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Why do I need a permit?
Some people may think obtaining a permit means extra costs, time delays and unwarranted regulations. However, a permit ensures proper services are provided to safeguard life, health, property and public welfare. For most people, their home is their most important investment. If work is done improperly, your home can become unsafe for you and your family, and may lose value. Realtors and lenders know the law requires homeowners to have proper permits for home remodeling and construction, and often require documentation when selling a house. If work was completed without a permit, you may be required to go back for permits, inspections and additional repair work to meet minimum code standards.
Do I need a permit for a pre-fabricated shed? Yes, if it is over 200 square feet.
A fence? only if it is over 7' in height.
A pool? Maybe - see Pools FAQ
A sign? Yes.
Who can I get to do a septic compliance inspection, pump/maintain my septic system or conduct a soil boring? To search for local contacts, use the MN Pollution Control Agency SSTS (Subsurface Sewage Treatment System) page.
Can I have a Shipping Container in my yard? Probably. Do you have at least 2.5 acres? If so, check out the shipping container ordinance.
How large can I build a pole building (Accessory Structure) on my property? A detached accessory structure shall not be designed for living quarters and shall not occupy the only land available for sewer system installation or replacement. The total area of detached accessory structures shall not exceed the following and must not conflict with other zoning regulations: Platted Lots = 1,200 square feet or 3% of the lot area, whichever is greater, Unplatted Lots = 4% of the lot area
How many animal units can I have on my property? Find your answer on the Animals in the Township page.
What about AG Buildings? Please review this Ag Permit Exemption Form to determine if you have an actual agriculture exception. It needs to be filed with the Permitting office - located at the Becker Township Hall, 12165 Hancock Street. Please ask questions if you are uncertain if your building qualifies. If you do not have an active farm, it typically will not apply.
How large of a building can I build without obtaining a building permit? You can typically add an accessory structure up to 200 square feet before needing to obtain a building permit. It is important that you follow setbacks and other requirements when erecting your building. You are not exempt from setbacks even if the building is exempt from a building permit. However, if the building is going to be placed in a floodplain area, even if under 200 square feet, a permit is required as well as adherence to the rest of the Floodplain Ordinance.
When do I need a septic compliance inspection? Septic compliance is required when property changes hands or before you can obtain many types of building permits. They are also required in conjunction with many Use Permits (Conditional Use Permit, Interim Use Permit, Variance, etc. See ordinance). To obtain a septic compliance, you will need to choose and contact a licensed septic inspector who will conduct the inspection and file the appropriate paperwork. If your septic fails the compliance inspection, you have 10 months to complete repairs/replacement. If money is an issue, Sherburne County Solid Waste can often assist with several programs they have. If it is winter and your septic fails compliance, the funds to upgrade the septic system are often placed into escrow with the Township and repairs are required once the weather permits.
Where can I find an aerial view of my property? You may use the Beacon GIS System located here
How can I find out the last time my property had a septic compliance completed? Contact the Town Hall at 763-261-5301. We are happy to look.
Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry Check Licenses, bonds, certificates and registrations. www.dli.mn.gov/license-and-registration-lookup
How many sets of Building Plans do I need to submit? Two (2) Physical sets and 1 digital if over 8.5" x 11" in size. Physical sets will be marked up by Plan Review and given to you to keep on site. Be sure to follow markups. The other is retained in your file.
Can I build in the Floodplain Area of my parcel? See the MN Floodplain Informational Handout as well as the Township Floodplain Ordinance