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1. Do you offer skating lessons?

Yes! Our Learn to Skate program offers classes year-round for ages 3+. Click here to view our offerings.

2. How many sheets of ice do you have?

The Furniture and Things Community Event Center houses two NHL-sized sheets of ice, the Cornerstone Automotive Arena and Kiser Construction Arena.

3. Do you have ice year round?

Yes, however in the summer months we typically only have ice on the Kiser Construction Arena.

4. Can I get my skates sharpened there?

Yes! We offer onsite skate sharpening for $6.

5. I think I left something at the rink, who do I contact?

If you are missing an item, please check our lost and found table located just past the front desk next to the vending machines. If your item is of higher value (i.e. air pods, hockey stick, etc.), please check with the front desk.

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1. I am a property owner; can I pull my own permits?

For the most part, property owners may perform building related trades on property they own and occupy. Property owners may also personally perform mechanical, plumbing, and  electrical on property they own and occupy. 

Exceptions: 
Rental Properties - Owners may perform building trade work. However, all plumbing, electrical & mechanical work shall be performed by a licensed contractor.

Intend to Sell Property - Owner must be state licensed if performing work on more than one property in a two-year period. All other trades require a licensed contractor. 

Tenants in a Commercial Space - Tenants may perform building trade work as long as they have written permission from the property owner. All other trades require a licensed contractor.  

For more information on who needs a license, please visit the Minnesota State Department of Labor & Industry website's licensing information page. 

2. What if I want to hire a contractor?

If you are planning improvements to your property and do not want to do the work yourself, the following suggestions can help you select a contractor:

• The internet or phone book are good sources as well as references from neighbors, family, and/or friends.
• Find out how long the contractor has been in business in the area.
• Check references; make sure they are valid by contacting those for whom the contractor has performed construction work.
• Contact the Better Business Bureau at 651-699-1111 to see if complaints have been registered against the contractor.
• Check to be sure that the contractor has insurance coverage and is bonded. State law requires contractors to be licensed by the State, this licensing law benefits both consumers and contractors. To verify licensing, visit the Department of Labor or Industry website. 

3. Who must be licensed?

The Minnesota Department of Labor & Industry establishes the rules for licensing of contractors. Most contractors are required to be licensed, however, there are some exceptions. You should ask your contractor if they are licensed. If a contractor asks you to apply for the building permit, chances are they are not licensed because we verify contractor licensing for all building permit applications. Resident homeowners do not have to be licensed to perform work on their own home. If you have questions about contractor licensing, contact the Department of Commerce at 651-539-1500.

4. Whose responsibility is it to see that the building code is followed?

The permit holder is the responsible party to ensure the Building Code is followed. 

If you hired a contractor, they are responsible for compliance with the state building code and they should be licensed by the state (when required) to perform the work. If there is ever a question as to whether or not some aspect of a construction project complies with the code, the contractor is the responsible party. 

If you are performing the work yourself, then you are the responsible party.

5. What do I do if I'm planning to dig?

If you're planning to do any digging in connection with your building project, you must call Gopher State One Call at 800-252-1166 to arrange for utility companies to mark the buried utility lines in your yard. This service is free, but you should call at least 48 hours prior to digging. Learn more online at Gopher State One Call's website.

6. How do I find my property lines?

It is the property owners’ responsibility to determine where the property lines are. Property iron stakes (typically 36-inch-long rods) are placed at the corners of the lot usually at or below grade, and sometimes can be found using a metal detector. The city does not provide surveying services. Approximate property lines and dimensions can be found on the county’s website. A property survey may also be on file at the City of Elk River. Please contact the Building Safety Division at 763-635-1060 or Building@ElkRiverMN.gov for assistance.

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1. What is a building permit?

A building permit gives you legal permission to start construction of a building project in accordance with the approved drawings and specifications. The drawings and specifications must be approved and a permit issued by the City of Elk River prior to the project starting. The purpose of the permit is to ensure that the building project meets minimum safety, zoning, and aesthetic requirements enforced by the City of Elk River and required by the State Building Code. 

2. How long does it take to get a permit?

Permits are processed in the order they were received. Processing is also affected by the current work load of city staff since there is a natural fluctuation in the number of permits we are receiving on a daily basis. Therefore, turn-around times are subject to change without notice. Please allow ample time for review PRIOR to beginning your project. 

• Commercial permits take approximately 2-3 weeks. 
• All other commercial permits take approximately 3-5 business days
• Residential permits that require a plan review (i.e. garages, additions, decks, remodeling, etc.) take approximately 1-2 weeks. 
• Residential "over-the-counter" permits will be issued within 1-2 business days (i.e. roofing, siding, windows, appliance replacement, etc.)
• Note: Projects that involve a variance or other land use requirements may require additional time for review.

To help expedite permit processing, please review the following permit requirement webpages to ensure your application and submittal documents are complete prior to permit submission:

• Permit Process
• Permit Submission Requirements
• Permit Requirements by Type

3. Do I need a permit to build a shed?

A building permit is required for a shed, outbuilding, or any accessory structure that is larger than 200 square feet.

4. What good does a permit do?

Your home or business is an investment. If your construction project does not comply with the codes adopted by the City, the value of your investment could be reduced. Property insurers may not cover work done without proper permits and inspections. If you decide to sell your home or building, the potential buyer may examine our records to make sure the proper permits and inspections were obtained. 

Your permit fee also allows the code official to protect the public by reducing the potential hazards of unsafe construction and ensuring public health, safety, and welfare. By following code guidelines, your completed project will meet minimum standards of safety and will be less likely to cause injury to you, your family, your friends, or future owners.

5. Should I take the permit out for my contractor?

Do not take out a building permit for the contractor. When the contractor signs the permit application, they are agreeing to do the work according to code. If you apply for and sign the permit application, you are liable for correcting the contractor's work if it should fall short of City or State building code standards. Make sure your contractor has a permit and that the contractor calls for inspections. An inspection card will be issued and should be displayed near the work area.

When each inspection has been completed, the City's Inspector will sign the card. When the final inspection is approved, the inspectors' signatures are your assurance that the work has been properly inspected and no violations of the building code were discovered. You should pay for the work only after it has passed final inspection.

6. When is a permit not required?

Some projects that do not require a permit include cosmetic changes such as paint, wall paper, floor covering, cabinets, countertops, tiled backsplash, vanities, trim, baseboard, interior doors, fences, retaining walls less than 4 feet in height, and sheds/accessory structure 200 square feet or less.

If you are unsure whether you need a permit, contact the Building Safety Division and explain what you will be doing. Staff will advise you if the work you are doing is regulated and whether or not a permit is required.

7. How do I apply for an electrical permit?

To apply for an electrical permit, you will need to apply through the State of Minnesota via the Department of Labor and Industry website: Homeowner Permits - Contractor Permits . All of the instructions on how to set up an account and apply for a permit can be found on their website.

8. Do I need a permit for a fence?

Fence permits are not required in residential areas if they are 6 feet or less in height. Fence Guidelines must still be followed. 

Permits are required for fences in a commercial zoned area if they are 7 feet or higher. Engineered plans must be submitted with your permit applications.

9. How long is my permit valid?

In accordance with Minnesota State Building Codes, permits expire within 180 days of issuance if no work is started and no inspections have been called in by the permit holder. Permits also expire if work has started, but then is suspended for more than 180 days and no inspections are called in by the permit holder.

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1. What is the most common ordinance violation in the city?

The most common ordinance violation is long grass. Per city code, grass cannot exceed eight (8) inches in height.

2. Where can I put garage sale signs?

Garage sale signs or political signs can be placed on any private property with permission from the owner. No signs can ever be on City property, posts, attached to trees, or in the right-of-way. All signs that violate the ordinance will be removed by the Code Enforcement Official. View this short video for a visual explanation.

3. Can I have chickens on my property?

A maximum of 12 chickens are allowed on parcels two and one-half to five acres on all residentially zoned properties in the city. Review Sec 30-803. - Animals, section (d), of the City Ordinances for further clarification and requirements.

4. What are the regulations on garbage and recycling bins?

Garbage and recycling bins are to be placed for pickup no earlier than 7:00 p.m. the night before pickup and must be removed no later than 7:00 p.m. the day of pickup. They must be stored out of sight from the street and neighboring properties.

5. Are dandelions considered a noxious weed?

No; Dandelions are not considered a noxious weed. The City of Elk River uses the University of Minnesota list of noxious weeds. If a noxious weed is identified on any property, a violation letter is sent with an order to permanently eradicate.

6. Can I blow leaves into the street?

It is a violation of City ordinance to intentionally dispose of any yard waste (leaves, grass clippings, etc) onto any street, road, or water resource.

7. My neighbor has a motorhome, car, and 2 trucks in their driveway. Is that permitted?

There is no limit to the number of vehicles, trailers, etc that can be in a driveway. All vehicles or trailers must be in operating condition and must have current registration.

8. My neighbor parks their construction trailer on the grass. Is that permitted?

Per ordinance, the trailer must be on an approved surface. Approved surfaces include: asphalt, concrete, class 5 gravel, crushed rock, or equivalent. Approved surfaces cannot be closer than 5 feet from the property line.

9. I don't like the color of my neighbor's house. Can you send them a violation letter?

The City of Elk River does not regulate the color someone chooses to paint their house. However, some neighborhoods have agreements for these types of items; the City does not enforce these agreements.

10. Do I have to shovel the sidewalk in front of my house?

The City does remove snow and ice from some sidewalks, but not all of them. If your sidewalk is one that is not maintained by the City, it is your responsibility to remove all snow and ice within 48 hours of a snow event. A snow removal map is available on the city website or at Elk River City Hall.

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1. Can I Visit the EOC?

The EOC is a secure facility that is only open to authorized personnel. If you wish to tour the EOC during normal business hours, please contact the Division of Emergency Management. During an activation, the EOC will be secured and access will be restricted to authorized personnel. Information about an emergency will be disseminated through the city's website, ERTv, local media and press statements.

2. Why can't I hear civil defense sirens indoors?

Outdoor warning sirens are designed to be heard outside. While the sirens are incredibly loud, they are not intended to be heard inside your home. The Division of Emergency Management highly recommends purchasing a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather alert radio, making this your best source for comprehensive weather and emergency information. These radios can be purchased from local retailors or on-line.

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1. Does the fire department fill private swimming pools or skating rinks?

No; the fire department does not fill private swimming pools or skating rinks. The use of city water and city equipment to fill private pools or skating rinks is prohibited. There are businesses in the area that are able to provide this service to citizens.

2. Does the fire department conduct car seat inspections?

The fire department does not conduct car seat inspections or take take expired car seats for recycling purposes. Check out the Car Seat Checks map to find a contact near you to have your car seat inspected. Visit the Child Passenger Safety page for restraint steps, free car seat distribution centers, and other tips.

3. I have an old fire extinguisher, can the fire department recharge it?

Elk River Fire does not recharge fire extinguishers. There are multiple local certified fire equipment dealers or fire protection companies that provide this service. 

4. How do I request a fire patch or other memorabilia?

Due to expense and security concerns, we are unable to honor requests for uniform patches or other memorabilia. Patches, t-shirts, etc are property of the City of Elk River and are only issued to active fire department personnel.

5. How far is the closest fire station from my house?

To determine the distance from your house to the closest fire station, use Google Maps. Enter your address, as well as the address for one of the three fire stations. The addresses for the fire stations are: Fire Station #1 - 415 Jackson Ave, Fire Station #2 - 13073 Orono Pkwy, and Fire Station #3 - 9921 191st Ave NW.

6. My insurance company needs ISO information, can you help me with that?

If you or your insurance agent are seeking an ISO rating or you would like more information on ISO, visit their website or contact their Main Office at 856-985-5600. Check out the ISO Information section on our website for additional information.

7. How do I obtain a burning permit?

If you live within city limits, you can obtain a burning permit from the front desk at City Hall (13065 Orono Parkway) or complete an online form. If you live outside of city limits, you can either contact a Fire Warden or purchase a permit online at the MN DNR website. Review the Burning Map for information on Open Burning Permits in Elk River. Please note: Elk River Fire does not conduct controlled burns.

8. My child's birthday party is coming up. Can we get a fire truck to stop by the party?

The fire department does not bring fire trucks to private birthday parties, grand openings, side walk sales, etc. Fire truck visits are only considered for educational, charitable, or town sanctioned events. If you would like to request a fire truck for your event, complete the Fire Truck Request form and a representative from the department will contact you.

9. Where can I get a copy of a fire report?

To obtain a copy of a fire report, complete the Request a Copy of a Fire Incident Report form. 

Please note that the fire department does respond to car crashes; however, fire department personnel do not conduct investigations on these types of incidents. To obtain a copy of a crash report, contact the law enforcement agency that was on scene.

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1. Do I need to have special schooling or a degree to be an Elk River firefighter?

Experience is not needed. Once hired, all recruits go through the Elk River Fire Academy where they receive all required training and certifications to be firefighters.

2. What is the time commitment for the Elk River Fire Academy?

Once hired, all recruits must attend the Elk River Fire Academy to obtain required training and certifications. The Academy consists of approximately 160 hours of both hands-on and classroom training covering a multitude of topics. Classes are held every Monday and Wednesday evening from 1800 hours - 2200 hours, with a few Saturday all-day classes. A full schedule will be provided on the first evening of class.

3. Where is the Elk River Fire Academy held?

The majority of classes are held at Fire Station #2 (Orono Pkwy), however, a few classes will be held off site in or near Elk River such as a training house, Public Works, or Fire Station #1 (Jackson Ave).

4. Is the Elk River Fire Department volunteer or paid-on-call?

Elk River Fire is a paid-on-call department meaning that firefighters are compensated for attending calls for service, training, meetings, work details, etc. Firefighters are issued pagers that alert them to calls for service, they then respond to the station from wherever they are (home, work, etc.).

5. Do I have to live in Elk River to be an ERFD firefighter?

Yes. To ensure adequate response times, all Elk River firefighters must live within nine (9) minutes of an Elk River Fire Station. Station #1 is located at 415 Jackson Ave, Station #2 (headquarters) is located at 13073 Orono Pkwy, and Station #3 is located at 9921 191st NW.

6. Is there any training besides the Elk River Fire Academy?

Elk River Fire firefighters have training every Thursday evening starting at 1800 hours. If you are unable to attend evening training, you can attend the morning training which starts at 0830. Per policy, firefighters must attend a minimum of 50% of all training throughout the year.

7. Do I need to purchase uniforms for the Fire Academy?

All uniforms and books will be provided by the department. You will also be provided with an Academy Guidelines packet that outlines expectations.

8. Do I have to respond to every single call for service that's dispatched?

Per policy, firefighters are required to attend a minimum of 30% of all calls dispatched per year. Failure to meet this minimum requirement may result in discipline. Elk River Fire currently responds to an average of 450 calls per year.

9. Do men and women have equal requirements for entry and training?

Yes - men and women both go through the same pre-employment screenings (physical agility assessment, medical evaluation, psychological evaluation, and background check). The City of Elk River is an equal opportunity employer.

10. Is there a cost for the required Emergency Medical/First Responder training?

There is no out-of-pocket costs to recruits. Elk River Fire partners with Allina to host classes on site at Fire Station #2. All expenses are paid for by the Elk River Fire Department.

11. Are there any volunteer opportunities with the Fire Department?

At this time, we do not have any volunteer opportunities available.

12. Do firefighters have to stay at the stations?

Elk River Fire is a paid-on-call department, meaning that firefighters respond to their assigned stations when they are paged for calls. Firefighters remain at the station for the duration of the call until they are cleared.

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1. Are there any volunteer opportunities with the department?

No; there are currently not any volunteer opportunities available with the Fire Department. All Elk River firefighters are paid-on-call, meaning that they are paid when they respond to calls for service, attend training, work at special events, etc. Paid-on-call firefighters are considered part-time employees of the City of Elk River.

2. How many fire trucks do you have in your fleet?

We currently have (3) Engines, (1) Ladder truck, (4) Grass trucks, (2) Tenders, (1) Rescue truck, (1) Incident Support Trailer, and (5) staff vehicles. 

3. How do I obtain an application to be a paid-on-call firefighter?

When the firefighter hiring process opens, a full job posting and application for employment will be available on the City of Elk River website under Employment Opportunities. We do not have applications available, or accept applications, for the firefighter positions unless the hiring process is officially open (i.e. we do not keep applications on file for future openings). The hiring process for firefighters is currently closed.

4. How do I request a fire patch or other memorabilia?

Due to expense and security concerns, we are unable to honor requests for uniform patches or other memorabilia. Patches, t-shirts, etc are property of the City of Elk River and are only issued to active fire department personnel.

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1. Where do I obtain a burning permit?

If you live within the Elk River city limits, you can obtain a burning permit from the front desk at City Hall (13065 Orono Parkway) or complete our online form. If you live outside of city limits, you can either contact a Fire Warden or purchase a permit online at the MN DNR website. Note: Elk River Fire does not conduct controlled burns.

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1. What is the 'Franchise Fee' charge on my utility bill?

The City of Elk River collects a Franchise Fee on all electric and gas accounts within the city. The revenue generated from these fees pays for the maintenance of the city streets (seal coats, mill and overlays, full depth reclamations, and reconstruction). Different from most other cities, Elk River collects all needed revenue for street maintenance and reconstruction through this fee. We do not levy separate general property taxes or special assessments for this maintenance.

2. How can the city do this?

Minnesota Statues allow for a city to impose a fee on a company for its use of the right-of-way (MN Statute 216.36). Council made the decision on the franchise fee at the April 15, 2013 meeting.

3. What is the money going to be used for?

Maintenance of the city streets (mill and overlays, full depth reclamations, and reconstructions).

4. Is this just another tax?

This is a different revenue source for the city. It is not new revenue but rather a replacement of the old revenue source which came from general taxes and special assessments. The revenue generated with the franchise fee eliminates both of these previous sources. The fees have been established at a rate to fully sustain our pavement management program needs for the long term. Under the previous funding approach, property taxes covered about two-thirds of the cost of the pavement management program. The other third consisted of special assessments against the properties along a particular project area.

5. The old taxing and assessing system worked. Why did you change it?

The dollar amount needed to be collected through taxes and assessments was expected to increase significantly over the coming years due to the large growth of our roadway system in the 1990s and 2000s. Increasing the property tax levy and special assessments to cover the increased needs of our street repairs was considered but not found to be the most viable option. Property taxes also exempted renters, non-profits, schools, and other entities that utilize the public infrastructure. The property tax option would have changed yearly based on values of homes and businesses. Having a dedicated fee ensures local control of the revenue and that repairs stay on schedule with the pavement management plan.

6. I live in an apartment or town home. Will I be charged the fee?

Yes, you will pay the standard residential fee. The fee pays for your use and maintenance of the public city streets.

7. How much will I be charged?

Residents see a charge of $5 on their electric bill and $4 on their gas bill every month.

Commercial/Industrial Properties see charges between $29 and $170 per month. You need to call your utility company to find your classification.

Electric
Small Commercial/Industrial - Non Demand $25
General Commercial/Industrial - Demand $70
Large Commercial/Industrial - >1 MW Demand - $100

Gas
Commercial/Industrial, Small Volume A - $4
Commercial/Industrial, Small Volume B - $16
Commercial/Industrial, Small Volume C - $50
Large Commercial/Industrial, Duel Fuel A and B - $70

8. When will the fee collection end?

The fee is expected to be the long term funding option for the city and not anticipated to be eliminated.

9. I have multiple bills or two or more meters on my property. Do I have to pay the fee more than once?

The fees are to be collected per utility account, not per meter. The city is working with the utility companies to better define the classification of their accounts and which ones should be receiving a fee and which ones should not.

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1. What can I do if I forgot to set out my trash cart or set it out too late?

1. Residents may pay a "go back" fee of $25 and Republic will schedule a return once pre-payment has been processed by the Call Center (320.252.9608).
2. Residents may set out extra bags on the next service day instead of scheduling a "go back" service. Please note:
   1. Extra bag volume may not exceed the limits of the cart, lid closed.
   2. The Driver will empty the cart and then reload it with the extra bags and then empty the cart again.
   3. If the extra bag volume exceeds the limits of the cart, the excess bag(s) will be left at the site and the cart will be tagged.
   4. The 2023 extra bag rate is $3.25/bag. Residents should contact the Republic Call Center at 320.252.9608 to make pre-payment (which is required two days in advance of collection day to ensure service).
3. Republics Services will report any abuse of contracted services to ERMU and partner in resolving the concern.

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1. How do I contact a city department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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1. Where can I place garage sale type signs?

Signs attached to trees, utility poles, public benches, streetlights, or placed on any public property or public right-of-way are prohibited. To see where you can place signs, watch this video.

2. Can I have bees on my property?

Yes, the keeping of bees is allowed on properties one acre or more.  Beekeeping Cheat Sheet and Permit

3. Where can fences be located?

Fences need to be located entirely on your property and may not be located in the road right-of-way (ROW). The ROW for roads varies from road to road but a typical city street has a 60 foot ROW, meaning your property line is 30 feet from the center of the road. This is just a guideline, to know exactly where your property line is located, you will need to contact a land surveyor. Fence Information Cheat Sheet

4. How do I find my property lines?

It is the property owners’ responsibility to determine where the property lines are. Property iron stakes (typically 36-inch-long rods) are placed at the corners of the lot usually at or below grade, and sometimes can be found using a metal detector. The city does not provide surveying services. Approximate property lines and dimensions can be found on the county's website.

5. What are the regulations for pools?

All Below-Ground pools require a building permit. Below-Ground Cheat Sheet

Above-Ground pools that exceed 5,000 gallons and have a depth capacity of 2-feet or more require a building permit. Above-Ground Cheat Sheet

6. Do I need a sign permit for a temporary signs

Yes you do. Please download the Temporary Sign Permit here.

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1. Are there downtown parking restrictions?

Yes. Downtown parking is prohibited between the hours of 2:00 - 6:00 a.m. The restrictions are on Main Street between Parrish Avenue and 717 Main Street (south side) and 708 Main Street (north side) and on the western side of Jackson Avenue between Highway 10 and Main Street. Additionally, no vehicle may be parked on the eastern side of Jackson Avenue at any time. 

2. Where may I leave my parked vehicle overnight in downtown Elk River?

There is parking available in the King Avenue lot and the lower lot by the Mississippi River where residents can park. During a Snow Event, there are 26 parking spaces designated for overnight parking in the northern section of the King Avenue lot and 23 parking spaces in the lower lot (nearest to the Mississippi River) below businesses like Blue Egg Bakery, Occasional Fling Boutique, and Daddy-O's. Click here to view a map of available parking.  

3. Does the City of Elk River have a winter parking ordinance?

Public safety requires the rapid and efficient removal of snow or ice from city streets, public highways or other thoroughfares. No person shall stop, stand, or park any vehicle or permit it to stand on any street in the city when, within the preceding 24 hours, falling or blowing snow or a combination of falling and blowing snow has accumulated to a depth of 1.5 or more inches of snow at street level anywhere within that block, or when 1.5 or more inches of snow has been predicted within the next 24 hours as determined by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Provided, however, that parking shall be permitted within any block of any public street where not otherwise prohibited whenever the entire length of roadway of such block has been cleared of snow from curb to curb, or in the case of streets without curbs, between the outer edges of the shoulders of such streets

4. How can I pay a parking ticket that I received in Elk River?

You can pay your parking ticket by following the Online Payments link (select Police Charges and then Parking Tickets) from our website's main page, at the police department between normal business hours of 8:00 a.m to 4:30 p.m., or you can mail your payment in the yellow envelope that you received. Your payment may also be dropped in the drop box outside the City Hall main entrance door. Parking tickets must be paid within twenty-one days from the issue date to prevent being charged a late fee.

5. Can I snowmobile or ride ATV's in Elk River?

Yes, however there are restrictions. Click here to see a map regarding snowmobiles. Click here to see a map regarding ATVs. Please refer to the city ordinance for more information.

6. Can I hunt or shoot in Elk River?

Yes, however there are restrictions. Please refer to the city ordinance for more information.

7. Do pets need to be licensed in Elk River?

No, the City of Elk River no longer requires pet licensing.

8. How do I request a report?

Contact the police department at 763.635.1260 M-F 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

9. Where are arrested parties detained?

Arrested parties are held at the Sherburne County Jail. To contact them call 763.765.3800.

10. What form of payments are accepted?

Credit card, check, and cash.

11. Where are found pets transported to until an owner is located?

Monticello Animal Control

203 Chelsea Road
Monticello, MN 55362
612-859-6989

12. Who do I contact if I found or lost a cat or dog?

Contact the Elk River Police Department at 763-635-1200.

13. What do I do with a non-domestic animal (skunk, duck, bats, raccoon, etc.)?

The Elk River Police Department does not accept these animals. Check the internet or yellow pages for pest control.

14. How do I apply for a Permit to Acquire a handgun?

You must be a City of Elk River resident, and your driver's license address must match your home address. Submit a Permit to Purchase Application which is located under Services and Applications/Applications/Permits on our website. The completed application may be submitted via; in person, fax, or e-mail.

15. Does the police department give tours?

September 2020 - In light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the city’s ongoing efforts to best ensure the health and safety of residents and staff, the Elk River Police Department is not conducting station tours at this time.

16. How do I get my car out of impound?

Vehicles are impounded at either Collins Brothers Towing, Morrell Towing, or at the Elk River Police Department. Please contact the tow company directly for release information if there are no release conditions. If there are release conditions that must be satisfied prior to release, you will need to respond to the police department to obtain a vehicle release.

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1. Do you have meeting rooms available for rent?

Meeting rooms are available to rent.  Call 763.635.4500 for more information.

2. At what age may I attend the Activity Center and participate in programs?

The Senior Activity Center is available for those 55+.

3. Where is the pick up location for bus trips?

Furniture and Things Community Event Center

1000 School Street

Elk River, MN 55330

4. Do you provide transportation to and from the Senior Activity Center?

We do not provide transportation. Please call the Senior Linkage Line at 1.800.333.2433 regarding transportation questions.

5. Do you have to be a member in order to participate in programs?

You do not have to be a member to participate in Senior Activity Center programs. Non-members may purchase a day-pass or pay a non-member fee. Please see our monthly newsletter for more information. 

6. I am not a resident of Elk River. Can I still come to the Senior Activity Center?

Yes. People come from the surrounding communities to participate in our programs.

7. Do you have senior dining at your location?

No. Elk River Senior Dining and the Meals on Wheels Program are administered by Catholic Charities Dioceses of St Cloud and are located at 350 Evans in Elk River. Contact 763.441.6288 for more information.

8. How do I learn about programs and events at the center?

In addition to the website, the monthly newsletter provides up to date information on all of our programs and events.  Call the Senior Activity Center at 763.635.4500 to learn more.

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1. What conditions warrant a Snow Event declaration?

A Snow Event is declared following a forecast of falling and/or blowing snow expected to accumulate at a depth of 1.5+ inches, and/or freezing rain, sleet, or other winter weather patterns resulting in hazardous roadway conditions. The city will terminate the Snow Event once weather conditions have improved.

2. How does a Snow Event impact parking on city streets?

When a Snow Event is declared, there is NO overnight parking on city streets between 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. If plow operators encounter vehicles parked on city streets during a Snow Event, Elk River Police will be dispatched to ticket and tow, per city ordinance.

3. How long is a Snow Event in effect for?

The length of a Snow Event can vary, and it is lifted at the discretion of city staff members. The city will terminate the Snow Event once weather conditions have improved.

4. Is there designated Snow Event parking downtown?

Yes. 26 parking spots are designated for overnight parking during a Snow Event in the northern section of the King Avenue lot and 23 parking spaces in the lower lot (nearest to the Mississippi River) below businesses like Blue Egg Bakery, Occasional Fling Boutique, and Daddy-O's. View the map here.

5. How does the city notify residents of a Snow Event?

The city uses several methods of communication to notify residents of a Snow Event. Please sign-up, like, or follow, one or all of the methods listed below:

• City of Elk River "News Flash" (city website front page)
• CodeRED Emergency Notification System 
• Elk River City Government Facebook and Twitter 
• Elk River Police Department Facebook and Twitter
• City of Elk River “Notify Me” alert (through the city's website)
• Nextdoor

6. My car has been towed, who do I contact to locate it?

If you believe your car has been towed, please contact Collins Brothers Towing at 763-241-9177, or the Elk River Police Department at 763-635-1260.

7. Why do vehicles parked on the street impact plow operations?

It is vital for vehicles to not park on city streets during a declared Snow Event, as to allow plow operators to efficiently clear the city streets. A plow truck equipped with front and wing plows can extend out to 18 feet which allows for a typical residential street to be cleared curb to curb in a single pass in each direction. Vehicles, garbage cans, basketball hoops or other obstructions in the roadway require operators to maneuver around the objects resulting in potential collisions with the plows or damage as a result of the snow coming off of the plow blade. Additionally, these obstructions mean a portion of the roadway is not being cleared of the snow and ice which could result in a safety hazard to other vehicles or pedestrians.

8. Who do I contact if my mailbox has been damaged by a snow plow?

If you believe your mailbox was damaged during snow removal operations, please call 763.635.1120, or submit an incident report online here within 24 hours of the incident taking place. Please note, damage must be reported within 24 hours of the incident as city policy requires a Public Works employee to visit the site of the complaint in order to adequately survey the scene. Following the on-site survey of the scene, the plow operator responsible for the route that day is interviewed, and if the City of Elk River is determined to be at fault, staff will make contact with the homeowner and install a temporary mailbox. All temporary mailbox installations are documented throughout the winter, then when the ground has thawed in the spring, Public Works employees replace those temporary boxes with permanent, swing-away style mailboxes free of charge. If a resident prefers a different style of mailbox, they’ll be reimbursed $75 with proof of receipt of the alternate mailbox they purchased. In this case the resident will be responsible to install the mailbox themselves.

A few things to note - every year the city encounters its fair share of mailbox damage complaints that are the result of private plow companies hired to clear driveways and parking lots, as well as motorists who slide into residential boxes. When a plow makes contact with a mailbox, there are very obvious signs left including windrows from the plow blade, markings on the box or post itself, sod damage both near the damaged mailbox and upstream from it, among other things. The city does not take responsibility for mailboxes damaged by private snow removal contractors, motorists, or those damaged due to poor maintenance. It is up to the homeowner to ensure the integrity of the mailbox post. A strong, secure mailbox post will be able to withstand the snow being pushed off a plow’s wing during snow removal operations, however if the post is rotted at the ground (which is evident upon inspection as well), a gusty wind - not to mention a single pass of a snowplow - can easily result in a downed mailbox. 

9. What should I do with my trash/recycling containers if the streets are being plowed on my collection day?

Regardless of the time of year, trash and recycling containers are not permitted in city roadways. Homeowners should place containers behind the curb line in their driveway to prevent them from creating an obstruction in the roadway. Waste hauling vehicles are equipped with arms capable of reaching 5 feet or more beyond the curb line to secure the containers for collection. During snow removal operations it is important to keep your containers behind the city curbs to prevent them from being struck by the plow or knocked over by snow coming off of the plows.

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1. Why has the city added this fee?

The fee will fund the stormwater program which includes activities to maintain compliance with state and federal law. Due to the significant and ongoing cost of the program, the city council utilized an alternative to property taxes that is fairer and more equitable, similar to a user fee. Adding the costs of the program to the tax levy would have been a huge tax increase for property owners.

2. Isn’t this just another tax?

The difference is that the amount you pay in property taxes is based upon the value of your property. The amount of your stormwater fee is based upon the impact on the stormwater system by your property’s impervious surface.

3. What will the fee be used for?

State and federal law require three major categories of activities be carried out by municipalities. The revenue for this fee will ensure the city is compliant with those laws. They include the following:
a) The administration, planning, analysis, installation, operation, maintenance, repair, and replacement of public storm water drainage systems.
b) The administration, planning, implementation, construction, and maintenance of stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) to reduce the introduction of sediment and other pollutants into local water resources.
c) All necessary activities to maintain compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), and Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit requirements established by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including preparation, implementation, and management of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).

4. What is Stormwater?

Stormwater, as defined under Minnesota Rule 7077.0105, sub. 41b storm water, means precipitation runoff, storm water runoff, snow melt runoff, and any other surface runoff and drainage.

5. I haven’t heard of this before, was there a public hearing process?

Multiple public meetings were held from the start of the Storm Water Utility Feasibility Study in 2011 to the adoption of the ordinance on December 15, 2014. This process included multiple presentations to the city council and public outreach efforts to solicit input in the forms of an educational video on Facebook, YouTube, the city website, funding survey, and multiple articles in the Elk River Star News and the Current.

6. Why are these regulations in place?

Stormwater runoff is a leading source of water pollution and can harm surface waters such as lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands. Management of stormwater runoff from urbanized areas is very important for restoring or protecting surface waters. Check out this website for more information: link

7. What is an MS4?

MS4 is the system of conveyances that include sidewalks, roads with drainage systems, municipal streets, catch basins, curbs, gutters, ditches, manmade channels, or storm drains that are owned and operated by the city and designed or used for collecting or conveying storm water, and not used for collecting or conveying sewage.

8. How much will I be charged?

That depends on the property type. There are three categories of fees. 1) Residential properties within the Urban Service Area, roughly the southern half of the city that is served by city water, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer. 2) Residential properties outside the Urban Service Area that use the county ditch system as a conveyance before reaching the city stormwater system. 3) All other properties, including commercial, industrial, institutional, etc. 

• Single-family, duplex, and townhome residential properties with public sewer and/or public water service pay $3.90 per month per residential unit
• All other single-family, duplex, and townhome residential properties pay $2.65 per month per residential unit 
• All other properties in the city pay $28 per month per acre of impervious surface, which is defined as a constructed hard surface that prevents or retards the entry of water into the soil, and causes water to run off the surface in greater quantities and at an increased rate of flow than existed prior to development. Examples include rooftops, sidewalks, patios, driveways, parking lots, storage areas, and concrete, asphalt, or gravel roads.

9. When will the fee collection end?

The fee is a long-term funding mechanism in order to achieve and maintain compliance with our MPCA permit.

10. Why is this fee added now?

The City of Elk River’s MS4 permit was reissued in 2014 with more stringent regulations of our program. Prior to the reissuance, our permit had included only limited regulation pertaining to maintenance, education, documentation, and BMP management. Other City's

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1. Where can I place my sign?

Signs are often an effective and important marketing tool to draw attention to a garage sale, graduation party, special event, or social function. Signs must be placed on private property and not in the right-of-way. The right-of-way is generally 10 feet from the curb into a yard. Signs cannot be placed on existing objects within a right-of-way, such as trees or light poles.

2. I put a sign out for my garage sale and now it's gone, where is it?

If you put a sign in an area that is prohibited by Sec 30-859 of City Code, the Code Enforcement Official will remove them. If you need to get a sign back that has been removed, contact the Streets Department at 763-635-1120.

3. What is the City ordinance for signs (garage sale, graduation, etc)?

Review Section 30-859 (5) of the City Code for the ordinance regarding sign placement, dimensions, and other information. Signs are often an effective and important marketing tool to draw attention to a garage sale, graduation party, special event, or social function. Signs must be placed on private property and not in the right-of-way. The right-of-way is generally 10 feet from the curb into a yard. Signs cannot be placed on existing objects within a right-of-way, such as trees or light poles.

4. Why doesn't the City of Elk River install speed bumps on our public streets?

The City of Elk River does not install speed bumps on our public streets for the following reasons: 

• Maintenance activities, including snow plowing, is difficult to accomplish.
• Speeds may increase between humps as drivers speed to make up for lost time.
• Speed humps cause delays for police and fire vehicles of 3 to 10 seconds per hump.
• Speeds may increase over time as drivers get use to the feel of the speed humps.
• Traffic volume may be diverted to adjacent streets as drivers seek alternate routes to avoid the speed humps.
• Some motorists drive with their wheel(s) in the gutter, bike lane, or road shoulder in order to minimize the impact of the humps.
• Noise levels may increase as drivers brake and accelerate at speed humps.
• Speed humps may have a negative impact on air quality and energy consumption due to increased slowing and braking.

5. What is a road right-of-way?

The road right-of-way is the "utility" portion of the public street and can be used by utility companies to put in their lines, etc, and this area is part of the public street. A rule of thumb is the right-of-way is 30 feet from the road center line or 10 feet from the curb into a yard, but this dimension can vary depending on the specific road and is not meant to be an exact number.

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1. Is there a parking ban in effect when it snows?

Yes, when snow is predicted a parking ban is put into effect through the Code RED notification system. NO PARKING on city streets between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. during a snow event. Sign up for Code RED notifications at https://www.co.sherburne.mn.us/

2. What kind of equipment does the city use for snowplowing?

Currently, the City of Elk River uses snowplows with wings to clean approximately 150 miles of city streets. In addition, front-end loaders, one-ton trucks, tractors & pickup trucks are used to clean snow off of over 200 cul-de-sacs and 20 parking lots.

3. Why doesn’t the large plow truck clear my cul-de-sac?

The large plow equipment is not designed to work in smaller areas. A large truck can clear 5 to 6 blocks of main roadway in about the same time it would take the driver to clear one cul-de-sac. Safety is also a concern because of the poor visibility in a large truck.

4. The snowplow tore up the grass in front of my house. Who’s responsible for repairing the damage in the spring?

Sod damaged by city plowing equipment will be repaired the following spring either by street crews using black dirt and seed; or by the property owner if they elect to do the repair using commercial sod. The city will reimburse the property owner for the sod purchased but not for labor costs. Reimbursement must be approved by the Street Superintendent or his/her designee prior to the corrective work or sod purchase.

5. What if my lawn sprinklers or invisible pet fences are damaged by plow operators

The City is not responsible for damage to underground lawn sprinklers or invisible pet fences located within the public right-of-way (ROW). Homeowners are responsible to protect such systems from damage or to relocate sprinkler heads and fences within their property boundary.

The ROW for roads varies from road to road but a typical city street has a 60 foot ROW, meaning your property line is 30 feet from the center of the road. This is just a guideline, to know exactly where your property line is located, you will need to contact a land surveyor. 

6. My mailbox was damaged by a snowplow, how do I get it fixed?

If you believe your mailbox was damaged during snow removal operations, please call 763.635.1120, or submit an incident report online here within 24 hours of the incident taking place. Please note, damage must be reported within 24 hours of the incident as city policy requires a Public Works employee to visit the site of the complaint in order to adequately survey the scene. Following the on-site survey of the scene, the plow operator responsible for the route that day is interviewed, and if the City of Elk River is determined to be at fault, staff will make contact with the homeowner and install a temporary mailbox. All temporary mailbox installations are documented throughout the winter, then when the ground has thawed in the spring, Public Works employees replace those temporary boxes with permanent, swing-away style mailboxes free of charge. If a resident prefers a different style of mailbox, they’ll be reimbursed $75 with proof of receipt of the alternate mailbox they purchased. In this case the resident will be responsible to install the mailbox themselves.

A few things to note - every year the city encounters its fair share of mailbox damage complaints that are the result of private plow companies hired to clear driveways and parking lots, as well as motorists who slide into residential boxes. When a plow makes contact with a mailbox, there are very obvious signs left including windrows from the plow blade, markings on the box or post itself, sod damage both near the damaged mailbox and upstream from it, among other things. The city does not take responsibility for mailboxes damaged by private snow removal contractors, motorists, or those damaged due to poor maintenance. It is up to the homeowner to ensure the integrity of the mailbox post. A strong, secure mailbox post will be able to withstand the snow being pushed off a plow’s wing during snow removal operations, however if the post is rotted at the ground (which is evident upon inspection as well), a gusty wind - not to mention a single pass of a snowplow - can easily result in a downed mailbox. 

7. What should I do with my trash/recycling container(s) if the streets are being plowed on a collection day?

Since trash is collected five days a week, one or more routes encounter trash containers while plowing. Plow operators will not plow around items illegally placed in the street. Residents are asked to place their trash containers in their driveway or behind the curb line on trash pickup day. Do not place them in the street. Plow operators will not stop to move containers or set containers upright that have overturned.

8. Can I shovel or blow snow into or across the street?

No. It is unlawful to deposit snow on public roadways per Minnesota Highway Traffic Regulations. Residents observed doing such activities are subject to a citation and fine.

State Statute 160.2715 Subd (5):  Misdemeanors: It shall be unlawful to obstruct any public street or highway or to deposit any snow or ice thereon; and, 169.42 Subd (1): Littering:  No person shall throw, deposit, place, or dump upon any street or highway any snow, ice, etc.

9. Who do I call if I have a complaint or comment about snowplowing?

Call the City of Elk River Street Division at 763-635-1120 or submit an online form.

10. Why is snow plowed into my driveway?

This is an unfortunate side effect of plowing all streets in the City. All snow must be plowed from the center of the street to the curb, and as a result driveways get blocked with the snow from the plow. Though it is an acknowledged inconvenience, curbside discharge of snow is a necessary trade-off for initiating a rapid response for snow removal service for our residents. It is the property owner’s responsibility to clear the snow from the bottom of their driveway.

11. When will my street be plowed?

When it snows the operators plow priority routes first to provide access for emergency vehicles. Secondary routes are plowed next and then tertiary (cul de sacs). When the snow ends, crews complete cleanup of the priority routes and then begin to plow public parking lots. Please be patient. We realize everyone would like to be plowed out first but this is impossible. Once a storm ends it can take up to 12 hours to completely plow all the routes.

12. Why does the snowplow go down my road so many times?

To properly clear the streets a plow may make 3 to 4 passes on each side of the street. The deeper the snow, the more passes necessary to clear the streets curb to curb. Many times the snow is still falling when the plows begin clearing streets. The freshly fallen snow will then need to be replowed.

13. Who removes the snow from sidewalks?

The Parks Division is responsible for snow and ice control on city sidewalks and trails.

Business owners/tenants are responsible to completely clear all ice and snow, down to the concrete, from sidewalks adjacent to their property within 24 hours of a snowfall. If the City receives a complaint about a sidewalk that has not been cleared, the property or business owner is notified of the violation. If the sidewalk is not cleared within 48 hours following the notice, the City will have the work completed and assess the expense back to the owner.    

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1. Do I need a license?

You need a license if you are currently selling or intend to sell any edible food or beverage containing intoxicating THC.

2. Why is the city licensing THC?

The state legislature legalized the sale, possession, and use of intoxicating hemp-derived tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to adults 21 and older with packaging restrictions. It did not include an enforcement provision to ensure age limits and packaging are in compliance with state law. The City Council carefully discussed the sale and use of intoxicating hemp-derived products including the regulations currently in place for other products such as tobacco and alcohol. They agree to allow local businesses to be competitive with neighboring communities with the same precautions for similar products. Licensing allows for identification of retailers and begins the pathway to ensure compliance. The license fee is comparable to similar licenses which covers the application cost for review, background checks and compliance checks.

3. What are hemp-derived consumable THC products?

Products made from hemp or hemp distillate that contain THC and are intended to be an ingestible product. Common examples of ingestible products containing hemp-derived THC include:

• Food/beverage products and gummies
• Hemp tinctures, extracts, or ingestible oils
• Pills, supplements, or capsules
• Inhalable or vape-able hemp

4. What kind of products are allowed under the new law?

Only hemp-derived consumable products are allowed without a medical prescription. By federal law, hemp products can not contain more than 0.3% of THC. No edible THC product can contain more than 5 mg per serving or 50 mg per package. They must be in childproof containers and not be marketed to children. The new law does not allow marijuana vaping or smoking. 

5. Are there certain restrictions I should be aware of?

• Intoxicating THC products cannot be sold in vending machines, by transient merchants, peddlers, or by a moveable place of business.
• Intoxicating THC products cannot be delivered to a location outside of the CBD retail establishment.
• No sampling is allowed in stores.
• Sale of intoxicating THC products are only allowed to persons over the age of 21. Sales to persons under the age of 21 is a misdemeanor level crime. 

6. What if I sell non-intoxicating products that contain CBD?

The sale of non-intoxicating CBD products, including those applied topically, ingested as tinctures vapes, pills or candies are allowed in our retail zoning districts.

7. What if I sell products that don't contain THC and are made from exempt parts of a plant such as certain lotion, hemp milk, and/or clothing/textiles?

So long as all products (and their ingredients) offered for sale are made from exempt parts of the plant and do not contain THC and/or are not marketed to claim they contain THC, your business would not need a license.

8. My business has a liquor license and mixes cocktails. Can I use edibles to make infused cocktails?

No. A business with a liquor license cannot make their own infused drinks. The business can sell intoxicating cannabis products if it’s in the original packaging, complete with a label on it. The business would need a city cannabinoid license in addition to their liquor license. An example of an allowable product would be a canned drink infused with THC.

9. What are the penalties for selling or distributing ingestible hemp-derived THC products without a license?

Businesses who sell or distribute ingestible hemp-derived THC products without obtaining the required licensure and approvals will be issued a cease-and-desist order and may be cited criminally. 

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1. How do I nominate someone to be a city Volunteer of the Month?

You can nominate someone for Volunteer of the Month by clicking here.