Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about requirements for permits on our Building Inspections page.

During development, all trees greater than 6 inches in diameter are tagged and surveyed. They are protected for you by Environmental Resources staff throughout the development process. Before removing any tags, contact building inspections at 952-985-4440 to determine if a final inspection has been completed for your lot.

Call us at 952-985-4500 and we will contact the appropriate people to try and get the issue resolved in a timely manner.

Buckthorn is an exotic tree/shrub that spreads rapidly by seed and out-competes native trees. If buckthorn isn’t controlled, only mature native trees survive, leaving no young trees to grow for future woodlands. Contact our Environmental Resources department at 952-985-4500 for more information or visit the Minnesota DNR's website.

As rainwater flows over lawns and hard surfaces it picks up nutrients and pollutants that are then captured in stormwater ponds to protect our lakes and streams. Due to the purpose of ponds, it is not surprising for ponds to turn green over time. 

There are three main types of organisms that can make a pond look green. To determine what might be happening in your pond, review the information below:

1. Is the water green throughout the entire water column? You can tell if this is the case by putting your hand below the water surface and your hand looks green when held several inches deep. This type of green typically does not sit on water surfaces until the hottest days of summer and is very bright green and thicker at shoreline. This type of green is often caused by a blue-green algae.
   
2. If you have a green mat on top of the water that tends to move frequently with winds and rain, then you probably have a healthy population of duckweed. Duckweed is a plant that is a food source for water fowl and actually helps with the water quality of the pond by removing nutrients. There is little you can do to remove the duckweed and it is unadvisable since this plant provides food and habitat for several different species.
   
3. Do you have clumps of hair-looking green floating on your pond? If so, it is likely filamentous algae. It will float on the surface, or even cling to plants.
   

The best thing you can do to prevent a green pond due to any of the above organisms is to reduce the amount of nutrients in the water body by practicing environmentally safe lawn care practices. By you and your neighbors sweeping up grass clippings and fertilizers from paved surfaces and making sure erosion and piling of vegetation near the pond isn’t occurring, you will help to eliminate the main food source for these organisms and reduce the pond’s green appearance. 

City of Lakeville Ordinance requires the lot purchaser to plant at least two trees on every lot in the plat unless the lot already has two existing trees. One of these trees must be planted in the front yard. For more information, download this handout (PDF).

Call the Environmental Resources Department at 952-985-4500.

The City of Lakeville provides several opportunities for volunteering. We offer one-time events and ongoing projects. Visit our volunteer page for more information.

Visit our Forestry webpage to learn more about how you can help with sick trees.

There are several locations throughout the metro area that offers native plants. The closest location to Lakeville is Outback Nursery in Hastings. They have a good supply of native trees and shrubs. They also have some native plants in 1 gallon containers, so it is a good place to see some plants in person.

There are not lifeguards at any Lakeville beaches. Swim at your own risk and stay within designated swimming areas only.

Generally beach water is safe to swim in, although accidental drownings and waterborne illness are always a concern. Lakeville beach water is sampled weekly to ensure that the water meets the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) proposal for water bacteria levels.

The most current MPCA recommendations for beach water sampling are to test for the presence of Escherichia coli (E. coli). E. coli is one of the intestinal organisms found in warm-blooded animal waste. It is therefore a good indicator of fecal contamination.

• In the front yard on an established driveway, entirely on the owner's property. Recreational vehicles may not be parked or stored on public property or street right of way.
• In the rear yard not closer than 10 feet from the rear lot line, five feet from the side lot lines and not within drainage and utility easements.
• On a corner lot not closer that 20 feet from the property line abutting the side street and not within drainage and utility easements.

The Lakeville Police Department is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for anyone who needs police assistance or would like to make any type of incident report. 

You should call 911 anytime you have an emergency situation, like a fire, a serious injury or medical condition, a crime in progress or anytime you need to speak with a police officer. When you call 911 an emergency dispatcher will answer the phone and ask you for details about your situation. Please speak clearly and calmly to the dispatcher. If you dial 911 by accident, please stay on the line and advise the dispatcher that the call to 911 was an accident. If you dial 911 and hang up without speaking to a dispatcher, a police officer will most likely be sent to the location the call was made from.

You can submit online police reports for some non-emergency incidents when you do not expect investigative follow-up: lakevillepdmn.policetocitizen.com. Additionally, the Lakeville Police Department partners with the Dakota 911 dispatch center. Dakota 911 encourages the use of 911 for any situation that requires the response of police, fire or emergency medical personnel. This includes non-emergency situations such as reporting a crime, a traffic situation or suspicious activity. The dispatcher will ask questions to help assure the proper level of response and that emergencies receive the highest priority. 911 should not be used for information-only purposes. You may also contact Dakota 911 at 952-322-2323.

Submit an online data request. 

Describe the data you are requesting as specifically as possible, supply pertinent information such as date, time, address and/or case number. Data requests for information about you a must be submitted with a copy of a valid state ID, driver’s license, military ID or passport.

The Government Data Practices Act (Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13) regulates the release of government and law enforcement data. Government data is classified as either Public, Private or Confidential. There may be some information in a report that is public and other information that is classified as private or confidential.

Private data can be accessed only by the person who is the subject of the data, you must supply a copy of a valid state ID, such as a driver’s license, military ID or passport as proof of identity. Requests by those representing or insuring individuals must include permission from the individual to allow for release of the individual's private data to another entity or person, and a copy of the individual’s valid ID.

Traffic accident reports, except for any of the types of data classified as public under Minnesota Statutes, section 13.82, subdivisions 3 (request for service data) and 6 (response or incident data), are confidential and only available to those involved in the accident or who have sustained a loss as a result of the accident.

Confidential data can only be accessed by persons specifically authorized.

Complete the Minnesota Uniform Firearm Application/Receipt Permit to Purchase/Transfer form Firearm Application/Receipt Permit (PDF), making sure you sign and date the four (4) SIGNATURE and DATE lines. Email or mail the form WITH a copy of a valid state ID, driver’s license, military ID or passport to the Lakeville Police Department; email: PoliceRecords@lakevillemn.gov, mail: Police Department, 9237 183rd Street West, Lakeville, MN 55044.  A background check will be completed and your permit will be mailed to you.

Contact the Sheriff’s Department in the county in which you live.

The driver of any motor vehicle involved in a collision shall immediately stop the motor vehicle at the scene of the collision, or as close to the collision as possible without unnecessarily obstructing traffic, and reasonably investigate what was struck. If the driver knows or has reason to know the collision involves injury, death, damage to a vehicle driven or attended by another, damage to any unattended vehicle, or damage to property, the driver in every event shall remain at the scene of the collision until the driver has fulfilled the requirements of giving information as explained in Minnesota Statutes, section 169.09.

• The driver of any motor vehicle involved in a collision the driver knows or has reason to know results in bodily injury to or death of another, or damage to any vehicle driven or attended by another, shall give the driver's name, date of birth, mailing address or email address, and the registration plate number of the vehicle being driven. The driver shall, upon request and if available, exhibit the driver's license or permit to drive to any peace officer at the scene of the collision or who is investigating the collision. The driver shall render reasonable assistance to any individual injured in the collision.
• If not given at the scene of the collision, the driver, within 72 hours after the accident, shall give, on request to any individual involved in the collision or to a peace officer investigating the collision, the name and address of the insurer providing vehicle liability insurance coverage, and the local insurance agent for the insurer.

You are required to notify the police if there is an injury or death related to the collision, or if public property has been damaged, or if you are unable to exchange information with the other driver or a property owner.  Collisions that result in property damage only can be handled by the drivers exchanging information.

If for any reason you would like a police officer to respond to your motor vehicle collision, call 911 or 952-322-2323 (Dakota 911) and a police officer will respond to assist you.

Yes.

• From November 1 to April 1, there is no parking on any city street between the hours of 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. every day.
• No motor vehicle shall be parked on any city street for more than 48 hours.
• Recreational vehicles may not be parked or stored on public property or street rights-of-way. Recreational vehicles include all types of utility trailers, campers, tent/pop-up trailers, motor homes, converted buses, boats, snowmobiles, ice houses and ATVs.
• No commercial vehicle or equipment shall be parked or stored in a rural or residential district except when loading, unloading or rendering a service.
• Contracting, excavating equipment or other commercial vehicles and equipment may not be parked or stored on any property in the city unless it is being used in conjunction with a temporary service benefiting the premises.

  
  

The Lakeville Police Department responds to vehicle lock-outs in emergency situations (such as a child locked in a vehicle). For non-emergencies, a Community Service Officer (CSO) may be able to assist if available; otherwise, we recommend contacting a locksmith, tow company, or full-service gas station.

Yes. The City of Lakeville follows the Dakota County curfew ordinance:

• Under 12 Sunday-Thursday: 9 p.m.-5 a.m. Friday & Saturday: 10 p.m.-5 a.m.
• Age 12-14 Sunday-Thursday: 10 p.m.-5 a.m. Friday & Saturday: 11 p.m.-5 a.m.
• Age 15-17 Sunday-Thursday: 11 p.m.-5 a.m. Friday & Saturday: Midnight-5 a.m.

Lakeville citizens can come to the Lakeville Police Department to turn in a firearm for destruction.  Once at the Police Department, leave the UNLOADED firearm in the trunk of your vehicle.  Call 911 from your phone, or the phone in the Police Department vestibule or the lobby and inform the 911 operator you are at the Lakeville Police Department and have a firearm you want to have destroyed.  When available, an officer will arrive to assist you. 

Due to its explosive properties, ammunition should NOT be placed in your home trash or recycling carts, as it can be dangerous for you and the people collecting it. Instead, bring your ammunition to The Recycling Zone for safe disposal.

Submit an online data request form to the Lakeville Police Department.

Submit (1) the Solicitor Registration Form (PDF) and (2) a copy of your valid driver’s license to PoliceRecords@lakevillemn.gov or by mail to: Lakeville Police Department, 9237 183rd Street West, Lakeville, MN 55044.

The Lakeville Police Department has access to driving records for law enforcement purposes only. Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) does not allow us to provide that data to individuals or businesses. Contact DVS directly via their website or by phone at 651-296-6911.

Fingerprint services are available by appointment only on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons. Payment can be made by credit/debit card only, $20 for Lakeville residents, $40 for non-residents. Call 952-985-2800 to schedule an appointment.

Orders for protection and harassment/restraining orders are issued by district courts. Visit any of the Dakota County service center locations to complete an application for any of these orders. More information is available at the Minnesota Judicial Branch website.

Some information on Level III predatory offenders is available online from the Minnesota Department of Corrections.

You can submit your comments online on our website. You may also send an email, letter or a card to the Police Department. Please include a brief description of how the officer/employee was helpful to you. You may also call us at 952-985-2800 to pass along this information.

If you have a complaint regarding the conduct of an officer or employee of the Police Department, call 952-985-2800 and ask to speak with the Watch Commander or on-duty supervisor. This person will be able to explain the complaint process to you. You may also send us information online via our website.

Law requirements:

• Birth to at least 2 years old: Rear-facing in an infant or convertible child safety seat.
• At least 2 years old AND has outgrown the rear-facing seat with internal harness by height or weight: Forward-facing with an internal harness.
• 4 years old AND has outgrown the forward-facing seat with internal harness by height or weight: Ride restrained in a belt-positioning booster seat using the lap belt and shoulder belt.
• 9 years old or has outgrown the booster seat AND the child can pass the five-step test that demonstrates how the seat belt fits correctly: Ride restrained with a lap belt and shoulder belt secured correctly on the vehicle seat.
• Additionally, children under 13 years old must sit in the back seat if possible.

 If a child falls into more than one category, then the child must be placed in the safer restraint for them. For example, a child who is 2.5 years old and weighs 35 pounds but has a car seat with a rear-facing limit of 40 pounds must stay rear-facing even though they are over 2 years old. It's very important for parents and caregivers to always read their car seat and vehicle owner manuals for proper installation.

Additional resources:

• Law guidelines - Minnesota Department of Public Safety
• Minnesota Statutes - Sec. 169.685 MN Statutes
• Child safety restraint manuals - U.S. Department of Transportation
• Car seat checkups & workshops - Safe Kids Worldwide

Contact the Lakeville Police Department to report any identity theft. An officer will provide you with information on the steps you should take to clear your identity and protect yourself in the future. He/she will review this identity theft information with you and help you submit the related forms. Online resources include the Federal Trade Commission, U.S. Department of Justice, Social Security Administration, Equifax, TransUnion or Experian. We also list some identity theft resources on our website.

If the vehicle is not being held for investigative purposes, the vehicle will be located at Marek’s Towing in Lakeville. You will need a copy of the impoundment form, which may have been given to you on the scene. Otherwise you may pick it up at the Police Department. This form has the address and phone number of the tow company.

We receive numerous requests for our patches from patch collectors and other law enforcement enthusiasts around the world. The uniform patches of the Lakeville Police Department are restricted. Patches are purchased with City funds, and for security reasons, it is our policy to only issue uniform patches to authorized employees of the Department. Our uniform patch is not currently available to the public and is not available for purchase.

Lakeville's Seasonal Roadway Load Restrictions Map can be found on the Maps of Lakeville Webpage.  

These items indicate where underground utilities may be buried and were placed in your yard by Gopher State One Call prior to any excavation.

Daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Yes, dogs are permitted in all Lakeville parks as long as they are on a leash.

Groups of 20 or more are required to make a reservation for use of any park. The fee is for half day (9 a.m.-3 p.m. or 4-10 p.m.) or full day (9 a.m.-10 p.m.).

Lakeville Resident

• Half day shelter: $70
• Full day shelter: $100
• Building: $100

Non-Lakeville Resident

• Half day shelter: $90
• Full day shelter: $150
• Building: $150

Nonprofit Groups

• Lakeville groups: No charge for shelter or building
• Non-Lakeville groups: Groups that serve the Lakeville area are subject to the resident rental fees. Groups that do not serve the Lakeville area are subject to the non-resident rental fees.

No, renting a shelter or other park amenity does not grant exclusive access to any one party to any public park.

No, we do not accept donations of stuffed animals.

There are over 3,000 fire hydrants throughout the City, and firefighters appreciate residents' help to keep them clear of snow, vegetation and debris. In the event of a fire, precious time is lost if firefighters have to clear the hydrant before connecting hoses and equipment.

Fire hydrants should have a clearance of 36" on all sides.

Yes, we have several firefighters that are certified in car seat installation. To schedule an appointment, call 952-985-4700. Installations take place at Fire Station 1 (20190 Holyoke Avenue) and Fire Station 4 (9465 185th Street West).

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety website is also a good resource for more information. It contains details about the law, how to install car seats and more.

Additional resources include your child safety restraint manual, the manufacturer’s website, your vehicle manual, the U.S. Department of Transportation website and Safe Kids Worldwide.

Photoelectric smoke detectors can be placed in the trash. Verify the type by checking the operating manual or the back of the detector. Remove batteries before throwing away the detector. Bring all rechargeable batteries to The Recycling Zone in Eagan for free recycling. It’s safe to put non-rechargeable batteries in the trash.

Ionization smoke detectors should not be placed in the trash. Verify with the manufacturer where they should be sent for proper recycling. The Fire Department cannot accept these detectors.

In 1974, the Minnesota Certified Tree Inspector program was implemented as a response to Dutch elm disease (DED) and the emergence of oak wilt (OW). Through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the University of Minnesota Department of Forest Resources, Tree Inspectors receive training and a certification in how to manage epidemic level shade tree pests. They are qualified to first identify existing tree pests/diseases, like DED, OW and emerald ash borer (EAB), in a community. They are then able to offer tree health, care and management recommendations for individual trees or larger stands based on their observations.

An arborist is a professional who is trained in the art and science of planting, caring for, and maintaining trees and other woody plants. An individual with the Certified Arborist designation has had a minimum of three years of work experience or equivalent in the arboriculture field and has passed the assessment of knowledge hosted by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). 

A good arborist will offer a wide range of services such as pruning, removal, disease and insect diagnosis, integrated pest management, etc. There are many experienced tree services that do not employ Certified Arborists but will do a fine job removing a diseased or infested tree.

Always get 2-3 written price quotes before you choose one company, ask to see proof of liability insurance and do NOT pay the company until the work is complete.

Be wary of people that go door-to-door soliciting business, even if they did good work for your neighbor.

Before hiring a company, make sure they understand what is expected with the tree removal including timeline, wood removal or chipping, and stump debarking. You do not need to grind out the stump if the bark is removed off the stump.

At this time, City of Lakeville does not require tree care companies to be licensed to work in Lakeville. All tree care contractors in Minnesota are required to be registered through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA). If you need help finding a contractor near you, try searching the MDA Tree Registry List. For more tips, visit our How to Hire a Tree Contractor webpage.

Public property: City Forestry staff monitor and survey the entire City for infested ash and diseased oak and elm trees on public and private property throughout the year. We also take inspection requests from residents who may notice a dying tree. Infested and/or diseased trees on City property are marked and issued to one of several work crews or a contractor, who must follow the same removal guidelines and timelines as private property owners. Sites are re-inspected for compliance after the removal is complete. 

Private property: City Forestry staff will contact the property owner by mail to request access to the property via a right-of-entry form to inspect and confirm the presence of an infested/diseased tree. 

If an infested/diseased tree is confirmed by a Tree Inspector on the property, the tree will be marked with a painted ring and trunk diameter size for easy identification by the property owner.

A door hanger notifying the property owner of the finding will be left onsite and an official letter with next steps and supplemental resources will be mailed to the property owner. 

The property owner will be required to remove the tree according to the City’s removal requirements, which will be specified in the official notification letter. Forestry staff will reinspect the site for completion of all removal requirements once the deadline has lapsed.

Removal is required within the timeline provided by the City. 

No wood or brush debris from the infested/diseased tree can be left onsite after removal.

All stumps must be cut as low to the ground as possible or debarked if left higher than 3” above the ground. Stump grinding is NOT required.

DBH is a measurement for tree size that means diameter (in inches) at breast height, which is 4.5 feet from the ground. Multi-stem trees are measured as one tree at the narrowest point above ground.

Beyond size of the tree, removal pricing is based on the tree’s location within the property and the presence of obstructions such as overhead utilities, steep slopes or structures. Prices can also vary between companies due to education/experience levels of staff and type of equipment and techniques used for removal.

All debris can be taken to approved wood utilization sites. Infested ash wood should only be transported to sites within current Dakota County Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) quarantines. 

Wood may be chipped to 1” x 1” pieces and used on site as mulch. 

Do not keep infested ash or diseased elm wood as firewood. Leaving bark intact on ash and elm wood allows emerald ash borer and Dutch elm disease to continue to reproduce and spread the infestation/infection further. Diseased oak wood may be kept onsite if tarped. Visit the DNR Oak Wilt Management webpage for more information.

Do not sell the firewood or take it outside of quarantine areas. Moving infested/diseased wood can accelerate the spread of insects and disease and may violate the law. To learn why this is discouraged, visit the MDA Firewood Information webpage.

The stump does NOT have to be ground out, but stumps with bark intact from infested/diseased tree removal may not extend more than 3” above the ground. If the stump is taller than 3”, it must be completely debarked. Shade tree pests can continue to reproduce beneath the bark of a stump, allowing for the infestation/infection of other nearby healthy trees. If the stump is in a high traffic or mowed-and-maintained area, you may want to consider removing it for aesthetic or safety reasons. However, it is not necessary for insect/disease control.

If you believe you need an extension, contact Forestry staff by email at LAShadeTreePest@lakevillemn.gov or call 952-985-2711 before your deadline lapses. Extensions up to two weeks may be granted when you provide the name of your hired contractor, property address and phone number. The site will be re-inspected for completion after your extension has ended. For those worried about the cost, there may be a way to spread out the removal costs on your taxes as a special assessment. For more information, call 952-985-2724.

Once the removal deadline has lapsed, Forestry staff will revisit each site to confirm the removal of all infested/diseased trees and debris. If you believe you have completed all requirements before the removal deadline, you can contact Forestry staff by email at LAShadeTreePest@lakevillemn.gov to set up a re-inspection. After all re-inspections, a door hanger will be left onsite to confirm if work is complete or if more work is required.

The City hosts an Annual Arbor Day Tree Sale, which offers a variety of trees and shrubs for purchase at discounted prices to Lakeville residents. Pre-ordering begins in February of each year and tree pickup is in April.

Property lines are determined using GIS mapping and aerial photos, along with physical features on the property such as houses, fences and overhead power lines (which generally mirror property lines). When needed, plat maps are also referenced. If you think the tree is not on your property, try to resolve the dispute by working with neighboring properties or referencing Dakota County GIS to determine ownership. If you cannot agree and would like more detailed information, you can call Lakeville's Engineering Department at 952-985-4500 to see if there is a survey on file for your property.

When removing a tree, it is very important that you are aware of any overhead utilities that are near or travel through the tree. Utility companies (Xcel Energy or Dakota Electric) must be notified of the situation in advance of the tree’s removal so that they may assist you properly. When contacting a utility company, make sure you inform them that you have an infested/diseased tree, and give them your removal deadline. If there are any delays, notify the Forestry office at 952-985-2724.

There are two common scenarios that can occur when your tree is near power lines:

Pole-to-Pole: When lines in your tree are connected between service poles, they provide electric service to more than one residence. The utility company usually prefers to handle trees around these lines by removing as much of the tree as necessary to prevent damage to their lines and to make it “safe” for other contractors to remove. They may remove only a portion of the tree and leave the remaining wood debris. It is your responsibility to dispose of any debris left on site.

Pole-to-House: When lines in your tree are connected from the service pole to a house or structure, they provide electric service to that structure. It is common for the utility company to disconnect the service lines involved while you or your contractor remove the tree. They will then reconnect the service lines after the work is complete. You should set a specific time for disconnection and reconnection of your service to facilitate both the efficient removal of the tree and the restoration of your service.

Contact Information:

• Dakota Electric Association: 651-463-6287
• Xcel Energy: 800-895-4999

Yes—Forestry staff monitor and survey the entire City for infested and diseased trees. We also take inspection requests. Infested/diseased trees on City property are marked for removal or treatment and all City crews/contractors must follow the same guidelines as private property owners. Sites are re-inspected for compliance after the work is complete.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture hosts an interactive EAB map. It is updated annually and shows areas with current EAB infestations and quarantines.

The primary symptoms of EAB are woodpecker activity, bark splits, crown dieback and suckering shoots. If a tree is in early infestation, binoculars can help find galleries and bark splits higher up in a tree. When the infestation reaches a higher level, woodpecker activity and bark splits create a “blonding” effect on larger branches and down the trunk. Winter is often considered the best time to determine the presence of EAB because woodpecker activity is easiest to see with leaves off the tree.

If you would like additional information and pictures to help you identify EAB symptoms, visit our EAB Signs and Symptoms webpage. If you see any of these symptoms on your ash trees and would like an inspection, contact Forestry staff by email at LAShadeTreePest@lakevillemn.gov.

The City of Lakeville has a widespread infestation of EAB. This means every ash tree within City limits is most likely infested at some level, even if is not yet showing signs of EAB. If your tree has 30% dieback or less and you are interested in saving it, a chemical trunk injection may be available. This injection can be used therapeutically after early infestation signs or as a preventative before signs of EAB are noticeable. The earlier you begin treating your ash tree, the less damage EAB will cause, increasing the long-term health and value of your tree. Chemical injections are performed in the summer and must be repeated every other year.

The City offers a reduced-cost program through a private tree care contractor to assist residents in preserving their ash trees. To find out more about our Ash Tree Injection Program and what else you can do right now for your ash trees, visit our Prepare for EAB in Your Yard webpage.

An oak tree with OW shows signs in June-September during leaf-on conditions. The first symptom is yellow or brown curling leaves moving from the branch tips down toward the main stem, also called “flagging.” The leaves may also start curling with a dark water-stained olive-green color. Next, the leaves drop, like fall leaf drop but occurring during the summer. The disease can kill a red oak rapidly, sometimes within two weeks. The process is usually slower in white oak species. 

Symptoms of DED in elm trees often first appear in late spring and early summer but can occur any time during the growing season. Leaves on one or more branches in the outer crown of the tree will turn yellow before curling and turning brown. Look for fallen leaves strewn on the ground during spring or summer.

If you would like more information on these diseases, visit the University of Minnesota webpage on oak wilt or Dutch elm disease. If you see any of these symptoms on your oak or elm trees and would like an inspection, contact Forestry staff by email at LAShadeTreePest@lakevillemn.gov.

The best way to protect oak trees is to avoid pruning or wounding oak trees/roots between April and June, the highest risk time for new infections. Best practice is to prune oaks between November and early March, during the time that carries “no” risk for oak wilt transmission. To see if it is safe to prune oak trees, visit the University of Minnesota oak wilt webpage.

If there is an oak wilt pocket near your property, control measures can be taken to help limit the spread to your trees. Common control measures include the separation of root grafts between like-species oaks, chemical injections, and good sanitation practices. Root graft disruptions and chemical injections of healthy trees should always be done before the infected tree is removed. Keep in mind that OW does not discern property lines and often the best solution is to work with neighbors to stop the spread of the disease.

If you would like more information on OW, visit our Oak Tree Diseases webpage.

The best way to control DED if it is already confirmed in your tree is through good sanitation. Remove diseased and dying elms and elm wood piles by chipping the wood to disrupt the elm bark beetles’ lifecycle. Unfortunately, good sanitation occurs after the trees are already dead or dying.

If you have a high-quality landscape healthy elm and would like to preserve it, there is a preventative chemical injection that helps keep the disease from taking hold in the tree. Many tree care contractors offer preventative DED injections, which are performed in the summer and must be repeated every other to every third year.

Things to consider when deciding to inject your elm:

• Is the tree structurally sound and in good health?
• Does the tree shade a large portion of your yard and/or the east or west side of your home, offering potential energy savings in the summer?
• Does the tree add significant aesthetic and real estate value to your property?

If you would like more information on how to diagnose and manage DED, visit the University of Minnesota Dutch elm disease webpage.

The rebate program is limited to property owners who are customers of the City of Lakeville water supply system. Properties that rely solely on a private well for water use are ineligible.

Irrigation controllers are limited to one controller per property. Toilets are limited to four per property. Sprinkler body replacements are limited to a total dollar amount of $100. Separate rebates at separate times for separate items may be submitted. 

A rebate request form and a receipt are required. These items may be submitted in three ways:

• Through the City of Lakeville's website,
• Emailed to Melissa Smith, Utilities Administrative Assistant, or
• Mailed to:
  
  City of Lakeville
  Water Efficiency Rebate Program
  20195 Holyoke Avenue
  Lakeville, MN 55044

Yes. Irrigation controllers are limited to one controller per Parcel Identifier (PID). Homeowners associations (HOAs) are not eligible for irrigation sprinkler body or irrigation controller replacement.

After rebate approval, the rebate will be applied as a credit on your next utility bill.

City staff will keep a running total of available funds. You may request a fund update by emailing our Utilities Division or calling 952-985-2700.

Rebate program participants are subject to an inspection to verify products have been installed in accordance with the Water Efficiency Rebate criteria and at the stated property.

You can find a list of WaterSense labeled toilets here.

You can find a list of WaterSense labeled irrigation controllers here.

You can find a list of WaterSense labeled irrigation sprinkler bodies here.

Learn how to apply for a rebate here.

Qualifying WaterSense products must be purchased between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2026 or until funds are depleted, whichever comes first.

No plumbing permits are required.

See the WaterSense Product Information section.

No. New homes, new systems or replacement of existing WaterSense products are not eligible.

The person listed on the City's utility account must apply for the rebate.

No, but the property owner must apply for an Short-Term Rental Administrative Permit.

Yes. Property owners who obtain a Short-Term Rental Administrative Permit can rent the entire home (or rooms) for short-term use. The property owner does not need to be present during the short-term rental stay.

Yes. The maximum number of overnight occupants, including permanent occupants of the property if they are present, is limited to two (2) adults per bedroom, plus their dependent children. Adults are defined as 18 years or older.

Yes. All guest vehicles must be parked within the garage or upon a driveway surface within the short-term rental property. No trucks and trailers are allowed.

Any visitors of the short-term rental cannot be parked on public streets between the hours of 2:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m.

No. Special events, loud parties, camping, fireworks, or discharge of firearms are not permitted during the short-term rental stay.

Yes. Noise shall not carry beyond property lines and shall be subject to section 4-1-4 of the city code, including reduced noise levels between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

NOTE: Special events, loud parties, camping, fireworks, or discharge of firearms are not permitted during the short-term rental stay.

Yes. Property owners are limited to a maximum of two (2) Short-Term Rental Administrative Permits in Lakeville.

The initial Short-Term Rental Administrative Permit costs $100. All permits require an annual renewal, and the renewal costs $50 per year.

All Short-Term Rental Administrative Permits require annual renewal based on the following guidelines:   

• A short-term rental permit issued between January 1 and October 31 of any given calendar year shall expire at midnight on December 31 of that same calendar year.
• A short-term rental permit issued between November 1 and December 31 of any given calendar year shall authorize use of the property as a short-term rental through December 31 of the following calendar year.

Application for renewal is encouraged to be made at least sixty (60) days before the expiration date. The City cannot guarantee renewal by January 1 without a minimum of thirty (30) days renewal notice.

Yes. The ordinance requires that the short-term rental property owner pay all federal, state and local taxes, including local lodging tax as required by title 3, chapter 17 of city code during the short-term rental permit term.

There are not restrictions on the number of stays. The length of stay should be 31 days or less for short-term rentals. If you plan to rent your property for 32+ days, that is considered a long-term rental and requires Residential Rental Registration.

Short-term rentals are defined as a stay of 31 days or less. If you plan to rent your property for 32+ days, that is considered a long-term rental and requires Residential Rental Registration.

No. The new property owner is required to apply for and obtain a new Short-Term Rental Administrative Permit.

Short-term rentals are only allowed in residential-zoned properties.

No. The City does not require an inspection with the issuance of a Short-Term Rental Administrative Permit.

Yes, your Short-Term Rental Administrative Permit can be suspended or revoked if your property is found to be out of compliance with the general provisions and performance standards of Title 9, Chapter 10 or any other provision of city code.  

Upon determining that a short-term rental property is out of compliance, the permittee shall be ordered by the Zoning Administrator to correct the violation and take any/all appropriate actions necessary to prevent further violations. This process includes first, second and third offense notices before revocation will occur.

Any appeals related to permit revocation shall be filed by the property owner or local management with the Zoning Administrator within ten (10) days of the order. Appeals received within the designated timeline shall be heard by the City Council at its next regular meeting.

Revocation of a short-term home rental permit by the City will prohibit the property owner’s ability to reapply for a permit until after three hundred sixty-five (365) calendar days have passed from the date of revocation.

More information about this process can be found by reading 9-10-8: Suspension and Revocation in city code.

Streets within the 2025 Street Reconstruction Project area are identified within the City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for reconstruction. The roadways included within this project were selected as part of the City’s Pavement Management Program. This program is used by the City to manage and extend the pavement life of our streets and select improvement projects in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

Street reconstruction and storm sewer improvements are being proposed, which includes partial curb and gutter replacement and utility repairs. Corrosion protection is proposed on the watermain facilities throughout the project. Download the project location map (PDF), which details the limits of the 2025 Street Reconstruction Project.

Construction is anticipated to take place between April-November 2025. Construction throughout the project area will be phased. More detailed schedule information will be made available to residents on the project webpage as the project moves through design and into construction.

This project is proposed to be funded by the City’s Street Capital Improvement Funds and Special Assessments to benefiting properties. The City’s assessment policy is to assess 40% of the street and storm sewer improvements to the benefiting property owners. Estimated assessment amounts will be mailed to all property owners in the project area in late October 2024 with the invitation to attend the public hearing for the project.

Residents will have access to their driveways for the majority of the construction project. However, if and when concrete curb and gutter is being replaced in front of your driveway, the City requires a 5-day minimum curing time with no disturbance to the concrete. There also may be short periods during the day you may not have access to your driveway due to roadway construction. Property owners will be provided as much advance notification as possible when access to driveways will be restricted. If you are planning to replace your entire driveway in 2025, it will be best to schedule that after construction on your street and driveway is completed.

The contractor will install temporary mailboxes as determined by the Post Office and residents will be notified of their location. The existing mailbox will be salvaged until after construction and reinstalled in a similar location.

Trash pickup in the neighborhood will take place on the same day it currently occurs. The contractor will provide access to the neighborhood to garbage trucks for pickup, or coordinate with the disposal service providers during the occasional exception throughout the project to minimize inconvenience to the residents.

The City of Lakeville has specified the following working hours:

• Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

No work is permitted on Sundays or holidays.

Sections of maintained lawn that need to be removed for construction will be restored with new seed at the end of the project. The contractor is responsible for watering the new seed for 45 calendar days following installation, after which time it is the homeowner’s responsibility. Please do not mow new seed during this time period as it will hinder growth and potentially cause it to die.

The contractor is responsible for protecting, or replacing to their original condition if damaged, most items such as small retaining walls, landscape features or irrigation systems found in the homeowner’s yard. For underground items such as invisible pet fences and irrigation lines, all homeowners are asked to mark them so that the contractor can work around them and protect them as much as possible from damage. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to relocate any plantings that will be disturbed by construction; the contractor will not replace plantings with final restoration of the project.

Over the winter, the City will conduct tree pruning work and tree removals within the right-of-way only, for trees that are anticipated to be impacted by construction. Any additional tree removal needs associated with construction activities will be communicated to property owners on a case-by-case basis.

Streets within the 2025 Street Rehabilitation Project area are identified within the City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for rehabilitation. The roadways included within this project were selected as part of the City’s Pavement Management Program. This program is used by the City to manage and extend the pavement life of our streets and select improvement projects in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

Street rehabilitation and storm sewer improvements are being proposed, which includes partial curb and gutter replacement and utility repairs. Corrosion protection is proposed on the watermain facilities throughout the project.

Construction is anticipated to take place between April-November 2025. Construction throughout the project area will be phased. More detailed schedule information will be made available to residents on the project webpage as the project moves through design and into construction.

This project is proposed to be funded solely by municipal bonds. Residents will not be assessed for the improvements.

Residents will have access to their driveways for the majority of the construction project. However, if and when concrete curb and gutter is being replaced in front of your driveway, the City requires a 5-day minimum curing time with no disturbance to the concrete. There also may be short periods during the day you may not have access to your driveway due to roadway construction. Property owners will be provided as much advance notification as possible when access to driveways will be restricted. If you are planning to replace your entire driveway in 2025 it will be best to schedule that after construction on your street and driveway is completed.

If required, the contractor will install temporary mailboxes as determined by the Post Office and residents will be notified of their location. The existing mailbox will be salvaged until after construction and reinstalled in a similar location. Trash and recycling will be picked up as usual.

The City of Lakeville has specified the following working hours:

• Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

No work is permitted on Sundays or holidays.

Sections of maintained lawn that need to be removed for construction will be restored with new seed at the end of the project. The contractor is responsible for watering the new seed for 45 calendar days following installation, after which time it is the homeowner's responsibility. Please do not mow new seed during this time period as it will hinder growth and potentially cause it to die.

Private features such as irrigation systems, pet containment and landscaping located in the right-of-way may be affected and/or damaged during construction. If you wish to protect these items we ask that you temporarily remove the systems or landscaping from the boulevard area. In an effort to limit the damage we ask that you flag or mark any underground irrigation or pet containment wires. It is also your responsibility to relocate any plantings that will be disturbed by construction; the contractor will not replace plantings, or fix irrigation, invisible dog fence wires or landscaping when they complete final restoration. All utility excavations and curb/sidewalk work will be marked out ahead of time with white paint. Residents can then visualize what areas of their boulevards will be affected by the project. 

Over the winter, the City will conduct tree pruning work and tree removals within the right-of-way only, for trees that are anticipated to be impacted by construction. Any additional tree removal needs associated with construction activities will be communicated to property owners on a case-by-case basis. 

Streets within the 2025 Miscellaneous Roadway Repairs and Overlays Project area were selected as part of the City’s Pavement Management Program. This program is used by the City to manage and extend the pavement life of our streets and select improvement projects in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

Street rehabilitation and storm sewer improvements are being proposed, which includes partial curb and gutter replacement and utility repairs. Download the project location maps below, which details the limits of the 2025 Miscellaneous Roadway Repairs and Overlays Project.

• 25-01 Phasing Map

Construction is anticipated to take place between April-September 2025. Construction throughout the project area will be phased. More detailed schedule information will be made available to residents on the project webpage as the project moves through design and into construction.

This project is proposed to be funded solely by municipal bonds. Residents will not be assessed for the improvements.

Residents will have access to their driveways for the majority of the construction project. However, if and when concrete curb and gutter is being replaced in front of your driveway, the City requires a 5-day minimum curing time with no disturbance to the concrete. There also may be short periods during the day you may not have access to your driveway due to roadway construction. Property owners will be provided as much advance notification as possible when access to driveways will be restricted. If you are planning to replace your entire driveway in 2025 it will be best to schedule that after construction on your street and driveway is completed.

If required, the contractor will install temporary mailboxes as determined by the Post Office and residents will be notified of their location. The existing mailbox will be salvaged until after construction and reinstalled in a similar location. Trash and recycling will be picked up as usual.

The City of Lakeville has specified the following working hours:

• Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

No work is permitted on Sundays or holidays.

Sections of maintained lawn that need to be removed for construction will be restored with new seed at the end of the project. The contractor is responsible for watering the new seed for 45 calendar days following installation, after which time it is the homeowner's responsibility. Please do not mow new seed during this time period as it will hinder growth and potentially cause it to die.

Private features such as irrigation systems, pet containment and landscaping located in the right-of-way may be affected and/or damaged during construction. If you wish to protect these items we ask that you temporarily remove the systems or landscaping from the boulevard area. In an effort to limit the damage we ask that you flag or mark any underground irrigation or pet containment wires. It is also your responsibility to relocate any plantings that will be disturbed by construction; the contractor will not replace plantings, or fix irrigation, invisible dog fence wires or landscaping when they complete final restoration. All utility excavations and curb/sidewalk work will be marked out ahead of time with white paint. Residents can then visualize what areas of their boulevards will be affected by the project.

Over the winter, the City will conduct tree pruning work and tree removals within the right-of-way only, for trees that are anticipated to be impacted by construction. Any additional tree removal needs associated with construction activities will be communicated to property owners on a case-by-case basis.

The system is expected to be live by the end of October 2024.

Yes, you will receive paper statements if you have been getting them in the past.

No, you will continue to receive email notifications when your quarterly water bill is ready.

No, your autopay by ACH out of your bank account will continue.

Yes, you will need to set up a new autopay and accept a 2.95% fee to use a credit or debit card. There will be a $2.95 minimum fee. Current autopay using credit or debit cards will not transfer to the new system.

Yes, there is a 2.95% fee with a $2.95 minimum.

No, there is no fee.

• Autopay with payments pulled directly from your bank account with no fee.
• Autopay with payments charged to a credit or debit card. You will pay a 2.95% fee with a minimum fee of $2.95.
• Pay by phone by calling Invoice Cloud at 844-598-5246.
• Pay by text, but you must register with Invoice Cloud to set up a default payment method.
• Mail a check payable to the City of Lakeville, 20195 Holyoke Avenue, Lakeville MN 55044.
• Drop your payment off with its coupon and envelope in the tan drop box in front of Lakeville City Hall at 20195 Holyoke Avenue.
• Pay in person at Lakeville City Hall (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) with cash, check or credit/debit card. Credit/debit card payments will be subject to a 2.95% fee with a minimum fee of $2.95.

There will be no change to billing frequency. You will continue to receive a quarterly water bill.

Water and sewer rates are reviewed on an annual basis. The 2025 rates have not yet been established.

The City decides which roads to repave or rebuild based on their condition and other important factors. In general, roads in the worst shape are given top priority. But things like the road’s age, how much traffic it gets, how close it is to places like schools, and available funding also play a role.

While it might seem like the worst roads should always be fixed first, it's actually more cost-effective to maintain roads that are still in fair condition. That way, the City can prevent them from getting worse and needing expensive repairs later on.

To help make these decisions, the City uses something called an Overall Condition Index (OCI), which looks at things like cracks, potholes and surface wear. Using this system, the City creates a long-term maintenance plan that focuses on affordable, effective fixes and upgrades. Often, doing smaller repairs earlier can delay the need for major reconstruction, saving time and money.

Road construction can take a long time because there’s a lot that happens before crews even start working. The City has to plan the project, design it, talk with the public, and coordinate with other agencies and utility companies to move things like gas or water lines if needed.

Once construction starts, the timeline depends on how big and complex the project is. Things that can affect how long it takes include underground utility work, the condition of the current road, managing traffic and detours, working with private utility companies, and making sure everything passes inspections.

Details on upcoming projects can be found on the City of Lakeville website.

Residents can provide input by attending public meetings, participating in online surveys, and attending project workshops and open houses. Residents are initially notified of open houses through direct mail, social media and on the City's website. Following that, residents can choose to sign up for a project email list to receive updates. The public is also welcome to call our Engineering Division at 952-985-4500 to get more information or provide input on projects.

The City updates its Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) annually, providing an overview of all public improvements planned in upcoming years.

Right-of-way is a legal access granted to allow specific uses through land. In the City, the right-of-way is where roadways, utilities, trails and sidewalks, and City infrastructure are placed.

Public infrastructure includes storm sewers, sanitary sewer and watermain. Private utilities, such as natural gas lines, electrical cables and communication lines may also be present.

Drainage and utility easements are established around lots for drainage and access to utilities.

Flags or paint in your yard likely indicate planned construction or utility work. Utility companies mark the ground to avoid damaging existing lines during digging or construction. Buried fence lines (dog fences) and irrigation lines are not able to be located by private or public utility providers and are the responsibility of the property owner.

Contact Gopher State One Call via their website or call them at 811 to schedule them to locate and mark underground utilities before you excavate or dig on your property.

You can install sprinklers or a dog fence within private property outside of easements and right-of-way areas to avoid interference with future construction or utility work. Typically, these areas cover approximately the first 14 feet of your front yard, 5 feet on each side and 10 feet at the rear of your lot.

Multiple fiber optic companies work in the City to provide high-speed internet services to meet growing demand. Fiber companies in Minnesota have the legal right to access public rights-of-way and are encouraged to expand infrastructure, promoting competition and an open market.

The maximum driveway width is 28 feet per City standards.

A curb stop is a shut-off valve installed on your water service line, typically at the edge of your property’s easement. It allows the City or property owner to turn off water to the property in case of emergencies, repairs or maintenance.

Speed limits are set either by state law or after a traffic study is done. These studies look at things like how many people are walking or biking, past crashes, the type of road, nearby land use, how the road is built and how fast people are actually driving.

Usually, the speed limit is set at or just below the speed most drivers (about 85%) are already going, since research shows people tend to drive at speeds they feel are safe, no matter what the signs say.

In Minnesota, only the Commissioner of the Department of Transportation can officially set speed limits on local roads.

There are several ways to help manage driving speeds. These include police enforcement, electronic speed signs or trailers, public awareness campaigns and “traffic calming” measures like pavement markings, speed feedback signs, curb extensions (bump outs), medians, narrower lanes or roundabouts.

Interestingly, putting in stop signs just to slow drivers down isn’t effective—and can actually make things worse. Drivers often speed up between stop signs to make up for the time they lost stopping.

Most traffic signals in the City are owned and managed by Dakota County. These signals help organize traffic by deciding who goes first at intersections. They’re usually timed or use sensors to adjust based on how much traffic there is, helping reduce wait times for drivers. The timing depends on things like traffic levels, time of day, how many pedestrians are around and how nearby signals are set. Signals are often linked together on busy roads to keep traffic moving smoothly. This can sometimes cause delays on smaller side streets with less traffic.

A stop sign can be installed—but only if it’s the right solution for the situation. The City considers several factors, including crash history, visibility, pedestrian and vehicle conflicts, road layout, speeding issues and how close the area is to places like schools.

Stop signs are helpful for managing who goes first at intersections. But using them too often can backfire—drivers may start rolling through them or ignoring them altogether, which makes them less effective and more dangerous.

While stop signs are important tools, they aren’t the right fix for every traffic problem and should never be used just to slow down traffic.

Crossing locations are chosen based on several factors, including traffic speed, how many cars and pedestrians use the area, crash history, visibility and nearby land use. Studies show that people often feel safer in marked crosswalks—even when it may not be completely safe—so each crossing location is carefully studied. The goal is to place crosswalks where pedestrians can cross as safely as possible.

Streets within the 2026 Miscellaneous Roadway Improvements Project area were selected as part of the City’s Pavement Management Program. This program is used by the City to manage and extend the pavement life of our streets and select improvement projects in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

214th Street Reconstruction is approximately 0.13 miles long. The project scope includes street reconstruction in the form of reclamation, subgrade excavations as required, new pavement installation, including partial replacement and installation of concrete curb and gutter, installation of corrosion protection on select watermain facilities and stormwater management improvements.

• 214th Street Roadway Improvement Project Map (PDF)

Construction is anticipated to take place between April-June 2026. Construction throughout the project area will be phased. More detailed schedule information will be made available to key stakeholders on the project webpage as the project moves through design and into construction.

Residents will have access to their driveways for the majority of the construction project. However, if and when concrete curb and gutter is being replaced in front of your driveway, the City requires a 5-day minimum curing time with no disturbance to the concrete. There also may be short periods during the day you may not have access to your driveway due to roadway construction. Property owners will be provided as much advance notification as possible when access to driveways will be restricted. If you are planning to replace your entire driveway in 2026 it will be best to schedule that after construction on your street and driveway is completed.

If required, the contractor will install temporary mailboxes as determined by the Post Office and residents will be notified of their location. The existing mailbox will be salvaged until after construction and reinstalled in a similar location. Trash and recycling will be picked up as usual.

The City of Lakeville has specified the following working hours:

• Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

No work is permitted on Sundays or holidays.

Sections of maintained lawn that need to be removed for construction will be restored with new seed at the end of the project. The contractor is responsible for watering the new seed for 45 calendar days following installation, after which time it is the owner’s responsibility. Please do not mow new seed during this time period as it will hinder growth and potentially cause it to die.

The contractor is responsible for protecting, or replacing to their original condition if damaged, most items such as small retaining walls, landscape features or irrigation systems found in the homeowner’s yard. For underground items such as invisible pet fences and irrigation lines, all homeowners are asked to mark them so that the contractor can work around them and protect them as much as possible from damage. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to relocate any plantings that will be disturbed by construction; the contractor will not replace plantings with final restoration of the project.

Over the winter, the City will conduct tree pruning work and tree removals within the right-of-way only, for trees that are anticipated to be impacted by construction. Any additional tree removal needs associated with construction activities will be communicated to property owners on a case-by-case basis.

This project is proposed to be funded by the City’s Street Capital Improvement Funds and Special Assessments to benefiting properties. The City’s assessment policy is to assess 40% of the street and storm sewer improvements to the benefiting property owners. Estimated assessment amounts will be mailed to all property owners in the project area in late November 2025 with the invitation to attend the public hearing for the project.

Streets within the 2026 Miscellaneous Roadway Repairs and Overlays Project area were selected as part of the City’s Pavement Management Program. This program is used by the City to manage and extend the pavement life of our streets and select improvement projects in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

Street rehabilitation and storm sewer improvements are being proposed, which includes partial curb and gutter replacement and utility repairs. Download the project location maps below:

Construction is anticipated to take place between April-June 2027. Construction throughout the project area will be phased. More detailed schedule information will be made available to residents on the project webpage as the project moves through design and into construction.

This project is proposed to be funded solely by municipal bonds. Residents will not be assessed for the improvements.

Residents will have access to their driveways for the majority of the construction project. However, if and when concrete curb and gutter is being replaced in front of your driveway, the City requires a 5-day minimum curing time with no disturbance to the concrete. There also may be short periods during the day you may not have access to your driveway due to roadway construction. Property owners will be provided as much advance notification as possible when access to driveways will be restricted. If you are planning to replace your entire driveway in 2026 it will be best to schedule that after construction on your street and driveway is completed.

If required, the contractor will install temporary mailboxes as determined by the Post Office and residents will be notified of their location. The existing mailbox will be salvaged until after construction and reinstalled in a similar location. Trash and recycling will be picked up as usual.

The City of Lakeville has specified the following working hours:

• Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

No work is permitted on Sundays or holidays.

Sections of maintained lawn that need to be removed for construction will be restored with new seed at the end of the project. The contractor is responsible for watering the new seed for 45 calendar days following installation, after which time it is the homeowner's responsibility. Please do not mow new seed during this time period as it will hinder growth and potentially cause it to die.

Private features such as irrigation systems, pet containment and landscaping located in the right-of-way may be affected and/or damaged during construction. If you wish to protect these items we ask that you temporarily remove the systems or landscaping from the boulevard area. In an effort to limit the damage we ask that you flag or mark any underground irrigation or pet containment wires. It is also your responsibility to relocate any plantings that will be disturbed by construction; the contractor will not replace plantings, or fix irrigation, invisible dog fence wires or landscaping when they complete final restoration. All utility excavations and curb/sidewalk work will be marked out ahead of time with white paint. Residents can then visualize what areas of their boulevards will be affected by the project.

Over the winter, the City will conduct tree pruning work and tree removals within the right-of-way only, for trees that are anticipated to be impacted by construction. Any additional tree removal needs associated with construction activities will be communicated to property owners on a case-by-case basis.

Streets within the 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project area are identified within the City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for rehabilitation. The roadways included within this project were selected as part of the City’s Pavement Management Program. This program is used by the City to manage and extend the pavement life of our streets and select improvement projects in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

Street rehabilitation and storm sewer improvements are being proposed, which includes partial curb and gutter replacement, hydrant replacements and utility repairs. Corrosion protection is proposed on the watermain facilities throughout the project.

Construction is anticipated to take place between April-November 2026. Construction throughout the project area will be phased. More detailed schedule information will be made available to residents on the project webpage as the project moves through design and into construction.

This project is proposed to be funded solely by municipal bonds. Residents will not be assessed for the improvements.

Residents will have access to their driveways for the majority of the construction project. However, if and when concrete curb and gutter is being replaced in front of your driveway, the City requires a 5-day minimum curing time with no disturbance to the concrete. There also may be short periods during the day you may not have access to your driveway due to roadway construction. Property owners will be provided as much advance notification as possible when access to driveways will be restricted. If you are planning to replace your entire driveway in 2026 it will be best to schedule that after construction on your street and driveway is completed.

If required, the contractor will install temporary mailboxes as determined by the Post Office and residents will be notified of their location. The existing mailbox will be salvaged until after construction and reinstalled in a similar location. Trash and recycling will be picked up as usual.

The City of Lakeville has specified the following working hours:

• Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

No work is permitted on Sundays or holidays.

In order to safely remove and replace the hydrants and valves, water will need to be selectively shut down for a short period of time. Individual notices will be delivered via door hangers  48 hours prior to water being shut off for 4-8 hours. Time frame and date for water shut off will be listed on the door hanger. Notices will look like the one pictured below. Please check front doors for hangers during construction. 

Sections of maintained lawn that need to be removed for construction will be restored with new seed at the end of the project. The contractor is responsible for watering the new seed for 45 calendar days following installation, after which time it is the homeowner's responsibility. Please do not mow new seed during this time period as it will hinder growth and potentially cause it to die.

Private features such as irrigation systems, pet containment and landscaping located in the right-of-way may be affected and/or damaged during construction. If you wish to protect these items we ask that you temporarily remove the systems or landscaping from the boulevard area. In an effort to limit the damage we ask that you flag or mark any underground irrigation or pet containment wires. It is also your responsibility to relocate any plantings that will be disturbed by construction; the contractor will not replace plantings, or fix irrigation, invisible dog fence wires or landscaping when they complete final restoration. All utility excavations and curb/sidewalk work will be marked out ahead of time with white paint. Residents can then visualize what areas of their boulevards will be affected by the project. 

Over the winter, the City will conduct tree pruning work and tree removals within the right-of-way only, for trees that are anticipated to be impacted by construction. Any additional tree removal needs associated with construction activities will be communicated to property owners on a case-by-case basis.