Rate Breakdown

Property taxes in Sherburne County are calculated by multiplying the assessed value (minus exemptions) by the total local millage rate.

How Property Tax Works in Sherburne County

In Sherburne County, property taxes are determined by a combination of the property’s estimated market value and the local tax rates set by taxing authorities. Each year, the County Assessor determines the estimated market value of your property based on current real estate market trends. This value is adjusted for any applicable exclusions, such as the homestead market value exclusion, to arrive at your taxable market value.

The total tax amount is calculated using the local tax rate, often referred to as the mill rate or levy. This rate is set by various jurisdictions, including the county, your city or township, and your school district. Because these entities determine their budget needs annually, the tax rate fluctuates based on the total assessed value of all properties within the district. Essentially, your tax bill represents your proportional share of the funding required to support local public services, such as road maintenance, law enforcement, and education.

Available Exemptions

Minnesota offers several property tax relief programs to help eligible homeowners reduce their tax burden. These programs are designed to assist specific populations:

• Homestead Classification: If you own and occupy your property as your primary residence, you may qualify for the homestead classification, which often provides a lower tax rate and potential market value exclusions.
• Senior Citizen Property Tax Deferral: Seniors aged 65 and older with a household income of $96,000 or less may be eligible to defer a portion of their property taxes.
• Disability Exemptions: Veterans with a service-connected disability rating may qualify for the Market Value Exclusion program, which significantly reduces the taxable value of their homestead.
• Special Homestead Classification: Available for those who are permanently and totally disabled, providing additional tax relief based on specific income criteria.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Sherburne County are generally due in two installments. For residential homestead properties, the first half is due by May 15, and the second half is due by October 15. If the due date falls on a weekend, the deadline is extended to the next business day.

Failure to pay by these deadlines results in penalties. A late payment penalty is added to the unpaid balance, which increases the longer the delinquency persists. Continued failure to pay may lead to the property being placed in a tax judgment status, which can eventually result in tax forfeiture proceedings. It is highly recommended to pay on time or contact the Sherburne County Treasurer’s office if you are experiencing financial hardship.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s estimated market value is inaccurate or higher than the current market value, you have the right to appeal. The process begins at the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization, typically held in the spring. You must first contact your local assessor’s office to discuss your concerns. If a resolution is not reached, you may present evidence—such as recent appraisals or sales data of comparable homes—to the Board. If you remain dissatisfied, you may further appeal to the County Board of Appeal and Equalization or the Minnesota Tax Court.