Frequently Asked Community Development Questions

What is my property zoned?

The City of Prior Lake has adopted a zoning map, which designates zoning use districts for all land within the Prior Lake City limits. Paper copies of the zoning map are also available at the Planning Department for $1.00. If you have specific questions, please call (952) 447-9810.

What do the different zoning use districts mean?

Click here for a list of zoning use districts, the description of each use district, and a list of permitted uses within each use district. More detailed information is located within the zoning ordinance.

Is my property located within in flood zone?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) publishes maps, called Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), that show the areas in your community that have a 1 percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year, known as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). FIRMs are the result of engineering studies that are performed by engineering companies, other federal agencies, or the community and are reviewed and approved by FEMA. The Planning Department has copies of the FIRM for the city available for review. You may also obtain property flood information by calling the Planning Department. General flood information is available at FEMA's web page, including ordering of FIRM maps, at www.fema.gov/nfip. You can also create your own FIRM map by utilizing the FEMA website. A step-by-step guide to creating "FIRMettes" is available.

What are my lot dimensions?

Lot dimensions can be seen on a survey of the specific property or on a subdivision plat. The city will not provide lot dimensions. However, we do have general lot areas for most city lots. This information is available from the Planning Department at (952) 447-9810.

Does the City have a copy of the survey for my lot?

The city only has copies of some surveys that have been submitted with building permit applications after 1987. In most cases, these surveys will show a proposed house location. The city does not guarantee the accuracy of these surveys. Please contact the Planning Department to determine if a survey is available.

Will the city survey my lot or locate my lot lines?

The city does not have a surveyor on staff. Surveys are the responsibility of the property owner.

Can I get an address for a new property with just a legal description?

The city issues addresses for new subdivisions after the plat has been approved and recorded. We can provide an address with the legal description.

How can I find the legal description, Property Identification Number (PID) and property owner of a specific property?

Scott County maintains the official property records for all property within the county. Legal descriptions, PIDs and property owner information may be obtained from Scott County Customer Service at (952) 496-8150. You may also obtain this information online at www.co.scott.mn.us. Click on the Land Records/Plat Maps link for information.

Where can I get a copy of the Zoning Ordinance?

The complete City Code and Zoning Ordinance are available in the Doc Center.

How do I apply for a variance?

Click here for more detailed instructions on the city development process. This page will also include development applications and checklists for other Zoning/Land Use and Subdivision applications.

Do I need a permit to install a fence?

Yes. You will need a zoning permit to build a fence less than 6 feet in height. There is no fee for this permit. Fences more than 6 feet in height are considered a structure and require a building permit. You can find residential fence regulations on this Web site.