Permits & Forms

Pope County requires land use and development permits!

Please see the Land Use Controls Ordinance for a full list of permitted, conditional and interim uses.

• For 2026 permit fees, see the 2026 Fee Schedule
• Follow this link for required zoning district Setbacks & Performance Standards

**Plan ahead and obtain your permit long before the actual day you want to begin work,
as this will help avoid any unnecessary delays.**

How to Submit a Permit Application

1. Online Permit Application
2. Mail or Drop Off Paperwork
3. Apply in Person

Please Note: Permit Fees must be paid with the application. See the Fee Schedule above. Permit processing times vary, please contact the office for further information, 320-634-7791.

Land Use Permits are required for:

• Erecting, altering (including additions), or relocating any structure
• Rebuilding damaged structures

Septic System Permits are required for:

• Installation or alteration of subsurface sewage treatment systems
• Operation of a vacation home rental
• Commercial septic systems

Shoreland Alteration Permits are required for:

• Land alterations, (moving or bringing in material) within the shoreland zoning districts as indicated on the Official Zoning Map
• Please note: under certain circumstances a Conditional Use permit may be required, see section 4.6.10 of the Pope County Land Use Controls Ordinance for further details.

Vacation Home Rentals must be permitted via:

• Land Use Permit; or
• Interim Use Permit.

Solar Energy Systems must be permitted via:

• Land Use Permit; or
• Interim Use Permit.

Recreational Vehicles (RVs) must be permitted via:

• Land Use Permit; or
• Interim Use Permit.

Please Note:

•  A Conditional or Interim Use may be permitted within a zoning district only when allowed by the County Board of Commissioners or their legally designated agent after public hearing, provided certain conditions are met which eliminate or minimize the incompatibility with other permitted uses of the district. For a list of conditional or interim uses please see the Land Use Controls Ordinance.
• A variance may be applied for if a modification or variation of the provisions of the Land Use Controls Ordinance is requested.
• Permits within the city limits of Glenwood, Long Beach, Starbuck, Villard, Westport, Lowry, Farwell, Cyrus and Sedan may be obtained from the corresponding city clerk.
• Applicants must contact Township officials to determine if additional/separate permitting is required from the Township.
• Contact the Department to determine which local jurisdiction(s) you must contact.