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1. When am I required to have a permit?

Building permits are needed for most home improvement projects, including: • Windows • Siding • Roofing • Electrical work • Plumbing • Sheet rock • Demolition • Framing • Additions • Garages • Driveways • Steps • Decks If you are not sure if a building permit is needed, call our Building Inspections Department at 763-767-6476. In some cases you must have a licensed contractor for certain projects.

2. Why do I need a building permit?

Many times your home is your single largest investment. If the construction project does not comply with codes adopted by the City, the value of your home investment could possibly be reduced. In addition, property insurers may not cover work done without proper permits and inspections. If a home or building is listed for sale, a potential buyer may examine City records to ensure proper permits and inspections were obtained.

3. When is a permit not required?

Permits are not required for the following projects: replacing cabinets in a kitchen or elsewhere, installing carpet or other floor coverings, installing wallpaper or paneling on finished surfaces, redecorating without structural changes and simple landscaping projects.

4. Who can apply for a permit?

Homeowners may apply for a permit if they plan to do the work themselves on the structure they presently reside in. If you are hiring a contractor, the contractor is required to have a State Building Contractors license and pull all required permits. The Homeowner or Contractor completing the work is responsible for obtaining all required permits. Building Permits are required for nearly all structural improvements made to a home or accessory buildings. Additions, decks, porches, roofing, siding and windows require building permits. Mechanical Permits are required for heating and ventilation system work. Electrical Permits are required for all electrical wiring. Plumbing Permits are required for all changes to plumbing. If you are unsure if a project requires a permit, you may contact the Building Inspection Department at (763) 767-6476.

5. Can I apply for the permit for the contractor?

No. The contractor must take out a building permit. When the contractor signs the permit, they are agreeing to do the work according to code. If you sign for the permit, you are liable for correcting the contractor's work if it should fall short of City adopted code standards. Before your project begins, insist on seeing the permit. During the course of your project, monitor your contractor’s inspection records. This protects homeowners from being responsible for code violations and ensures project completion.

6. Is there a time limit or expiration date on permits?

Typically permits expire if work authorized by the permit is not commenced within 180 days after issuance.

7. Can I apply for a permit on-line?

Permit applications can be found on the City's website under ePermits. Contractors and homeowners can obtain some residential building, plumbing, mechanical and electrical permits electronically through the Internet. The process is simple, and the website transaction is secured through PayPal.

8. Is a dumpster allowed?

Yes.  The placement and use of dumpsters, both soft and hard sided, on residential properties is limited to one month, except in associations with an active building permit. In such cases, the dumpster must be removed within six months of the date of the issuance of the building permit. Dumpsters are not allowed to be placed on city streets; they must be placed on private property.

9. Do I need a permit for a concrete patio?

No permit is needed for a patio. A patio is defined as: A hard-surfaced area not covered nor designed or intended to be covered by a roof, excluding sidewalks, walkways around swimming pools or driveways.