MN HF3406

Establishes a review and certification procedure requiring commissioner approval for any local government decision that affects land use along the lower St. Croix River, including ordinance amendments and variances from dimensional standards.

Requires local authorities to provide the commissioner with notice of public hearings at least 20 days in advance, including copies of proposed ordinances or variance descriptions.

Commissioner must certify within 30 days of receiving notice of the final decision that the action complies with the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, the federal Lower St. Croix River Act, and applicable Minnesota Rules.

Actions become effective only when: commissioner provides prior certification of approval, approval is certified after the local decision, 30 days elapse without commissioner response, or commissioner certifies approval after a public hearing.

Allows local authorities or applicants to request a hearing within 30 days of a nonapproval notice; if requested, hearing must occur within 60 days in the local community with commissioner decision on approval or denial within 30 days after the hearing.