Applying for a Permit

We explain the process of applying for a permit.

View the electronic permit submittal options.

Permit Review times during COVID-19 outbreak

Due to ongoing restrictions associated with the COVID-19 outbreak, standard permit review times will be longer than normal.

We are making every effort to remain open during this period and provide our permitting services with most permit review work being done remotely to maintain social distancing requirements for our staff.

Currently, NO permits are processed same day – this includes any permit that requires the submission of an electronic permit application via email. Permits that require review and approval by our Zoning and Building Code review staff will take longer.

We have moved from approximately 5% of our permits completed in electronic form to 100% of our permits being completed in electronic form. We ask for our customers patience as we try to handle normal work loads.

What you need to know before applying for a permit

Building projects of any size may require that you obtain one or more permits before you can begin the work.

Before beginning a project, you should call Minneapolis 311 to see if you need to obtain a permit.

If you hire a contractor, the contractor will apply for the permit.

Sometimes a site plan, a zoning site review, and/or an inspections plan review are required before a permit can be issued. Your contractor will take care of these items. For more information, see the links at the left.

For more information, see:

Steps to obtain a permit

A homeowner may obtain a permit for work on their own home. A contractor must obtain a permit (if required) for work they are doing under a contract.

You may stop in at Minneapolis Development Review between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday - Thursday. Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Physical plans are not being accepted at this time. All plans must be submitted electronically via ProjectDox.
Sign in at the check in counter and staff will assist you through the process.
Once your plans are approved, pay the necessary fees (see the ) the Minneapolis Development Review staff will provide information on required inspections. You can use the following forms of payment: Cash; Check; Visa; Master Card; American Express and Diner's Club. You are responsible for calling the inspector to schedule the required inspection. Your permit will have a permit number and the last page of your permit will have your inspector’s name and phone number.

You will need the permit number and project address to schedule an inspection of the work. Your inspector’s name and phone number will appear on the last page of your permit. Please call him or her directly to schedule your inspection.

Additions and alterations

For additions and alterations to your home, you will need:

Zoning approval is required for projects such as building a deck, an addition, a porch, a fence, or a garage. Flood plain information also is handled through zoning.
If your project has exterior modifications, you will need a site plan.
- A site plan is a drawing of your property showing the property lines and any structures that currently exist on that land (house, garage, fence, etc) and where your proposed deck, addition, porch, garage, etc is to be located. Your site plan should include a north arrow. View a sample residential site plan .
- The site plan should be included with your digital plan submission (including your construction plans and supplemental documents).
A description of all plumbing, mechanical, and electrical work that you plan on doing.
The fair market value for the completed project, including the cost of materials and labor.
If a contractor is performing the work, a copy of the contract may be needed.