How much does a building permit cost in Worthington, MN?

The minimum permit fee is $15.80 residential and $22.12 nonresidential in the first valuation tier.

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

The following work is generally exempt: From the permit-required handout, examples of work not requiring a permit include:; install or replace storm windows; some minor repair and replacement items listed on the handout; The city also publishes specific guides for roofing, siding, basement finishing, bathroom finishing, window and door questions, decks, handrails, and smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Worthington, MN?

Inspections can be scheduled via: call (507) 372-8640 to schedule an inspection appointment.

City Building Permits

Worthington, MN - 2026 Building Permit Guide

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

Minnesota Nobles County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

City of Worthington

Department
Address: 303 Ninth Street, Worthington, MN 56187
Phone: (507) 372-8600; direct building inspection number on permit handout is (507) 372-8640
Email: community.development@ci.worthington.mn.us
Website: https://www.worthingtonmn.gov/Departments/Community-Development/Building-Inspections/FormsPermits

Application Process

General Requirements

the city publishes a permit-required list for many building, mechanical, plumbing, and related items

Required Documents

building permit application, and for some work supplemental worksheets or guides

Building code: Worthington adopts the Minnesota State Building Code in city code section 150.01
Owner-builder: homeowner-as-contractor waiver is published, and it states Minnesota licensing rules still apply if the owner is building for speculation or resale
Contractor requirements: Minnesota licensing rules are acknowledged on the city waiver form

Fees

Minimum permit fee: $15.80 residential and $22.12 nonresidential in the first valuation tier

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

From the permit-required handout, examples of work not requiring a permit include:
install or replace storm windows
some minor repair and replacement items listed on the handout
The city also publishes specific guides for roofing, siding, basement finishing, bathroom finishing, window and door questions, decks, handrails, and smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

Inspections

How to Schedule

call (507) 372-8640 to schedule an inspection appointment (online)

Typical inspection sequence: submit application and supplemental documents, receive approval, then schedule inspections as required

permits require inspections, and the handout says if work is not listed, contact city staff for requirements

Additional Resources

Building code: Worthington adopts the Minnesota State Building Code in city code section 150.01
Zoning information: View zoning info
Permit requirements handout
Homeowner as contractor waiver
City code
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 before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Worthington Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Worthington, MN?: the city publishes a permit-required list for many building, mechanical, plumbing, and related items
How much does a building permit cost in Worthington, MN?: The minimum permit fee is $15.80 residential and $22.12 nonresidential in the first valuation tier.
What work is exempt from building permits in Worthington, MN?: The following work is generally exempt: From the permit-required handout, examples of work not requiring a permit include:; install or replace storm windows; some minor repair and replacement items listed on the handout; The city also publishes specific guides for roofing, siding, basement finishing, bathroom finishing, window and door questions, decks, handrails, and smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
How do I schedule a building inspection in Worthington, MN?: Inspections can be scheduled via: call (507) 372-8640 to schedule an inspection appointment.

Need help with your project?

Navigating permits in Worthington can be complicated.

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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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