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Planning Applications & Permits
The Planning Division handles a variety of land use and zoning applications, ranging from large-scale developments like master-planned neighborhoods to site-specific permits and licenses.
Explore detailed information on each application type, including links to City Code, step-by-step guides on processes and policies, and key dates for Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) meetings.
Before submitting an application, staff encourages you to consult with Planning staff in person at City Hall, via email, or by calling 763-593-8095 to discuss your proposal.
Once reviewed, applications can be emailed to the Planning Division at planning@goldenvalleymn.gov.
In addition to application and checklist forms, the following two items must be included with every permit:
Learn about the City's Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) process.
Conditional uses (see City Code 113-30: Conditional Uses) are land uses that may be generally appropriate in a given zoning district but have one or more characteristics that might cause an unusual impact at any particular location. As such, they would require consideration of site-specific regulations.
Conditional uses are identified by list for each zoning district in Golden Valley. Before being allowed to operate, a conditional use must go through a public review process to establish suitable terms of operation, or "conditions," of use for that location. If the use is approved, the City issues a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the property.
Related Documents
View Future Land Use Amendment Permit (PDF).
Read about the City's plans for future land use.
Read about the City's Planned Unit Development application process.
Read more about the City's Subdivision Regulations.
Read about the City's process for dividing lots.
A variance is a permitted departure from strict enforcement of the Zoning Code as applied to a particular piece of property. They are generally for dimensional standards (such as setbacks or height limits).
For a variance to be granted, the applicant must satisfy the statutory three-factor test for practical difficulties. A variance is only permitted when it is in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the City Code regulation and when the terms of the variance are consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. Requests for variances are heard by the Board of Zoning Appeals.
Related Documents
The Zoning Code regulates land use and includes requirements and restrictions for the use of property, including location, size, height of building, arrangement of buildings on lots, and density of development. The code ensures consistency, good aesthetics, and safety across the city.
Zoning Applications
- Administrative Zoning Permit (PDF)
- Shed, Deck, Patio, and Garden Structure Permit (PDF)
- Fence Permit (PDF)
- Zoning Map Amendment (PDF)
Where I Can Build It
The illustration below offers an overview of some of the ways the zoning code affects residential property. Always call Planning 763-593-8095) for the most accurate regulations before investing your time and money into a project. This includes the following:
- accessory structures (detached garages, sheds)
- additions/porches
- air conditioners
- decks or patios
- driveways
- fences or retaining walls
- swimming pools
- work in the right-of-way
Zoning regulations also affect home occupations, compost bin placement, car/RV storage, and more.
Zoning Text Amendments
To request a change to the regulations in the Zoning Code, call the Planning Division.