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1. What is a permit?

A permit is a legal document that gives you permission to commence a building project in accordance with the approved drawings and specifications.

2. When do I need a permit?

Building permits, governed under the MN Building Code, are required for any owner or contractor who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy/use of a building or structure. A permit is also required to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any gas, mechanical, electrical, plumbing system, shingles, siding or other equipment when the installation is regulated by the code.

A person wanting to do such work shall make application to the building official and obtain a permit prior to the beginning of any construction activity. Questions about whether or not a permit is required should contact the Building Official.

3. How can I tell if a contractor has a license?

You can look up contractor licensing by visiting the Department of Labor and Industry Contractor Look up link

4. What do I need to submit for a residential addition or a porch addition?

You must submit Residential Addition and Porch addition

5. What do I need to submit for a commercial or industrial building permit?

You can find more information by visiting

6. When I re-roof my building do I need to tear the old shingles off?

Yes, the Minnesota State Building code requires that all old shingles must be taken off to the decking. This will allow for the inspection of the decking for rot.

7. If I am putting on steel roofing am I required to remove all of the old shingles?

Yes, the code requires that all shingles must be taken off unless the manufacturer requires that you must leave one layer on. You will need to install the roofing in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and must provide a copy of the manufacturer’s installation guide to the city before you able to obtain your roofing permit.

8. If I am re-shingling my house can I use three tab shingles?

In the southern part of the state 3 tab shingles are not allowed because they are not compliant with the 90 mph wind speed required under the International Residential Code. However, the three tab shingles may be used IF the manufacturer can provide documentation from one of their engineers that proving they are compliant with the 90 MPH wind speed. This documentation must be turned in at city hall along with the installation guidelines.

9. If I am putting on a deck, addition, garage, or porch what do I need to provide to the city?

The city requires a completed building permit application, site plan showing the location of the proposed construction project with the proper dimensions and set backs from the property line, and some type of plan showing proper wall elevations and floor plan. The permit will be returned to the owner of record if not complete.

10. If I am building a new house what do I need to provide to the city?

The city requires a completed building permit application, a site plan showing the location of the building with set backs from the property line, a complete set of plans, and energy compliance forms. House Permit requirement

11. What if I change the use of my existing building? What is required of me?

If you are changing the use of an existing building you will need to complete a building permit for change of use, contact an architect to do a code review and following the guidelines under the Minnesota State Building code for existing buildings Chapter 1300 (or GREB code) and submit the documentation to city hall.

12. I am replacing windows in my house do I need a building permit?

Yes, the fee is $25.00. 

13. I want to put up a fence. Do I need a permit?

If you are putting a fence up you will need to fill out a building permit application for a fence. If the fence is 6 feet one inch or higher, the fence will be regulated under the MN Building Code. If the fence is 6' or under, fences are regulated by the Zoning ordinance. In both cases, a permit is required to be filled out and an accurate site plan is required. St. James Fence Information