Steele County offers building opportunities in Southeast Minnesota, though some factors need consideration.
📊62/100AcreScore
💰$8KLand $/acre
🏠$220KHome Value
👥36,612Population
📈+0.5%Growth (10yr)
🌊7%Flood RiskLow
🌡️Cold HumidClimateZone 6A
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Minnesota has no state building code — regulations are county-level. Steele County has no formal zoning ordinance, meaning most rural land can be used for residential construction including barndominiums without special permits beyond standard building codes.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Unzoned
None
✅ Yes
Steele County has no formal zoning ordinance. Standard building permits still required. Contact the county building department for specifics.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Minnesota requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Steele County Building Department
Owatonna, MN
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Moderate flood risk. 7% of county land is in FEMA flood zones. Most buildable parcels are outside hazard areas, but always verify your specific site.
7%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Good
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Affordable land market. At roughly $8,000 per acre, Steele County offers good value for builders looking for rural acreage.
$8K
Median $/acre
$220K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
1.07%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Steele County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Steele County sits in the heart of Southeast Minnesota. Rochester is 40 min away. Minnesota has a state income tax — factor that into your cost-of-living calculations.
🏗️
Affordable Land
Median land at $8,000/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.
🔨
Build Freedom
No formal zoning means you can build your barndominium, shop, or homestead without jumping through bureaucratic hoops.
At a Glance
Population36,612
10-Year Growth+0.5%
County SeatOwatonna
State Income TaxYes
ClimateCold Humid (Zone 6A)
How Close Is Everything?
Rochester40 min
MSP65 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Steele County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Owatonna. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
Steele County qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans — zero-down-payment financing for eligible buyers in most areas.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Steele County?
Yes. Steele County has no formal zoning ordinance. You'll still need standard building permits, but barndominiums are generally permitted on rural land. Check with the county building department for specific requirements.
How much does land cost in Steele County?
Median price is approximately $8,000 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements. USDA Rural Development loans may be available for eligible buyers.
Is Steele County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Yes — most of Steele County qualifies for USDA Rural Development programs, including zero-down-payment home loans for eligible buyers.
What is the property tax rate in Steele County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 1.07%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Steele County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Minnesota, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.