Some general information a business operator should know when planning to remodel or construct a building is provided below. Please contact the appropriate department for specific requirements and information.
Site Plan Review
A site plan review provides regulations pertaining to the enforcement of site design standards consistent with all the requirements of Chapter 152. A site plan review helps to promote high quality developments as well as enhance the built and natural environment within the city as new development and redevelopment activities occur. If you are planning a new development or to remodel your existing development, contact the Planning Division for more information. It is crucial to properly design and construct a building to accommodate its intended use. It will save you the time and money necessary to make corrections in the future.
(City Ord. Ch. 152.033)
Construction Permits
Construction permits are required from one or more divisions/departments for certain work or activities. Some of the most common permit requirements are summarized below. Before commencing any project, please call the city to determine if and what type of permit s required to perform the work.
Licensed Facility Construction or Remodels
The Code Enforcement & Public Health Division should be contacted to obtain information regarding plan review applications, construction inspections, and coordination of all construction and health codes for the establishments regulated by this division (food establishments, public pools, lodging, saunas, etc.).
A complete set of plans must be provided to the Code Enforcement and Public Health Division to facilitate the plan review process. Please allow at least two weeks upon submission of all plan review information for processing. Schematic drawing meetings, design development, and pre-construction meetings are often held with the owners, architects, engineers and other involved parties to aid in the success of the project.
Permits are required for any grading work
that involves adding, relocating, or other
soil/grading work. Please check with the Engineering Division for
more information.
A permit must be obtained from the Building Division to demolish any
structure greater than 120 square feet in area.
A permit is required to relocate or move a building or structure.
Please contact the Building Department for more information.
In addition, the move must be completed in a manner that does not
create health/safety hazards or nuisances.
- Removal of Hazardous Waste Structures
A permit is required from the Fire Department and Minnesota
Pollution Control Agency to remove or repair any underground
storage tank.
- Storage and Transport of Hazardous Waste Permits
Permits are required for the storage and transport of hazardous
waste. The Fire Department approves the different types of storage
in relationship to the buildings. Further, hazardous waste is regulated
by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, which can be reached at
651-296-6300.
- Well and Septic Systems Permits
Generally, the city encourages, and in some cases requires,
commercial establishments to be connected to city water and sewer
systems to minimize potential contamination of water sources. To seal
an abandoned or unused well, please contact the Minnesota
Department of Health at 612-215-0700. Questions about repairing
on-site septic systems should be directed to Hennepin County at 952-315-5200.
- Curb Cuts and Right of Way Work Permits
A permit is required from the Engineering Division for any alterations
to the access or driveway of any property.
If you are questioning the location of utility lines, please contact
Gopher State One at (651) 454-0002 to mark all underground
installations on your property. Restoration of any excavation on
private property is the responsibility of the property owner.
- Utility Work in Easements
The Engineering Division must approve any utility work performed
within an easement and a permit must be obtained.
For any new, replacement, or alteration of heating, ventilation,refrigeration, or air conditioning equipment.
For any work to be performed on water or sewer supply systems.
For any work performed on water or gas systems such as water
heaters, sinks, toilets, water softeners and other plumbing fixtures
and piping.
- Fire Suppression System Permits
For any work involving fire suppression systems, fire alarm systems,
or similar fire protection equipment.
For any new, replacement, or alteration of heating, ventilation,
refrigeration, or air conditioning equipment.
For information about general property maintenance and business regulations, please review the business handbook and brochures. Click here for a copy of the Business Maintenance Handbook.
