Time, cost, uncertainty hinder Minnesota’s permitting process

By the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce

Minnesota is home to incredible natural resources that are critical to protect. The MN Chamber advocates for an environmental permitting process that protects these resources but provides clarity and transparency for businesses looking to grow and expand.

MN employers continue to share how time, cost, and uncertainty are major concerns for businesses seeking environmental permits here. It costs too much and takes more time than in other states. And often, there’s uncertainty as to when a business might finally obtain a permit. 

Huber Engineered Hardwoods announced they will no longer pursue development of a $440 million facility in Cohasset due to ongoing delays and red tape over the past 18 months. Epitome Energy gave up on permitting a soybean crushing facility near Crookston and Talon Mining decided to locate a processing facility in ND rather than near its mine under development near Tamarack. MN lost more than $1.2 billion investment in just these three projects over the last several months.

The MN Chamber Foundation is conducting an in-depth analysis of MN’s environmental permitting process and its impediment to growth and expansion. Businesses seek expansions outside of MN due to the arduous permitting process, and those that do invest here often face greater uncertainty and lengthier timelines than what may be experienced in other states. Feedback from recent focus groups with impacted industries shows those that need to site a facility in MN plan a 12 to 18 month longer timeline than any other state. Site selectors peg MN as unfriendly on the criteria of environmental permitting, taking it off the list for potential investment.

​The study is underway and will include expert research from outside consultants. To share your experience with MN’s environmental permitting process or help support the work, contact Jennifer Byers at jbyers@mnchamber.com.