Bolthole Index

Winona County, Minnesota

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

68Index Score / 100
#23 of 87 in Minnesota

Winona County, Minnesota requires building permits for code-regulated work where the state permit rule applies; the building official varies by jurisdiction1. Unincorporated Winona County has zoning, with separate township administration in Wilson, Saratoga, St. Charles and Utica23. Winona County Planning & Environmental Services handles county septic applications; Construction Management Services handles septic permitting in Saratoga, St. Charles and Utica townships4.

At a glance

Building permit
Required before code-regulated work; the building official and local process vary by jurisdiction1
Zoning
County-enforced outside cities, with separate administration in specified townships25
Septic
Approval and an installation inspection are required; three townships use Construction Management Services674
Owner-builder
The state contractor-license exemption applies when the owner will occupy the home or retain it as a rental, but it does not waive permits89
Driveway access
A county access permit is required before constructing, improving or changing an access on a road under county jurisdiction10
Floodplain work
A floodplain permit is required for covered work such as a house, fill, culvert or bridge in a floodplain1112
Water wells
A notification or permit is required before regulated well work where a delegated well program applies; confirm the correct authority13
RV or tiny home living
Countywide residential occupancy rules could not be confirmed; ask the office serving the parcel before placement14

Who to call

Zoning

Winona County Planning & Environmental Services

County-administered zoning certificates, land-use review, septic permits, floodplain and shoreland matters

507-457-6520

202 W Third Street, Winona, MN 55987

Online permits →

Zoning

Construction Management Services

Zoning and septic permitting for Saratoga, St. Charles and Utica townships

507-282-8206

planning@tpamn.org

Roads & driveways

Winona County Highway Department

Access permits for county state-aid highways and county roads under Winona County jurisdiction

507-457-8840

5300 Highway 61 West, Winona, MN 55987

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 13, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Winona County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

These are affiliate links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, Bolthole Index earns from qualifying purchases.

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

In Winona County, the Minnesota permit rule requires an application to the building official and the required building permit before code-regulated construction, alterations, demolition or changes of occupancy; local administration varies1. The Minnesota State Building Code is the statewide minimum construction standard, but local enforcement depends on adoption by ordinance15. One-story detached storage sheds, playhouses and similar accessory structures no larger than 200 square feet are among the building-permit exemptions; county development-certificate requirements are separate116. Inside Goodview and Lewiston, the cities issue building permits1718. City building approval does not replace onsite-septic approval through Winona County Planning & Environmental Services19.

Who handles building permits and zoning applications in Winona County?

Winona County Planning & Environmental Services issues county zoning certificates and septic permits; a zoning certificate is separate from a building-code permit issued by the applicable building official2021. Contact the county planning office at 202 W Third Street, Winona, MN 55987, or 507-457-652020. Every Winona County permit application is submitted through the county's online permitting system, with fees paid online by e-check or credit card and email progress notices as the application moves2223. Construction Management Services handles zoning and septic applications in Saratoga, St. Charles and Utica townships; call 507-282-8206 or email planning@tpamn.org24. Incorporated cities administer planning and zoning within city limits, and Wilson Township runs its own zoning process, so applications for those parcels do not go through the county system22.

Does Winona County have zoning?

Unincorporated Winona County has county zoning districts, while Wilson Township and incorporated municipalities administer their own zoning regulations2. Goodview and Lewiston have their own city zoning; onsite-septic regulation remains with Winona County Planning rather than moving with city zoning approval252619. Saratoga, St. Charles and Utica townships use Construction Management Services for zoning and septic permitting3. The county map distinguishes agricultural, business, community-development, industrial and residential districts27. County variance requests go to the Board of Adjustment; conditional/interim use applications and zoning amendments go through Planning Commission review and a Board of Commissioners vote23. We could not confirm district-specific minimum dwelling sizes, lot sizes, setbacks, height limits or accessory-dwelling rules; ask the zoning administrator serving the parcel before finalizing a site plan5.

How do septic permits work in Winona County?

Winona County Planning regulates subsurface sewage treatment system design, permitting, installation and inspection under the county zoning ordinance and authority from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency19. The county septic application lists a $350 fee plus site-evaluation, soil-log, design and management-plan materials6. The installation must also be inspected under the county ordinance7. Saratoga, St. Charles and Utica townships use Construction Management Services for septic permitting beginning in early 2026, although project-specific county or state permits may still apply4. Systems designed for more than 10,000 gallons per day require an MPCA permit28. Only about 8.5% of Winona County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the soil evaluation an early feasibility check29.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on land in Winona County?

We could not confirm a rule allowing long-term RV occupancy or temporary camping on private land in unincorporated Winona County; ask Winona County Planning & Environmental Services, or the township administrator serving the parcel, about occupancy, placement and sanitation before relying on an RV homesite520. A tiny house used as a dwelling must meet the Minnesota Residential Code, while local zoning determines whether the dwelling is allowed on the parcel30. We could not confirm Winona County's local tiny-home occupancy standards; building-code compliance alone does not establish zoning approval30.

Building a home in Winona County: the steps, in order

  1. Identify the parcel's township and zoning administrator because the county, specified townships and incorporated cities use different processes3.
  1. Confirm the zoning district and obtain the local zoning approval before construction316.
  1. Apply to the building official and obtain the required building permit before code-regulated work begins1.
  1. Submit county permit applications through the online permitting system, which collects fees by e-check or credit card; parcels in a city, Wilson Township or the three Construction Management Services townships follow that jurisdiction's process instead223.
  1. Budget for the county fees that fit the project; the 2026 schedule lists $200 for a development-certificate application, $500 for a new dwelling or commercial structure, and $200 for an accessory structure31.
  1. Submit the septic application, supporting site and design materials, and arrange the required installation inspection with the correct authority6719.
  1. Confirm well requirements, floodplain status and road access before site work131210.
  1. Minnesota's owner-builder exemption is from residential-contractor licensing when the owner will occupy the property or retain it as a rental; it does not waive permits and does not apply to building for resale or speculation89.

What should you check before buying land in Winona County?

Check the parcel's jurisdiction first because zoning and septic administration changes among the county, certain townships and incorporated cities5. Then verify the mapped zoning district, road authority, floodplain status, septic feasibility and well-permit authority with the offices that will review the project3210121913. A proposed land division needs an early county conversation because the County Surveyor checks subdivision plats and new land splits require a filed survey33. About 63.9% of county land has a slope of 15% or less, while about 41.4% is wooded, so parcel-level topography and clearing needs can differ sharply from county averages3435.

Watch-outs

  • Do not start code-regulated work with only a zoning certificate; the required building permit must come from the applicable building official121.
  • Winona County's online system takes county permit applications only; cities, Wilson Township and the Construction Management Services townships run separate processes223.
  • Most Winona County soils have severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so secure a site evaluation before committing to a house location29.

Sources

  1. 1300.0120 - Permits, quoted and re-checked
  2. Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  3. Online Permitting, quoted and re-checked
  4. Septic Systems, quoted and re-checked
  5. Online Permitting, quoted and re-checked
  6. Septic Systems, quoted and re-checked
  7. Septic Systems, quoted and re-checked
  8. 2025 Minnesota Statutes, Section 326B.805, quoted and re-checked
  9. Residential contractor licensing, quoted and re-checked
  10. Winona County Highway Department (winonacounty.gov)
  11. Floodplain Regulations (Minnesota statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Board of Adjustment, quoted and re-checked
  13. 4725.1810 - Permits and Notifications, General, quoted and re-checked
  14. Online Permitting, quoted and re-checked
  15. Overview of the Minnesota State Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  16. Winona County Planning & Zoning (2026 county census)
  17. Goodview: Building Permits - Goodview, Minnesota (Winona County), quoted and re-checked
  18. Lewiston: City of Lewiston City Code (Winona County), quoted and re-checked
  19. Septic Systems, quoted and re-checked
  20. Winona County Planning & Environmental Services (winonacounty.gov)
  21. Minnesota State Building Code Adoption Guide (Minnesota statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  22. Online Permitting, quoted and re-checked
  23. Online Permitting, quoted and re-checked
  24. Construction Management Services (winonacounty.gov)
  25. Goodview: Ordinances - Goodview, Minnesota (Winona County), quoted and re-checked
  26. Lewiston: City of Lewiston City Code (Winona County), quoted and re-checked
  27. Winona County Zoning 2023, quoted and re-checked
  28. SSTS design (Minnesota statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Tiny Houses and the 2020 Minnesota Residential Code (Minnesota statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  31. 2026 Winona County Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  32. Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  33. County Surveyor, quoted and re-checked
  34. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  35. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 13, 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.

Found land here? Start a Property Hunt →

Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Winona County has countywide zoning.

RuleWinona CountyHouston CountyFillmore CountyWabasha CountyOlmsted CountyDodge CountyMower County
Building permitLimitedLimitedLimitedRequiredRequiredLimitedLimited
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Planning & Env. ServicesCounty Env. Services Dept.County ZoningCounty Planning & ZoningCounty InspectionsCounty Env. Services Dept.County Env. Services

County locator

Winona County in Minnesota

68
County map
Winona County highlighted among the Minnesota counties · colored by Index score

How Winona County scores

Seclusion42100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency63100% ev.
Admin Boringness56100% ev.
Durability65100% ev.
Property Autonomy65100% ev.
Carry Cost65100% 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 →

$285kTypical home
0.9%Property tax
$6,840Land / acre
36.7"Annual rain
2.5% of yrsSevere drought
1.6 / yr (+1.6)Mid-century 100°F days
14.9 daysMid-century dry spell
1.78" (+8%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.76×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,747Home insurance / yr
3.1% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
100,056People within 30 min
1,339,085People within 2 hr
56,490Radius comparison (15 mi)
79.4People / sq mi
0.7%Federal land
63.9%Land at 15% slope or less
8.5%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
32,147 acWorkable land screen
41.4%Wooded land
44.6 tonsBiomass / forest ac
45.4°FAvg temp

Scout Winona County

Camp here before you commitBook a few nights nearby on Hipcamp →Already own land here?Earn money hosting campers — get $100 when you become a Hipcamp host →

Some links are affiliate or referral links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.

Property hunt

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Search live inventory elsewhere, then cost and vet each candidate here. No copied listings, account, or paid data feed.

View your full hunt →
ZillowLand & lotsRealtor.comLand listingsLandSearchRural & vacant land

Each button opens a current land search for Winona County. Listing sites control their own results and filters.

Analyze a property
Add setup-cost allowances

Use rough quotes or placeholders. Blank fields count as $0.

Working estimate

—land + entered setup costs
Asking $ / acre
—
Setup allowance
—
All-in $ / acre
—

A planning estimate, not a valuation or contractor quote. The USDA benchmark includes farm land and buildings; it is context, not a parcel comp.

Before an offer

Parcel due diligence

0/8 checked

Saved properties and checklist progress stay on this device. Bolthole Index does not receive them.

Cities and towns in Winona County

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

Not yet researched: Altura · Dakota · Dresbach Township · Elba · Elba Township · Fremont Township · Hart Township · Hillsdale Township · Homer Township · Minnesota City · Mount Vernon Township · New Hartford Township · Norton Township · Pleasant Hill Township · Richmond Township · Rollingstone · Rollingstone Township · Saratoga Township · St. Charles · Stockton · Utica · Utica Township · Warren Township · Whitewater Township · Wilson Township · Winona · Wiscoy Township

Answers from the rulebook for Winona County

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

Winona County rules

  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Winona County Zoning Ordinance administration outside incorporated municipal limits.

    • Municipalities administer planning and zoning within their city limits.
    • Wilson Township administers its own zoning ordinance.
    • Saratoga, St. Charles, and Utica townships use Construction Management Services for zoning and septic permitting beginning in early 2026.
    “The department maintains and oversees updates to the Winona County Comprehensive and Water Resources Plans and the enforcement of the Winona County Zoning Ordinance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County zoning districts and zoning ordinance controls in unincorporated Winona County.
      “Zoning Districts Agriculture / Resource Conservation Business & Recreational Community Development Community Development 2 General Industrial Rural Residential Urban Residential Municipality Wilson Township [...] Municipalities and Wilson Township administer their own zoning regulations. For questions, please contact the applicable jurisdiction.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate zoning across Winona County, where county, township, and municipal authorities administer different areas.

    • The county aggregate does not mean Winona County administers every local ordinance.
    • Municipalities administer zoning within city limits.
    • Wilson Township has its own zoning ordinance.
    • Saratoga, St. Charles, and Utica townships have zoning and septic permitting administered by Construction Management Services beginning in early 2026.
    “Municipalities (cities) administer Planning and Zoning within their city limits.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning across Winona County, including county-administered unincorporated areas, Wilson Township, Saratoga Township, St. Charles Township, Utica Township, and incorporated municipalities.
      “Since 2013, Wilson Township has established their own Zoning Ordinance. Therefore, properties located within Wilson Township complete the application process through Wilson Township. [...] Municipalities (cities) administer Planning and Zoning within their city limits.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Winona County zoning districts and map for areas administered under the county zoning ordinance.

    • The county Planning & Zoning page links the Zoning Ordinance and Winona County Zoning Map.
    • Municipal and township zoning authorities may administer land within their respective jurisdictions.
    “Helpful Documents County Comprehensive Plan 2014 (PDF) Zoning Ordinance (PDF) Winona County Zoning Map”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Published Winona County zoning districts shown on the official 2023 zoning map.
      “Zoning Districts Agriculture / Resource Conservation Business & Recreational Community Development Community Development 2 General Industrial Rural Residential Urban Residential Municipality Wilson Township”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems in Winona County, especially rural properties using onsite septic systems.

    • Winona County Planning Department regulates SSTS design, permitting, installation, and inspection through the County Zoning Ordinance and authority from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
    • Most homes and businesses in municipalities discharge sewage to publicly owned sewage treatment plants; the cited county septic program describes onsite systems primarily in rural areas.
    • Beginning in early 2026, zoning and septic permitting is administered by Construction Management Services in Saratoga, St. Charles, and Utica townships; properties in those townships complete the application process through CSM.
    • Project-specific County/State permits may still apply in Saratoga, St. Charles, and Utica townships.

    township-specific administration start: early 2026 (Saratoga, St. Charles, and Utica townships)

    “Beginning in early 2026, zoning and septic permitting is administered by Construction Management Services (CSM) in Saratoga, St. Charles, and Utica townships. Therefore, properties located within these townships will complete the application process through CSM. Project specific County/State permits may still apply. [...] The department issues zoning certificates, septic permits, and certificates of compliance acknowledging any property improvements satisfy all applicable standards.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems in Winona County.
      “Winona County Planning Department through the Zoning Ordinance and authority from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency regulates the design, permitting, installations, and inspections of Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems (SSTS).”
  • Septic permitRequired

    SSTS permit applications administered by Winona County Planning and Environmental Services.

    • The county application identifies a $350 SSTS application fee.
    • All sewage systems must be approved by Winona County Planning and Environmental Services.
    • Required supporting forms include preliminary evaluation, field evaluation, soil observation logs, site evaluation map, design summary, proposed design map, design worksheets, and a management plan.

    SSTS application fee: 350 USD

    “All sewage systems shall be approved by Winona County Planning & Environmental Services.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    SSTS installation inspection in Winona County.

    • Notification of desired installation inspection must follow Winona County Zoning Ordinance section 13.7.2(L).
    “Notification of desired installation inspection shall be in accordance with Winona County Zoning Ordinance section 13.7.2(L).”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision plats and land splits in Winona County.

    • The County Surveyor checks and approves subdivision plats for compliance with Minnesota Statutes and local ordinances.
    • Under county ordinances, all surveys must be filed in the County Surveyor's office.
    • Any new land split requires a survey filed in the County Recorder's office.
    “Our office also checks and approves all subdivision plats, registered land surveys, and common interest community plats for compliance with Minnesota Statutes and local ordinances.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Development subject to Winona County floodplain controls in applicable floodplain areas.

    • The opened county page confirms vehicular-access requirements in the Floodplain Ordinance and a variance process, but does not provide the full floodplain-development standards.
    • The Board of Adjustment may grant variances to the vehicular-access requirements of the Floodplain Ordinance.
    “The Board of Adjustment has the authority to grant variances to the vehicular access requirements of the Floodplain Ordinance.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Winona County Planning and Environmental Services fees, including development certificates and new dwelling or commercial structure applications.

    • The 2026 schedule lists a $200 Development Certificate Application fee.
    • The schedule lists $500 for a New Dwelling / Commercial Structure, including assignment of a New Address.
    • The schedule lists $200 for an Accessory Structure.
    • An Accessory Structure Ag Building has no charge if the Development Certificate permit is obtained before building; it is $200 after the fact, and the charge is waived for farm storage only.
    • The schedule separately lists a $250 Change of Use / Home Occupation fee.
    • The schedule also provides that certain after-the-fact permit fees equal the permit fee through ten days after installation, and twice the permit fee plus the original permit fee when obtained more than ten days after installation; repeat offenses may incur up to $1,000 in additional fees or MPCA license review.

    Development Certificate Application: 200 USD · New Dwelling / Commercial Structure: 500 USD (includes the assignment of a New Address) · Accessory Structure: 200 USD · Accessory Structure Ag Building before building: 0 USD (Development Certificate permit obtained before building; farm storage charge waived) · Accessory Structure Ag Building after the fact: 200 USD (farm storage charge waived) · Change of Use / Home Occupation: 250 USD

    “Development- Certificate Application $200.00 New Dwelling / Commercial Structure $500.00 includes the assignment of a New Address Accessory Structure $200.00 Accessory Structure Ag Building No charge if Development Certificate permit obtained before building; $200 if after the fact. Note, charge waived for farm storage only. Change of Use / Home Occupation $250.00”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County-administered permit applications and planning/zoning approvals in Winona County.

    • Applications are submitted through the online permitting system.
    • Fees are collected online by e-check or credit card.
    • Applicants receive email progress notifications and can review application status online.
    • Variance requests go to the Board of Adjustment; conditional/interim use permits and zoning amendments are reviewed by the Planning Commission and voted on by the Board of Commissioners.
    • Different township and municipal processes apply in specified jurisdictions.
    “All Winona County permit applications are to be submitted through the online permitting system. Fees are collected online using an e-check or credit card. When applying online you will automatically receive email notifications about the progress of your application, and you can log in anytime to review current status.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County permit application process administered through Winona County's online permitting system.
      “All Winona County permit applications are to be submitted through the online permitting system.”

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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction and other code-regulated building work in Minnesota, including work in Winona County where the state rule applies.
      “An owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any gas, mechanical, electrical, plumbing system, or other equipment, the installation of which is regulated by the code; or cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Owner-builder exemption from Minnesota residential contractor licensing for an owner building or improving residential real estate.

    • 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.
    • 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 are retained for rental purposes.
    • This is a contractor licensing exemption and does not by itself waive building, zoning, septic, electrical, plumbing, or other permits.

    speculation presumption threshold: > 1 property within any 24-month period (unless the properties will be retained by the owner for rental purposes)

    “The license requirement does not apply to: [...] (3) an owner of residential real estate who builds or improves residential real estate if the owner occupies or will occupy the residential real estate for residential purposes, or will retain ownership for rental purposes upon completion of the building or improvement. 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 — An owner performing residential construction or improvement work on the owner's own residential property in Minnesota, including Winona County.
      “Owners doing work on their own property (unless they build or are improving properties they own for purposes of resale or speculation);”
    • 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 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted — Construction in Winona County because the Minnesota State Building Code applies statewide, including counties, cities, and townships.
      “The 2024 Minnesota Commercial Energy Code is effective Jan. 5, 2024. [...] The 2020 Minnesota State Building Code is effective March 31, 2020, except for the Minnesota Mechanical Fuel Gas Code, which is effective April 6, 2020. It is the minimum construction standard throughout all of Minnesota. Although it is not enforceable by municipalities unless it is adopted by local ordinance, it creates a level playing field for the construction industry by establishing the Minnesota State Building Code as the standard for the construction of all buildings in the state.”
  • 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”
  • 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.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    New manufactured homes installed for occupancy statewide in Minnesota

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    privy solids removal threshold: 50 percent capacity

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

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

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

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

    “Except as provided in paragraph (d), a person may not construct a water-supply, dewatering, or environmental well until a notification of the proposed well on a form prescribed by the commissioner is filed with the commissioner with the filing fee in section 103I.208, and, when applicable, the person has met the requirements of paragraph (e).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Construction or sealing of wells or borings in Minnesota, including Winona County, when located within a delegated political subdivision program.
      “A person constructing or sealing a well or boring that is located within a political subdivision with a well and boring program delegated under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 103I, must file a notification with, or obtain a permit from, the delegated program prior to construction or sealing of a well or boring regulated by the delegated program, except that a notification for construction or sealing of a community public water-supply well must be filed with the commissioner.”
  • 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.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

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

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

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

Winona County scores 68/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop and mixed durability signals.

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

Winona 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 Winona County Planning & 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.

How much does land cost in Winona County, Minnesota?

Land in Winona County runs about $6,840 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Winona County?

Winona County gets about 36.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 2.5% of years.

How remote is Winona County?

A representative private-land location has about 100,056 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,339,085 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Winona compares in Minnesota

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