Building permits, zoning and land rules in Marshall County, Minnesota
67Index Score / 100 #24 of 87 in Minnesota
Marshall County, Minnesota requires county building and land-use permits for construction in its Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts, but a general county building permit outside those districts could not be confirmed1. Cities or townships may administer zoning or State Building Code permits locally; the county Water and Land Office still issues septic permits for every address in Marshall County23.
At a glance
Building permit
County building and land-use permit required in Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts; State Building Code permit authority varies locally4156
Zoning
County zoning covers mapped floodplain and shoreland districts; other local zoning may vary782
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Do you need a building permit in Marshall County, Minnesota?
Marshall County requires a county building and land-use permit for buildings, additions, decks and remodeling in its Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts; a general county building permit outside those districts could not be confirmed1. Minnesota's State Building Code is the statewide construction standard, but the local government responsible for administering code permits can vary; where the code is administered, covered work needs a building permit from the applicable building official before work begins56. The county fee for a floodplain or shoreland building permit is $50, and an after-the-fact county permit costs three times the regular fee15. Work covered by a State Building Code permit requires inspections and, where applicable, occupancy approval from that building official1617. Ask the Water and Land Office which building official serves the parcel. Agricultural buildings are generally outside the State Building Code under the stated exceptions, but that does not waive county zoning or land-use approval18.
Who handles Marshall County building permits, and how do you reach them?
Marshall County Environmental Services, also called the Water and Land Office, issues county building and land-use permits in Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts19. The office is at 208 E Colvin Ave, Suite 5, Warren, MN 56762; call 218-745-5841 or email josh.johnston@marshallcountymn.gov19. Submit county applications and fees before work so there is time for soil verification, shoreline determinations, flood elevations and review20. A city, township or other local building official may separately administer State Building Code permits and local zoning, but septic authority does not shift with those functions: the Water and Land Office issues septic permits countywide221. For a driveway involving a county road or right-of-way, contact the Marshall County Highway Department at 447 South Main, Warren, MN 56762, or 218-745-438122. A direct connection to a state highway instead requires a MnDOT driveway permit23.
Does Marshall County have zoning?
Marshall County administers Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts; zoning outside those county districts may vary by city or township82. Within the county districts, allowed construction and land uses depend on the mapped district and, in shoreland, the waterbody classification24. A habitable, permanently sited tiny home is prohibited in the Floodway District, while a residential structure may be allowed in the Flood Fringe District if it satisfies underlying zoning and flood-protection standards1112. Shoreland structure setbacks from ordinary high water are 100 or 150 feet by classification, and sewage-system setbacks are 75, 100 or 150 feet25. Properties with septic systems and properties in county floodplain or shoreland districts have a 1-acre minimum lot size26. Roads, driveways and parking areas require county land-use permits in those districts27. A countywide minimum dwelling size could not be confirmed; ask both the Water and Land Office and the local clerk.
How do septic permits work in Marshall County?
Installing, repairing or replacing a sewage treatment system anywhere in Marshall County requires a septic permit from the Water and Land Office before work begins2821. This countywide septic authority includes addresses inside cities and townships even when another local office handles building permits or zoning3. Every sewage system requires soil verification, and a septic property must contain at least 1 acre with room for two drain fields9. A Minnesota-licensed ISTS professional must inspect the system unless the exception in Minnesota Rules 7083 applies29. The countywide septic permit fee is $50, and an after-the-fact permit costs three times the regular fee15. None of the county's mapped soils are rated free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so complete soil verification before committing to a house site30.
Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Marshall County?
Marshall County's countywide RV-occupancy rule could not be confirmed, so ask the Water and Land Office and the parcel's township or city before using an RV as a residence. In a floodplain, a tiny home treated as a recreational vehicle must either meet manufactured-home standards or remain travel-ready, and new RV parks or campgrounds are prohibited31. A permanently sited, habitable tiny home is prohibited in the Floodway District11. In the Flood Fringe District, a residential tiny home may be allowed if underlying zoning permits it and the structure meets elevation, anchoring, flood-resistant construction and zoning-compliance requirements12. In shoreland, a tiny home may count as a dwelling; single-residential use is permitted or conditional according to the shoreland district and waterbody classification, and county building or land-use approval, sewage treatment and zoning compliance still apply32. Outside floodplain and shoreland districts, countywide tiny-home rules remain unconfirmed; ask the Water and Land Office and local clerk.
Building a home in Marshall County: the steps, in order
Ask the Water and Land Office whether the parcel is in a Floodplain or Shoreland Zoning District, because that location controls the county building and land-use permit requirement33.
If the parcel is in a floodplain, identify whether it is floodway or flood fringe before choosing a house design; habitable structures are prohibited in the floodway, while flood-fringe homes must meet flood-protection standards1112.
Ask the city or township about local zoning and identify the building official, if any, who administers State Building Code permits, inspections and occupancy approval for the parcel261617.
Return to the county Water and Land Office for soil verification and the countywide septic permit; reserve room for two drain fields on a septic lot of at least 1 acre9.
Submit county applications and fees before work, allowing time for technical review20.
Identify the road authority and obtain the named driveway permit: county land-use approval applies to driveway placement in county floodplain or shoreland districts, while MnDOT permits direct state-highway access2723.
Obtain county floodplain development approval before regulated construction, grading, filling or land alteration begins34.
What should you check before buying land in Marshall County?
Start with the zoning map and water features: a floodplain or shoreland designation changes the building, grading, driveway and setback rules that apply353637. Investigate septic feasibility before closing because none of the mapped county soils are rated free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, and every sewage system requires soil verification3038. Before drilling a water-supply well, the contractor or owner must submit a notification and fee to the Minnesota Department of Health; certain other wells and borings need written state approval39. A shoreland subdivision must provide a workable water supply and sewage-treatment site for every lot where public utilities are unavailable40. Floodplain land cannot be subdivided when flooding, drainage, water supply or sewage treatment makes it unsuitable, and every new lot must have a building site outside the floodway41. Most county terrain is gentle, with 99.8% at a slope of 15% or less, but only 16.2% is wooded4243. Confirm legal access and utility availability with the road authority and local utility provider; countywide utility-connection rules could not be confirmed.
Watch-outs
Zoning can vary by municipality or township in Marshall County; ask the local clerk before relying on county district rules alone2.
Starting regulated work before approval can triple the regular county building, land-use or septic permit fee15.
A countywide RV-occupancy rule remains unconfirmed; the statewide campground license for 5 or more camping units is not an answer for one private parcel44.
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.
Marshall County highlighted among the Minnesota counties · colored by Index score
How Marshall County scores
Seclusion90100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency40100% ev.
Admin Boringness56100% ev.
Durability48100% ev.
Property Autonomy65100% ev.
Carry Cost76100% 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 →
$210kTypical home
0.8%Property tax
$3,168Land / acre
22.6"Annual rain
6.1% of yrsSevere drought
1.2 / yr (+1.2)Mid-century 100°F days
16.3 daysMid-century dry spell
1.42" (+5.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.72×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,726Home insurance / yr
3.5% / yrInsurance growth
0.62%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
682People within 30 min
152,290People within 2 hr
4,177Radius comparison (15 mi)
5People / sq mi
6.3%Federal land
99.8%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
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Cities and towns in Marshall 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.
Agder Township · Alma Township · Alvarado · Argyle · Augsburg Township · Big Woods Township · Bloomer Township · Boxville Township · Cedar Township · Como Township · Comstock Township · Donnelly Township · Eagle Point Township · East Park Township · East Valley Township · Eckvoll Township · Espelie Township · Excel Township · Foldahl Township · Fork Township · Grand Plain Township · Grygla · Holt · Holt Township · Huntly Township · Lincoln Township · Linsell Township · Marsh Grove Township · McCrea Township · Middle River · Middle River Township · Moose River Township · Moylan Township · Nelson Park Township · New Folden Township · New Maine Township · New Solum Township · Newfolden · Oak Park Township · Oslo · Parker Township · Rollis Township · Sinnott Township · Spruce Valley Township · Stephen · Strandquist · Tamarac Township · Thief Lake Township · Valley Township · Vega Township · Veldt Township · Viking · Viking Township · Wanger Township · Warren · Warrenton Township · West Valley Township · Whiteford Township · Wright Township
Answers from the rulebook for Marshall County
What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.
Marshall County rules
Building permitLimited
Building and land-use permits in Marshall County floodplain and shoreland zoning districts.
The county page states permits are required in Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts.
Permits cover buildings, additions, decks, remodeling, roads, driveways, parking areas, feedlots, and specified grading, filling, and land alteration.
“Building, land use and septic systems permits are required in the Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts of Marshall County.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Limited — Building, land-use, and related construction permits in Marshall County Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts.
“Permits in floodplain and shoreland areas are required for: The construction of buildings, additions, decks and remodeling.”
Limited — County land-use and building permits in Marshall County.
“Building, land use and septic systems permits are required in the Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts of Marshall County.”
Local zoningVaries (with conditions)
Aggregate of local zoning within Marshall County, including county-administered zoning districts and municipal or township-administered local land-use rules.
Marshall County Environmental Services administers the county’s zoning ordinances.
The county page specifically identifies Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts and limits building and land-use permits to those districts.
Minnesota DNR states that shoreland standards are administered through local government ordinances and that counties, cities, and townships have authority for land-use decisions; therefore local zoning controls can vary by the applicable local government and district.
This aggregate claim does not assert that Marshall County administers every municipal or township ordinance.
“The land use districts provided below, and the allowable land uses therein for the given classifications of waterbodies, shall be properly delineated on the Official Zoning Map for the shorelands of this county.”
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
Present (with conditions) — Building, land-use, and septic-system permitting within Marshall County's Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts.
“Building, land use and septic systems permits are required in the Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts of Marshall County. Minimum lot size for a property is one acre.”
Present (with conditions) — County shoreland zoning for shorelands of classified public waters, including shorelands in unincorporated areas of Marshall County
“The provisions of this ordinance shall apply to the shorelands of the public water bodies as classified in Section 4.0 of this ordinance.”
Present (with conditions) — County-administered zoning in Marshall County Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts, including shorelands of classified public water bodies.
“Building, land use and septic systems permits are required in the Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts of Marshall County. Minimum lot size for a property is one acre.”
Present (with conditions) — Marshall County-administered zoning in the county's shoreland and floodplain zoning districts, including applicable unincorporated areas.
“Building, land use and septic systems permits are required in the Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts of Marshall County. Minimum lot size for a property is one acre.”
Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)
Marshall County zoning districts, including floodplain and shoreland districts and shoreland land-use classifications.
District-specific requirements vary by waterbody classification and location.
The county ordinance list also identifies a separate Floodplain Ordinance 2021.
“The land use districts provided below, and the allowable land uses therein for the given classifications of waterbodies, shall be properly delineated on the Official Zoning Map for the shorelands of this county.”
Minimum lot sizeSpecified
Properties with septic systems and property in Marshall County floodplain or shoreland zoning districts.
For a property with a septic system, the county states one acre is required with room for two drain fields.
The county separately states a one-acre minimum for property in Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts.
minimum lot size: >= 1 acre (room for two drain fields for property with a septic system)
“Minimum lot size for a property with a septic system is one (1) acre with room for two drain fields.”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Specified — Properties using septic systems and properties subject to the county's floodplain or shoreland permit requirements.
“Minimum lot size for a property with a septic system is one (1) acre with room for two drain fields.”
District specific (with conditions) — Properties with septic systems and properties in Marshall County floodplain and shoreland zoning districts.
“Minimum lot size for a property with a septic system is one (1) acre with room for two drain fields. Building, land use and septic systems permits are required in the Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts of Marshall County. Minimum lot size for a property is one acre.”
Specified — Properties with septic systems and properties in Marshall County floodplain or shoreland zoning districts.
“Minimum lot size for a property with a septic system is one (1) acre with room for two drain fields.”
SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)
Setbacks from the ordinary high water level in Marshall County shoreland areas.
The county requires technical work for soil verifications, ordinary high water lines, floodplain elevations, and application reviews before permits are processed.
natural environment lake structure setback: 150 feet (Thief, Mud, Kuriko, Elm, and Horseshoe lakes) · natural environment lake sewage-system setback: 150 feet (Thief, Mud, Kuriko, Elm, and Horseshoe lakes) · recreational lake structure setback: 100 feet (Florian Reservoir) · recreational lake sewage-system setback: 75 feet (Florian Reservoir) · forested river structure setback: 150 feet (part of Middle River) · forested river sewage-system setback: 100 feet (part of Middle River) · agricultural river structure setback: 100 feet (Red River of North, Tamarac, Snake, Middle, and Thief rivers) · agricultural river sewage-system setback: 75 feet (Red River of North, Tamarac, Snake, Middle, and Thief rivers) · tributary structure setback: 100 feet (part of Tamarac and Middle rivers) · tributary sewage-system setback: 75 feet (part of Tamarac and Middle rivers)
A permanently sited tiny home used as a residential structure in Marshall County's Flood Fringe District.
A permit from the Zoning Administrator is required before erection, addition, modification, rehabilitation, or alteration of any building or structure in the floodplain.
The use must be allowed in the underlying zoning district; if no pre-existing underlying zoning district exists, a residential structure or use is permitted if it does not constitute a public nuisance.
The standard permitted elevation method requires the structure's lowest floor to be at or above the regulatory flood protection elevation, with fill for residential structures extending at least 15 feet beyond the outside limits of the structure and elevation certification by a registered professional engineer, land surveyor, or other qualified person.
The ordinance also provides conditional-use alternatives: use of methods other than fill to elevate structures, including stilts, pilings, filled stem walls, or above-grade internally flooded enclosed areas, subject to Section 6.44; and certain below-RFPE basement arrangements after a FEMA letter of map revision-fill, subject to Section 6.45.
All new development must be anchored against flotation, collapse, and lateral movement; use flood-resistant materials and methods; protect service facilities from floodwater; be reasonably safe from flooding; and provide adequate drainage.
A certificate of zoning compliance is required before a building, land, or structure may be occupied or used.
residential fill extension beyond structure: >= 15 feet (The ordinance permits conditional alternative elevation methods under Sections 6.33 and 6.44.) · cumulative fill limit: <= 1000 cubic yards (The limit does not apply when fill is specifically intended to elevate a structure under Section 6.21.)
“Permitted uses are those uses of land or structures allowed in the underlying zoning district(s) that comply with the standards in Sections 6.2. If no pre-existing, underlying zoning districts exist, then any residential or nonresidential structure or use of a structure or land is a permitted use provided it does not constitute a public nuisance. [...] Fill for residential structures must extend at the same elevation at least 15 feet beyond the outside limits of the structure.”
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
Limited — A permanently sited tiny home used as a single residential dwelling unit in a Marshall County shoreland zoning district.
““Dwelling unit” means any structure or portion of a structure, or other shelter designed as short-or long-term living quarters for one or more persons [...] P = Permitted Use, C = Conditional Use, N = Prohibited Use. [...] - Single residential C C [...] - Single residential P P”
Limited — A tiny home treated as a recreational vehicle, or a recreational-vehicle-like movable shelter, in Marshall County floodplain districts.
“Recreational vehicles placed in existing recreational vehicle parks, campgrounds or lots of record in the floodplain must either:”
Prohibited — A permanently sited tiny home used for human habitation in Marshall County's Floodway District.
“Structure - anything constructed or erected on the ground or attached to the ground or on-site utilities, including, but not limited to, buildings, factories, sheds, detached garages, cabins, decks manufactured homes, recreational vehicles not considered travel ready as detailed in Section 10.22 of this ordinance and other similar items. [...] The use must not involve structures. [...] Structures are not intended for human habitation;”
Limited — A tiny home used as a dwelling unit or single-residential structure within the shorelands of public waters regulated by Marshall County's Shoreland Ordinance.
“"Dwelling unit" means any structure or portion of a structure, or other shelter designed as short-or long-term living quarters for one or more persons, including rental or timeshare accommodations such as motel, hotel, and resort rooms and cabins. [...] P = Permitted Use, C = Conditional Use, N = Prohibited Use. [...] - Single residential C C [...] - Single residential P P [...] - Single residential P P”
Who permits septicCounty
Subsurface sewage treatment systems throughout Marshall County.
Permits are obtained from the Water and Land Office.
All sewage systems require soil verifications.
Systems must be designed, installed, inspected, altered, and repaired by a Minnesota-licensed ISTS professional except as provided under Minnesota Rules 7083.
“Septic systems in all areas of the county require permits. A permit is required prior to installation and must be obtained from the Water and Land Office. All sewage systems in the County must have soil verifications. All septic systems shall be designed, installed, inspected, altered and repaired by a MN licensed ISTS professional except as provided under MN Rules 7083.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
County (with conditions) — County administration of subsurface sewage treatment system permits in all areas of Marshall County.
“A permit is required prior to installation and must be obtained from the Water and Land Office.”
County — Subsurface sewage treatment systems throughout Marshall County.
“A permit is required prior to installation and must be obtained from the Water and Land Office.”
Septic permitRequired
Installation of septic systems in all areas of Marshall County.
The permit must be obtained before installation from the Water and Land Office.
Privies and holding tanks also require permits in floodplain and shoreland areas.
A minimum one-acre lot with room for two drain fields is stated for a property with a septic system.
minimum lot size: >= 1 acre (with room for two drain fields)
“Septic systems in all areas of the county require permits. A permit is required prior to installation and must be obtained from the Water and Land Office. All sewage systems in the County must have soil verifications.”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — Installation of septic systems and other sewage treatment systems in all areas of Marshall County.
“Septic systems in all areas of the county require permits. A permit is required prior to installation and must be obtained from the Water and Land Office. All sewage systems in the County must have soil verifications.”
Required — Installation, repair, or replacement of sewage treatment systems in all areas of Marshall County.
“Septic systems in all areas of the county require permits. A permit is required prior to installation and must be obtained from the Water and Land Office.”
Required — Installation, repair, or replacement of sewage treatment systems in all areas of Marshall County.
“Septic systems in all areas of the county require permits.”
Septic inspectionRequired
Septic systems in Marshall County.
All septic systems must be inspected as part of the stated professional design, installation, alteration, and repair requirements.
A Minnesota-licensed ISTS professional is required except as provided under Minnesota Rules 7083.
“All septic systems shall be designed, installed, inspected, altered and repaired by a MN licensed ISTS professional except as provided under MN Rules 7083.”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — Septic and sewage treatment systems in Marshall County.
“All septic systems shall be designed, installed, inspected, altered and repaired by a MN licensed ISTS professional except as provided under MN Rules 7083.”
Required — Marshall County sewage treatment systems.
“All septic systems shall be designed, installed, inspected, altered and repaired by a MN licensed ISTS professional except as provided under MN Rules 7083.”
Required — Septic systems in Marshall County.
“All septic systems shall be designed, installed, inspected, altered and repaired by a MN licensed ISTS professional except as provided under MN Rules 7083.”
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Subdivisions in Marshall County shoreland areas governed by the Marshall County Shoreland Ordinance.
Each lot created through subdivision must be suitable in its natural state for the proposed use with minimal alteration.
Subdivisions must conform to all official controls of the county.
Where public sewer and water are unavailable, domestic water supply and sewage treatment capability must be available for every lot.
Lots requiring holding tanks must not be approved.
Applications must provide the listed topographic, surface-water, soils, water-supply, alteration, floodplain, and ordinary-high-water/setback information.
When a land or easement dedication is a condition of subdivision approval, the approval must provide easements over natural drainage or ponding areas for stormwater and significant wetlands.
No permit for construction of buildings or sewage treatment systems shall be issued for lots created after enactment of the official controls unless the lot was approved as part of a formal subdivision.
plat threshold: 5 or more lots or parcels that are 2-1/2 acres or less (Must be processed as a plat under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 505.)
“All subdivisions that create five or more lots or parcels that are 2-1/2 acres or less in size shall be processed as a plat in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 505. No permit for construction of buildings or sewage treatment systems shall be issued for lots created after these official controls were enacted unless the lot was approved as part of a formal subdivision.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivisions in Marshall County floodplain districts.
“No land may be subdivided which is unsuitable for reasons of flooding or inadequate drainage, water supply or sewage treatment facilities. Manufactured home parks and recreational vehicle parks or campgrounds are considered subdivisions under this ordinance.”
Driveway accessLimited
Roads, driveways, and parking areas in Marshall County floodplain and shoreland areas.
The county page lists placement of roads, driveways, and parking areas among activities requiring permits in floodplain and shoreland areas.
“The placement of roads, driveways and parking areas.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Limited — Roads, driveways, and parking areas in Marshall County floodplain and shoreland areas.
“Permits in floodplain and shoreland areas are required for: The placement of roads, driveways and parking areas.”
Limited — Road, driveway, and parking-area placement in Marshall County floodplain and shoreland areas.
“The placement of roads, driveways and parking areas.”
Building in a floodplainRequired
Building, land-use, septic, access, feedlot, grading, filling, and other listed development activities in Marshall County floodplain areas.
The county page states that building, land-use, and septic permits are required in floodplain and shoreland zoning districts.
Permits cover construction of buildings, additions, decks, remodeling, sewage treatment systems, roads, driveways, parking areas, feedlots, and specified grading, filling, and other land alteration activities.
Applications require time for floodplain elevations and other technical review.
“Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Development and land alteration in Marshall County floodplain zoning districts.
“Building, land use and septic systems permits are required in the Floodplain and Shoreland Zoning Districts of Marshall County.”
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Marshall County land-use and SSTS permit fees.
The fee schedule is for land-use construction or land-alteration permits in shoreland and floodplain areas and for SSTS permits countywide.
Fees were approved by the County Board and are stated to be effective March 2, 2010.
After-the-fact permits are three times the regular permit fee.
building permit fee in floodplain/shoreland: 50 USD · septic system permit fee countywide: 50 USD · after-the-fact fee multiplier: 3 times regular fee
“Fees Approved by County Board and effective March 2, 2010. Buildings FP/SL | Septic System Countywide | Land Alteration FP/SL | Conditional Use | Variance | Platted Subdivisions SL | Appeals of Administrative Decision $50 | $50 | $50 | $250 | $300 | $200 | $300 After-the-Fact Permit is 3 times regular permit fee.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Published (with conditions) — Marshall County land-use, septic, floodplain, shoreland, variance, subdivision, and appeal permits listed on the county fee schedule.
Marshall County Environmental Services permit process for land-use construction/land-alteration permits in shoreland and floodplain areas and SSTS permits countywide.
Landowners must submit permit applications and fees to the Water and Land Office before work.
Land-use permits apply in shoreland and floodplain areas.
SSTS permits apply countywide to install, repair, or replace sewage treatment systems.
Applications must allow time for soil verifications, ordinary high water line determinations, floodplain elevations, and application review.
After-the-fact permits cost three times the regular permit fee.
The page states the listed fees were approved by the County Board and effective March 2, 2010.
regular permit fees: $50, $50, $50, $250, $300, $200, and $300 depending on permit type USD (The page's table assigns fees to buildings FP/SL, septic system countywide, land alteration FP/SL, conditional use, variance, platted subdivisions SL, and appeals/public-hearing categories.) · after-the-fact permit fee multiplier: 3 times regular permit fee
“Landowners are responsible for submitting permit applications and fees to the Water and Land Office prior to work.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Partial — Marshall County land-use and SSTS permit applications administered by the Water and Land Office.
“Landowners are responsible for submitting permit applications and fees to the Water and Land Office prior to work.”
County-wide zoningPresent
County Environmental Services administers county zoning ordinances (including Floodplain and Shoreland zoning districts).
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
Conditional — Owner licensing exemption for residential construction or improvement.
“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.”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Adopted (with conditions) — Minnesota State Building Code for buildings and structures governed by the code.
“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.”
Adopted — Construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, and use of buildings and other structures governed by the Minnesota State Building Code.
“The State Building Code is the standard that applies statewide”
Adopted — Buildings and structures governed by the Minnesota State Building Code, including Marshall County.
“The State Building Code is the standard that applies statewide”
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 — 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 and the construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes until approved.”
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”
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 — Buildings and structures governed by the Minnesota Building Code.
“After the building official inspects a building or structure and finds no violations of the code or other laws that are enforced by the Department of Building Safety, the building official shall issue a certificate of occupancy containing the following:”
Required — Use or occupancy of buildings and changes in occupancy classification governed by the Minnesota State Building Code.
“No building or structure shall be used or occupied”
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.”
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.
“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 — Water-supply well construction in Minnesota, including Marshall County.
“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.”
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
Conditional — Agricultural buildings under the Minnesota State Building Code.
“The State Building Code does not apply to agricultural buildings except:”
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 Marshall 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
Building height
Living in an RV
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 — Connection to public water or sewer utilities in Marshall 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 Marshall County, Minnesota
Is Marshall County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?
Marshall County scores 67/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 682 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: thin water margin (22.6″/yr rainfall).
Do you need a building permit in Marshall County, Minnesota?
Marshall 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 Marshall County Environmental Services / Water and Land Office (under MPCA SSTS rules). 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.
How much does land cost in Marshall County, Minnesota?
Land in Marshall County runs about $3,168 per acre, based on the latest county data.
What is the water situation in Marshall County?
Marshall County gets about 22.6" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 6.1% of years.
How remote is Marshall County?
A representative private-land location has about 682 people within a 30-minute drive and 152,290 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.
