What work is exempt from building permits in Glencoe, MN?

The following work is generally exempt: One-story detached accessory structures up to 200 square feet; Fences not over 7 feet high; Retaining walls not over 4 feet high unless supporting surcharge or certain liquids; Sidewalks and driveways not part of an accessible route; Decks and platforms not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade and not attached to frost-footing structure; Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work; Several portable or minor equipment replacements listed in Minnesota Rules Chapter 1300.0120 Subpart 4.

City Building Permits

Glencoe, MN - 2026 Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Glencoe, Minnesota. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

Minnesota Mcleod County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

City of Glencoe

Department: City of Glencoe Building Inspections Department
Address: City Hall address not clearly extracted from the permit pages reviewed, thin data
Phone: (952) 442-7520 and (888) 446-1801
Email: infoMN@safebuilt.com
Website: https://www.glencoemn.org/

Online Permit Portal

Open

Platform: SAFEbuilt inspection services; portal not clearly published in the reviewed handout, thin data • Account required: No • Submission: In-person only

Application Process

Source: City of Glencoe Building Inspections Department

General Requirements

Structural work, insulation, opening wall cavities, and many other construction changes

Building code: Minnesota Rules Chapter 1300.0120 referenced for exemptions; local code basis in the handout is Minnesota state building code framework

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

One-story detached accessory structures up to 200 square feet
Fences not over 7 feet high
Retaining walls not over 4 feet high unless supporting surcharge or certain liquids
Sidewalks and driveways not part of an accessible route
Decks and platforms not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade and not attached to frost-footing structure
Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work
Several portable or minor equipment replacements listed in Minnesota Rules Chapter 1300.0120 Subpart 4

Inspections

How to Schedule

Each required inspection extends permit validity 180 days

Additional Resources

Building code: Minnesota Rules Chapter 1300.0120 referenced for exemptions; local code basis in the handout is Minnesota state building code framework
Permit handout
City website
License lookup guide: Minnesota Contractor License Requirements
Contract template: Minnesota Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
Minnesota hub: Minnesota Contractor License & Permit Hub

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the City of Glencoe Building Inspections Department before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Glencoe Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Glencoe, MN?: Structural work, insulation, opening wall cavities, and many other construction changes
What work is exempt from building permits in Glencoe, MN?: The following work is generally exempt: One-story detached accessory structures up to 200 square feet; Fences not over 7 feet high; Retaining walls not over 4 feet high unless supporting surcharge or certain liquids; Sidewalks and driveways not part of an accessible route; Decks and platforms not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade and not attached to frost-footing structure; Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work; Several portable or minor equipment replacements listed in Minnesota Rules Chapter 1300.0120 Subpart 4.

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Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.

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