Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about county services.
Car Tags
How do I renew my car tag?
Renew online through IBC Payments or at the Tax Collector’s office. Only tags that are currently due can be renewed online. Past-due solid waste fees must be paid before a vehicle registration can be renewed.
When I sell my car, do I keep the tag?
Yes. If the tag has not expired, bring the tag and your original receipt to the Tax Collector; you may be eligible for a credit voucher against future taxes.
Where do I get a car tag or license plate?
The Tax Collector issues car and truck tags. You have 7 working days from the date of purchase to register a vehicle. New residents from another state have 30 days to get a Mississippi plate; new residents from another Mississippi county can wait until their next renewal. Bring your registration and/or title.
Courts
Where do I get records of criminal history, civil lawsuits and tax liens?
Contact the Circuit Clerk’s office at 601-469-3601.
Elections
How do I qualify as a candidate in an upcoming election?
Contact the Circuit Clerk’s office for qualifying paperwork and deadlines.
How do I register to vote?
You must be at least 18 and register at least 30 days before an election to vote in it. Register at the Circuit Clerk’s office; it helps to know your 911 address and Social Security number.
How do I vote absentee?
You can request an absentee ballot by mail up to 45 days before an election, or vote absentee in person at the Circuit Clerk’s office.
Where do I vote?
Find your polling place with the Mississippi Secretary of State polling place locator, or call the Circuit Clerk’s office at 601-469-3601.
General
Do I need a license or permit to open a business?
Yes. Inside city limits, the city issues the license. Outside city limits, the county Tax Collector issues your license.
How do I get a 911 address?
Contact the Board of Supervisors permitting office at 601-333-0115 or cd@scottcountyms.gov to start an application. The E-911/EMA office assigns the address. It helps to know the name of your nearest street and your nearest neighbors.
How do I get a passport?
Apply at the Chancery Clerk’s office. Bring two passport photos, a certified birth certificate with a seal, and a photo ID. It takes about six weeks to receive a passport. For details, call 601-469-1922 or visit travel.state.gov.
How do I report a missed garbage pickup?
Contact Meridian Waste at 1-866-440-3983 or CustomerCareMS@meridianwaste.com.
How do I report a wastewater or sewage problem?
Contact the Mississippi State Department of Health, or file a complaint online at healthyms.com/wwcomplaint.
How do I request public records?
Use the public records request form. Some offices have their own records policies, so contact the office that holds the record for details.
I have a question about jury duty. Who do I contact?
Contact the Circuit Clerk’s office at 601-469-3601.
Where is the courthouse?
The Scott County Courthouse is at 100 East Main Street, Forest, MS 39074. See Contact for directions and office locations.
Who is my supervisor?
Call the Board of Supervisors office at 601-469-1926 for help finding your district and supervisor.
Homestead
Do I have to refile for homestead every year?
No. Once approved, the exemption applies automatically each year unless there is a change in filing status, such as a deed change, marriage, divorce or death of a spouse or joint owner. Contact the Tax Assessor’s office if your situation changes.
How do I apply for the special (over 65 or disabled) homestead exemption?
Homeowners who are eligible for homestead exemption and who turn 65 or are classified as 100% disabled may apply for additional exemption benefits. The age or disability status must be established by January 1 of the year you apply. Apply in person at the Tax Assessor’s office.
What do I do if I move from my homestead property?
Come to the Tax Assessor’s office and sign a “Request to Delete Homestead” form.
What is the deadline for applying for homestead exemption?
Applications are accepted from January 1 through April 1. Apply by April 1 of the year after you move into your home.
Land Records
Where do I file a land deed?
Land deeds are filed with the Chancery Clerk’s office, in person or by e-recording.
Where do I get records of divorces, estates, land, delinquent taxes, or Board minutes and orders?
Contact the Chancery Clerk’s office at 601-469-1922.
Marriage & Divorce
How do I get a marriage license?
The Circuit Clerk’s office issues marriage licenses. See Get a marriage license for what to bring.
Taxes
How do I pay delinquent taxes?
Delinquent land taxes and property sold at a tax sale are handled by the Chancery Clerk’s office (601-469-1922). Delinquent personal property taxes are collected by American Financial Credit Services (AFCS); see Pay online.
How do I pay my land taxes?
Pay online through the county’s payment processor, IBC Payments, or in person at the Tax Collector’s office.