Planning & Environmental Services

Planning & Zoning Office Hours: 

Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm

Office Phone: 507-457-6520

It is strongly recommended that you call ahead to make an appointment with a Planner before stopping by, as we may be out on inspections. Without an appointment, it is possible there will be a wait or limited assistance. Thank you!

Winona County Planning - Online Permitting System

Winona County Planning and Environmental Services transitioned to an online permit system, as of July 1, 2022, for many of our permits. Additional online permitting will be rolled out throughout the year.  Please see our online permitting page: https://www.co.winona.mn.us/576/Online-Permitting.

We have worked to create an intuitive and efficient online system to expedite the permitting process. Planning and Zoning Staff are here to assist with the process and answer any questions by phone 507-457-6520 or by stopping at our office, 202 West Third St, Winona, MN.

Mission

The mission of the Winona County Planning and Environmental Services Department is to provide solution-oriented services to the community through the application of professional skills, adopted plans, and standards facilitating the growth of the local economy, enhancing the quality of life, and preserving the natural environment for current and future generations.

Inspections & In-Office Appointments

Due to a busy inspection season and Planners being in the field, we encourage the public to set up in-office appointments with Planning and Environmental Services staff. Office Phone: 507-457-6520

Overview

The Planning and Environmental Services Department consists of several functions including Sustainability, Zoning, and Land Use Planning, Feedlot Monitoring, Inspection Services, Well and Septic Control, Economic Development, and Water Resource Planning. The Planning and Environmental Services Department ensures the rational planning and management of residential subdivisions, agricultural enterprises and feedlots, water resources, individual septic systems, and floodplains and shorelands. 

The department maintains and oversees updates to the Winona County Comprehensive and Water Resources Plans and the enforcement of the Winona County Zoning Ordinance. The department issues zoning certificates, septic permits, and certificates of compliance acknowledging any property improvements satisfy all applicable standards. The department prepares all conditional use, rezone, and variance petitions and ordinance amendments heard by the Board of Adjustment and the Planning Commission.