Water Permits
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Temporary Water Structures
If you plan to use a temporary structure on a Stearns County lake or river you must complete a Temporary Water Structure Application.
Examples of a temporary water structure:
- swimming raft
- mooring buoys
- water ski jump
- slalom ski course
The purpose of this application is to identify ownership of such structures, in the event an owner needs to be contacted for repair, relocation or removal. Use of a temporary structure is regulated by State Statute.
Water Exhibitions
If you plan to hold an event or exhibition on a Stearns County lake or river you must complete a Water Exhibition Application. Examples of a water exhibition include fishing tournaments, boat races and ski shows.
All water exhibition applicants must ensure the following:
- The permit application is received by the Sheriff's Office a minimum of 10 days prior to the event.
- A Comprehensive General Liability insurance policy in the amount of $ 500,000.00 is purchased and certificate supplied to the Stearns County Sheriff's Office within one week prior to usage. The policy shall name the County of Stearns and their officials and employees as additional insures for the term of the permit.
- Adequate parking for participants and spectators.
- Adequate toilet facilities provided by the sponsor.
- Removal by the sponsor of all debris, litter, trash upon completion of the event.
- A copy of the Water Exhibition permit is kept on site throughout the event and available for inspection by law enforcement.
Please contact the Sheriff's Office at 320.259.3700 with questions.