Water permits

Do I need a permit?

• Check the Do I need a permit? page to learn about permitting requirements for water-related projects.

Water-related permit contact information

• Projects that impact Minnesota's water resources are regulated by a variety of state, local, and federal agencies. In many cases, a permit is required from one or more of these agencies before proceeding with the project. Check the county-by-county listing to find the agency contacts in your area.

Water appropriations permits

• A water use permit is required for all water users in Minnesota withdrawing more than 10,000 gallons of water per day, from surface or groundwater, or 1 million gallons per year.
• More information about water appropriations permits
• Water appropriations permit application forms

Public waters work permits

• Projects constructed below the ordinary high water (OHWL) level, which alter the course, current, or cross section of public waters or public waters wetlands, may require a public waters work permit. Such projects may also require an aquatic plant management control permit or a fishery related permit.
• More information about public waters work permits
• Public waters work permit applications
• General Permit 2008-0401, Temporary Authorization of Dock Platforms (January 2008)
• General Permit 2001-1172, Reissued for repair of flood damages (June 2006) 
  Notification form also available as a Microsoft Word ® document.

Dam safety permits

• Dam safety permit guidelines  (construction, alteration, repair, or removal of dams)
• Dam safety forms (use Public Waters Work Permit forms)

Aquatic plant management control permits

• If you believe that the growth of aquatic plants near your shoreline creates a nuisance, use this flowchart to help pinpoint the steps necessary to identify appropriate control options. A permit may be required for removal of aquatic plants, algae, swimmer's itch or leaches.
• Instructions for application 
• Application form  (135 Kb)

Fishery related permits

• Fishery related permits are required for several types of fish removal and transport as well as to operate lake aeration systems.