As a resident, when you file for the following Applications from the City of Lakeland:
you will be asked for a permit fee and an escrow fee. Please see the 2021 fee schedule for a complete list of land use applications and associated fee and escrow amounts @http://ci.lakeland.mn.us/citydepartments
The permit fee covers the costs of the work that the City Clerk put into helping you get your permit issued. If the permit is not issued the fee is nonrefundable.
The escrow money covers the costs of the Engineering, Zoning and the City Attorney for their time in assisting you with completing your permit applications and your projects. Please understand even if you do not move ahead with your project that Engineering and Zoning may have their time invested into your project.
Any remaining funds, after all expenses are applied are returned to the Applicant. Expenses incurred over the escrow amount will be billed to the Applicant.
The ESCROW deposit is used to pay expenses incurred by the City related to the permit. Any excess funds remaining after the matter has been concluded shall be refunded to the applicant. No interest shall accrue on any deposit. If expenses, in excess of the refundable deposit are incurred, the applicant will be billed for the excess.
There may be additional fees for other governmental agencies such as County, Watershed District, State agencies, or others that may have authority over your property for approvals and required permits.