Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Clearwater County, Minnesota
80Index Score / 100 #1 of 87 in Minnesota
Clearwater County, Minnesota issues land-use permits only for shoreland and septic permits countywide, both through its Office of Environmental Services.12 The Minnesota State Building Code applies statewide, but building permits and inspections come from whichever city or other building official administers it, and we could not confirm who that is for unincorporated land.34 Zoning outside shoreland and subdivisions is set by the township or city, so check with it as well.1
At a glance
Building permit
State code applies; local permit administration varies, and structures in shoreland need a county land-use permit341
Zoning
County shoreland and subdivision controls apply, while other local zoning varies by parcel jurisdiction15
Septic permits
Clearwater County Office of Environmental Services, countywide; $25 sewage permit or $50 combined land-use and sewage permit62
Owner-builder
An owner may qualify for Minnesota's contractor-license exemption, but applicable permits and inspections still apply7
Water wells
File the state well notification before construction; a narrow drive-point-well exception allows notice after completion8
RV living
A private single-RV rule is unconfirmed; areas accommodating five or more camping units require state licensing unless excluded9
Farm buildings
Qualifying agricultural buildings are exempt from the State Building Code, but not from other land-use or sewage rules10
Septic soil difficulty
16% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field11
Administers the Shoreland Management Ordinance, Subdivision Controls Ordinance, and Sewage and Wastewater Treatment Ordinance; issues land-use permits in shoreland areas and sewage permits countywide
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Do you need a building permit in Clearwater County, Minnesota?
Minnesota's State Building Code applies statewide, and regulated construction requires an application to the applicable building official before work begins where the local jurisdiction administers the code34. We could not confirm which building official, if any, administers ordinary residential permits in unincorporated Clearwater County, so ask the Office of Environmental Services which jurisdiction handles your parcel before starting work12. In shoreland, Clearwater County separately requires a land-use permit for every structure regardless of size or cost; interior remodeling or maintenance that does not change the building's outside dimensions does not need that land-use permit1. Work that requires a code permit is subject to inspections, including a final inspection, and a covered building cannot be occupied until the building official issues a certificate of occupancy1314. Qualifying agricultural buildings are exempt from the State Building Code, but county land-use and septic rules can still apply312.
Who issues land-use permits, septic permits and building permits in Clearwater County?
The Clearwater County Office of Environmental Services administers the Shoreland Management Ordinance, Subdivision Controls Ordinance, and Sewage and Wastewater Treatment Ordinance; it issues land-use permits in shoreland and sewage permits countywide12. The office is on the courthouse's second floor at 213 Main Avenue North, Dept. 206, Bagley, MN 56621-8304, and its phone number is 218.694.618312. Published application fees are $25 for land use, $25 for sewage, or $50 for a combined application15. Land-use and septic permits stay with the county even where a city handles other approvals; septic permits are issued countywide, city or not.2 Clearwater County's materials do not identify the building official responsible for residential building permits, so start with Environmental Services and ask whether the county, a city, or another local jurisdiction handles the address12. For a new, relocated, reconstructed, or changed access to a county road, contact the Clearwater County Highway Department at 113 7th Street NE, Bagley, MN 56621, phone 218.694.61321617.
Does Clearwater County have zoning?
Clearwater County administers shoreland and subdivision controls, but the published material does not establish one comprehensive zoning regime for every county parcel15. Shoreland reaches land within 1,000 feet of a lake, pond, or flowage, within 300 feet of a river or stream, or to the landward edge of a designated floodplain when that extends farther5. Within shoreland, riparian lot area, frontage, setbacks, and height depend on the water classification181920. The county's Subdivision Controls Ordinance applies to plats and subdivisions in unincorporated areas, except where a township, city and the county have agreed otherwise.21 A buyer should ask Environmental Services whether county shoreland or subdivision review applies and ask the relevant township or city about its zoning112. We could not confirm a county minimum dwelling size or lot-coverage limit. Tiny houses used as dwellings remain subject to Minnesota residential construction standards, while the local jurisdiction decides land-use questions such as location, foundation, size, and number of dwellings22.
How do septic permits work in Clearwater County?
Clearwater County's Office of Environmental Services administers septic permits countywide, and a proposed system design must be submitted before construction62. The application requires signed and dated site-evaluation and design documents; an issued permit lasts one year unless the permitting authority grants a written extension of up to one additional year2. Every new individual septic system needs a final county inspection before it is covered, and the office has three working days to complete that inspection23. Only 16% of Clearwater County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the site evaluation part of the purchase decision rather than assuming a standard system will fit11. In shoreland, every septic system also needs a final inspection before it is covered.24 In shoreland, a privy or outhouse may be allowed only if it meets the required conditions; the published guidance does not extend that statement countywide25.
Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Clearwater County?
We could not confirm a Clearwater County rule that allows or prohibits living in one RV on private land, so ask Environmental Services and the relevant township before relying on an RV during construction12. Minnesota allows a special event recreational camping area to operate no more than two times annually and for no more than 14 consecutive days.26 County parks limit camping to two weeks in any one park from May 1 to October 1, and park campgrounds are not meant as permanent or semi-permanent residence.27 Minnesota's camping-area law answers a narrower question: an area accommodating five or more tents or recreational camping vehicles generally needs an annual state health license, subject to statutory exclusions9. Tiny houses used as dwellings must meet Minnesota residential construction standards, while local zoning controls whether and where the dwelling is allowed22 Minnesota defines a tiny house as a dwelling of 400 square feet or less, excluding lofts.28. In Clearwater County shoreland, structures need a county land-use permit before construction regardless of size or cost18. Two or more occupied manufactured homes generally make a state-licensed manufactured-home park unless an exclusion applies, and a mobile-home park in the shoreland Natural Environmental Management District also needs a conditional-use permit and County Board site-plan approval2930.
Building a home in Clearwater County: the steps, in order
Ask the Office of Environmental Services whether the parcel is in shoreland, a floodplain, or a proposed subdivision; shoreland construction needs a county land-use permit, and a floodplain plat receives added review13112.
Confirm the building-code jurisdiction before work begins, because the code applies statewide but local administration depends on the municipality34.
Complete the septic site evaluation and design, obtain the county sewage permit, and leave the new system uncovered for final inspection223.
File the state well notification before well construction, except for the narrow after-completion rule for a qualifying owner-installed drive-point well32.
Obtain the road authority's approval before building or changing an access; the county Highway Department handles access to county roads1716.
If a code permit applies, schedule required inspections and obtain the certificate of occupancy before using the covered building1314.
What to check before you buy land in Clearwater County
Confirm shoreland status first because water classification controls lot area, frontage, setbacks, and building height181920. Order septic evaluation early: only 16% of Clearwater County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field11. Verify legal road access and obtain the correct road authority's permit before changing a driveway17. Ask Environmental Services about floodplain and subdivision review, and ask the township or city about zoning outside the county's confirmed shoreland controls31112. If you plan a well, budget for the state notification and filing requirement before construction32. An owner-builder can qualify for Minnesota's residential-contractor-license exemption when building to occupy or retain as a rental, but the exemption does not waive applicable permits or inspections7.
Watch-outs
Clearwater County's building official and local residential code-enforcement arrangement could not be confirmed; ask Environmental Services which jurisdiction handles the parcel12.
Comprehensive zoning, minimum dwelling size, and lot coverage outside the county's confirmed shoreland and subdivision controls could not be confirmed; ask Environmental Services and the relevant township or city112.
A private single-RV occupancy rule could not be confirmed; the state licensing threshold for a recreational camping area does not by itself answer whether one RV may be occupied on a parcel9.
Written October 9, 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.
Clearwater County highlighted among the Minnesota counties · colored by Index score
How Clearwater County scores
Seclusion84100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency54100% ev.
Admin Boringness57100% ev.
Durability73100% ev.
Property Autonomy65100% ev.
Carry Cost77100% ev.
Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →
$247kTypical home
0.7%Property tax
$2,881Land / acre
24.9"Annual rain
7.6% of yrsSevere drought
0.7 / yr (+0.7)Mid-century 100°F days
15 daysMid-century dry spell
1.41" (+7.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.86×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,533Home insurance / yr
3.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.52%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
177,779People within 2 hr
9,204Radius comparison (15 mi)
8.7People / sq mi
2.8%Federal land
95.7%Land at 15% slope or less
16%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
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Cities and towns in Clearwater 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.
Bagley · Bear Creek Township · Clearbrook · Clover Township · Copley Township · Dudley Township · Eddy Township · Falk Township · Gonvick · Greenwood Township · Hangaard Township · Holst Township · Itasca Township · La Prairie Township · Leon Township · Leonard · Long Lost Lake Township · Minerva Township · Moose Creek Township · Nora Township · Pine Lake Township · Popple Township · Rice Township · Shevlin · Shevlin Township · Sinclair Township · Winsor Township
Answers from the rulebook for Clearwater County
What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.
Clearwater County rules
County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)
County-administered shoreland and subdivision land-use controls in unincorporated Clearwater County; the sources do not establish comprehensive zoning throughout all county land.
The Clearwater County Office of Environmental Services administers and enforces the Shoreland Management Ordinance and Subdivision Controls Ordinance.
The Subdivision Controls Ordinance applies to plats and subdivisions within unincorporated areas, except within an orderly annexation area or other area covered by an agreement between the township, city, and County.
Land-use permits are issued by the county in shoreland areas.
“The Clearwater County Office of Environmental Services administers and enforces the following: Shoreland Management Ordinance; Subdivision Controls Ordinance”
Local zoningVaries (with conditions)
Countywide aggregate of local land-use controls in Clearwater County, including county-administered shoreland regulation and subdivision controls; the countywide conclusion does not mean the county administers every municipal or township ordinance.
The Clearwater County Office of Environmental Services administers and enforces the Shoreland Management Ordinance and Subdivision Controls Ordinance.
The Shoreland Management Ordinance applies to lands within 1,000 feet of a classified lake and 300 feet of a classified river or stream.
In shoreland areas, permits are required for all structures regardless of size or cost and for installation of onsite sewage treatment systems; site drawings are required for each permit.
Permits are not required for interior remodeling or necessary maintenance when the building's outside dimensions do not change.
The county page states that land-use and sewage permits are issued in shoreland areas; it does not establish a single countywide zoning regime for every parcel.
The source states that the Shoreland Management Ordinance has been in effect since 1973; this is an ordinance history statement, not an identified current effective date.
shoreland lake jurisdiction: <= 1000 feet (classified lake) · shoreland river or stream jurisdiction: <= 300 feet (classified river or stream)
“Issues Land Use and Sewage Permits in shoreland areas
Issues Sewage Permits county wide”
Zoning districtsPartial
Published county shoreland-management geography and maps; this claim does not assert that Clearwater County publishes a comprehensive zoning-district map for all county land.
The published managed-area boundary is 1,000 feet from the ordinary high water level of a lake, pond, or flowage, and 300 feet from a river or stream, or the landward extent of a floodplain designated by ordinance, whichever is greater.
The official page provides shoreland maps by township, including Hangaard, Winsor, Greenwood, Clover, Pine Lake, Leon, Sinclair, Eddy, Holst, Dudley, Popple, Copley, Shevlin, Falk, Nora, Moose Creek, LaPrairie, Minerva, Rice, Itasca, Long Lost Lake, and Unorganized.
The source does not publish a complete countywide zoning-district schedule outside the shoreland-management context.
lake, pond, or flowage shoreland distance: 1000 feet from ordinary high water level · river or stream shoreland distance: 300 feet from river or stream (The landward extent of a floodplain designated by ordinance applies when greater.)
“Land located within the following distances from public waters: 1,000 feet from the ordinary high water level of a lake, pond or flowage; and 300 feet from a river or stream, or the landward extent of a floodplain designated by ordinance on a river or stream, whichever is greater.”
Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)
Riparian residential lots in Clearwater County shoreland classifications Natural Environment, Recreational Development, and General Development
The Shoreland Management Ordinance Standards applies within shoreland areas; the official Clearwater County Shoreland Management page describes managed areas as land within 1,000 feet of the ordinary high water level of a lake, pond, or flowage and 300 feet from a river or stream, or the landward extent of a designated floodplain, whichever is greater.
A land-use permit is required before construction; permits are required for all structures regardless of size or cost.
The standards page also lists water frontage and lot width at the building line of 200 feet, 150 feet, and 100 feet respectively for the three classifications.
Natural Environment riparian lot area: >= 80000 sq ft · Recreational Development riparian lot area: >= 40000 sq ft · General Development riparian lot area: >= 20000 sq ft · Natural Environment water frontage and lot width at building line: 200 ft · Recreational Development water frontage and lot width at building line: 150 ft · General Development water frontage and lot width at building line: 100 ft
“Lot Area-Riparian (sq.ft.)................................ 80,000 40,000 20,000 Water frontage & lot width at building line.... 200ft 150ft 100ft”
SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)
Structures in Clearwater County shoreland classifications Natural Environment, Recreational Development, and General Development
The standards apply in shoreland areas; the official county page states the Shoreland Management Ordinance has jurisdiction over lands within 1,000 feet of a classified lake and 300 feet of a classified river or stream.
Permits are required for all structures regardless of size or cost, except interior remodeling or necessary maintenance when the building's outside dimensions do not change.
Grading and Filling permits are required for grading, excavating, or filling within shoreland areas.
Bluffs are defined on the standards page as greater than 25 feet in height with a 30 percent or greater slope.
Structure setback from ordinary high water level, Natural Environment: 150 ft · Structure setback from ordinary high water level, Recreational Development: 100 ft · Structure setback from ordinary high water level, General Development: 75 ft · Structure setback from federal, state, or county highway right-of-way: 50 ft · Structure setback from other road right-of-way: 20 ft · Structure setback from property line: 20 ft (or as stated in Section 503.9) · Structure setback from top of bluff: 30 ft
“Structure setback from OHWL....................... 150ft 100ft 75ft [...] Structure setback from Federal, State or County highway right-of-ways.................... 50ft 50ft 50ft [...] Structure setback from top of bluff*.............. 30ft 30ft 30ft”
Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)
Structures in Clearwater County shoreland classifications Natural Environment, Recreational Development, and General Development
The standards apply in shoreland areas and require permits for all structures regardless of size or cost, except interior remodeling or necessary maintenance when the building's outside dimensions do not change.
The source lists separate limits for primary and secondary structures.
Primary structure height: <= 25 ft · Secondary structure height: <= 15 ft
Temporary camping in Clearwater County county parks, including Long Lake Park and other County Parks.
Camping is permitted only in designated camping areas within the prescribed limitations for the particular camping area.
Camping is limited to two weeks in any one park during May 1 through October 1, unless the park attendant, in the attendant's discretion, allows a longer period when conditions of nonuse warrant it.
All campers must register.
A campsite is limited to one camping group of four people or less using one camping shelter and one vehicle; additional people, shelters, or vehicles require prior approval of park personnel and payment of additional camping fees.
County-park campgrounds are not intended as places for permanent or semi-permanent residence.
Camping fees are charged as set by resolution of the County Board of Commissioners.
The ordinance states that it applies to County Parks, County Monuments, County Recreation Areas, County Waysides, and County Public Accesses.
maximum camping period: 2 weeks in any one park (Park attendant may allow longer periods in discretion when conditions of nonuse warrant it) · camping season: May 1 through October 1 (The ordinance's two-week limit is stated for this period) · maximum persons per campsite: <= 4 people (Additional people require prior approval and additional camping fees) · vehicles per campsite: 1 vehicle (Additional vehicles require prior approval and additional camping fees)
“Camping shall be permitted to a total period of two weeks in any one park during the period of May 1 to October 1”
Manufactured homesLimited
Mobile home parks, treated by the ordinance as residential planned unit developments, in Clearwater County's Natural Environmental Management District within county-regulated shoreland areas.
A conditional use permit is required.
Site plans must be approved by the Clearwater County Board.
Mobile home parks must be licensed by the Minnesota Department of Health and meet all Minnesota Department of Health requirements in addition to the ordinance.
Each mobile home must meet minimum setbacks from all roads, the ordinary high water mark, the top of bluff, and all unplatted cemeteries.
There must be at least 15 feet between the sides of adjacent mobile homes, including attachments, and at least 10 feet between mobile homes parked end to end.
Each mobile home site must be at least 6,000 square feet.
A centralized sewage treatment system meeting Minnesota Department of Health and Pollution Control Agency requirements must be installed and meet the ordinance's minimum setback provisions.
Individual sewage treatment systems may not be used unless the site meets the ordinance's minimum lot-size requirements.
Vegetative screening must be maintained consistently with the general intent of the ordinance.
The county's shoreland jurisdiction covers land within 1,000 feet of the ordinary high water level of a lake, pond, or flowage and within 300 feet of a river or stream, or the landward extent of an ordinance-designated floodplain, whichever is greater.
minimum separation between sides of adjacent mobile homes: >= 15 feet (including attachments) · minimum separation between mobile homes parked end to end: >= 10 feet · minimum mobile home site area: >= 6000 square feet
“Mobile home parks, as residential planned unit developments, provided that:”
Who permits septicCounty
Subsurface sewage treatment systems and sewage permits throughout Clearwater County.
The Clearwater County Office of Environmental Services administers and enforces the county Sewage and Wastewater Treatment Ordinance.
Large-system or state-law requirements may also apply where applicable.
“The Clearwater County Office of Environmental Services administers and enforces the following: [...] Sewage and Wastewater Treatment Ordinance [...] Issues Sewage Permits county wide”
Septic permitRequired
County-wide individual subsurface sewage treatment systems and sewage-treatment construction in Clearwater County.
An ISTS permit is required county-wide.
A design of the proposed system must be submitted to the Office of Environmental Services before construction.
The sewage-permit application requires signed and dated site-evaluation and design documentation.
The application lists a $25.00 sewage permit fee; a combination land-use/sewage permit is listed at $50.00.
The permit is valid for one year unless the permitting authority grants a written extension of up to one year.
The permit may be revoked for violation of Clearwater County ordinances.
sewage permit fee: 25 USD · combination land-use/sewage permit fee: 50 USD · permit validity: 1 year (Written extension of up to one year may be granted by the permitting authority.)
“COUNTY WIDE INDIVIDUAL SEWAGE TREATMENT SYSTEMS (ISTS) permits are required, and a design of the proposed system must be turned in to the OES prior to construction.”
Septic inspectionRequired
New individual subsurface sewage treatment systems in Clearwater County.
The Office of Environmental Services must perform the final inspection before the system is covered.
The Office of Environmental Services has three working days to complete the inspection.
The county environmental-services page separately states that it inspects new subsurface sewage treatment systems.
inspection timing: before covering · inspection completion period: <= 3 working days
“All ISTS shall have a final inspection by the Office of Environmental Services before covering. The OES has three working days to complete this inspection.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Individual sewage treatment systems within the Clearwater County Shoreland Management Ordinance area.
“All ISTS shall have a final inspection by the Office of Environmental Services before covering. The OES has three working days to complete this inspection.”
Off-grid sanitationLimited
Privies or outhouses within the Clearwater County Shoreland Management Ordinance area.
The source states only that privies may be allowed if they meet required conditions; it does not enumerate those conditions.
The cited document identifies the Shoreland Management Ordinance jurisdiction as lands within 1,000 feet of a classified lake and 300 feet of a classified river or stream.
The source does not establish a countywide allowance outside the identified shoreland jurisdiction.
“Privies (outhouses) may be allowed if they can meet required conditions.”
Driveway accessLimited
New, reconstructed, relocated, or changed-use public or private accesses to County Roads or public streets intersecting County Roads, and listed development events within the Access Management Zone.
An access plan approval is required before subdivision planning or listed redevelopment events.
An access permit is required before actual construction of the access.
A property split does not necessarily create a right to a new access for contiguous parcels.
Access permits are granted for a specific use; changing the current use requires a new access plan and permit.
Requirements also apply before subdivision, conditional-use, interim-use, site-plan, or zoning-related permit approval within the Access Management Zone.
Commercial intensity thresholds include a 25 percent or 500-square-foot increase in gross floor area, whichever is greater, or a 25 percent or five-stall increase in parking, whichever is greater.
commercial gross-floor-area increase threshold: 25% or 500 square feet, whichever is greater · commercial parking increase threshold: 25% or 5 stalls, whichever is greater
“An approval of an access plan is required to aid in the planning stages prior to subdivision of land or for redevelopments of land as described below. An access permit is required prior to actual construction of the access.”
Building in a floodplainLimited
Subdivision and plat applications in unincorporated Clearwater County located within a floodplain district.
The ordinance applies to plats and subdivisions in unincorporated areas, except orderly-annexation areas or areas covered by an agreement between a township, city, and County.
For a preliminary plat in a floodplain district, the County must distribute the complete application to the Commissioner of the Minnesota DNR at least 30 days before Planning Commission and County Board consideration.
The source does not establish a comprehensive countywide floodplain-development permit requirement for all development types.
advance DNR distribution period: >= 30 days (Applies to complete preliminary-plat applications.)
“The Zoning Administrator shall distribute copies of the complete application and preliminary plat to the following agencies for review and comment at least thirty (30) days prior to consideration by the Planning Commission and County Board:”
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Published fees for Clearwater County land-use and sewage permit applications.
The application form identifies land-use and sewage permit fees, but does not establish that every county permit uses these amounts.
Land-use permits are issued in shoreland areas and sewage permits are issued countywide.
The source does not state an effective date for the listed fees.
land use permit fee: 25 USD · sewage permit fee: 25 USD · combination land use/sewage permit fee: 50 USD
“Permit Fee LAND USE $25.00 SEWAGE $25.00 COMBINATION LAND USE/SEWAGE $50.00”
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
County land-use and sewage permit application process, with land-use permits in shoreland areas and sewage permits countywide.
The application requires proof of sewage treatment system compliance for land-use permits.
The application requires signed and dated site evaluation and design documentation for sewage permits.
The site drawing need not be to scale, but all measurements and dimensions must be accurate.
The site drawing must show building locations and dimensions, surface-water distance to the ordinary high water level within 1,000 feet, sewage-system locations and setbacks, roads, driveways, parking areas, property boundaries, structures, topographical features, wetlands, and water wells.
If wetlands will be impacted, an approved replacement plan or exemption must accompany the application.
The permit is valid for one year unless the permitting authority grants a written extension of up to one year.
The permit may be revoked for violation of Clearwater County ordinances.
permit validity: 1 year (Written extension of up to one year may be granted by the permitting authority.)
“I also understand that this permit is valid for a time period of one year, unless granted a written extemtion of up to one year by the permitting authority.”
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.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — Construction, alteration, repair, moving, demolition, or occupancy changes involving buildings or building systems governed by the Minnesota State Building Code in Clearwater County.
“shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.”
Required — Construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, movement, demolition, occupancy change, or regulated building-system work subject to the Minnesota State Building Code in Clearwater County.
“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.”
An owner of residential real estate performing residential building or improvement work in Clearwater County who would otherwise need a residential contractor license.
The owner must occupy or intend to occupy the property 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.
Constructing or improving more than one property within any 24-month period creates a presumption of speculation unless the properties are retained for rental purposes.
This is an exemption from the residential contractor license requirement; it does not waive applicable building, land-use, sewage, or other permits.
speculation presumption: more than one property within any 24-month period (unless the properties will be retained by the owner for rental purposes)
“This exemption does not apply to an owner who constructs or improves residential real estate for purposes of resale or speculation.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Available (with conditions) — An owner of residential real estate performing residential construction or improvement work in Clearwater County that would otherwise require residential contractor licensing.
“The license requirement does not apply to: [...] an owner of residential real estate who builds or improves residential real estate”
Available (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 license requirement does not apply to: [...] an owner of residential real estate who builds or improves residential real estate”
Building code adoptedPartial
Buildings and structures in Clearwater County that are of the type governed by Minnesota's State Building Code.
The State Building Code applies statewide to construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, and use of buildings and other structures of the type governed by the code.
The State Building Code supersedes the building code of any municipality.
The State Building Code does not apply to agricultural buildings except for state inspections or rulemaking authorized by sections 103F.141, 216C.19, subdivision 9, and 326B.36, and the specified skylight/translucent-panel load-bearing requirement.
A municipality with an ordinance adopting the State Building Code in effect as of January 1, 2008 must continue to administer and enforce the code, except that this requirement does not apply to a municipality 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.
A municipality may adopt an official control requiring exterior work authorized by a State Building Code permit to be completed within a specified period, but not earlier than 180 days after permit issuance.
A municipality may enforce the code through contracts or other lawful means; building-code administration, plan review, and inspection are municipal responsibilities.
A municipality may adopt zoning, subdivision, or planning ordinances unless they conflict with State Building Code provisions regulating components or systems.
A municipality may, with state building official approval, adopt a more restrictive ordinance where geological conditions warrant it.
municipal population threshold for mandatory continued enforcement exception: < 2500 persons (municipalities outside a metropolitan county) · minimum period before exterior work may be required to be completed: >= 180 days (after issuance of a building permit)
“The State Building Code does not apply to agricultural buildings except:”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Adopted (with conditions) — Ordinary construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, and use of buildings and structures governed by the Minnesota State Building Code in Clearwater County.
“The State Building Code is the standard that applies statewide for the construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, and use of buildings”
Adopted (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.
“(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.”
InspectionsRequired
Work in Clearwater County for which a Minnesota State Building Code permit is required.
Inspection applies to work for which a permit is required.
The work must remain accessible and exposed until approved.
The permit applicant must maintain an inspection record card until final approval.
The person doing the work must notify the building official when the work is ready and provide access and means for inspection.
A final inspection is required for all work for which a permit is issued.
“Construction or work for which a permit is required is subject to inspection by the building official”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Construction or work for which a Minnesota State Building Code permit is required.
“Construction or work for which a permit is required is subject to inspection by the building official”
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.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Use or occupancy of buildings and structures in Clearwater County governed by the Minnesota State Building Code, including changes in occupancy classification.
“No building or structure shall be used or occupied [...] until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy”
Living in an RVLimited
Operating a recreational camping area in Clearwater County, including an area used for five or more recreational camping vehicles on a daily, nightly, weekly, or longer basis.
Minnesota defines a recreational camping area as an area used for five or more tents or recreational camping vehicles, whether privately or publicly owned, free of charge or for compensation.
The definition 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 motor sports facilities, and a privately owned area used no more than once a year and no longer than seven consecutive days by members of a private club paying annual dues.
A person, firm, or corporation must obtain an annual license from the Minnesota Department of Health before establishing, maintaining, conducting, or operating a recreational camping area.
The license application requires payment of the statutory fee and operation approval, including plan review approval; licensed sites may not be increased unless expansion plans are submitted and approved by the Department of Health.
The annual base fee for a recreational camping area is $100 for 24 or fewer sites, $410 for 25 to 99 sites, or $610 for 100 or more sites, plus $8 per licensed site; a $5 technology fee applies at initial licensing and renewal.
Special event recreational camping areas are separately defined as operating no more than two times annually and no more than 14 consecutive days, with separate fees.
threshold for recreational camping area: >= 5 recreational camping vehicles or tents (subject to the statutory exclusions) · annual base fee, 24 or fewer sites: 100 USD (plus $8 per licensed site and $5 technology fee) · annual base fee, 25 to 99 sites: 410 USD (plus $8 per licensed site and $5 technology fee) · annual base fee, 100 or more sites: 610 USD (plus $8 per licensed site and $5 technology fee) · special event frequency: <= 2 operations annually (and no more than 14 consecutive days per operation) · special event duration: <= 14 consecutive days (per operation)
“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.
“The Minnesota State Building Code is the standard of construction that applies statewide for the construction of buildings (MS 326B.121) including tiny houses.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Limited — Tiny houses used as dwelling units in Clearwater County and elsewhere in Minnesota, as governed by the Minnesota State Building Code.
“The Minnesota State Building Code is the standard of construction that applies statewide for the construction of buildings (MS 326B.121) including tiny houses. [...] Tiny houses used as dwelling units must comply with the Minnesota Residential Code unless otherwise stated in Appendix Q. [...] Tiny house: A dwelling that is 400 square feet or less in floor area measured from inside of wall to inside of wall and excludes lofts.”
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.”
Well permitLimited
Construction of water-supply wells in Clearwater County under Minnesota’s statewide well-construction program.
Before construction, a well notification and filing fee must be submitted to the commissioner.
The notification requirement does not apply before construction of a temporary boring.
An individual constructing a drive-point water-supply well on owned or leased property for farming, agricultural purposes, or the individual's place of abode must notify the commissioner within ten days after completion; no fee may be charged for that notification.
The well notification preempts local permits and notifications; a county may require a local permit or notification only if the commissioner has delegated that authority.
If the well requires a Department of Natural Resources appropriation permit, specified location, aquifer, and pumpage information must be submitted and preliminary approval received before construction.
Each water-supply well requires notification; the notification must be made before construction and is valid for 18 months from filing.
well notification timing: before construction (Drive-point well owner notification may be filed within ten days after completion under the statutory exception.) · notification validity: 18 months
“a person may not construct a water-supply, dewatering, or environmental well until a notification [...] is filed with the commissioner”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Limited — Construction of water-supply, dewatering, and environmental wells in Minnesota.
“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).”
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
Available (with conditions) — Agricultural buildings in Clearwater County and elsewhere in Minnesota, for purposes of the Minnesota State Building Code
“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.”
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.”
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.”
Set by your town or city, not the county
In Minnesota, zoning is adopted by each town or city, so Clearwater 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.
Minimum dwelling size
Lot coverage
Short-term rentals
Still unanswered
We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.
Mandatory utility hookup — Whether a property in Clearwater County must connect to public water, public sewer, both, or neither.
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.
Water rights & wells in Clearwater County
Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Minnesota’s water agency.
Actively managed
This basin is under active state management — new water use is scrutinized, though a domestic well is usually still allowed.
Household wellExempt up to a limit
Regulated-riparian: appropriation permits apply above 10,000 gpd / 1 million gal/yr. Domestic use under those thresholds is exempt; a well-construction notification to the MN Dept. of Health is still required. Household use is far below the cap.
Limit: <=10,000 gpd and <=1,000,000 gal/yr serving <=25 persons
Straight River Groundwater Management Arealocalized of county
DNR-designated GWMA where irrigation withdrawals from a sand-plain aquifer affect trout streams and lake levels; new/expanded appropriation permits get heightened review. Domestic wells exempt.
Regulated-riparian state (large uses permitted). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Minnesota state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.
Living off-grid in Clearwater County, Minnesota
Is Clearwater County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?
Clearwater County scores 80/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: sparse surroundings — about 9,204 people within 15 miles and manageable long-term carry cost.
Do you need a building permit in Clearwater County, Minnesota?
Clearwater County requires a building permit only in limited cases (such as floodplains or specific zones), and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Clearwater County Office of Environmental Services. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.
Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Clearwater County?
Living in an RV on your own land in Clearwater County is limited to specific cases: Statewide rule. Operating a recreational camping area in Clearwater County, including an area used for five or more recreational camping vehicles on a daily, nightly, weekly, or longer basis. Minnesota defines a recreational camping area as an area used for five or more tents or recreational camping vehicles, whether privately or publicly owned, free of charge or for compensation. The definition 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 motor sports facilities, and a privately owned area used no more than once a year and no longer than seven consecutive days by members of a private club paying annual dues. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.
How much does land cost in Clearwater County, Minnesota?
Land in Clearwater County runs about $2,881 per acre, based on the latest county data.
What is the water situation in Clearwater County?
Clearwater County gets about 24.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 7.6% of years. On water rights, Clearwater County lies in the Straight River Groundwater Management Area — DNR-designated GWMA where irrigation withdrawals from a sand-plain aquifer affect trout streams and lake levels; new/expanded appropriation permits get heightened review. Domestic wells exempt..
How remote is Clearwater County?
A typical private-land location has about 9,204 people within 15 miles and 566,540 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.
