MAT Information Library:

Planning, Zoning, and Land Use

Planning and Land Use Resources

Municipal Boundary Adjustments – Minnesota Court of Administrative Hearings
The boundaries of Minnesota cities and townships are legally adjusted through the Minnesota Court of Administrative Hearings in cases involving the creation, annexation, detachment or consolidation of municipalities.

MAT Planning, Zoning, and Land Use Documents

PZ 1000 – Planning and Zoning: General Overview
An overview of township planning and zoning authority and the use of land use controls to regulate development and protect residents’ health, safety and welfare. (17 pages) (Revised: May 2024)

PZ 1000 – Appendix A – Considerations for Township Adoption of a Shoreland Ordinance
Minnesota DNR guidance developed in collaboration with MAT and the Minnesota Association of County Planning & Zoning Administrators to help townships understand the requirements, roles and responsibilities involved in adopting and administering a shoreland ordinance.

PZ 1000 – Appendix B – DNR Model Shoreland Ordinance with Commentary
Minnesota DNR model shoreland ordinance with explanatory commentary to help local governments develop new shoreland ordinances or amend existing ordinances. Commentary explains provisions that may be confusing or commonly misinterpreted and identifies optional higher standards.

PZ 1000 – Appendix C – DNR Model Shoreland Ordinance without Commentary
Minnesota DNR model shoreland ordinance for use by townships, cities and counties when developing or updating local shoreland regulations. The DNR regularly updates its model ordinance to reflect current statutes, rules and administrative guidance.

PZ 1000 – Appendix D – DNR Town Floodplain Guidance
Minnesota DNR guidance for townships addressing floodplain management, land use controls and local responsibilities related to development in flood-prone areas.

PZ 2000 – Zoning Decisions
Explains the various legal limitations imposed on a township’s zoning authority by the Minnesota Legislature and the courts, helping town officials understand the requirements and restrictions that apply when making local zoning decisions. (19 pages) (Revised: May 2024)

PZ 3000 – Practical Guide to the 60-Day Rule
A review of the requirements under Minnesota Statutes § 15.99 for handling zoning and other land use requests within 60 days, with practical guidance to help townships comply with statutory timelines. (10 pages) (Revised: January 2004)