesn't the assessor raise my value according to the amount of taxes needed?
No, the Assessor raises or lowers the values of property according to the market value of real estate or in the case of agricultural land, according to productivity and CSR.
Assessments are set January 1st of each year, while the tax levies (tax rates) on these assessments are not set until July of the following year. (Example, the assessment notices from April 2021 were for the January 1, 2021 assessment. Tax levies for these values will be set in June of 2022 based on what the different taxing authorities budget in March and April 2022 for the next fiscal year of July 2022 - June 2023.)
The taxing authorities you pay property taxes to are listed at the bottom of your tax statement each year, along with their budget information and a breakdown of how much you are paying to each taxing body.
I disagree with my value. What can I do?
I would first recommend either looking at your property information on our Lyon County Assessor website, or contacting our office, to see if we have everything listed correctly for your property. We will gladly provide a printout on your dwelling and/or buildings and explain how your value was determined. The Lyon County Assessor's Beacon website is also a good place to find out how other comparable properties have sold.
If you still disagree with your value, there is an "Informal Agreement" period between April 2nd and April 25th. This process would involve a field appraiser coming out to look at your property to see if the value could possibly be adjusted so a formal protest with the Board of Review could be avoided. If an agreed upon value is reached, the Informal Agreement is signed by the aggrieved taxpayer and the value is changed for the current assessment year. This is merely an option; you may choose to go directly to the Board of Review with a timely filed, formal protest.
If no agreement can be made, or if you choose not to go this route, you may file a petition with the Lyon County Board of Review. Petitions are available in the Assessor's Office or online at the county's web site or the Iowa Department of Revenue's web site. Petitions must be filed within the timeframe provided by the Code of Iowa. This is currently April 2nd to April 30th of any given year. The petitions are filed in the Assessor's Office.
The Board of Review will meet during the month of May. You may decide to have an oral hearing before the Board, or only decide to file your petition and submit any information you think is relevant to your petition. The Board will notify you by mail of their decision.
If you disagree with their decision, you may appeal within 20 days of the Board's adjournment, or May 31st, whichever is later. This date is usually May 31st. You may appeal to either the Property Assessment Appeal Board, or to Lyon County District Court.
I own and farm 500 acres. Isn’t there something I need to sign up for now?
You are probably thinking of the Family Farm Tax Credit. This was required to be signed up every year by October 15th until 2001. If you signed up in 2001 or after, you do not have to sign again. However, if you have acquired more agricultural land after you last signed up, you will need to sign an application for the newly acquired land. Applications can be filed anytime. However, those filed after November 1st will be applied to the next year.
I served in the military. Am I eligible for the Military Service Property Tax Exemption?
There have been a number of changes by the Legislature in recent years that have expanded the eligibility for the Military Exemption on property taxes. Individuals that may not have been eligible in the past may qualify now. Visit our Credits and Exemptions page for more information and/or contact the Veterans Service Office.
I signed up for Homestead and/or Military credit last year. Why isn’t it on my taxes? Do I need to sign again?
It will depend on when you signed the application. Applications must be signed on or before July 1st of the assessment year that you are first claiming the credit. If it is signed after July 1st, the credit is applied to the next assessment year.
Please remember that property taxes due are 18 months behind the current assessment year. For example, the current property taxes payable in September 2021 and March 2022 are calculated on the 2020 assessment year and values. If you signed up after July 1, 2020, but on or before July 1, 2021, your credit will be applied to the 2021 assessments on which the taxes will be calculated for the September 2022 and March 2023 payments. If you signed up after July 1, 2021, your credit will be applied to the 2022 assessments, which will be used for the September 2023 and March 2024 property taxes.
Homestead and military credits were at one time applied for every year. In the mid-1980s, this was changed to a one-time sign-up. However, you do still have to sign up if you move to another house, even if it is next door or across the street.
What are tax levies and assessed values?
There are a number of different taxing districts in a jurisdiction, each with a different levy. Each year the County Auditor determines for that district a levy that will yield enough money to pay for schools, police and fire protection, road maintenance, and other services budgeted for in that area. The tax levy is applied to each $1,000 of a property's taxable value.
The value determined by the assessor is the assessed value and is the value indicated on the assessment roll. The taxable value is the value determined by the auditor after application of state ordered "rollback" percentages for the various classes of property, with other properties always compare with the value on the assessment roll of the assessor's property record cards and not the value indicated on the tax statement.
What is a "rollback"?
The "rollback" is the percentage of actual value that is determined by the Director of Revenue and Finance each year on the several classes of property where the total value increase statewide, exceeds three percent for each class of property. The percentage so determined by the Director of Revenue and Finance is certified to and applied by the local County Auditor to all property in each class affected throughout the State. Percentages determined by the Director of Revenue and Finance are the same for all the assessing jurisdictions in the State.
Increases in assessed value of individual parcels of property, as determined by the Assessor, may exceed four percent within a jurisdiction. Agricultural property, except agricultural dwellings, are assessed on the basis of productivity and net earning capacity using a five-year crop average and capitalized at a rate set by the Legislature. The rate is currently seven percent. Tentative and final equalization orders are issued by the Director of Revenue and Finance in odd-numbered years on or about August 15 and October 1, respectively. The orders are sent to the various County Auditors who apply them to the classes of property affected if any.
Why do values change?
State law requires that all real property be reassessed every two years. The current law requires the reassessment to occur in odd-numbered years. Changes in market value as indicated by research, sales ratio studies, and analysis of local conditions as well as economic trends both in and outside the construction industry are used in determining your assessment.
Attorney
I just wanted him/her out of the house. Why did he/she get arrested?
When a peace officer has probable cause to believe that a Domestic Assault has occurred, they are required by law to arrest the person whom they believe to be the primary physical aggressor. Domestic violence is a crime. The County Attorney's Office recognizes that domestic violence devastates victims, children, and the community at large. Safety and intervention for the victims and children who witness violence are our primary concerns.
Can I drop charges?
No. Victims often feel responsible for involving the police and getting the defendant "in trouble" with the law. It is important for the victim to realize that it was the defendant's actions that caused the charges to be filed. The victim can take some comfort in knowing that it is the State of Iowa — not the victim — pressing charges. It is ultimately the decision of the County Attorney to decide how the criminal charges are pursued. The victim's responsibility is one of a witness to a crime. While it may be difficult, the only requirement made of the victim is to tell the truth and appear in court when summoned.
How can I get the No Contact Order lifted/dropped?
Issues involving No Contact Orders are handled by the Court. In Iowa, judges are required to enter a No Contact Order at initial appearance in Domestic Assault and certain other cases. Since the case is handled on behalf of the State of Iowa, it is not automatic upon your request that the No Contact Order would be dropped. The County Attorney may oppose a request to lift (drop) or amend a No Contact Order. It is up to the Judge to make a determination whether the Defendant poses a threat to your safety or the safety of other household members. Please visit the Victim/Witness Assistance section of our website or click here to link to the form for a request to lift or amend a No Contact Order. That form must be submitted to the Lyon County Clerk of Courts.
How do I report a crime?
If the situation is immediate, call 911. Crimes should be reported directly to the law enforcement agency where the crime occurred. Law enforcement agencies make reports, investigate crimes, and when necessary, issue warrants and make arrests. The County Attorney is typically not involved until after an arrest is made. Once an arrest is made and the Defendant has appeared in court, you may contact our office to discuss your case further or visit the Victim/Witness Assistance section of our website.
If I am a victim or witness in a case, do I have to come to court?
If you receive a subpoena for your appearance and testimony, then you are under court order to appear. There may be some court dates that occur that you do not have to attend. You may always call your Victim/Witness Coordinator to see if you are supposed to be in court or not.
I have unpaid fines and want to get my driver license reinstated. How can I do that?
If your driver license has been suspended due to nonpayment of fines, you may be eligible to regain your driving privileges by entering into a payment plan with the County Attorney’s Office. Please visit the Payment Plan section of our website for more information.
How do I file for bankruptcy?
The County does not provide bankruptcy services. To get help, you will need to either find your own legal representation or visit the Bankruptcy Court/Clerk website for more details.
I received a notice for jury duty, when do I have to report?
Use the eJuror System. This online tool is used to qualify for jury service, ask for excuse/disqualification, postponement, and proof of service.
I discharged my deferred judgment. Why is it still visible online?
The law now prohibits expungement of files with outstanding balances owed to the court. The Clerk will expunge the file when you pay off your balance.
Auditor & Elections
Absentee
Can I pick up or request a ballot for someone else?
No. In Iowa you can only request an absentee ballot for yourself.
Can I request an absentee ballot by email or fax?
Yes. You may request an absentee ballot via email or fax and a ballot will be mailed to you. However, in order for your ballot to be counted you must also mail in or drop off the original paper ballot request.
Can I use power of attorney to request a ballot for my spouse, child or parent?
No. Under Iowa law, power of attorney does not apply for all election related matters.
Can someone else return my absentee ballot for me?
The only people who may return a ballot for a voter are:
- someone living in the voter’s household
- an immediate family member
- a special precinct election official delivering a ballot for health care residents
- a delivery agent, in the case of a voter unable to return a ballot due to blindness or other disability
Do I need to sign the return envelope of my absentee ballot?
Yes! Your absentee ballot cannot be counted unless you have signed the affidavit envelope that you return your ballot in. If we receive a ballot back that has not been signed we will attempt to contact you to get this fixed. Once contacted, you may decide to either:
- Request a replacement ballot and return it by 8:00 p.m. on election day
- Vote at the polls on election day
- Sign the affidavit in person at the county auditor’s office by 8:00 p.m. on election day
Do absentee ballots even get counted?
Yes. There is a myth that absentee ballots only get counted if the election is close, however, this is not true. Under Iowa law, every ballot must be counted.
What is the last day I can turn in my absentee ballot?
You are allowed to hand deliver your ballot to the Auditor’s office up until the time the polls close on Election Day. If you return your ballot through the mail, your ballot must arrive by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, with exceptions for individuals in the Safe at Home program and military/overseas citizens. Learn more on our Absentee Voting page.
Election Day
Can I get help marking my ballot?
Yes. If you need assistance filling out your ballot ask a poll worker for help. A team of one republican and one democrat will come over and help you mark your ballot. Also available in each polling location is a ballot marking device that will read you all of the choices and then print out your marked ballot.
Can I register to vote on Election Day?
Yes. Iowa law allows for Election Day registration if you are able to provide proof of identification (i.e. valid photo ID) and proof of residency (i.e. utility bill with your name on it if your ID has an outdated address on it). If you are unable to provide one or both of these you are allowed to bring someone with you to attest that you have the right to vote.
Can I take my absentee ballot to the polls on Election Day and vote there?
Yes. If you have not returned your absentee ballot you may go to your polling place on Election Day and vote a regular ballot.
Do I need to show ID to vote?
Beginning January 1, 2019, Iowa voters will be required to show a driver’s license, non-driver’s ID, passport, military ID, veterans ID, Tribal ID or Voter ID Card at the polls before they vote. Voters, starting in 2019, without an ID may cast a provisional ballot or have another registered voter attest to their identity.
I am already registered but my information needs updated; can I do that on Election Day?
Yes. While it is recommended that you update your information prior to Election Day to speed things up at the polls, you may wait and do so on Election Day. If you are updating your address just make sure you are going to the polling place for your new address. When updating your address you will now need to provide proof of identity and proof of residency.
I can't get out of my car; can someone bring me a ballot to vote from there?
Yes. If you are unable to go inside the polling place a team of election workers will be sent out to your car to help you vote.
I lost my absentee ballot; can I just go vote on Election Day?
Yes. When you go to vote, a poll worker will verify with the auditor’s office that your absentee ballot has not been returned. If it is confirmed that the auditor’s office has not received a ballot from you then you will be given a new ballot to vote there.
What do I need to bring with me to vote?
Starting in January of 2019 you will be required to show identification. If you need to register to vote on Election Day, you must bring proof of identification and proof of residency.
What if I lost my ID or forgot to take one with me to the polls?
Starting in 2019, if you do not have your ID with you, you may either cast a provisional ballot or have another registered voter attest to your identity. Learn more about provisional ballots and attesting on our Voter ID page.
What if I'm still waiting in line when the polls close?
So long as you are in line to vote at the time the polls close you will be allowed to vote.
What is a provisional ballot?
If a voter’s eligibility is in question on Election Day they are allowed to cast a provisional ballot. After the voter marks their ballot and returns it to the poll worker, the voter is required to provide the necessary identification or documentation at the polling place before it closes or provide it at the Auditor’s Office by noon on the following Monday. If the canvass will be held earlier than the following Monday, the identification must be provided before the canvass.
If it is determined that you do have the right to vote in the precinct in which you voted, your ballot will then be counted and included in the final vote total.
General Information
Can I get a new ballot if I make a mistake or lose my ballot?
Yes. If you make a mistake on an absentee ballot mark your return envelope “Spoiled” and return it to the Auditor’s office either by mail or in person. If you return it by mail contact the Auditor’s office to be sent a new one.
On Election Day if you make a mistake on your ballot, return it to the poll worker to receive a new one. You are allowed up to three ballots so don’t make too many mistakes!
Can I vote for someone that is not on the ballot?
Yes. For each race on the ballot, a line is provided for you to write-in the name of someone for whom you wish to vote for. Make sure you color in the oval!
Can an independent vote in a primary election?
Yes and No. In Iowa, you must be a member of a political party (currently: Republican and Democratic) to vote in a primary election. However, anyone* can change parties on Election Day and vote. For independents to vote they must declare a political party.
*Precinct election officials may not change political parties within 30 days of an election.
Do I have to vote for everything on the ballot?
No. You can vote for as much or as little as you would like; it’s all up to you!
If I change my mind on who I want to vote for after I have returned my ballot, can I get a new one?
No. If you have already returned your absentee ballot to the Auditor’s office you may not request a new ballot if you have changed your mind on who you wish to vote for.
If I chose a party do I have to vote for all of their candidates?
It depends on the election. In primary elections, you can only vote for candidates from the party to which you belong. In general elections, you are free to vote for anyone you like, regardless of their party affiliation.
What if I don't have an ID?
Registered voters who do not have an Iowa driver’s license or non-operator’s ID were issued a voter ID card. Voter ID cards must be signed before going to the polls. The new voter ID card will contain a PIN number that will be used for voting purposes. If you should have a voter ID card and do not, please contact our office to have one sent to you.
What is Voter ID?
Starting in 2019, voters must provide an ID when going to vote. Voters who do not have ID will be allowed to either cast a provisional ballot or have another registered voter attest to their identification. Learn more about provisional ballots and attesting on our Voter ID page.
There are 6 approved types of identification that may be used:
- an Iowa Driver’s License or Non-Operator ID
- a Voter ID issued by the Secretary of State or the Auditor’s Office
- a current US Passport
- a US Military ID
- a US Veteran’s ID
- a Tribal ID
Where do I vote?
Where you vote is determined by where you live and you must vote in the precinct to which you are assigned for your ballot to be counted. To find your polling place please visit the Polling Places page on our website.
Registration
Can I update my voter registration over the phone?
No. All updates to voter registration must be made in writing or online through the Iowa DOT if you have an Iowa driver’s license.
Can a homeless person register to vote?
Yes. Any eligible voter in Iowa may register to vote. Because many of those who are homeless have a nontraditional address they just need to provide an address or description of where they sleep the most, wherever that may be.
Can someone with a previous felony conviction vote?
Those with a prior felony conviction are only permitted to vote if their voting rights have been restored by the Governor, including through Executive Order. For more information about restoration of rights, contact the Governor’s office or visit the voter registration page on our website.
Do I have to register to vote for every election?
No. You would only need to re-register if your information has changed and you need to update it.
How do I update my address?
If you have moved recently and need to update your address for voting, all you have to do is fill out a new voter registration form and submit it to the Auditor’s office. If you do not update your address after a move through a new voter registration form and do not vote in the next general election, you will be marked inactive (inactive voters may still vote with proper ID). Registration will be canceled if two more general elections pass with no voter activity.
I just registered and received a card in the mail but there is a mistake on it; what do I do now?
If you notice a mistake on your voter card please contact the Auditor’s Office and/or submit a new registration form to correct your information.
I registered as an independent; why does my card say "NP" or "No Party"?
Iowa does not recognize an “independent” party. Instead, “No Party” is used to indicate a lack of affiliation with a political party.
Engineering & Secondary Roads
How do I add a new driveway or widen an existing driveway?
Fill out the Driveway Permit, which can be found under our Permits and Policies section. Applications can be e-mailed, regular mailed, or dropped off at the County Engineer’s Office. Permits will not be processed and construction shall not begin until a field inspection has been completed by secondary road staff.
I am building a new house. Who do I need to contact?
Please contact the Zoning Department.
What is right-of-way?
Right-of-way is an area of land that is owned by the property owner, but the local government possesses an easement in order to maintain the road for public usage. The amount of right-of-way varies from road to road, but typically extends 33 feet each direction from the center of the roadway on gravel-surfaced roads and 50 feet each direction on paved roads. Landowners may not place, or cause to be placed, an obstruction within any county roadway right-of-way.
Who do I call about installing a new septic system?
Please contact Environmental Health.
Who do I contact if I want to apply Dust Control to my roads?
If Self-Applicating: Fill out the Dust Control Form found under Permits and Policies and return to the Engineer's Office. Forms can be emailed or physically dropped off. Refer to the form for key dates/notices.
If Utilizing Contractor: Contact your contractor directly. They will communicate/schedule with the county directly on your behalf.
Public Health
Do you offer blood pressure screenings?
Health Services of Lyon County offers community blood pressure clinics in all of the communities in Lyon County. We offer blood pressure screenings as well as health education.
Do you offer radon and water testing?
Yes. Our program provides septic inspections and permits, as well as new well permits. We provide education on environmental health hazards to county residents. Please call us at (712) 472-8200 or email us at hslc@co.lyon.ia.us to learn more.
Do you provide any services for children's health?
Health Services offers parents of children ages 2 mo. through 5 years of age the opportunity to have developmental screenings completed. We identified that many parents are unsure of what the developmental appropriate growth patterns are with children. They may not need in-home services on a continual basis, but would still benefit from understanding child development patterns and learning how to make their child school-ready.
Please call us at (712) 472-8200 or email us at hslc@co.lyon.ia.us to learn more.
Do you provide immunizations?
Health Services currently offers vaccines to children who meet the qualifications of the VFC (Vaccine for Children Program) and we accept private insurance for vaccinations. Learn more on our Immunizations page.
What can I do to help an elderly relative/friend who I believe is at risk of suffering a fall?
Health Services of Lyon County offers county residents the opportunity to have a free in-home fall risk assessment completed.
We identified this was a need in our county, due to the results of our county health rankings indicating that we had a high percentage of falls in our county, mostly with the elderly population. Please call us at (712) 472-8200 or email us at hslc@co.lyon.ia.us to learn more.
What services are offered for those needing in-home care?
Our homemaker program places trained and supervised aides in the home of families and adults for a temporary or extended period of time, because of illness or disability. Learn more on our Homemaker page.
Recorder
How much are the recording fees?
Please visit our Recording Fees page for a list of fees.
How much for Transfer Tax?
Please see our Transfer Tax Calculator.
How do I change the title of my property?
A new deed must be prepared by a Real Estate Attorney or an Iowa Title Company. We only record documents, we do not provide these forms.
What are the other forms that may be needed to be with a transferring document?
Declaration of Value and a Groundwater Hazard Statement may be needed. You can find these forms on our website.
Is there a survey filed on my property?
Please contact our office, and we will be happy to look it up for you.
How do I electronically file my new recording documents?
Please visit the Iowa Land Records website.
How do I get a copy of my deed to my property?
Please use our website. You can search for your name. If you need assistance, please contact our office at (712) 472-8528.
Can I mail in a new recording for recording?
Yes, you can mail in a new recording with a recording payment.
Sheriff
Foreclosure Sale
Do I have to pay the full amount of my bid the day I purchase?
Yes.
Can I enter the residence I plan to purchase?
- No, if the residence is unoccupied.
- Yes, if the residence is occupied and you get permission to enter from the residents.
Does the sheriff have keys to the residence?
No. And the Sheriff’s Office cannot give permission for you to enter a residence.
How do I pay for a purchase at a sheriff’s sale?
The payment must be in the form of a cashier’s check. You may write a personal check for the purchase price if it is accompanied by a letter of guarantee from the bank in which you are writing the check. You must then go to the bank, receive a cashier’s check and present it to the Sheriff. You will then get your personal check back.
What happens if I am the highest bidder and change my mind about buying the property?
Pursuant to the Code of Iowa, 626.85, the judgment holder may proceed against you for the amount you bid. If the judgment holder does not wish to proceed against you, the sale will be treated as a nullity and the sheriff will then proceed as mandated by the Code of Iowa.
How does the bidding start?
The judgment holder almost always starts the bidding. Generally, the judgment holder bids in writing a plaintiff’s bid on judgment. This bid is usually given to the sheriff before the day of the sale. The judgment holder’s bid, if given to the sheriff prior to the sale, is considered a sealed bid and will not be disclosed until the sale is called.
If I purchase at a sheriff’s sale, who is responsible for back property taxes?
Taxes stay with the property. If you made the purchase, you are now responsible for the taxes.
If I purchase and there is a redemption period, when do I get a sheriff’s deed?
If you purchase property with a redemption period, you will be issued a certificate of purchase. When the redemption period is up, you may then return the original certificate of purchase to the sheriff and you will then receive a Sheriff’s Deed. It is very important that you do not lose the original certificate of purchase. If you lose it, you will not receive a sheriff’s deed until you get a court order directing the sheriff to issue you a duplicate certificate of purchase. (626.96) If you fail to have a sheriff’s deed issued within 8 years after the date of issuance of the certificate of purchase, the sheriff’s sale will be cancelled. (626.97)
What does redemption period mean?
If the sale notice indicates there is a redemption period; that is the amount of time that the defendant or other stating agency has right to redeem the real estate after the sale. If the defendant or other stating agency makes redemption, this must be completed at the Lyon County Clerk of Court’s Office.
If I purchase and there is a redemption period, can I enter the property before the redemption period is up?
This is a question for your attorney.
When I get a sheriff’s deed, what do I do next?
That is a question for your attorney.
If I get a sheriff’s deed and there are people living there, how do I get them out? Do I have to go through the eviction process?
These are questions for your attorney.
What is the difference between a Special Execution and a General Execution?
- In a Special Execution, the court directs what the sheriff shall sell.
- In a General Execution, the plaintiff directs the sheriff what to sell.
- If the plaintiff directs the sheriff to sell real estate pursuant to a General Execution, the sheriff sells only the right, title and interest that the defendant has in the real estate. Before bidding for any real estate at a sheriff’s sale, it is wise to consult an attorney.
If I purchase at a sheriff’s sale, what names(s) and how should I have them typed on the sheriff’s deed or certificate of purchase?
This is a question for your attorney.
If I purchase property at a sheriff’s sale, do I get clear title?
Clear title is not guaranteed to real property sold at a sheriff’s sale.
Jail
When can I visit?
Jail visitation is determined by what housing unit the inmate is assigned to. The inmate can contact their family/friends and tell them what days and time visitation falls on.
Who can visit the inmates?
Anybody can visit the inmate as long as they meet the following criteria:
- They have not been incarcerated in the Lyon County Jail during the last 90 days.
- They are on the inmate’s visitors list.
- If they are a minor they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- They must be able to present a VALID ID.
What can I bring the inmates?
No items may be brought into the Lyon County Jail by the public. Inmates do have the ability to purchase necessary items through the commissary. Books may be brought in, but they will then be donated to the jail library.
I have to serve time, how do I make arrangements?
Call the Lyon County Jail at 712-472-8356 to make the required arrangements.
I need to get fingerprinted for a job or background check, when can I have that done?
Call the Lyon County Jail at 712-472-8356 to make the necessary arrangements. There is a fee to be which can be paid directly to the jail once the fingerprinting is complete.
- $10.00 if you have your own fingerprint print card
- $15.00 if we supply the fingerprint card.
How do I contact an inmate?
You may either visit the inmate during the appropriate visitation hours or the inmate may contact you via phone using a calling card purchased through commissary.
How do I get money to an inmate?
Money may be sent to the inmate via US mail in either a check (payable to the inmate) or money order. The Lyon County Jail will cash said money and deposit it into the inmates commissary account.
My car was towed, how do I get it out of impound?
Once the car is released per arresting officer’s direction, the owner, driver, or owner’s representative may pay* the tow bill and pick up the car.
*The Sheriff’s Department does not accept checks or credit cards.
How do I leave an inmate a phone message?
In case of emergency contact the jail and they will deliver a message.
What is an inmate’s Bond?
Bond is the amount of money needed to post in order for an inmate to be released. The bond amount is set by either the Iowa State statute or by a magistrate. Once bond is set, the inmate may be released upon the Lyon County Jail receiving the proper bond amount. The money may come from the inmate, family/friend, or a bail bondsman. Cash only unless it is through a bondsman.
When can an inmate be released?
The magistrate must see the inmate within 24 hours. In case of a domestic arrest, the inmate is required to see the magistrate before being released. Any person charges with an alcohol related offense, must serve a minimum 8 hours.
How can I apply for Work Release?
To be eligible for work release the inmate must be serving more than a 14 day consecutive sentence and must have prior approval from the court.
Treasurer
What hours are you open?
Tax Office
8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Passport Office
8:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Motor Vehicle & Driver's License
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (CLOSED FOR LUNCH 12-1) Effective 8/4/25 until further notice
Written Exams: 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Driving Tests: By appointment only
How can I contact the Treasurer's office?
- Tax: (712) 472-8500
- Motor Vehicle: (712) 472-8509
- Driver's License: (712) 472-8529
- You can also contact by e-mail at sknobloch@co.lyon.ia.us
Driver's License
Do I need a Real I.D.?
Yes, you will need a Real I.D. to enter a federal building or to board an airplane. To obtain a Real I.D. you will need:
- Passport or Birth Certificate accompanied with proof of name change
- Social Security Card
- Two (2) forms of Address Verification
General Information
Where are you located?
Lyon County Courthouse
206 S 2nd Ave
Rock Rapids, IA 51246
Motor Vehicle
What hours are you open?
- Motor Vehicles & Driver's License Office: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm (CLOSED FOR LUNCH 12-1) Effective 8/4/25 until further notice
- Written Exams: 8:00 am - 3:30 pm
- Driving Tests: By appointment only
What documents do I need to get an Iowa title?
You will need a valid Iowa Drivers License or Social Security card.
I have lost my validation sticker or registration, where do I go to obtain a new one?
If you live in Lyon County, you come to the Motor Vehicle Office in Rock Rapids.
What are my payment options?
You may pay online at www.iowatreasurers.org with Master Card, Visa, Discover Card or use an e-Check. You may also mail it to the office, put it in the East side dropbox, or come in and use either cash, check, money order or Discover Card.
What do I need to do to put my vehicle in storage?
You need to turn in the plates and registration before the vehicle becomes delinquent. The fees then stop on that vehicle until it is taken out of storage. At that time, the full year fees are due.
Property Taxes
When do I receive a tax statement?
Tax statements are mailed out in August. They are mailed to the titleholder of record or contract purchaser.
When are tax payments due?
Your tax statement will have two stubs to make payment. You may pay the full year in the fall or choose to make two payments by the due dates. FIRST HALF TAXES are due September 1st and become delinquent October 1st. SECOND HALF TAXES ARE DUE March 1st and become delinquent April 1st. The interest rate on delinquent taxes is 1 ½% per month rounded to the nearest whole dollar. There is a minimum of $1.00.
I thought my mortgage company paid my taxes?
The tax statements are required to be sent to the owner of the property.
Can I make a partial payment on my taxes?
Yes, partial payments are accepted for current and delinquent taxes. If paying delinquent taxes, the amount of the partial payment must be equal to or greater than the late interest and cost due. Partial payments are not accepted for special assessments. Tax sale redemptions are not accepted online. Please contact the office to make these payments.
What happens if my taxes are not paid by the due date?
On the first of each month, late interest at the rate of 1.5% per month (rounded to the nearest whole dollar with a minimum of $1.00) will be added to the unpaid balance of your property taxes.
What are my payment options?
You may pay online at www.iowatreasurers.org using Master Card, Visa, Discover Card or e-Check.You may also pay by mail, using the East side dropbox, or in the office with cash, check, money order or Discover Card.
Zoning
What is “Spot Zoning”?
Spot zoning is when a rezoning decision results in a single parcel or small island of property with a different use from the surrounding property. Spot zoning changes the zoning to one in which has a small or inconsistent use, that benefits the landowner and cannot be supported by the comprehensive plan.
What is a “Non-conforming Use”?
A non-conforming use is a use that was legal when established but does not conform to the current zoning regulations.
What is the difference between Planning and Zoning and Board of Adjustment?
The Planning and Zoning Commission has policy development functions. They work on the Comprehensive Plan and review and recommend zoning ordinance changes. They are a policy-making body. Part of the zoning ordinance changes are map amendments such as Rezoning requests. They also make recommendations on Preliminary and Final Subdivision Plats to the Board of Supervisors.
The Board of Adjustment has no policy development functions. Their job is to prevent hardships from being inflicted on individual owners (Variance), ensure that development “fits” into its surroundings (Special Permitted Uses), and ensures consistent interpretation of the ordinance (Appeals of the Zoning Administrators decisions).
