When adjacent substandrd parcels are in the same ownership, they shall be joined into one parcel and shall no longer be allowed as individual building sites.

If two or more contiguous lots are under the same ownership, any individual lot that is not a buildable lot shall not be considered as a separate parcel of land for the purposes of sale or development, the lot shall be combined with the one or more contiguous lots so they equal one or more parcels of land, each meeting the requirements for building.
[Back to questions]

Can I construct a guesthouse or second dwelling on my lot?

The Becker County Zoning Ordinance states that only one dwelling may be placed on a lot or parcel of land, regardless of the size of the property.
[Back to questions]

What can I do to a structure without having to obtain a permit?

No permit is required for repairs and maintenance, which is defined as work performed on the interior of a structure; work performed on the exterior of the structure to include: normal maintenance such as painting, replacement of siding, windows, doors, soffit, facia, shingles, additional doors or windows, new floorboards to decks and other similar improvements which do not involve exterior structural changes to the structure.
[Back to questions]

How much vegetation can I clear on my lakeshore property?

Limited clearing is allowed in the shore impact zone (1/2 of the required building setback). Dead, dying or diseased vegetation may be removed. An access path may be cleared to the lake to allow walking access. Outside the shore impact zone, vegetation may be removed to create lawn area or recreation areas. Clear cutting is not allowed.
[Back to questions]

What is required to apply for a site permit?

A complete site plan to include property boundaries, location of all existing and proposed structures, setbacks from structure to road right-of-way, lake and all property boundaries; proof of ownership and either proof of a conforming septic system or a design for the installation of a new septic system.
[Back to questions]

Is there a limit on the number of structures or surface cover that can be on my lot?

Lot coverage is limited to a maximum of 25% impervious lot coverage. Impervious material includes, but is not limited to, structures, sidewalks, decks, concrete, asphalt, gravel, and patio pavers.
[Back to questions]

Are there restrictions for constructing a garage on my property?

In residential areas and in the shoreland district, detached garages cannot exceed 22 feet in height. Detached garages can be 1 1/2 stories. Detached garages within 200 feet of the lake are allowed to be 480 sq ft in size or 5% of the lot area within 200 feet of the lake, with a maximum size of 1,200 sq ft. Detached garages over 200 feet from the lake or structures located across the road from the lake are allowed to be 15% of the buildable area of the lot, with a maximum of 2400 sq ft. The detached garage may be equipped with eitehr cooking/kitchen facilities; water suuply and/or sanitary disposal facilities; or sleeping facilities. However, the structure cannot contain all three amenities capable of providing independent, continuous human habitation. If the garage is attached to the home, it is considered part of the home and the preceding restrictions do not apply.
[Back to questions]

Can I have a walkout basement on my lake lot?

Walkout basements may be allowed if the natural topography allows.
[Back to questions]

What should I do before I begin planning a project or start a project on a lakeshore lot?

CALL! The Planning & Zoning Staff is always available to answer your questions and/or visit your site. We have many fact sheets on ordinance regulations and other valuable information.
[Back to questions]

Can I split (subdivide) my land?

Whether or not a property is eligible for subdivision requires the analysis of several factors, including road frontage and access, soil suitability, total acreage, as well as a number of other items. The Zoning Office staff would be happy to provide you with more information on the subdivision process. Please contact the Zoning Office to obtain additional information.
[Back to questions]

Where can I get a septic certification?

Becker County issues septic certifications upon installation of a new septic system. For any property that is over 5 years old, you will need to hire a state licensed septic compliance inspector. A list of inspectors is available at the Zoning Office or on page 6 of the septic permit found on our website.
[Back to questions]