Online Permitting

All building and zoning permit applications for projects located in unincorporated areas of Rice County must be submitted through our online permitting system.

Apply for your permit here: Online Permit Site

For more information about our online permitting system, read our Frequently Asked Questions (PDF) or contact us at 507-332-6113. Please note that the county does not handle building or zoning permits for properties located in Bridgewater Township. Contact Jim Braun at 763-389-3487 for more information.
Homeowner Logo in the shape of a house outline.

Building Permits


If you are building, remodeling, or adding a structure to your property, it requires a building permit. Find fact sheets on all our building permits on our Building Division page.

Exterior Maintenance and Mechanical / Fireplace / Wood Stove permits are paid and issued at the time of application. All other building permits require payment of an initial application fee and a second invoice based on project type and size. Building permits are issued after staff reviews are complete – a process that typically takes 10-15 working days – and the second invoice is paid. Demolition permits are free.

Zoning Permits


Fact sheets on each of our zoning permits, including variances, conditional use permits, plat permits, and zoning permits can be found on our Planning & Zoning page. All zoning permit fees must be paid at the time of application.

Variance requests are heard by the Board of Adjustment. All other zoning permits are reviewed by the Planning Commission and voted on by the Board of Commissioners. Application deadlines and meeting dates for those meetings can be found here.

Permitting Forms

  1. Authorized Agent Form (PDF)
  2. Base Density Calculation (PDF)
  3. Conditional Use Permit Criteria (PDF)
  4. Conservation Easement (PDF)
  5. Erosion Control Plan (PDF)
  6. Impervious Surface Calculations Form (PDF)
  7. Mechanical Information (PDF)
  8. New House Energy Certificate (PDF)
  9. Property Owner Waiver (PDF)
  10. Site plan (PDF)
  11. Transfer Development Right (PDF)
  12. Variance Criteria (PDF)