Aquatic Plants

White Water Lilies

Native plants within the water and along the shores of waterbodies have many benefits. The provide habitat for wildlife such as fish, ducks and herons. They also help clean the water and reduce algae levels by absorbing excess nutrients. Along the shore, a buffer or strip of vegetation can reduce erosion and prevent some pollution from entering the water.

You can learn more about aquatic plants by visiting the MN DNR's Guide to Aquatic Plants.

Aquatic Plant Regulations

Federal, State and local regulations may restrict the removal or manipulation of aquatic plants within and along the edges of waterbodies. Listed below are the regulations that most often apply to City residents with wetland, pond or lake property.

Map of Regulations

For a summary of the waterbody regulations that most often affect residents, take a look at the Map of Lake & Pond Regulations.

City Regulations

The City of Burnsville has established ordinances to protect aquatic plants on certain types of waterbodies. For a summary, see Regulations for Lakes, Ponds & Wetlands.

State Regulations

The State of Minnesota has jurisdiction over Public Waters. Within cities such as Burnsville, any wetland, pond or lake of 2.5 acres or more in surface area is considered a Public Water. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulated activities on Public Waters such as the removal or chemical treatment of aquatic plants.

To learn more, check out these topics on the Minnesota DNR website:

For questions about aquatic plant management permit requirements contact the DNR Aquatic Plant Management Permitting Staff in the Central Region: Phone (651) 259-5779 or (651) 259-5816.

Other Resources

Aquatic Plant Identification 

Aquatic Plant Permits

How long is your shoreline?

Businesses that offer Aquatic Plant Management Services