Accessory structures
Accessory structures require a permit if the floor area is over 200 square feet and/or attached to a structure that has frost footings. This type of residential project requires you to submit a detailed plan which allows us to perform a plan review.
Plans do not need to be professionally drawn. However, plans should be drawn to scale, neat, legible, and include all the information requested. Plans should provide enough detail that would allow a plan reviewer to build the project themselves.
Accessory structure definition
Is a structure subordinate to, incidental to, and/or serving the principal structure on the same lot. Examples of accessory structures include garages (attached or detached), greenhouses, fences, gazebos, ice-fishing shacks, storage sheds, etc.
Documents required
The below information is what we require to be included on your plans. Learn more in our Accessory Structures guide.
- Plans drawn to scale shall include:
- Foundation plan (if applicable)
- Floor plan
- Elevation plan (all sides)
- Cross section (heights, and exterior elevation views of front, rear, and side of the structure)
- Site plan or Survey
- Must show lot dimensions, property lines, distances from property lines for existing and proposed structures on the property.
- You will need to upload the site plan or survey with your plans.
- We may have a survey on file for your home, email us at permits@brooklynpark.org to inquire.
- Any new structure must meet the land use and setback requirements of the zoning code. zoning questions should be directed to the Planning Division at planning@brooklynpark.org.
Revising a plan
If you build your accessory structure in any way that does not follow the city approved plan after the permit has been issued, revised plans shall be electronically submitted to the city for review. Your project cannot proceed until the revised plans have been approved
Note: failing to submit all the required application materials will result in a rejected application.
Locations allowed
Accessory structures are permitted uses in the residential zoning districts. Site and building plan review and approval by the Planning Commission and City Council may be required regarding other zoning districts.
Accessory structures on residential properties must be setback from property lines at least:
- 20 or 30 feet from any public right-of-way depending on zoning district. Note: the curb is not the right-of way.
- 5 or 7.5 feet from any interior property line depending on zoning district.
- Zero setback from utility/drainage easements, but in no case on or over an easement.
- Accessory structures may not be located between the house and street.
Submitting documents
The required plans and documents listed above shall be submitted through our Electronic Permit Application.
Instructions can be found here.
Note: Construction work cannot begin until the permit has been approved, paid, and issued.
Plan review
A plan review is conducted to ensure the plans submitted follow applicable codes. This insures we are keeping people safe where they live, work and play, and keeping buildings and property safe, durable, accessible, and energy efficient.
Review and approval will depend on the complexity of the project and completeness of the submittal documents.
Please allow five to seven business days for plan review, during the summer construction season wait times will be longer.
Once the plan review is completed and application is approved, you will be emailed letting you know the application is ready for payment.
Note: Construction work cannot begin until the permit has been approved, paid, and issued.
Fees
Fees are based on total square footage of the addition to be built. Click Here to see the city’s current fee schedules >
Required inspections
- Footing – Shall be inspected after forms and reinforcing bars are in place but prior to the placement of concrete.
- Foundations (if applicable)
- Foundation inspections for poured walls shall be made after all forms are in place with any required reinforcing steel and bracing in place, and prior to placement of concrete.
- Sheathing – Shall be inspected prior to installing weather resistive barrier. This inspection can be combined with the framing inspection if you notify the inspector.
- Framing – Shall be inspected after rough-in inspections for plumbing, mechanical, electrical and fireplace (if applicable) have been approved.
- Insulation – (if applicable) Shall be inspected once insulation and vapor barrier are installed, but prior to covering.
- Building Final – Shall be inspected after final inspections for plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and fireplace (if applicable) have been approved.
Notes and additional resources
- The City of Brooklyn Park may have a survey on file for you home. Email us at permits@brooklynpark.org to request a copy.
- Separate permits for plumbing, heating, electrical, and installation of a fireplace, are required.
- Electrical permits are administered by the State of Minnesota Board of Electricity. Visit the electrical inspector’s webpage Sloth Inspections for more information.
- Rough-in inspections of plumbing, mechanical, gas, and electrical systems shall occur before covering or concealment, and before framing inspection.
- If you build your accessory structure in any way that does not follow the city approved plan after the permit has been issued, revised plans shall be electronically submitted to the city for review. Your project cannot proceed until the revised plans have been approved.