New fee reimbursement program supports property improvement

Goodhue County is pleased to announce the launch of the Employment & Tax Base Diversification Fee Reimbursement Program, designed to reduce financial barriers for residential, commercial, and industrial property improvements.
Beginning October 22, 2025, eligible applicants can receive rebates from Goodhue County for building permit fees, water access charges (WAC), and sewer access charges (SAC) on qualifying projects. The program supports new construction, building additions, and some industrial property upgrades in the cities and townships of Goodhue County.
Reimbursement Limits:
- Residential: Up to $5,000 per unit, $10,000 per project
- Commercial & Industrial: Up to $10,000 per project
- SAC/WAC: Up to $5,000 per unit, $10,000 per project
Ineligible projects include demolition-only work, residential interior remodels, maintenance or mechanical permits, and projects on tax-exempt properties and those receiving certain public financial assistance. Additional exclusions may apply.
For eligible projects, property owners or contractors should first apply for permits and pay applicable fees to their appropriate local jurisdiction before processing an application for reimbursement with Goodhue County.
Funding is limited and applications for reimbursement will be processed in the order received. The program will close once funds are exhausted or on June 22, 2026, whichever comes first.
For full program details, and to apply, visit the program page on the Goodhue County website.
The Fee Reimbursement Program is made possible by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development’s Energy Transition Office, whose Community Energy Transition grant program provides funds for research, planning and implementation activities to support their local economies through energy transitions.