MN SF2272

Establishes a certification process requiring the commissioner of natural resources to certify that local zoning ordinances comply with state guidelines and standards before they become effective.

Sets a 30-day review deadline for the commissioner to certify ordinances or specify non-compliance issues; ordinances are deemed certified if the commissioner fails to respond within 30 days.

Requires the commissioner to provide a liaison to affected cities, counties, and towns for outreach, education, and advice on ordinance implementation and variance applications.

Authorizes the commissioner's liaison to evaluate variance requests to ensure they are consistent with the National Wild and Scenic River Act and the federal Lower St. Croix River Act of 1972, and that no alternative feasible methods exist.

Allows conditional uses for commercial, nature-oriented, and educational activities in rural districts on properties that were in similar use on both May 1, 1974, and January 1, 2010, if they comply with dimensional standards and maintain similar scope.