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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Saint Paul
Saint Paul requires permits for covered construction, alteration, grading, moving structures, demolitions, and numerous other building and trade activities under the DSI program.
Note: The reviewed excerpt did not provide a single consolidated exemption list. Applicants should use the DSI project-specific permit guidance because Saint Paul publishes exemptions and thresholds within each permit topic rather than on one short page.
- Depends on project type; city pages identify application form, plans, site plan or grading information, permit fee, and required sign-offs where applicable
- Building code
- Minnesota State Building Code and city code requirements enforced by DSI
- Permit validity
- Permit expires if work is not commenced within 180 days of issuance or if work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days after starting
- Contractor requirements
- Trade and specialty licensing requirements depend on the work category; DSI publishes contractor-related licensing and competency requirements in code and permit guidance
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Review the project type on the DSI building permits and inspections page.
- 02 Complete the correct general or project-specific permit application and gather plans and supporting documents.
- 03 Submit through DSI online services or by the alternate method posted for that permit type, such as email, mail, fax, or in-person drop-off.
- 04 DSI reviews the application and plans.
- 05 Pay permit fees and state surcharge.
Fee schedule
Saint Paul building permit fees
Payment depends on DSI workflow for the permit type
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Inspector listed on permit (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Call between 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., Monday through Friday
Typical sequence: Typical sequence: permit issuance, required project inspections such as rough, lath, special, and final inspections depending on permit type
Frequently asked
Common questions about Saint Paul permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Saint Paul, MN? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Saint Paul, MN? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Saint Paul, MN? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Saint Paul, MN? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Department of Safety and Inspections before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.