Building Permits and Inspections

Online permits for contractors

As of January 1, 2017 permits for residential water heaters, water softeners, roofing, siding, and windows must be applied for online.

Apply for online permits

Instructions for using e-permits

Permits required

Permits are required before most construction projects begin.  Permits issued by the City include:

• Building
• Mechanical
• Plumbing
• Sewer and Water
• Sign
• Demolition
• Moving

If you are unsure whether a project requires a permit, contact one of these groups.

Permit application and plans

A permit application and two sets of plans should be submitted well in advance of the project start date. You may download permit application forms by clicking on one of the tabs listed above. Building code and submittal informational handouts can also be found to the right. Some projects do not require plans to be submitted, such as residential siding and roofing. For submittal questions, contact the Building Inspections Department.

Inspections

You will be given an inspection card when you obtain your permit. The inspection card will list the inspections needed for your project, along with the phone number to call to schedule inspections. Always schedule as far in advance as possible to insure you receive the inspection date and time you desire.

Scheduling inspections

Always have the job site address and permit number available when calling to schedule an inspection. To schedule an inspection call:

Licensed contractors

Minnesota law requires that most residential building contractors, remodelers, roofers and manufactured-home installers obtain state licenses. Specialty contractors who perform only one special skill (for example: concrete and masonry, carpentry or interior finishing) are exempt from state licensing. The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry licenses and regulates contractors.

Owner/builder

As a home owner, if you decide to apply for a building permit yourself, you will be acting as the “owner/builder.” By taking the permit out yourself, you become the general contractor. You assume all legal liabilities for the job, including workers’ compensation insurance, state and federal withholding taxes, permits, scheduling and a number of other responsibilities.

Contractor Consumer Information

The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry has a number of tips and useful information in regards to hiring a contractor for your construction project. Information that can be found on their website includes searching for a licensed contractor, hiring tips, home warranty disputes, and compensation through the Contractor Recovery Fund.

Get more information on Contractor Consumer Information

Plumbing License

Plumbing contractors must be licensed by the State of Minnesota per MSBC Chapter 4715. Plumbers need to provide a copy of the license to the City.

Mechanical License

Download the mechanical license (PDF)

Or obtained a mechanical license from the City Building Official.

Sign Hanger License

Download the sign hanger license (PDF)

Or obtained a sign hanger license from the City Building Official.

Sewer and Water License

The contractor must be licensed through The State of Minnesota as a plumber or pipe layer.

Resources

Visit the State's Construction Codes and Licensing website