Interior Remodeling and Alterations
When do I need a permit?
A permit is required for interior remodeling projects that change the interior structure of a single-family dwelling. For information about permits, see Permits Overview.
If your construction project has accessibility issues please view the informational handouts on accessibility on our applications and forms page or at the State of Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry web page on accessibility.
Interior remodels that require a permit include:
- Finishing an attic
- Remodeling a basement
- Building an addition
- Tearing down or adding walls
- Closing a door opening or making a new door opening
- Constructing or Removing a stairway (pdf)
- Remodeling a kitchen or bathroom
- Installing or replacing fixtures (sink, garbage disposal, bathtub, toilet, shower etc)
- Replacing a kitchen gas stove
- Replacing a gas dryer
- Any changes to the electrical system, except for replacing outlets or existing light fixtures
- Installing a new light fixture (not replacing an existing one)
- Hard wired smoke detectors
- Adding or tearing out a fireplace or chimney
- Converting a wood-burning fireplace to gas
- Installing or replacing a gas furnace
- Adding insulation or outside walls
- Installing new windows see Window Replacement
- Installing or replacing hard flooring (wood, tiles, etc.) in condominiums, co-ops, and apartments
- Radon mitigation system
Interior remodels that do NOT require a permit include:
- Painting, wallpapering, or paneling walls
- Installing or replacing woodwork or trim (around doors, windows, ceilings, floors)
- Replacing window coverings such as drapes, shutters, or blinds
- Flooring in single family homes
Important: The old flooring may contain asbestos, contact a licensed asbestos removal company. - Installing battery-operated smoke alarms or carbon monoxide detectors (PDF). (Hard wired smoke detectors DO require an electrical permit.)
- Insulation projects (See web page " When do I NOT need a permit ?")
The City of Minneapolis publishes information bulletins containing design guidelines and other important compliance requirements for popular residential building projects and topics.
Last updated Jan 30, 2019
