Building Permits and Inspections FAQ
How do I apply for a residential permit?
Click this link to learn more about residential permits.
How do I apply for a commercial permit?
Click this link to learn more about commercial permits.
Who is responsible to obtain a permit?
The owner, owner’s authorized agent, or the person causing the work to be done is responsible to obtain the permit. Permits are issued in accordance with MN contractor licensing regulations. Insert link to our licensing page
How much does a building permit cost?
Click this link to learn more about building permit costs.
Does the city maintain plans for my house?
Per the state of MN retention schedule, building plans are stored for 1 year after the which time we may not have them. To find out email us permits@brooklynpark.org Note: some building plans may be retained by the designer of builder of the home.
Does the city maintain surveys of my property?
We do store surveys on file when we receive one for a project, so we may have a survey. To find out email us at permits@brooklynpark.org or call 763-488-6379.
I am a homeowner. Can I apply for a permit to do work in my home?
Yes, if you are homesteading (living in) the home, you may apply for most permits (building, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC) to perform work in your own home. Note: Homeowners are not allowed to do any gas work unless they obtain a mechanical license.
When do I need to hire a licensed contractor to do work in my home?
If you own a home (dwelling), but do not occupy the home you will need to hire a licensed contractor to do any electrical, plumbing, gas piping work. The contractor you hire is required to obtain permits.
Is a closet required for a room to be considered a bedroom? Or, because a room contains a closet is it considered a bedroom?
No. The following are the requirements for a code compliant sleeping area:
- Every sleeping room shall have not less than one operable emergency escape and rescue opening.
- The sleeping room shall have a floor area of not less than 70 square feet and not less than 7 feet in any horizontal dimension.
- A smoke alarm shall be installed in all sleeping rooms.
- A carbon monoxide detector shall be installed outside of sleeping rooms within 10’ of each sleeping room door.
Does my permit expire?
Yes, every permit issued expires unless the work authorized by the permit is commenced within 180 days after its issuance, or work has been abandoned greater than 180 days. The building official shall grant, in writing, extensions of time, for periods not more than 180 days each if the applicant demonstrates justifiable cause for the extension to the building official.
Is there a fee if my permit expires and I want to continue working on my project?
Yes, per city ordinance there is a fee to reopen your permit.
Is lead certification required for building projects?
Most of the residential remodeling work (including siding) requires lead certification through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for any house built prior to 1978. More information can be found at Lead Certification Requirements.
Do I need a permit to build a fence?
Yes, fences over 7 feet in height require a building permit. If you are planning to build a fence (any height) contact the Planning Division at 763-493-8056 for any setback requirements.
What can I do if I hired a contractor and they do not complete the work?
Complaints can be filed against contractors via the Department of Labor and Industry. Click here for more information: Department of Labor and Industry – Complaints.