The Planning & Zoning Department administers wetland, floodplain and zoning regulations in a uniform, fair and consistent manner. It recommends policies and provides advice for orderly development of the city. It also analyzes existing conditions and future trends in transportation, land use, housing, recreation and open space, natural resources, community services and economic development.
If you are looking for property, found property, planning for property improvements or development, applying for various permits, the Planning and Zoning Department can help. You can contact us at (218) 729-3600.
Zoning Schedule (Summary)
Zoning Map
Hermantown has a unique and comprehensive zoning code that regulates land use and development through the establishment of standards for development and limitations on land uses within a variety of land use districts.
Zoning Permits: Zoning Permits are required before building permits can be issued or before land can be altered. Zoning Permits generally require a property owner to complete a "Zoning Certificate Application" and prepare a site plan of the property showing property lines, the locations of buildings on the land and other relevant features. Zoning Certificates or individual permits are required for houses, additions to existing houses, garages, decks, sheds, driveways, swimming pools, fences and similar structures.
Land Alteration Permits: These are required before any land altering activities such as filling, grading, removal of vegetation, ditching or excavating. The "Land Alteration Permit Application" requires an inspection of the property before the Zoning Certificate is issued for the activity. If the inspection reveals wetlands will be impacted, a separate permit track is required to obtain necessary federal and local permits to impact wetlands.
Commercial/Industrial Development Permits: Any new business or expansion or an existing business requires a "Commercial/Industrial Development Permit" (CIDP). The Planning & Zoning Commission will notify property owners within 350 feet of the project site and hold a public hearing. A site plan is required to show the project and relationship to adjacent properties. CIDP's have conditions attached that define the project and assure compliance with the permit through performance surety requirements. Commercial projects can be required to provide additional detail to the Planning Commission regarding stormwater, parking, traffic and access.
Special Use Permits: Within each residential zone district for Hermantown, there are certain uses that are allowed only with a "Special Use Permit" (SUP). This process is similar to the CIDP in that the Planning & Zoning Commission notifies all property owners within 350 feet of the site and holds a public hearing. The Planning & Zoning Commission recommends approval or denial of the SUP to the City Council who might hold another public hearing.
Subdivision Platting & Property Divisions: The zoning code regulates these actions and contains detailed requirements for creating a subdivision and dividing existing parcels. There are standards that must be met and procedures for reviewing proposed projects before a permit application is required.
Wetland Protection & Management: Hermantown has a comprehensive program for managing wetlands in the city. Wetlands are important to the preservation of Hermantown trout streams. Wetlands within 500 feet of a trout stream are protected at the highest level along with larger contiguous wetlands that have not been affected by development.
Variances: The Hermantown Board of Appeals & Adjustments is responsible for considering variances to the zoning code and appeals of decisions by the Zoning Director. Variances from zoning regulations are allowed when there are "physical hardships" that prevent a property from complying with zone district requirements. Variances from area requirements, setbacks, and height restrictions must meet specific criteria and applicants are encouraged to discuss their needs with the Zoning Director prior to submitting an application and paying the fee. Variances from zone district use restrictions are not allowed.
