If your property was affected by the wildfires in May, find resources and information on relevant county services here: 2025 Spring Wildfires

About Planning & Zoning

 
 

General Information

All St. Louis County offices are open to the public. While we welcome visitors, we highly encourage customers to use our online services whenever possible. For information on application processes, services, and fees, please refer to our Onsite Wastewater (septic) and Land Use division tabs.

The Planning and Zoning Department's primary function is to administer Onsite Wastewater (septic) and Land Use (zoning) ordinances and permitting services, facilitate the AIS Prevention Program, and participate in water planning initiatives throughout St. Louis County’s watersheds. 
 
Land Use
The Land Use division is responsible for administering and enforcing land use regulations. This includes the comprehensive plan, zoning, land use permits, and the subdivision of property. The county has land use authority outside of all municipal boundaries, except in four townships that have their own land use authority.
 
Onsite Wastewater
The Onsite Wastewater division administers the onsite wastewater permitting and regulation of individual subsurface sewage treatment systems (SSTS) and small community systems generating less than 10,000 gallons of wastewater per day. This includes oversight of the Point of Sale Program intended to ensure that upon property transfer, failing systems are upgraded to meet standards, and administration of a septic loan and grant program.