Applying for a Permit

We explain the process of applying for a permit.

View the electronic permit submittal options.

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 for work they are doing under a contract.
All plans must be submitted electronically via ProjectDox.
We accept the following forms of payment for related fees: Check, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club
After your plans are approved and you've paid the necessary fees, we'll tell you what inspections are needed.
You are responsible for calling the inspector whose name appears on your permit to schedule the required inspections.
- You'll need to provide your permit number, which is on the permit.
- The inspector's name and phone number will be on the last page of your permit.

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.