Yes. The City of Chatfield has adopted the Minnesota State Building Code. Chatfield partners with Olmsted County Planning Department to administer the building permit process. 

Department of Labor and Industry

Olmsted County Building and Planning

Yes. A Building Permit is required for all new construction that creates a building that is larger than 200 square feet, whether it is on skids or not. A Zoning Certificate is required for all buildings less than 200 square feet.

A permit is required for all structural repairs and improvements. Permits are also required for roofing projects, including re-shingling. It is also necessary to get a permit to add or replace a deck.

The City of Chatfield Code of Ordinance is posted on the City Website. 

Chapter 113 Zoning

City of Chatfield Code of Ordinances

A Zoning Certificate is required for fences and small buildings (accessory structures that are less than 200 sq. feet), larger buildings (more than 200 sq. feet) require a Building Permit . There are a number of issues that relate to the construction of a fence so you should contact the Chatfield Planning & Zoning Department, for specific information. Chatfield Planning & Zoning administration can be reached at 507-867-3810.

The certificate process involves completing a Zoning Certificate application and a simple site plan showing property lines, existing buildings, easements and the location of the fence. 

Fence questions are some of the most difficult questions to answer because there are so many variables. The allowable height and location for a fence depend on where the fence is located on the property, what type of fence you wish to install, and what the surrounding environment is.

The zoning code requires fences to be placed on your property. The only way that a fence can be placed right on the lot line is if the adjacent property owner gives written permission.

Keep in mind that the outside of your fence will need maintenance. A fence owner should also plan on trimming along both sides of the fence.

Front yard fences in residential areas shall not be taller than three feet in height except that a front yard chain link fence, without screens, may be erected to a height of five feet. The front yard is considered to be all of the area in forward of the front wall of the home.

Side or rear yard fences in residential zones shall not be more than six feet in height.

Yes, corner lots are special when it comes to fencing and screening of any kind. A clear vision area must be maintained on the corners of all property at the intersection of two streets.

The clear vision area shall be a triangular shape with two sides following the lot lines, parallel to the curb, to a point 25 feet from the corner, and a third side being a line connecting those two points.

The clear vision area shall contain no planting, fence, wall, structure or temporary or permanent obstruction to sight exceeding 36" above the adjacent street grade, except for trees with branches and foliage removed to a height of eight feet above the ground.