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1. Can Economic Development assist my business in finding a commercial site or building?

Economic Development does keep in contact with commercial developers and realtors in an effort to match company requirements with appropriate sites and buildings.  Please visit our Property Search to identify properties available for industrial, retail, commercial, office, and flex space.  Or, please contact our office for additional assistance.

2. Can I operate a business from my home in Lino Lakes?

Home-based businesses are an important part of the City’s economy.  Certain types of home occupations are permitted in the City of Lino Lakes without any City approvals.  These generally include types of businesses that do not bring customers to the residence or involve internal or external modifications to that are not customarily found in residences.  Other types of home occupations require a home occupational permit, which is granted by the City.  These types of home occupations may involve internal alterations to the residence or a customer or outside employee arriving at the residence.  Certain types of home occupations are prohibited, including motor vehicle repair, commercial food preparation, and firearm related businesses. 

3. Does Economic Development orchestrate or publicize ribbon cuttings for new businesses?

Lino Lakes Economic Development works with the Quad Chamber of Commerce to coordinate ribbon cuttings for new businesses.  Contact the Quad Chamber of Commerce for assistance with such events. Economic Development does mention new businesses in its quarterly newsletter, and does link to related news articles in the Meetings and Special Events section of this website, in an effort to help promote and support Lino Lakes businesses. 

4. Does Lino Lakes have access to any major freeways?

Yes! Lino Lakes has two major freeways within its borders (35W and 35E) as well as several county highways which provide quick access to Minneapolis, St. Paul and other surrounding suburbs.

5. Does my business need a City license or permit?

The City of Lino Lakes does not require a license for most types of businesses.  However, certain businesses, including those selling alcohol, tobacco, fireworks, or secondhand goods, must have a City license.  Solicitors, kennels, and gambling such as raffles or bingo also require a license.  Please contact city staff for application information.

Also, different types of businesses are allowed in different zoning districts. You can check the Zoning Map to find out the zoning of a particular property and the Land Use Regulations to find out which uses are allowed. Contact the City Planner if you have any questions related to land use or zoning. 

Even if your business does not need a City license, most types of building renovations will require at least one building permit. You can contact Building and Inspections for more information.

6. How big is Lino Lakes?

In terms of area, Lino Lakes is 33.21 square miles, of which 28.22 square miles is land and 4.99 square miles is water.

7. How do I locate a site for my business in Lino Lakes?

Business owners can search online for land and buildings available for sale and lease using our Property Search.  This search engine allows you to search in Lino Lakes for both office buildings for sale and lease as well as developable land.

8. Is Lino Lakes in close proximity to any major airports?

Yes! Lino Lakes is located just 28 miles northwest of the Minneapolis / St.Paul International Airport and 9 miles from the Anoka County Regional Airport.

9. What is a TIF?

Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is an economic development mechanism available to local governments to finance public infrastructure improvements. A TIF works by locking in the taxable worth of real property at the value it holds at the time the authorizing legislation was approved. Payments derived from the increased assessed value of any improvement to real property beyond that amount are directed towards a separate fund to finance the construction of public infrastructure defined within the TIF legislation.

10. What is the function of the Economic Development in Lino Lakes?

Economic Development is a local government department that assists in the marketing, growth and expansion of new and existing businesses within Lino Lakes, to ensure a strong and viable local economy is in place for Lino Lakes companies and residents.  Specifically, staff assists businesses interested in building or establishing a location in Lino Lakes, in an effort to provide new employment opportunities for area residents, and to help in building the local tax base.

11. What kind of companies call Lino Lakes home?

Lino Lakes is home to a variety of businesses- check out our Business Directory to see some of the companies that are thriving.

12. Where can I receive assistance with financing, writing a business plan, or finding employees?

The City of Lino Lakes offers financial assistance for development projects meeting certain City goals. Visit the Programs page for more information. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development’s Business Services Division can help companies expand, find and train employees, promote international trade, and finance business expansions. The University of St. Thomas Small Business Development Center offers limited free consulting, where clients can receive assistance with strategic business plans, market research, financial planning and analysis, loan packaging and cash flow management. 

13. Where exactly is Lino Lakes?

Lino Lakes is North of the Twin Cities conveniently located within a 15-20 minute drive of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Highways 35W and 35E offer a fast commute to the cities and surrounding suburbs.