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Animal Services

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1. What area does the DeSoto County Animal Services division cover?

DeSoto County Animal Services covers the unincorporated areas of the County. We do not cover the cities of Hernando (662-429-9096), Olive Branch (662-895-4582), Southaven (662-796-2491 Ext #3) or Horn Lake (662-393-5857).You must call your city's Animal Services office for assistance.

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Board of Supervisors

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1. What Supervisor district am I in?

Please view our voting district map to find out what district you are in. Voting District Map

2. Where can I find the minutes of the Board of Supervisors' meetings?

The minutes are recorded in the office of the Chancery Clerk, which is located on the 1st floor of the DeSoto County Courthouse at 2535 Highway 51 S in Hernando. The minutes are also published online. Meeting Archives

3. How do I add an item to the Board's agenda?

Contact the County Administrator's office at (662) 469-8180.

4. When Does the Board of Supervisors Meet?

Board meetings are regularly scheduled for the first and third Monday of each month. Please refer to the Board of Supervisors calendar for specific dates. The agenda is published in the Agenda Center on the Thursday prior to the meeting.

5. Where Does the Board of Supervisors Meet?

Board Meetings are held in the Board Room on the 3rd floor of the DeSoto County Administration Building at 365 Losher Street in Hernando.

6. How do I request public records from the County?

Many public records are currently available on the County's web site at no cost. Read more about public records requests on the Board of Supervisor's web page. Public Records Requests

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Chancery Clerk

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1. How can I find foreclosure notice of sale postings?

The Chancery Clerk's office posts the Foreclosure Notices both in the courthouse on a bulletin board and online on our webpage. Follow the link included for more information.

How to Lookup Foreclosure Sales

2. Where can I get free legal resources?

The clerk’s office cannot provide legal assistance. There are resources available to the public, such as Mississippi Access to Justice (http://www.msatjc.org/), North MS Rural Legal Services (http://nmrls.com/), and MS Legal Services (http://www.mslegalservices.org/).

Access to Justice Webpage

3. Are there requirements for recording a Plat?

Review our Plat Requirements document.

Plat Requirements

4. How do I search for Covenants?

Please download the handout prepared by the Chancery Clerk's office.

5. How do I obtain a copy of my final divorce decree?

If you would like a copy of your divorce decree, you can come into the office and use the public terminals to print a copy for .25 cents per page plus $1 for certification.  Or if you want the staff to print a copy for you, the cost is .50 cents per page plus $1 for certification. Requests can be mailed to DeSoto County Chancery Court, PO Box 949, Hernando, MS 38632. Please include the correct amount for the document plus a self-addressed, stamped envelope for the return. Contact us at 662-469-8398 for more information.

6. How do I look up records for a particular lot in a Subdivision?

Please download the handout prepared by the Chancery Clerk's Office with detailed instructions for how to perform this search.

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Chancery Court

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1. What are the rules of Chancery Court?

Follow the Mississippi Rules of Court for the Third Chancery District. These rules are found on the Supreme Court's website https://courts.ms.gov/research/rules/rules.php

2. How do I look up Chancery Court records?

DeSoto County maintains Chancery Court records in MEC (Mississippi Electronic Courts). You can come into the office and use our free public terminals or you can register for a user ID with the Supreme Court on their website https://www.pamecapps.mec.ms.gov/onlinereg/

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Circuit Court

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1. Where is the Circuit Court held?

The 17th Judicial District court is held in DeSoto County at the Courthouse located at 2535 Highway 51 South, Hernando, MS 38632.

2. How Do I Register With the Mississippi Electronic Courts to View the Circuit Clerk's Civil Court Cases?

You must register online through the MEC website.
MEC Online Registration

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Civil Process

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1. How much does it cost to serve civil papers?

There is a $35.00 processing fee to serve one paper to one defendant. Any additional papers to be served on the defendant or another defendant at the same address is an additional $1.00. Checks or money orders are accepted made payable to DeSoto County Sheriff's Department.

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County Court

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1. Questions about Domestic Abuse Protection Orders?

Please read this document explaining Domestic Abuse Protection Orders. Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPO) Answers

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Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

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1. Who should I contact if I have a billing question?

DeSoto County EMS billing department can be reached at (662) 469-8016.

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Emergency Services

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1. Who do I call for a burn permit?

For burn permits, please call 662-469-8080.

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Fire Services

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1. Who do I call for a burn permit?

For burn permits, please call 662-469-8080.

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GIS

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1. What is GIS?

GIS stands for Geographic Information System. More Information

2. How much do maps & data cost?

The fees vary depending on the request and types of data. GIS Price List

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I-269 Corridor Study

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1. What area is included in the Plan?

Although the study will consider regional development influences in DeSoto County as a whole, it will primarily focus on a defined study area. The defined study area includes approximately 112,700 acres of land within DeSoto County, roughly bounded from 2 miles north and 2 miles south of the existing alignment of Interstate 69 and the proposed alignment of Interstate 269, and from Highway 61 to the Marshall County line. Click the link to view the Study Area Map.

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Jail

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1. How can I find out bond information on an inmate?

Visit our online jail docket for inmate information.

Jail Docket

2. How can I find out if someone is in jail?

Visit our online jail docket for all inmate information.

Jail Docket

3. How do I visit an inmate?

We have a video visitation system. You can come to the jail visitation area to make an appointment or schedule an appointment online on Securus Technologies website. Visitation s Monday-Friday between the hours of 9:00 am-10:30 am, 1:00 pm- 3:30 pm and 6:30 pm- 9:00pm. Visit Securus Techologies' website for more information on visiting from home. Video Visitation

4. How can I put money on an inmate's books?

Money can be deposited on an inmate's account via the commissary kiosks that are located in the jail lobby as well as the visitation area.

Cash and Credit Card are the only tender accepted.

Checks and Money Orders are not accepted. Visit the below website to deposit money online to an inmate's account. Commissary

5. I am not from Hernando or Desoto County. How do I find where the jail is located?

The Jail South Location was constructed in 2012 and all the inmates are booked and released there. Since this location is relatively new, Google maps and other mapping sites have not accurately maped the area. Therefore, if you put 3091 Industrial Drive West Hernando, MS into your smartphone or gps. It will guide you to the Jail South Location.. Also, if you call 662-469-8570 the automated phone line will give you directions.

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Justice Court

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1. What is the most I can sue for?

The jurisdictional limit in Justice Court is $3,500.

2. How do I know if I am filing in the right court?

The civil clerk can assist you to determine if your case is DeSoto County Jurisdiction; however, the final decision will be made by you.

3. What do I need to bring with me to file a small claims lawsuit?

All you need is the defendant's name and address and the filing fee.

4. How much is the filing fee?

Cost Sheet

5. What information is needed to sue a business?

You will need the full business name and the name of their agent of process.

6. How can I find the agent of process for a business?

You can ask the business or call the secretary of state at (800) 256-3494. Secretary of State

7. What happens if the defendant does not appear on court day?

If the defendant was properly served and fails to appear, the judge can give you a default judgment.

8. What happens if the defendant does not pay me?

Ten days after court, you can flag the defendant's credit or garnish wages. You can check with the civil clerk for details on these processes.

9. What happens if the court cannot serve the defendant at the address I provided?

The court will notify you of the problem, and allow you time to get a new address for service. This process may require an additional fee.

10. Is it possible to have my court date changed?

Yes. You can obtain one continuance by phone. All others must appear.

11. What payment methods does the court accept for ticket and/or criminal charges?

The court accepts cash, cashier's check, money order, Visa or MasterCard. If paying by mail, be sure to include your ticket number with all payments. You can also pay online. Pay Online

12. Can Justice Court recommend an attorney to me?

No. The court cannot recommend or refer you to an attorney

13. Do I have to hire an attorney?

No. However, if you choose not to hire an attorney, you will be required to sign a form waiving your right to council.

14. How can I find out if there is a warrant for my arrest?

You can call the DeSoto County Sheriff's Office at (662) 429-1470.

15. How long do I have to pay my ticket?

Payment is required in full by the date at the bottom of your ticket.

16. Can I file a criminal case on my own at Justice Court?

Yes. You can file a case only if the incident took place within the county limits. If the incident took place in city limits, you will file in that city court.

17. How can I keep a ticket off my driving record?

You can attend Driving School as long as you have no prior tickets in the last three years and the judge approves it.

18. What if I disagree with the judge's ruling on my case?

You may file an appeal within 30 days on the judge's ruling.

19. My matter is private and I would like to restrict others from the courtroom. Is this possible?

No, all court proceedings must take place in open court to the public.

20. May I call or speak to the judge on my case?

No, this is ex parte communication and is not allowed in the court system.

21. What happens if I do not pay my fine or appear for a hearing?

Your driver's license will be suspended and the judge may issue a warrant for your arrest.

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Juvenile Justice Facility

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1. What items are needed while in detention?

Shampoo and deodorant in clear containers, white thermal underwear, prescription medication, stamps and envelopes.

2. Can I receive or make phone calls?

Juveniles can receive one five minute phone call a day from parents and legal guardians only.

3. How long can I be held in detention until I go to court?

A juvenile has the right to a detention hearing within 48 hours of being arrested, not counting weekends or holidays, and an adjudication hearing within 21 days.

4. Who can visit a juvenile in custody?

Parents and legal guardians only.

5. Can my clergy visit me in detention?

Clergy can visit with a valid picture ID and prior approval by your parent or legal guardian.

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Main

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Planning Department

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1. How can I find out the zoning of my property?

Please contact the Planning Department at (662) 469-8157 for the zoning of your property.

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Procurement

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1. How do I register to become a vendor?

Interested vendors are required to submit the Vendor Certification Form along with their W-9, and if applicable, their credit application. Vendor Certification Form

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Sheriff

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1. How do I file a report?

To file a report, you can call the DeSoto County Sheriff's Department at 662-469-8027 and have a deputy come out to your location. You may also come to the sheriff's department at 3091 Industrial Dr. W. Hernando, MS 38632 to file a report.

2. How do I obtain a copy of a report?

To obtain a copy of a report you may come to the sheriff's department to pick up a copy or call the sheriff's department at 662-469-8027. You must be listed as a complainant or victim in the report to get a copy and also have a valid ID with you. If you are an insurance company or attorney's office, you may mail a request on company letterhead to the Desoto County Sheriff's Department, Attn: Report Request 3091 Industrial Dr. W.. Hernando, MS 38632 and include a check for $10. Reports are generally completed and ready within 5-7 business days. Accident reports can also be obtained by visiting:

eCrash

3. Can I report an anonymous tip about a crime?

Yes. Contact DeSoto CrimeStoppers at 662-429-TIPS (662-429-8477) 

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Sheriff's Department Community Relations

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1. Who would I contact to start a neighborhood watch program?

Deputy Alex Coker of the DeSoto County Sheriff's Department at (662) 469-8786 or acoker@desotocountyms.gov.

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Stormwater

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1. What is Stormwater?

Stormwater is rainwater that collects on our rooftops, parking lots, road ways and other impervious (hard) surfaces. This water flows into the storm drainage system to our local rivers and streams untreated. As stormwater flows along, it picks up harmful pollutants (such as automotive fluids, trash, pet waste, fertilizers, and pesticides) which can harm our drinking water and the wildlife that live in and near our rivers and streams.

2. What is Non-point source pollution?

Non‐point source (NPS) pollution refers to water pollution from diffuse sources. Non‐point source water pollution affects a water body from sources such as polluted runoff from agricultural areas draining into a river, or wind‐borne debris blowing out to sea. Although these pollutants have originated from a point source, the long‐range transportability and multiple sources of the pollutant make it a non‐point source of pollution. Non‐point source pollution can be contrasted with point source pollution, where discharges occur to a body of water or into the atmosphere at a single location.

3. How do nutrients such as nitrogen get into stormwater?

Nutrients can enter stormwater in a variety of ways, including activities from landscaping, leaks from sanitary sewers and septic systems, and animal wastes.

4. Does stormwater get treated at the waste water treatment plant?

No. Stormwater does not get treated at the waste water treatment plant. Stormwater flows untreated to our local rivers and streams.

5. What is impervious surface?

Any hard or disturbed surfaced area that either prevents or slows down the natural entry of water into the soil. Rooftops, buildings, streets, parking lots, sidewalks, asphalt, concrete, other paving, driveways, compacted gravel, patios, artificial turf and storage areas are all examples of impervious surfaces. These improvements affect natural infiltration, create more runoff, increase the rate of runoff and alter runoff patterns of stormwater that drains from an area.

6. Why do we need to manage stormwater runoff?

Polluted stormwater runoff is the number one cause of water pollution in Mississippi. Stormwater is not treated before it enters our waterways. This pollution creates numerous costs to the public and wildlife. 

Polluted water can also hurt wildlife that lives in and around creeks, streams and rivers. Soil erosion covers up fish habitats, fertilizers can cause algae to grow, and oil and chemicals can make fish and animals sick. Having pollutants entering our waterways not only hurts our drinking water, but also harms our environment as well.

The amount or quantity of stormwater is also a problem. When rain water falls on hard surfaces, such as parking lots and roads, it cannot seep into the ground. It runs off to lower areas. This water runoff can cause flooding if there is not adequate drainage to safely carry the water from these hard surfaces to rivers, lakes and streams. Flooding can cause damage to yards, buildings, and vehicles. Flooding can also lead to health hazards, such as mold and disease.

7. How is stormwater pollution managed?

Stormwater is managed by using “Best Management Practices” or BMPs. BMPs are designed to help keep pollutants out of runoff and slow down high volumes of runoff. However, preventing pollution from entering waterways is much more affordable than cleaning it up afterwards. This is the basis of our public education program, and is one of the BMPs that are used.

There are also laws that require people and businesses that disturb the soil to take steps to prevent erosion, as well as laws that make dumping materials into waterways illegal. There are laws about litter, picking up after pets, and dumping materials into storm drains that also help to prevent pollution.

8. Why are BMP’s required for new development?

Environmental regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency and Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality require that new developments use BMP’s to control the runoff rate, so that it is not more than before development began. This can be done using a variety of ways, from detention ponds to underground filtration units. Our ordinance also states the requirements and that new development must manage and control stormwater.

9. What types of pollutants are found in the storm drain system?

We can find a lot of different pollutants in the storm drainage system, including: paint thinner, paint, used motor oil, antifreeze, pesticides and fertilizers, sediments containing heavy metals, paper trash and bottles, human and animal feces, dead animals, and food wrappers.

10. How much are fees and how can I pay?

How much is the Stormwater permitting fee? $100/ac

How much is the re-inspection fee? $100

Can I pay the fees online?  Yes click here

Who do I make the check out to?  DeSoto County Stormwater

Where do I mail the check?

DeSoto County

Dept of Road Management & Engineering

c/o Mrs. Cathy Barham

2373 Gwynn Rd

Nesbit, MS 38651

11. I need Help! Who do I call?

I need to file a stormwmater complaint. Fill out the following Drainage Complaint Form.

I need to speak to the Stormwater Manager.  Contact Road Manager Robert Jarman at 662.469.8730

I need help obtaining a permit.  Contact Civil Engineer Scott Young 662.469.8736

I need to know the status of a permit.  Contact Stormwater Coordinator Cathy Barham at 662.469.8731

I need a stormwater inspection.  Contact Lead Drainage Inspector Coby Ayers at 662.469.8747

I need a driveway culvert inspection.  Contact Surveyor Jack Etheridge at 662.469.8739

What is the Stormwater Hotline? 662.429.8025

What is considered normal business office hours? 7:00 am ‐3:30 pm Monday‐Friday

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Veteran Services

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1. Is DeSoto County Veteran Services affiliated with the Veteran Affairs (VA) Hospital?

No. The Veteran Services Office is a department within DeSoto County, and the mission of this office is to assist all Veterans, Service Members, Surviving Spouses, and Veterans' families with obtaining all deserved Federal and State benefits of which they qualify.

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Voter Registration

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1. Where do I find a sample ballot for the upcoming election?

Use the Voter Registration Inquiry by Name. Look up your name, click display next to your name. You will find your Sample Ballot at the top of the page.

Voter Registration Inquiry by Name & Sample Ballot

2. Where do I register to vote in DeSoto County?

You can register in person or mail the voter registration form to the Circuit Clerk’s office located in the DeSoto County Courthouse at 2535 Hwy 51 South, Room 200 Hernando, MS 38632.

3. What forms of photo ID are required on Election Day?

Any of the following IDs may be used:
A driver's license
A photo ID issued by a branch, department or entity of the State of Mississippi
A United States Passport
A government employee ID card
A firearms license
A student photo ID issued by an accredited Mississippi university, college or community/junior college
A United State military ID
A tribal photo ID
Any other photo ID issued by any branch, department, agency or entity of the United States government or any State government
A Mississippi Voter Identification card

4. Who qualifies for a Free Mississippi Voter Identification Card?

Any eligible voter who does NOT have an acceptable form of photo ID qualifies for a FREE Mississippi Voter Identification card.

5. How does a voter get a Mississippi Voter Identification Card?

To get a FREE Mississippi Voter ID card, the voter must bring any ONE of the following to
the Circuit Clerk’s office:
• Any expired but valid photo identity document having the voter’s name and photograph issued by
the U.S. government or any U.S. state
• A birth certificate or any other document with the voter’s full legal name, date and place of birth
• A Social Security card
• A Medicare card
• A Medicaid card
• A Mississippi Voter Registration Card
• Any of the following, as long as it includes the voter’s name and current address:
• Utility bill issued within the preceding six (6) months
• Bank statement issued within the preceding six (6) months
• Paycheck issued within the preceding six (6) months
• Government check issued within the preceding six (6) months
• IRS Form W-2, Wages and Tax Statement issued within the current calendar year.

6. What if a voter needs transportation to the Circuit Clerk's Office to get the Mississippi Voter ID card?

FREE transportation will be available to voters who need help getting a Mississippi Voter ID card. For more information about this program, contact the Secretary of State's Voter ID toll-free hotline at 1-855-868-3745 or 1-844-678-6837; visit www.MSVoterID.ms.gov or email MSVoterID@sos.ms.gov. Secretary of State Website

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Youth Court

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1. Do I have to bring my child to court if he or she is in school?

Yes. You may ask for a school excuse after your child’s hearing is completed.

2. Does the Juvenile Court handle private custody matters?

No. The Juvenile Court only handles custody matters that involve abuse, neglect, and delinquency issues. Juvenile Court does not handle matters between parents.

3. Does Juvenile Court handle child support issues between parents?

No. Those matters are heard by a different court.

4. Do both parents have to be served for court?

Yes. The clerk of the court must issue a summons to the child named in the petition, the person or persons who have custody or control of the child; the parent or guardian of the child if such parent or guardian does not have custody of the child; and any other person whom the court deems necessary.

5. If a child’s parent is not active in the child’s life, does he or she have to be notified of the court proceedings?

Yes. The parent must be personally served unless service is waived, notarized,and returned to the court prior to the child’s court date.

6. What do I wear to court?

You should dress comfortably, but not too casually. Dress for court as if you were going to work or an important event. You might want to wear layered clothing since courtroom temperatures may vary considerably, requiring the removal or addition of a sweater or jacket. House slippers or pajamas are not permitted. Cellular phones are not allowed in the courtroom. Hats are only allowed to be worn in the courtroom for religious reasons.

7. What if I cannot afford an attorney for my child?

In all delinquency cases, you can request that an attorney be appointed for your child at no cost if you are unable to afford representation for your child. At the first appearance court date, you will be given the opportunity to swear out an affidavit requesting a free attorney be appointed for your child.