The properties being offered for sale were once privately owned but forfeited to the state due to failure to pay real estate taxes. St. Louis County manages State of MN tax-forfeited properties in St. Louis County.
A list of land for potential sale is prepared by the Land and Minerals Department and submitted to the County Board. State of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources approval is necessary for certain parcels (on water, mineral potential, etc.). Once approved, properties are sold at public auction to the highest bidder. If a property does not sell at auction, it may be available over the counter, on a first come, first served basis, or continue to be offered through online auction.