Residential Projects

Residential Projects That Require a Building Permit

Accessory structures more than 200 square feet
Decks
Demolition work
Fences more than 7 feet high
Finished basements
Interior modifications, including any work where 96 sq. ft. or more of existing framing is exposed
Masonry Fireplaces
Porches
Re-roofing
Re-siding
Replacement windows and exterior doors
Retaining walls more than 4 feet high
Room additions
Structural or non-structural renovations or repair
Wood stoves

Residential Projects That Do Not Require a Building Permit

Build a detached accessory structure 200 square feet or less
Build a detached deck with a walking surface under 30-inches above grade
Build a fence less than 7 feet high
Hang wallpaper or similar finish work
Install concrete sidewalks

Fences, decks, and accessory structures must still meet all zoning requirements, and may require a land-use permit; for questions, contact the city of St. Cloud Planning office at (320) 255-7218.

Permit Information for Homeowners

For detailed information about permits, download the Permits - Information for Homeowners (PDF).
Visit the Handout Page (PDF) for information on building codes for residential (one and two-family and townhomes) properties.
If you are hiring a contractor to do the work the CONTRACTOR should obtain the permits. Whomever obtains the permit is responsible for the work completed. Please see Tips for Hiring a Contractor handout from the State of Minnesota (will bring you the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industries website).

Residential Building Permits

Permits shall become invalid unless the work is commenced within 180 days after its issuance, or if the work is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced.

Obtaining a Residential Building Permit

Download the Residential Building Permit Application (PDF) (to be printed and submitted along with paper plans to the Building Safety Department at City Hall). Plans must be full-scale on 11 x 17 or smaller paper.
Download the Homeowner Residential Work Permit Certification Form (PDF) if you are a homeowner doing your own work.
Electronic Residential Building Permit Application (to be submitted electronically and plans uploaded into the City ePlans system).

Obtaining a Residential Replacement Windows/Doors Building Permit

Download the Residential Replacement Windows/Doors Permit Application (PDF) (to be printed and submitted in person at the Building Safety Department at City Hall or emailed to the Building Safety Department).
Electronic Residential Reroof, Reside, Replacement Exterior Doors, and/or Replacement Windows Permit Application (to be submitted electronically).

Additional Permits Required

Separate plumbing, mechanical and electrical permits are required for the installation, alteration, repair, relocation, or replacement to any wiring, piping, and any equipment or appliances associated with those systems.

An electrical permit is not required for minor repair work. Minor repair work includes the adjustment, repair or replacement of worn or defective parts of electrical equipment and replacement of defective receptacle outlets and manual switches for lighting control.

Residential Projects