The City of Clearwater has adopted the Minnesota State Building Code, which requires a building permit for most building projects including but not limited to new construction, accessory structures (over 200 sq ft), remodeling/alterations, decks/porches, fences (over 7 ft) and other home maintenance permits, including replacement of mechanical and plumbing units, re-roofing, re-siding, and door or window replacement. The building permit application is available at the bottom of this webpage.

City-administered permits are required for fences 7ft or under and accessory structures 200 sq ft or under.

• Fence Permit Application (7 feet or under)
• Accessory Structure Application (200 sq ft or under)

Compliance with city code is required for all projects, whether it requires a permit or not. To view the city code, please visit www.clearwatercity.com/citycode

To submit a permit application:

• E-mail to:
• Maci Hill, mhill@clearwatercity.com
• Annita Smythe, asmythe@clearwatercity.com

• Building permits that include full-size plans and certificate of survey must have two (2) sets of each submitted to City Hall by mail or in-person. 

Permit Fees

See the city fee schedule for permit costs.

Questions?

For questions regarding the Minnesota State Building Code, please contact the city’s building official, Rob Douglas, at MetroWest Inspections. Final inspections must be scheduled through MetroWest Inspection Services Inc., at 763-479-1720.

For questions regarding city zoning ordinances, please contact City Hall at 320-558-2428. 

Zoning Map

The City of Clearwater’s zoning map shows the properties and parcels that are within city limits and their current zoning district designation. The city only issues permits for properties or parcels within city limits. Those with a Clearwater mailing address that are located outside of city limits will need to contact the township or county where they are located.