Planning and Zoning
On April 21, 2000, Stearns County began implementing a county-wide Zoning Ordinance. The zoning ordinance affects all areas outside of corporate limits of any city and requires a permit for all construction activities and a permit for the establishment of certain uses.
Shoreland Management Program
Since 1972, Stearns County has administered the State Shoreland Management Program. The shoreland management program requires permits for all structural, use, shoreland alteration and vegetative removal activities. The shoreland of lakes, rivers and streams are regulated under this program.
View Shoreland Program annual reports.
Floodplain Management Program
Stearns County participates in the Federal Flood Insurance program. Participation in the Federal Flood Insurance program allows certain structures that were built before the County began participating in the Flood Insurance Program to secure flood insurance at subsidized rates. All new structures must be built one foot above the 100-year flood elevation. Flood maps and 100-year flood elevations are available in our office.
Learn more about the Stearns County's Floodplain Management Program.
Land Subdivision
Stearns County has in effect an ordinance that regulates the subdivision of land. In most situations, a subdivision plat is required in order to subdivide property. Please contact our office if you need information regarding this process.