Bolthole Index

Pennington County, Minnesota

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Pennington County, Minnesota

61Index Score / 100
#32 of 87 in Minnesota

In unincorporated Pennington County, Minnesota, building permits are required for code-regulated work where the State Building Code is locally enforced; we could not confirm the enforcing authority1. Zoning varies by parcel, and Smiley Township requires its own zoning application for construction and specified changes2. Pennington SWCD handles county septic permits for installing, replacing or repairing systems3.

Do you need a building permit in Pennington County, Minnesota?

The Minnesota State Building Code is the statewide construction standard, including in Pennington County, but local enforcement depends on adoption; we could not confirm the enforcing authority for unincorporated land.

The Minnesota State Building Code is the statewide construction standard, including in Pennington County, but local enforcement depends on adoption; we could not confirm the enforcing authority for unincorporated land4. Where enforced, code-regulated construction, alterations, demolition, occupancy changes and building systems require a building permit before work begins1. A building permit triggers on-site compliance inspections, and covered buildings require a certificate of occupancy before use11,12. Agricultural buildings on agricultural land are exempt from the code and its building permit and fee, subject to specified state exceptions11. Temporary buildings and manufactured-home installations require building permits where the code is enforced4,11.

Who issues building permits in Pennington County?

We could not confirm a dedicated Pennington County building department or local building official; start with the Auditor-Treasurer’s Office at 218-683-7000 to identify the authority for unincorporated land.

We could not confirm a dedicated Pennington County building department or local building official; start with the Auditor-Treasurer’s Office at 218-683-7000 to identify the authority for unincorporated land7. In Smiley Township, submit a signed Zoning Permit Application and site plan to the Town Clerk before new structures, additions, moves, footprint changes or specified use changes2. Pennington SWCD remains the contact for county septic permits and shoreland permits3,6. Smiley’s published zoning fees are $150 for a new home or business and $75 for other uses, subject to Town Board amendment; a conditional-use application costs $5002. We could not confirm a county building-permit fee schedule; request one from the applicable building official7,11.

Does Pennington County have zoning?

Pennington County zoning varies by parcel: Smiley Township zones its unincorporated area, and Thief River Falls administers city zoning inside city limits.

Pennington County zoning varies by parcel: Smiley Township zones its unincorporated area, and Thief River Falls administers city zoning inside city limits2,13. Pennington SWCD is the county septic contact; Thief River Falls also requires a permit for sewage-treatment installation or alteration3,14. Smiley’s Town Clerk maintains the zoning map; districts include Agricultural Residential and Suburban Residential, so identify the parcel’s district before designing a home2. Agricultural Residential generally requires 4 acres per dwelling, as does non-platted Suburban Residential; platted Suburban Residential minimums are 9,000 square feet for a one-family lot and 12,000 for a two-family lot2. Smiley setbacks vary by district, lot type and road classification2. Shoreland permits apply separately, and the SWCD directs owners in Rocksbury, North, Norden, Sanders and Numedal Townships to their township clerks for other required permits6. County-administered zoning elsewhere remains unconfirmed; ask the Auditor-Treasurer’s Office who serves the parcel7,15.

How do septic permits work in Pennington County?

Pennington County administers a septic program that reviews plans, approves permits and inspects new and replacement systems; Pennington SWCD states that county septic permits are required to install, replace or repair a system and provides the application.

Pennington County administers a septic program that reviews plans, approves permits and inspects new and replacement systems; Pennington SWCD states that county septic permits are required to install, replace or repair a system and provides the application3,5. New and replacement systems must be inspected, but we could not confirm Pennington County's inspection stages or whether a property transfer triggers a compliance inspection5. Pennington County's soil mapping shows 0% of soils without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so arrange a site evaluation before fixing the house location or purchase budget16. In a shoreland area, the county requires a compliant septic system before issuing the shoreland permit6. Cities and townships may impose septic ordinances at least as stringent as the county's5.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Pennington County?

We could not confirm a Pennington County rule allowing or prohibiting long-term occupancy of a single RV or tiny home, so get a parcel-specific answer from the applicable county or township authority before moving one onto the land.

We could not confirm a Pennington County rule allowing or prohibiting long-term occupancy of a single RV or tiny home, so get a parcel-specific answer from the applicable county or township authority before moving one onto the land7,15. Smiley’s Agricultural Residential and non-platted Suburban Residential dwelling minimum is 900 square feet per unit; platted Suburban Residential requires 1,100 for a one-family dwelling and 950 per unit for a two-family dwelling, which limits small-home options in those districts2. Smiley allows manufactured or mobile homes in its Agricultural Residential district only when they meet state requirements and receive Town Board approval2. A tiny home still needs a legal sanitation plan, and shoreland construction may require a separate county permit6,17.

What are the steps to build in Pennington County?

Ask the Auditor-Treasurer's Office which building authority serves the parcel and whether the Minnesota State Building Code is locally enforced.

  1. Ask the Auditor-Treasurer's Office which building authority serves the parcel and whether the Minnesota State Building Code is locally enforced4,7.
  2. Identify the parcel's zoning authority; Smiley Township enforces its own ordinance, and ask the township clerk in Rocksbury, North, Norden, Sanders or Numedal about other required permits2,6. In Smiley, confirm the applicable lot size, setbacks, dwelling size and current zoning permit fee before design2.
  3. Have Pennington SWCD review the septic site and submit the required septic permit application before fixing the house location5,16.
  4. Obtain any required SWCD shoreland permit and ask which floodplain requirements apply before choosing a building site6,18.
  5. File the required state notification and fee before a contractor drills a water-supply well10.
  6. Secure County Engineer approval before changing a driveway, culvert or other work inside county road right-of-way9.
  7. Complete required inspections and obtain the certificate of occupancy before using a covered building11,12.

What should you check before buying land in Pennington County?

Start with wastewater: Pennington County maps 0% of its soils as free of severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so make an acceptable septic design or contingency part of the purchase decision.

Start with wastewater: Pennington County maps 0% of its soils as free of severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so make an acceptable septic design or contingency part of the purchase decision16. Most land is gentle, with 99.6% at a slope of 15% or less, but flat ground does not eliminate drainage, wet-soil or floodplain concerns16. Verify legal access and ask the County Engineer whether a driveway or culvert would enter county right-of-way9. Confirm shoreland and floodplain status before choosing a building site; structures governed by the county floodplain ordinance must meet state and local requirements6,18. Budget separately for a private well and file the state notification before drilling10. Finally, identify the parcel's zoning authority: Smiley has specific lot, setback and dwelling-size standards, but countywide rules and long-term RV occupancy remain unconfirmed2,7,15.

Watch-outs

  • Pennington County's local State Building Code enforcement authority could not be confirmed; ask the Auditor-Treasurer's Office who has jurisdiction before beginning code-regulated work4,7.
  • Smiley Township enforces parcel-specific lot, setback and dwelling-size rules, but county-administered districts elsewhere could not be confirmed2,15.
  • Shoreland construction has a separate permit path, and a compliant septic system is required before the shoreland permit is issued6.
  • Pennington County maps 0% of soils as free of severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so obtain a site evaluation early16.

Sources

18 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 10, 2026

  1. Overview of the Minnesota State Building Code
  2. Smiley Township Zoning Ordinance
  3. Pennington Soil and Water Conservation District (SSTS Program) (penningtonswcd.org)
  4. Minnesota Statutes section 326B.121
  5. Local septic system programs
  6. Pennington Soil and Water Conservation District (Shoreland Program) (penningtonswcd.org)
  7. Pennington County Auditor-Treasurer's Office (co.pennington.mn.us)
  8. Minnesota Statutes § 326B.805 — Exemptions
  9. Pennington County Highway Department (County Engineer's Office) (co.pennington.mn.us)
  10. Constructing a New Water-Supply Well in Minnesota
  11. Code Adoption Guide
  12. Minnesota Rules 1300.0220 — Certificate of Occupancy
  13. Thief River Falls: official source (Pennington County)
  14. Thief River Falls: Chapter 152 zoning code, Sec. 152.112 (Pennington County)
  15. (2026 county census)
  16. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  17. Minnesota Administrative Rules, part 7080.2450 Maintenance (Minnesota statewide rule)
  18. Pennington County Board minutes, February 23, 2021

Written October 10, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like 4 of its 6 neighbors, Pennington County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RulePennington CountyRed Lake CountyMarshall CountyPolk CountyClearwater CountyRoseau CountyNorman County
Building permitLimitedLimitedLimitedRequiredLimitedLimitedRequired
County zoningNot publishedYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsPennington CountyCounty Env. ServicesCounty Env. ServicesCounty Env. ServicesCounty Office of Env. ServicesCounty Env. ServicesCounty Env. Services Dept.

County locator

Pennington County in Minnesota

61
County map
Pennington County highlighted among the Minnesota counties · colored by Index score

How Pennington County scores

61 / 100 · #32 of 87 in Minnesota · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion77100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency32100% ev.
Admin Boringness6277% ev.
Durability48100% ev.
Property Autonomy65100% ev.
Carry Cost7796% ev.

Evidence strength: 96%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$196kTypical home
1.2%Property tax
$3,241Land / acre
22.5"Annual rain
7.7% of yrsSevere drought
1 / yr (+1)Mid-century 100°F days
16.2 daysMid-century dry spell
1.61" (+5.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.76×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,530Home insurance / yr
3.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.47%Nonrenewal rate
single ZIP shrunk to state medianInsurance basis
12,699People within 30 min
241,727People within 2 hr
15,852Radius comparison (15 mi)
22.2People / sq mi
0.5%Federal land
99.6%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
0 acWorkable land screen
9.8%Wooded land
22.6 tonsBiomass / forest ac
39.4°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Pennington County

Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.

Not yet covered: Highlanding Township

Answers from the rulebook for Pennington County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Pennington County rules

  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Countywide aggregate of local land-use controls in Pennington County; zoning is administered through different authorities, including Pennington County and township or municipal governments, rather than by the county alone in every location.

    • The official Smiley Township ordinance states that the unincorporated area of Smiley Township is divided into zoning districts and that the Town Board administers and enforces the ordinance.
    • The ordinance also references separate Pennington County ordinances and state requirements.
    • An official Pennington County lease states that uses may be subject to the City of Thief River Falls and/or Pennington County zoning ordinance.
    • Municipal and township rules must be checked for the particular parcel.
    “Whenever any provision of this Ordinance imposes requirements more stringent than required by existing statutes and regulations of the State of Minnesota or any other ordinance or regulation of Pennington County or the Township, the provisions of this Ordinance shall govern. [...] It shall be the duty of the Town Board to administer and enforce the provisions of this Ordinance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies — County aggregate of local zoning: at least Smiley Township administers its own zoning ordinance for its unincorporated area, while local zoning may differ among townships and municipalities within Pennington County.
      “AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE ZONING OF THE UNINCORPORATED AREAS OF SMILEY TOWNSHIP, PENNINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    SSTS administration in Pennington County.

    • Pennington County must administer an SSTS program complying with Minnesota rules.
    • Cities and townships may regulate septic systems only through ordinances at least as stringent as the county ordinance.
    • The MPCA establishes technical and compliance criteria and local-program requirements.
    “Minnesota counties are required to adopt SSTS ordinances and administer SSTS programs that comply with state rules. Cities and townships may choose to regulate septic systems; if they do, their ordinance must be at least as stringent as the county's.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County (with conditions) — Subsurface sewage treatment systems in Pennington County under Minnesota's required local SSTS program.
      “Minnesota counties are required to adopt SSTS ordinances and administer SSTS programs that comply with state rules. Cities and townships may choose to regulate septic systems; if they do, their ordinance must be at least as stringent as the county's.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New or replacement SSTS in Pennington County.

    • The county program must comply with state rules.
    • Local ordinances may impose requirements stricter than state minimums.
    • The MPCA describes local programs as reviewing plans and approving permits.
    “Counties and other local governments with SSTS programs enforce rules, review plans, approve permits and inspect new/replacement systems, and ensure compliance when a system owner has been issued a notice of noncompliance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — SSTS permits and plan approvals in Pennington County.
      “Counties and other local governments with SSTS programs enforce rules, review plans, approve permits and inspect new/replacement systems, and ensure compliance when a system owner has been issued a notice of noncompliance.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    New and replacement SSTS in Pennington County.

    • County and other local SSTS programs inspect new/replacement systems.
    • Some local programs require compliance inspections before property transfer; the cited source does not establish whether Pennington County does so.
    • Local requirements may exceed state minimums.
    “Counties and other local governments with SSTS programs enforce rules, review plans, approve permits and inspect new/replacement systems, and ensure compliance when a system owner has been issued a notice of noncompliance.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Development and structures in Pennington County floodplain areas governed by the county floodplain ordinance; Goodridge was described as unmapped and the City of Thief River Falls as having its own floodplain ordinance.

    • Structures in the floodplain must meet state and local requirements.
    • The 2022 county update used old and new floodplain maps; the county minutes state that Goodridge is not in a floodplain area and is unmapped.
    • The City of Thief River Falls has its own floodplain ordinance.
    • The complete current ordinance text, effective date, permit triggers, mapped-area limits, and exceptions were not located.
    “the Floodplain Ordinance allows structures in the floodplain if they meet State and Local requirements.”

Minnesota rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    Construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, demolition, or occupancy changes involving buildings or structures, and regulated gas, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, or other equipment, in Minnesota jurisdictions where the State Building Code is administered and enforced.

    • The State Building Code is the statewide construction standard for buildings and structures governed by the code.
    • The work must be preceded by an application to the building official and issuance of the required permit.
    • Municipalities that had adopted the State Building Code as of January 1, 2008 generally must continue administering and enforcing it; the statutory exception is for municipalities with a population under 2,500 located outside a metropolitan county.
    • A municipality not required to administer and enforce the code may choose to do so by adopting the code by ordinance.
    • Permits are not required for listed exempt work, including one-story detached accessory structures used as tool or storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses not exceeding 200 square feet; fences not over seven feet; and other exemptions in Minnesota Rules part 1300.0120, subpart 4.
    • Permit exemptions do not authorize work violating the State Building Code or other applicable laws or ordinances.
    • Ordinary repairs are exempt only when they do not include specified structural, egress, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, or public-health or general-safety work.

    detached accessory structure exemption floor area: <= 200 square feet (one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses) · fence exemption height: <= 7 feet · emergency repair permit application deadline: next working business day (equipment replacements and repairs performed in an emergency situation)

    “An owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any gas, mechanical, electrical, plumbing system, or other equipment, the installation of which is regulated by the code; or cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, movement, demolition, occupancy changes, and regulated building systems in Pennington County that are subject to the Minnesota State Building Code.
      “An owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any gas, mechanical, electrical, plumbing system, or other equipment, the installation of which is regulated by the code; or cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.”
    • Limited — Construction and alterations governed by the Minnesota State Building Code, including applicable work in Pennington County.
      “Generally, a building permit would not be required for a one-story detached accessory building less than 120 square feet in size. Agricultural buildings located on land defined as agricultural land are also exempt. A building permit would be required for a temporary building.”
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, relocation, demolition, occupancy changes, and regulated building systems covered by the State Building Code.
      “An owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any gas, mechanical, electrical, plumbing system, or other equipment, the installation of which is regulated by the code; or cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    An owner of residential real estate who personally builds or improves residential real estate, as an exemption from the residential contractor licensing requirement.

    • The owner must occupy or intend to occupy the residential real estate for residential purposes, or retain ownership for rental purposes after completion.
    • The exemption does not apply when the owner constructs or improves residential real estate for resale or speculation.
    • An owner is presumed to be building or improving for speculation if the owner constructs or improves more than one property within any 24-month period, unless the properties will be retained for rental purposes.
    • This is a contractor-licensing exemption and does not waive applicable building permits, inspections, or certificates of occupancy.

    speculation presumption threshold: > 1 additional property within 24 months (The presumption does not apply if the properties will be retained by the owner for rental purposes.)

    “The license requirement does not apply to: [...] an owner of residential real estate who builds or improves residential real estate”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Owner of residential real estate performing construction or improvements on the owner's residential property.
      “The license requirement does not apply to: [...] (3) an owner of residential real estate who builds or improves residential real estate if the owner occupies or will occupy the residential real estate for residential purposes, or will retain ownership for rental purposes upon completion of the building or improvement.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, and use of buildings and other structures of the type governed by the Minnesota State Building Code throughout Minnesota.

    • The State Building Code supersedes the building code of any municipality.
    • The State Building Code does not apply to agricultural buildings except for the state inspections and rulemaking identified in Minnesota Statutes section 326B.121, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), clause (1), and the structural-support requirement for translucent panels or other skylights without raised curbs in clause (2).
    • The 2020 Minnesota State Building Code is effective March 31, 2020, except the Minnesota Mechanical Fuel Gas Code, which is effective April 6, 2020.
    • Municipal enforcement generally requires adoption by local ordinance, subject to statutory requirements for certain municipalities and statutory enforcement responsibilities where no adoption ordinance is in effect.
    • The 2024 Minnesota Commercial Energy Code is effective January 5, 2024.
    • Requirements for adult changing stations are effective August 15, 2025, and requirements for window-cleaning safety features are effective November 7, 2025, according to the Department of Labor and Industry update page.

    2020 Minnesota State Building Code effective date: 2020-03-31 (Minnesota Mechanical Fuel Gas Code effective 2020-04-06) · 2024 Minnesota Commercial Energy Code effective date: 2024-01-05 · Adult changing station supplement effective date: 2025-08-15 · Window-cleaning safety feature supplement effective date: 2025-11-07

    “(a) The State Building Code is the standard that applies statewide for the construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, and use of buildings and other structures of the type governed by the code.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Buildings and structures governed by the Minnesota State Building Code in Minnesota, including Pennington County where the code applies.
      “The State Building Code is the standard that applies statewide for the construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, and use of buildings and other structures of the type governed by the code.”
    • Partial — State Building Code standards applicable in Pennington County.
      “The State Building Code is the standard that applies statewide for the construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, and use of buildings and other structures of the type governed by the code.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Construction or work for which a Minnesota State Building Code permit is required.

    • The work must remain accessible and exposed until approved.
    • The permit applicant must cause the work to remain accessible and exposed for inspection.
    • The building official identifies required inspections; the permit holder must maintain the inspection record card until final approval.
    • Work may not proceed beyond each successive inspection point without building-official approval; noncomplying portions must be corrected and may not be covered or concealed until authorized.
    “Construction or work for which a permit is required is subject to inspection by the building official”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Work for which a Minnesota State Building Code building permit is issued.
      “Yes. Some form of on-site compliance inspection is required whenever a building permit is issued. The SBC specifically defines inspections that are required.”
    • Required — Work for which a State Building Code permit is required.
      “Construction or work for which a permit is required is subject to inspection by the building official and the construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes until approved.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Use or occupancy of buildings and structures, and changes in existing occupancy classification, in Minnesota jurisdictions administering and enforcing the State Building Code.

    • A building or structure may not be used or occupied, and an existing occupancy classification may not be changed, until the building official issues a certificate of occupancy under Minnesota Rules part 1300.0220.
    • The rule applies through the building official and therefore depends on the relevant jurisdiction administering and enforcing the State Building Code.
    • Issuance of a certificate of occupancy is not approval of a violation of the code or other municipal ordinances; a certificate purporting to authorize violation or cancellation of those requirements is invalid.
    • A municipality has the option of requiring certificates of occupancy for U occupancies constructed under the International Building Code, accessory structures constructed under the International Residential Code, and used manufactured homes moved into or within a jurisdiction.
    • Legal occupancy of a structure existing on the date of code adoption may continue without change.
    • A temporary certificate may be issued before all permitted work is complete if the occupied portion can be occupied safely; the building official sets its validity period.

    optional certificate category: U occupancies constructed under the International Building Code (municipality has the option of requiring a certificate) · optional certificate category: accessory structures constructed under the International Residential Code (municipality has the option of requiring a certificate) · optional certificate category: used manufactured homes moved into or within a jurisdiction (municipality has the option of requiring a certificate)

    “No building or structure shall be used or occupied, and no change in the existing occupancy classification of a building, structure, or portion of a building or structure shall be made until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy for the building or structure under this part.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Use, occupancy, or change of occupancy classification of buildings governed by Minnesota Rule 1300.0220.
      “No building or structure shall be used or occupied, and no change in the existing occupancy classification of a building, structure, or portion of a building or structure shall be made until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy for the building or structure under this part.”
    • Required — Buildings and structures governed by the Minnesota State Building Code.
      “No building or structure shall be used or occupied, and no change in the existing occupancy classification of a building, structure, or portion of a building or structure shall be made until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy for the building or structure under this part.”
  • Zoning districtsPartial

    Minnesota DNR model floodplain ordinance district classifications, not every local zoning ordinance.

    • The model ordinance identifies floodway, flood fringe, and A Zones (general floodplain) as separate districts.
    • The model ordinance is a model resource; local adoption and local zoning maps determine applicability.
    • This claim does not establish that every Minnesota jurisdiction uses these districts.
    “This model includes the three primary types of floodplain districts: Floodway, Flood Fringe, and General Floodplain. As presented, it incorporates ordinance provisions for a community that has all three districts present on their Flood Insurance Rate Maps. Local communities are encouraged to work with DNR to tailor the language based on the flood districts present in the community.”
  • SetbacksNone

    Minimum property-line setbacks for storage sheds under the 2020 Minnesota Residential Code.

    • The 2020 Minnesota Residential Code does not establish a minimum property-line setback for storage sheds.
    • Local zoning ordinances may regulate property-line setbacks and the size and number of accessory structures.
    • Storage sheds cannot be constructed within drainage and utility easements.
    • Shed exterior walls less than five feet from the property line must be one-hour fire-resistance rated.
    • Roof eave projections equal to or greater than two feet and less than five feet from the property line must be one-hour fire-resistance rated; no projections are permitted within two feet of the fire-separation distance.

    exterior-wall fire-resistance threshold: < 5 feet from property line (One-hour fire-resistance rating required for shed exterior walls.) · eave-projection fire-resistance range: 2 to less than 5 feet from property line (One-hour fire-resistance rating required.)

    “The 2020 MNRC does not address minimum property line setback requirements for storage sheds. Local zoning ordinances may regulate property line setbacks and the size and number of accessory structures permitted on a property. Storage sheds cannot be constructed within a property's drainage and utility easements.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Buildings accessory to residential uses in the Capitol Area where Minnesota Rules parts 2400.2600 to 2400.2635 apply.
      “Buildings accessory to residential uses must be set back at least three feet from all interior lot lines and one foot from any lot line adjoining an alley. Accessory buildings on corner lots must be set back the same distance as the principal building from the street side lot line.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Accessory buildings on a zoning lot in the Capitol Area where Minnesota Rules parts 2400.2600 to 2400.2635 apply.

    • The accessory-building ground-floor area must not exceed 1,000 square feet.
    • The accessory-building ground-floor area must not exceed the ground-floor area of the principal building.
    • The standards apply throughout all or a portion of the Capitol Area.

    maximum accessory-building rear-yard occupancy: <= 35 percent of rear yard area · maximum total accessory-building ground-floor area: <= 1000 square feet (Also may not exceed the ground-floor area of the principal building.)

    “Accessory buildings on a zoning lot may occupy up to 35 percent of the rear yard area. The total ground floor area of all accessory buildings must not exceed 1,000 square feet, and shall not exceed the ground floor area of the principal building.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational camping areas (five or more tents or recreational camping vehicles) on private or public land; this does not address RV occupancy on a single private lot

    • Operating a recreational camping area requires an annual license from the state Department of Health, including plan review approval.
    • The definition covers use on a daily, nightly, weekly, or longer basis; no occupancy duration limit is stated.
    • Excluded: children's camps, industrial camps, migrant labor camps, US Forest Service and state forest service camps, certain state wildlife management and public access areas, temporary holding areas at motor sports facilities, and private club camping no more than once a year for no more than seven consecutive days.
    • Special event recreational camping areas operate no more than two times annually and no more than 14 consecutive days.
    • Statewide statutes found do not set rules for a single RV on private land; that is left to local zoning, which was not researched here.

    minimum units for recreational camping area: >= 5 tents or recreational camping vehicles

    “no person, firm or corporation shall establish, maintain, conduct or operate a manufactured home park or recreational camping area within this state without first obtaining an annual license from the state department of health.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Private or public areas accommodating five or more tents or recreational camping vehicles on a daily, nightly, weekly, or longer basis

    • An annual license from the Minnesota Department of Health is required before establishing, maintaining, conducting, or operating a recreational camping area.
    • The license requires application, payment of the statutory fee, and approval for operation including plan review.
    • A recreational camping area excludes children's camps, industrial camps, migrant labor camps, United States Forest Service camps, state forest service camps, qualifying state wildlife-management or state-owned public-access areas, qualifying temporary holding areas adjacent to motorsports facilities, and a privately owned area used by a private club no more than once annually and no longer than seven consecutive days.
    • A special event recreational camping area operates no more than two times annually and for no more than 14 consecutive days.
    • The statute does not resolve local zoning or land-use requirements.

    minimum accommodated tents or recreational camping vehicles: >= 5 units (Statutory exclusions apply.) · special event operating frequency: <= 2 times annually (Special event recreational camping area.) · special event duration: <= 14 consecutive days (Special event recreational camping area.) · annual license base fee for recreational camping area with 24 or fewer sites: 100 USD (Additional $8 per licensed site; special event areas are excluded from that per-site paragraph.) · annual license base fee for recreational camping area with 25 to 99 sites: 410 USD (Additional $8 per licensed site; special event areas are excluded from that per-site paragraph.) · annual license base fee for recreational camping area with 100 or more sites: 610 USD (Additional $8 per licensed site; special event areas are excluded from that per-site paragraph.)

    “"Recreational camping area" means any area, whether privately or publicly owned, used on a daily, nightly, weekly, or longer basis for the accommodation of five or more tents or recreational camping vehicles free of charge or for compensation. [...] "Special event recreational camping area" means a recreational camping area which operates no more than two times annually and for no more than 14 consecutive days. [...] No person, firm or corporation shall establish, maintain, conduct or operate a manufactured home park or recreational camping area within this state without first obtaining an annual license from the state Department of Health.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Construction and residential use of tiny houses statewide, subject to the Minnesota State Building Code and applicable municipal zoning ordinances.

    • The Minnesota State Building Code applies statewide to construction of buildings, including tiny houses.
    • Municipal zoning ordinances vary by municipality and regulate land use, location, height, width, foundation type, number of stories, and building size.
    • The jurisdiction must be consulted for local zoning specifics.
    • Tiny houses used as dwelling units must comply with the Minnesota Residential Code unless otherwise stated in Appendix Q.
    • A tiny house is a dwelling of 400 square feet or less in floor area, excluding lofts.
    • Applicable requirements include light, ventilation, heating, minimum room sizes, ceiling heights, sanitation, toilet, bath and shower spaces, emergency escape and rescue openings, means of egress, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide alarms.

    maximum tiny-house floor area: <= 400 square feet (lofts excluded) · minimum habitable-space and hallway ceiling height: >= 6.67 feet (6 feet 8 inches) · minimum bathroom, toilet-room, and kitchen ceiling height: >= 6.33 feet (6 feet 4 inches)

    “The Minnesota State Building Code is the standard of construction that applies statewide for the construction of buildings (MS 326B.121) including tiny houses.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    New manufactured homes installed for occupancy statewide in Minnesota

    • Inspection is required under Federal Installation Standards Programs, CFR 3285 and 3286.
    • Manufactured-home alterations require documentation submitted for review to the Department of Labor and Industry or the local authority having jurisdiction before work begins.
    • Local building officials and local code enforcement may apply depending on the municipality.
    “All new manufactured homes installed in Minnesota for occupancy are required to be inspected according to the Federal Installation Standards Programs, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 3285 and 3286.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Temporary family health care dwellings used as a narrow accessory residential dwelling category statewide, where the municipality has not opted out of Minnesota Statutes § 462.3593.

    • The dwelling must be primarily assembled away from its installation site, be no more than 300 gross square feet, lack a permanent foundation, meet state-recognized accessibility standards, provide water and electric utilities, use compatible exterior materials, have at least R-15 insulation, be transportable by the specified truck types, comply with Minnesota Rules chapter 1360 or 1361 with the required seal and data plate or ANSI Code 119.2, and have a backflow check valve.
    • A caregiver or relative must apply for a municipal temporary dwelling permit with the required signatures and documentation, including provider-network proof, medical certification, septic-service documentation, adjacent-owner notice affidavit, and a site map.
    • The dwelling must be on property where the caregiver or relative resides, comply with setbacks and applicable floor-area-ratio limits, and permit safe and timely access for septic services and emergency vehicles.
    • Occupancy is limited to one identified mentally or physically impaired person, and only one temporary family health care dwelling is allowed per lot.
    • The dwelling must comply with applicable state law, local ordinances, and charter provisions unless otherwise provided.
    • The initial permit lasts six months and may be renewed once for an additional six months.
    • The municipality may inspect, revoke the permit for violations, and require removal within 60 days after revocation.
    • Unless otherwise provided by ordinance, the municipality may charge up to $100 for the initial permit and up to $50 for renewal.
    • The municipality may opt out of the statutory requirements by ordinance.

    maximum dwelling area: <= 300 gross square feet · initial permit term: 6 months (renewable once for an additional six months) · maximum initial permit fee: <= 100 USD (unless otherwise provided by ordinance) · maximum renewal permit fee: <= 50 USD (unless otherwise provided by ordinance) · maximum occupants: 1 person (occupant must be a mentally or physically impaired person) · maximum dwellings per lot: 1 dwelling

    “A temporary family health care dwelling that meets the requirements of this section cannot be prohibited by a local ordinance that regulates accessory uses or recreational vehicle parking or storage.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Accessory dwelling units statewide, including conversion of a structure into an ADU, subject to local zoning and Minnesota residential building-code requirements.
      “Local zoning ordinances dictate if a tiny home or accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is allowed on the property.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Primitive dwellings using toilet-waste treatment devices in low dwelling-density areas, and privies governed by Minnesota SSTS rules.

    • Septage disposal by the owner must follow local ordinances.
    • If no local ordinance exists, septage must not be discharged to surface waters, drainageways, steeply sloping areas, or wet areas in a manner or volume harmful to the environment or public health or that creates a nuisance.
    • Material must be buried or covered with soil.
    • If site conditions do not meet the rule, solids disposal must be performed under the applicable rule by a licensed maintenance business.
    • Privy solids must be removed when the privy is filled to one-half capacity.
    • Abandoned pits must have sewage solids and contaminated soil removed and be filled with clean earth and slightly mounded.

    privy solids removal threshold: 50 percent capacity

    “For primitive dwellings using toilet waste treatment devices in low dwelling density areas, septage disposal from these devices by the owner must be in accordance with local ordinances. If no ordinance exists, the septage must not be discharged to surface waters, drainageways, steeply sloping areas, or wet areas in a manner or volume that is harmful to the environment or public health or that creates a nuisance. The material must be buried or covered with soil.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Construction of water-supply, dewatering, and environmental wells in Minnesota.

    • A well notification and applicable filing fee are generally required before construction; the statute describes notification rather than a general construction-permit requirement for these wells.
    • A drive-point water-supply well personally constructed by an individual on owned or leased property for farming, agricultural purposes, or the individual's place of abode must be reported within ten days after completion, and no notification fee may be charged.
    • The notification requirement preempts local permits and notifications unless the commissioner has delegated permitting or notification authority under section 103I.111.
    • If operation of the well requires a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources appropriation permit, specified information must be submitted to the commissioner of natural resources and construction may begin after preliminary approval.
    • A well that is not in use must be sealed or have a maintenance permit, subject to the statutory environmental/dewatering-well exception.

    drive-point well notification deadline: 10 days after completion (personally constructed by an individual on owned or leased property for farming, agricultural purposes, or the individual's place of abode) · unused well status: sealed or maintenance permit (environmental or dewatering wells not sealed by 14 months after completion require an annually renewed maintenance permit)

    “Except as provided in paragraph (d), a person may not construct a water-supply, dewatering, or environmental well until a notification of the proposed well on a form prescribed by the commissioner is filed with the commissioner with the filing fee in section 103I.208, and, when applicable, the person has met the requirements of paragraph (e).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — New water-supply wells and certain other wells or borings in Pennington County under Minnesota Department of Health requirements.
      “Prior to the start of drilling a water-supply well, the Contractor or well owner must submit a “notification” form, with the appropriate fee, to MDH. [...] Note: For some other types of wells or borings, such as monitoring wells or bored geothermal heat exchangers, construction permits are required.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupWater and sewer (with conditions)

    New plumbing installations anywhere in Minnesota, including additions, extensions, alterations, and replacements, where a public sewer is available and connection is feasible and/or a public water supply is accessible.

    • Liquid waste from a building plumbing system must be discharged to a public sewer only when the public sewer is available in a street or alley and connection is feasible.
    • The sewer-discharge requirement does not apply where otherwise prohibited by the plumbing code or a local ordinance.
    • A water distribution system must connect to an accessible public water supply unless the Authority Having Jurisdiction permits otherwise.
    • A private water well taken out of service because of public-water connection must be maintained under Minnesota Rules, chapter 4725.
    • Each building must have its own independent water and sewer connection, except that a group of buildings may connect to one or more on-premises sewer manholes built to standards set by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
    “311.1 General. If a public sewer is available in a street or alley to a building or premises and the connection is feasible, liquid waste from any plumbing system in that building shall be discharged into the public sewer unless otherwise prohibited by this code or a local ordinance. If a public water supply is accessible, the water distribution system shall be connected to it unless otherwise permitted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Agricultural buildings statewide that meet the definition in Minnesota Statutes § 326B.103, subdivision 3.

    • The structure must be on agricultural land as determined by the governing assessor for the municipality or county under section 273.13, subdivision 23.
    • The structure must be designed, constructed, and used to house farm implements, livestock, or agricultural products under section 273.13, subdivision 23.
    • The building must be used by the owner, lessee, and sublessee and members of their immediate families, employees, and persons engaged in pickup or delivery of agricultural products.
    • The State Building Code does not apply except with respect to state inspections required or rulemaking authorized by sections 103F.141, 216C.19, subdivision 9, and 326B.36.
    • Translucent panels or other skylights without raised curbs must be supported to have equivalent load-bearing capacity as the surrounding roof.
    “The State Building Code is the standard that applies statewide for the construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, and use of buildings and other structures of the type governed by the code. [...] (c) The State Building Code does not apply to agricultural buildings except: (1) with respect to state inspections required or rulemaking authorized by sections 103F.141; 216C.19, subdivision 9; and 326B.36; and (2) translucent panels or other skylights without raised curbs shall be supported to have equivalent load-bearing capacity as the surrounding roof.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision regulation by Minnesota municipalities that adopt subdivision regulations under Minnesota Statutes section 462.358.

    • A municipality may adopt subdivision regulations by ordinance; the statute does not establish one uniform ordinance applicable to every municipality.
    • Regulations may apply only to certain classes or kinds of subdivisions and must be uniform for each class or kind.
    • A municipality may extend its subdivision regulations to unincorporated territory within two miles of its limits, subject to the statutory exception for towns that have adopted subdivision regulations.
    • Regulations may address lot size, location, grading, improvements, utilities, site planning, floodplains, shorelands, soils, water, vegetation, energy, air quality, and geologic and ecological features.
    • Regulations may prohibit certain classes or kinds of subdivisions when consistent with the comprehensive plan and statutory purposes.
    • All subdivisions creating five or more lots or parcels that are 2-1/2 acres or less in size must be platted when subject to the municipal subdivision regulations.

    municipal extension distance: <= 2 miles (Unincorporated territory; not in a town which has adopted subdivision regulations.) · mandatory platting threshold: >= 5 lots or parcels (Each lot or parcel is 2-1/2 acres or less in size.) · maximum parcel size for mandatory platting: <= 2.5 acres (Applies to subdivisions creating five or more lots or parcels.)

    “a municipality may by ordinance adopt subdivision regulations establishing standards, requirements, and procedures for the review and approval or disapproval of subdivisions.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Direct driveway connections to or from Minnesota state highways and work within MnDOT right-of-way.

    • A permit is required before constructing or modifying a direct driveway connection to or from a state highway.
    • The requirement covers agricultural, single-family residential, commercial, industrial, recreational, public, institutional, natural-resource, and multiple-family residential uses, and privately owned streets.
    • A new driveway, including a temporary driveway, requires a permit.
    • Modifying an existing driveway or changing its use or major traffic pattern may require a new permit.
    • The application should be submitted by the property owner; an agent, tenant, contractor, or developer must include written authorization from the owner.
    • This claim does not establish driveway-permit requirements for roads outside MnDOT jurisdiction.
    “A MnDOT Access Driveway Permit is required before a direct driveway connection to or from a state highway is constructed or modified.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Additional ingress to or egress from a public highway for property with a right of direct private access.
      “The owner or occupant of property abutting upon a public highway, having a right of direct private access thereto, may provide such other or additional means of ingress from and egress to the highway as will facilitate the efficient use of the property for a particular lawful purpose, subject to reasonable regulation by and permit from the road authority as is necessary to prevent interference with the construction, maintenance and safe use of the highway and its appurtenances and the public use thereof.”
    • Required — Changes in access to or from a MnDOT right-of-way, including driveway or other access points to a trunk highway, and changes in property use affecting such access.
      “An Access / Driveway Permit is required whenever there is a request for change in access to or from a Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) right-of-way or a change in use of the property.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Building permit fees under the Minnesota State Building Code, as administered by local building departments.

    • Fees are established by the local building department and are not supplied as one statewide fee schedule.
    • Fees must be commensurate with services provided and reasonable, fair, and proportionate to actual service costs.
    • Fees may include building permit, plan review, state surcharge, electrical, plumbing, heating/mechanical, septic, and sewer and water fees.
    • Permit fees are generally based on construction valuation and/or a fee for service.
    • The applicant must provide an estimated construction valuation, subject to verification by the building official.
    • Municipal fee schedules may include special investigation, penalty, reinspection, plan-review, fixed, and refund-policy fees.
    “It is for this reason that the building code does not specifically identify or provide for a fee schedule to be used by a jurisdiction. Each municipality is to evaluate local costs associated with the enforcement of the code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Variable (with conditions) — Minnesota State Building Code permit fees administered by adopting local municipalities.
      “Permit fees are to be determined and established by the local municipality. Permit fees must be established so that they cover all costs associated with administration and enforcement the State Building Code - to run a functioning building department. Permit fees can be developed on a “fixed fee” basis and on a construction “value” type of sliding fee schedule, or a combination of both.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Applications for permits governed by the Minnesota State Building Code.

    • The application must be written on a form furnished by the Department of Building Safety.
    • The application must identify and describe the work, locate the property, state intended use and occupancy, identify construction type, include required construction documents and information, state proposed-work valuation, be signed by the applicant or authorized agent, and provide other data required by the building official.
    • The building official examines applications within a reasonable time.
    • Nonconforming applications must be rejected with reasons; conforming applications must receive a permit.
    • The code in effect at the time of application applies.
    “Subpart 7. Application for permit. To obtain a permit, the applicant shall file an application in writing on a form furnished by the Department of Building Safety for that purpose.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Building-permit administration under the Minnesota State Building Code where the code has been adopted or otherwise applies.
      “However, it is only the building official that can review and approve building code requirements and subsequently sign-off on and/or issue building permits. If such an application is construction related only and the work complies with the building code, the building official must issue a building permit. Other building permits may be denied (by the local board or commission) if the proposal does not comply with other local zoning codes or ordinances.”
  • county zoning authorityLimited

    County planning and zoning authority over unincorporated areas of Minnesota.

    • The authority applies to a county having less than 300,000 population according to the 1950 federal census.
    • The statute authorizes county planning and zoning activities generally within the qualifying counties; it does not identify a separate unincorporated-area limitation in this section.
    • Except as otherwise provided, a county regardless of population must not enact, amend, or enforce an ordinance eliminating or terminating a lawful use by amortization.
    • The amortization prohibition does not apply to adults-only bookstores, adults-only theaters, or similar adults-only businesses as defined by ordinance.
    • The amortization subdivision does not prohibit nuisance-prevention or nuisance-abatement enforcement or elimination of a use determined to be a public nuisance without payment of compensation.

    population threshold: < 300000 persons (According to the 1950 federal census)

    “having less than 300,000 population according to the 1950 federal census is authorized to carry on county planning and zoning activities.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Minnesota counties may administer and enforce the State Building Code within their jurisdiction by ordinance; this includes a county's authority over residential construction in unincorporated county territory, subject to the statutory limits on code application and local provisions.

    • The statutory authorization is to administer and enforce the State Building Code, rather than a county-specific building code.
    • A county that is not already required by Minnesota Statutes § 326B.121, subdivision 2(a), to administer and enforce the code may elect to do so by ordinance.
    • The State Building Code applies statewide to construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, and use of buildings and structures governed by the code.
    • The State Building Code does not apply to agricultural buildings except for state inspections or rulemaking authorized by Minnesota Statutes §§ 103F.141, 216C.19, subdivision 9, and 326B.36, and except that translucent panels or other skylights without raised curbs must have equivalent load-bearing capacity as the surrounding roof.
    • A municipality may not require building-code provisions regulating structural components or systems that differ from the State Building Code; with state building official approval, it may adopt a more restrictive ordinance where geological conditions warrant it.
    • A municipality may enforce the State Building Code through lawful means, including contracts with other municipalities or qualified individuals; building-permit fees may be retained or remitted to reimburse them.
    “If a municipality is not required by paragraph (a) to administer and enforce the State Building Code, the municipality may choose to administer and enforce the State Building Code within its jurisdiction by adopting the code by ordinance.”

Inside cities and towns in Pennington County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • Zoning districtsPartial

    The unincorporated area of Smiley Township in Pennington County, Minnesota.

    • The ordinance establishes an Official Zoning Map, and copies are to be kept by the Town Clerk and available for public inspection.
    • The ordinance must be recorded in the Office of the County Recorder of Pennington County, Minnesota.
    • The source establishes districts for Smiley Township only; it does not establish that other Pennington County townships have adopted zoning ordinances or use the same district list.

    district list: AR – Agricultural Residential; SR – Suburban Residential; UR – Urban Residential; CM – Commercial; ID – Industrial; FP – Flood Plain; AC – Airport Clearance; PR – Parks and Recreation; UA – Urban Agriculture

    “The unincorporated area of the Township is hereby divided into the following Districts: AR – Agricultural Residential [...] UA – Urban Agriculture”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Dwellings in Smiley Township's Agricultural Residential and Suburban Residential districts, subject to the applicable district and subdivision category.

    • The Agricultural Residential standards apply unless the dwelling is located in a high-density subdivision.
    • The Suburban Residential standards distinguish platted subdivisions from non-platted areas.
    • Applicable septic, water, sewer, shoreland, and other regulations still apply.

    minimum dwelling size per unit, Agricultural Residential one-family: >= 900 square feet · minimum dwelling size per unit, Agricultural Residential two-family: >= 900 square feet · minimum dwelling size per unit, Suburban Residential platted one-family: >= 1100 square feet · minimum dwelling size per unit, Suburban Residential platted two-family: >= 950 square feet · minimum dwelling size per unit, Suburban Residential non-platted one-family: >= 900 square feet · minimum dwelling size per unit, Suburban Residential non-platted two-family: >= 900 square feet

    “Dwelling (min sq. footage/unit) | 1,100 | 950”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Dwellings in Smiley Township, Pennington County, Minnesota, under the township zoning districts and subdivision categories stated in the ordinance.
      “Dwelling (min sq. footage/unit) | 900 | 900 [...] Dwelling (min sq. footage/unit) | 1,100 | 950 [...] Dwelling (min sq. footage/unit) | 900 | 900”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Residential lots and dwellings in Smiley Township's Agricultural Residential and Suburban Residential districts.

    • Agricultural Residential standards require four acres unless located in a high-density subdivision.
    • Suburban Residential standards differ between platted and non-platted areas.
    • Conditional-use conditions may increase the required lot size.
    • Adequate space for septic systems and wells is required in Suburban Residential areas.

    Agricultural Residential minimum lot area: >= 4 acres (Unless located in a high-density subdivision) · Suburban Residential platted one-family minimum lot area: >= 9000 square feet · Suburban Residential platted two-family minimum lot area: >= 12000 square feet · Suburban Residential non-platted minimum lot area: >= 4 acres

    “Unless located in a high density subdivision, each dwelling must be: located on at least a four acre lot”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Minimum lot sizes for residential development in Smiley Township, including Agricultural Residential and Suburban Residential districts.
      “Unless located in a high density subdivision, each dwelling must be: located on at least a four acre lot, be at least 20 feet wide, have 200 feet frontage on an existing road, and be located entirely within a quarter-quarter section on a separately owned parcel. [...] Lot Area (min sq. footage) | 9,000 | 12,000 | | 14,000 [...] Lot Area (min sq. footage) | 4 Acres | 4 Acres | | 4 Acres”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Setbacks for development and dwellings in Smiley Township zoning districts.

    • Agricultural Residential and Suburban Residential standards vary by district and whether the area is platted.
    • Shoreland setbacks are established by Pennington County shoreland and floodplain ordinances and require a shoreland determination or permit where applicable.
    • Road setbacks are measured from the road centerline and vary by road type.

    AR front yard setback: 25 ft · AR rear yard setback: 35 ft · AR side yard setback: 25 ft · SR platted front yard setback: 25 ft · SR platted rear yard setback: 35 ft (one-family and two-family dwellings) · SR platted side yard setback: 15 ft (one-family and two-family dwellings) · SR non-platted front yard setback: 25 ft · SR non-platted rear yard setback: 35 ft (one-family and two-family dwellings) · SR non-platted side yard setback: 25 ft (one-family and two-family dwellings) · state highway road-centerline setback: 150 ft · county road road-centerline setback: 100 ft · local street road-centerline setback: 100 ft · frontage road road-centerline setback: 70 ft

    “Front Yard Setback | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 Rear Yard Setback | 35 | 35 | 25 | 35 Side Yard Setback | 15 | 15 | 25 | 5 [...] Required setback distance from Road centerline: State Highway 150 County Road 100 Local Street 100 Frontage Road 70”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Manufactured or mobile homes in Smiley Township Agricultural Residential District; this is not an express tiny-home rule.

    • Manufactured or mobile homes must meet Minnesota Statutes sections 327.31–327.34 and be approved by the Town Board.
    • This claim does not establish treatment of a tiny home that is not a manufactured or mobile home.
    “Manufactured or mobile homes will be permitted, but must meet Minnesota Statutes: Section 327.31 – 327.34 and be approved by the Town Board.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Zoning permits and conditional-use permits in Smiley Township.

    • A zoning permit application is required before specified construction, additions, moves, and changes of use.
    • The zoning permit application must include a site plan and state the nature and estimated cost of the work.
    • Applicable floodplain, shoreland, septic-system, wetland, and feedlot regulations must be cleared.
    • The Town Board may establish, review annually, and amend fees by resolution.
    • Conditional-use applications require a site plan and other information deemed necessary by the Town Clerk or Town Board.
    • Conditional-use hearings require publication and mailed notice; the Town Board acts within 60 days after receipt of a completed application.
    • The ordinance does not state an effective or fee-schedule adoption date.

    zoning permit for new home or business: 150 USD (The Town Board may amend the fee structure by resolution) · zoning permit for all other uses: 75 USD (The Town Board may amend the fee structure by resolution) · conditional use permit application fee: 500 USD

    “Fees for a Zoning Permit shall be $150 for the construction of a new home or business and $75 for all other uses.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Conditional-use permit applications in Smiley Township.
      “The applicant applying for a conditional use permit shall fill out and submit to the Town Clerk a Zoning Permit Application form together with a fee of $500.00. The applicant shall also submit a site plan and such other information deemed necessary by the Town Clerk or the Town Board to evaluate the application.”

Set by your town or city, not the county

In Minnesota, zoning is adopted by each town or city, so Pennington County has no county-wide answer on these. Find your town or city in the list of places on this page, or call its clerk or zoning administrator.

  • Building height
  • Short-term rentals

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • County-wide zoning — County zoning ordinance for unincorporated Pennington County

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Pennington County, Minnesota

Is Pennington County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Pennington County scores 61/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and sparse surroundings — about 12,699 people within a 30-minute drive. Watch-outs: thin water margin (22.5″/yr rainfall).

How much does land cost in Pennington County, Minnesota?

Land in Pennington County runs about $3,241 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Pennington County?

Pennington County gets about 22.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 7.7% of years.

How remote is Pennington County?

A representative private-land location has about 12,699 people within a 30-minute drive and 241,727 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Pennington compares in Minnesota

Compare side-by-side →See all 87 Minnesota counties ranked →