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

Fees are calculated as: Valuation-based for building permits; flat fees for some projects; mechanical by installation type; plumbing by fixture count/type.

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

The following work is generally exempt: Decks, porches, and platforms under 30 inches above grade unless attached to a permanent structure; Floor coverings; Cabinets and countertops; Painting, papering, tiling; Playground equipment; Above-ground swimming pools; Storage sheds less than 200 sq. ft.; Window awnings; Fence.

City Building Permits

Lewiston, MN - 2026 Building Permit Guide

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

Minnesota Winona County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

City of Lewiston

Department: City Hall / Planning and Zoning
Address: 75 Rice St, P.O. Box 129, Lewiston, MN 55952
Phone: 507-523-2257
Email: rvarma@lewistonmn.gov and city staff contacts on the fee schedule page
Website: https://www.lewistonmn.gov/services/planning-zoning/

Application Process

General Requirements

Building, mechanical, plumbing, demolition, siding, and reroofing work are addressed on the city forms page

Required Documents

Project-specific form and, where applicable, plan or contractor information

Building code: Current Minnesota Residential Code for residential work and Minnesota State Building Code for commercial work
Contractor requirements: City staff verifies that the contractor has a Minnesota state license

Fees

Permit fee formula: Valuation-based for building permits; flat fees for some projects; mechanical by installation type; plumbing by fixture count/type

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

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Decks, porches, and platforms under 30 inches above grade unless attached to a permanent structure
Floor coverings
Cabinets and countertops
Painting, papering, tiling
Playground equipment
Above-ground swimming pools
Storage sheds less than 200 sq. ft.
Window awnings
Fence

Inspections

How to Schedule

Inspection hours: City Hall hours are Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Typical inspection sequence: Apply, city review, permit issuance, inspections by building/plumbing/mechanical staff

Additional Resources

Building code: Current Minnesota Residential Code for residential work and Minnesota State Building Code for commercial work
Zoning information: View zoning info
Other useful links
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 Hall / Planning and Zoning before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lewiston Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Lewiston, MN?: Building, mechanical, plumbing, demolition, siding, and reroofing work are addressed on the city forms page
How much does a building permit cost in Lewiston, MN?: Fees are calculated as: Valuation-based for building permits; flat fees for some projects; mechanical by installation type; plumbing by fixture count/type.
What work is exempt from building permits in Lewiston, MN?: The following work is generally exempt: Decks, porches, and platforms under 30 inches above grade unless attached to a permanent structure; Floor coverings; Cabinets and countertops; Painting, papering, tiling; Playground equipment; Above-ground swimming pools; Storage sheds less than 200 sq. ft.; Window awnings; Fence.

Need help with your project?

Navigating permits in Lewiston 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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