Wayne County Commission approves $2M for Wayne County Register of Deed

Published on September 17, 2026

The Wayne County Commission approved $2 million in the Fiscal Year 2026- 27 Comprehensive Budget to fund the Wayne County Register of Deeds Quiet Title Initiative. The program will assist Detroit and Wayne County residents in clarifying property ownership by addressing and clearing competing title claims - helping to establish clear and marketable property titles.

Quiet Title is an action in a proper Court to remove record defects or possible claims of other parties named in the action. This initiative is designed to streamline title resolution and reduce the cost and time compared to a standard quiet title lawsuit, while ensuring the Register of Deeds' role in official recording is fulfilled.

Under Michigan law, the Wayne County Land Bank (WCLB) has unique authority to file expedited quiet title actions in Wayne County Circuit Court. This process can quickly remove clouds on a property's title - such as liens, disputes, or other encumbrances - and result in a clear, marketable title. The cost is $1,500 per parcel for the Land Bank's quiet title action.

The Wayne County Register of Deeds maintains the official land records and records the final quiet title judgment once issued by the court. While the Register of Deeds does not initiate quiet title actions, it:

• Provides the official recording of the judgment;
• Offers land record searches and copies for due diligence; and
• Enforces appointment-only service for document recording.

A quiet title action is useful if there is a "cloud on title" (e.g., liens, disputes, unknown encumbrances) as a "clear title" is needed to sell, mortgage, or develop the property. This program offers residents with a faster, lower-cost alternative to a traditional court action.

To check for eligibility, confirm the property is within Wayne County and the title defect is eligible for Land Bank action. Visit www.waynecountylandbank.com to download and submit the intake form to then follow up with the Land Bank for case status and court filings.

For more information, contact the Register of Deeds Office at (313) 224-5850 or email rodhelp@waynecountymi.gov.