Community Development

The Community Development Department is responsible for the long range planning activities of the City, zoning administration, enforcement of land use control ordinances, code enforcement and a substantial portion of the City’s economic development activities.  The department provides staff services to the Planning Commission by evaluating and administering land use applications (I.e. Conditional Use Permits, Rezonings, Variances, etc.)   The department administers all aspects of the comprehensive plan and is under the overall direction of the Community Development Director.  The department also coordinates many of the City’s economic development endeavors through the Economic Development Corporation, redevelopment and special projects.  

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  The Building Department is currently accepting permit applications through one of the following methods:
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Code enforcement involves property-by-property inspections, in addition to year-round response to citizen reports of concern. Inspections are intended to ensure our neighborhoods are maintained according to standards set forth in the City's Municipal Code.

Below are some common code violations and an online form for reporting potential issues within the City of White Bear Lake and Mahtomedi.

Downtown by the lake

Minnesota’s first resort town, White Bear Lake is just 20 minutes from Minneapolis or St. Paul, and is distinguished for its downtown business community, beautiful lake views and endless recreational activities.  The city features a highly supported school district, private schools, a vibrant Art District, and one of Minnesota's largest 2 year community and technical college:   Residents have access to a wide range of housing options for all stages of life.  We welcome your business to this progressive and growing city. 

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A range of housing options across White Bear Lake benefits individuals and families of all ages. Viable housing choices in White Bear Lake allow households to find affordable housing in the same community throughout economic or life circumstance change.  The city partners with local agencies to find financing to make changes to your multi-family or single family property, along with providing ideas to make your property your dream home. The City of White Bear Lake is ready to empower homeowners or developers to ensure housing stock fits the needs of current and future residents by connecting them to the right resources.

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The Planning Department is responsible for administering the Zoning, Subdivision, and Sign Codes. Planners evaluate and administer applications for conditional use permits, variances, and other land use items and review zoning and building permits. The Planning and Zoning Commission is appointed by the City Council to make recommendations on zoning matters.

Please contact the planning department at 651-429-8561 if you are considering purchasing a property to determine what is permitted. 

rental

The City of White Bear Lake regulates rental property to ensure minimum standards provide for public health, safety and welfare within its jurisdiction under Chapter 502 of the City's Municipal Code

Standards apply to all buildings which are rented in whole or part as a dwelling for persons other than the property owner's family. It includes accessory structures such as garages and storage buildings, and appurtenances such as sidewalks, parking lots, and retaining walls, which are on the lot where the rental property is located. The code does not apply to Minnesota Department of Health licensed rest homes, convalescent care facilities, and nursing homes, nor to hotels and motels.