Permit Process & Applications Permit Process & Applications

Building permit applications need to be submitted a minimum of 60 days before the planned start date of your project to allow for township and county review.

See detailed procedures, forms and references linked below. We encourage you to consult both county and township ordinances, and contact representatives with any questions.

Note that township permits are required for new home builds, remodels which modify existing footprints and change the use of existing structures, the removal of any structure, and rezoning property. Projects such as decks, or replacing siding or windows do not generally require a township permit, but do require a county permit. See the “When is a Permit Required?” below for more details.

The Planning Commission recommends contacting us if your project may be impacted by its location in or proximity to Sensitive Natural Features (e.g. shore land, bluffs, wetlands, e.g.) as outlined in Section 9 of the Florence Township Zoning Ordinance.

Finally, note that most development and improvement projects within the Old Frontenac Historic District (R-FHD-1) require review and approval from the Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) regardless of whether a township building permit is required. Building permit applications within the Old Frontenac Historic District must be reviewed and approved by the HPC prior to final review and approval by the Planning Commission and Township Board. See the HPC page for details.

Building permit applications, including site plans, should be submitted to the Planning Commission by the 15th day of the month for review by the commission and Township Board the following month. This allows the commission and board sufficient time for review and to ensure the application is in good order.

Zoning changes, variances, and conditional/interim use permits (CUP/IUP) require public hearings. Most building permits do not.

All permits are reviewed by the Planning Commission at its monthly meetings (the second Monday of each month) at the Town Hall at 6pm. Permits then usually go to the Township Board for final decision the following (third) Monday of the month. Please plan to attend both meetings.

Fees must be paid with your completed application or given to the treasurer at the Township Board meeting. See the Florence Township Fee Schedule below.

For all questions and application submissions, email FlorenceZoning@gmail.com. To send application, fees or other materials by mail, send to Florence Township, Box 97, Frontenac, MN 55026. To contact commission members, see the Planning Commission page.