Mechanical work includes: Heating, Air-Conditioning, Ventilation, Refrigeration, Gas Piping
Existing residential (1 & 2 dwelling)
There are three levels of work that can be done, each with a set fee associated with the work being proposed. Refer to the application for a description of the work covered by each level and complete section 1 on page 2 of the application form. Application can be made by mail, in-person, or online.
New residential construction (1 & 2 dwelling)
If the mechanical work being performed is part of a larger project that increases the square footage of the existing dwelling the applicant must complete section 2 on page 2 of the application form. Plans are required. Applications can be made by mail or in-person.
- New Residential Construction (1 & 2 Dwelling) Fee Schedule
- Residential Mechanical Inspections Process
New or existing commercial or multi-family
Complete bottom portion of Page 2 of the application (titled “Fill out this portion for Commercial & Multi-Family (3+ units) projects).
Temporary heat
Temporary heat sources will require a separate mechanical permit and shall not be included with other mechanical work being performed. If the proposed work includes BOTH temporary heat sources AND additional mechanical permit work, two (2) separate mechanical permits will be required – one (1) for the temporary heat and one (1) for the other (permanent) mechanical work.
Examples of mechanical work that require a permit
- Install a heating appliance such as a furnace, boiler, or space heater.
- Install duct work, radiant heat, in-floor heat, or baseboard heat.
- Install gas piping for environmental heating appliances (work that includes the installation of gas appliances, other than those providing environmental heat, such as water heaters, fireplaces, ranges, ovens, or laundry dryers must be applied for with a plumbing permit (BTPA) application).
- Install air-conditioning
- Install refrigeration equipment
- Install high pressure steam or ammonia systems
- Install radon mitigation systems
This list is not intended as a complete list of work that requires a mechanical permit. For more information you may consult the Minnesota State Building Code Chapter 1346 or speak with a plan examiner to determine if the work you are proposing requires a permit. For a list of mechanical work that does not require a permit please refer to (“When Do I NOT Need A Permit”)
Licensing requirements
Most mechanical work is required to be done by a licensed professional Find a Licensed Contractor. Licensing includes contractor licenses and certificate of competency.
A homeowner that occupies a single-family dwelling may qualify for an exemption to the licensing requirement. If you meet the requirements of Minneapolis Code of Ordinances Section 85.80 you may be allowed to perform mechanical work as described in the ordinance.