On this page 6
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Sherburne County
County ordinance requires permits for construction and placement of structures, additions, and structural alterations; county FAQ specifically lists decks, garages, finished basements, pools, reshingling, residing, water heaters, fireplaces, furnaces, windows, and garage doors.
- Exempt Fence under 7 feet in height
- Exempt Electrical permits are handled by Minnesota DLI rather than the county
- Varies by permit type
- county FAQ points applicants to the building-permits page
- staff review. Septic compliance certification is commonly required.
- Building code
- Minnesota State Building Code; county FAQ points to the current Minnesota code set.
- Permit validity
- Work must start within 180 days. Permits are valid for 6 months and can be extended if progress is being made.
- Contractor requirements
- Electrical permits are issued by Minnesota DLI. Septic compliance inspections must be done by a state licensed septic professional. Contractor licensing is otherwise governed by Minnesota law.
Application process
Typical processing: Generally within 15 business days after a complete application; longer in summer.
- 01 Confirm whether the project requires a county building permit and what submittal package applies.
- 02 Prepare the application and supporting materials; septic compliance is a common prerequisite.
- 03 Submit online through the county portal, by email to zoning@co.sherburne.mn.us, or by drop-off at the Planning and Zoning office.
- 04 County staff review for completeness and code and zoning compliance.
- 05 Pay permit fees before issuance; permit can be emailed or picked up.
Typical processing time: Generally within 15 business days after a complete application; longer in summer.
Fee schedule
Sherburne County building permit fees
Cash, check, or credit card accepted before issuance; county FAQ notes a 2.4% credit card convenience fee.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Contact permit authority (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Electrical inspector call window published; county building-inspection hours not clearly posted on the page reviewed
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Sherburne County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Sherburne County, MN? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in unincorporated Sherburne County, MN? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Sherburne County, MN? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Sherburne County, MN? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Sherburne County, MN? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Sherburne County, MN? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Sherburne County Planning and Zoning before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.