Residential Building Permits

Residential construction does require a permit and usually requires preparation of plans, and many projects requires you to submit a detailed plan, and for us to perform a plan review. The application process guides you to apply and upload your plans electronically.

Depending on if you are a homeowner or a contractor the way you apply for a permit is different.  

If you’re a homeowner, see the Homeowners section below to learn more. 

If you’re a contractor, see the Contractor section below to learn more.

How to get a permit

Learn more about the general permit process, or learn more about specific projects listed below:

• Additions
• Basement Finish
• Decks
• Garages
• New construction (single-family, duplex, or townhome)
• Porches and Sunrooms
• Remodeling and Alterations
• Accessory structures

Homeowners

The Minnesota Building Code requires a permit prior to a building being constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, or demolished.

Explore requirements by project below:

• Accessory Structures
• Addition
• Remodel and Alterations
• Basement Finish
• Deck 
• Demolition
• Egress Window
• Fence
• Garages 
• Moving House
• Pool
• Porches and Sunrooms
• Roof
• Siding
• Solar Photovoltaic systems

Simply click on “Electronic Permit Application” below to start this process.

Contractors

Contractors – Looking to replace the following in a residential home? Use the Instant Permit button to start the process.

• Windows (excluding new egress windows)
• Doors 
• Siding 
• Roofing 

All work except for window, door, siding, or roofing replacements is to be submitted through our Electronic Permit Application. Simply click on “Electronic Permit Application” below to start this process.

Licensing requirements

The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry licenses residential building contractors, remodelers, roofers. To apply for a Building Permit, companies must have a valid Building Contractor (BC) License on file at the MN Department of Labor & Industry.  

Licenses are required for all residential building contractors and residential remodelers who contract with a homeowner to construct or improve dwellings by offering more than one special skill. 

Owners working on their own property must also be licensed if they build or remodel for the sole purpose of speculation or resale.