Building DEPARTMENT

The City of St. Joseph contracts with Inspectron Inc. for building inspection services. The Building Department is responsible for reviewing, processing, issuance, and inspection of building permits to ensure that construction within the City limits complies with the provisions of the Minnesota State Building Code.

Applying for a Building Permit

An owner or owner representative who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure; erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any gas, mechanical, electrical, or plumbing system or other equipment, the installation of which is regulated by the code; or cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit. Building permits are required for all window replacement, reroofing, and residing.

Issuance of all building permits require completion of an application and submittal of detailed plans. Once the application is complete, it will take approximately 7 to 10 business days for the permit to be approved. Fence, siding, and roofing permits can typically be issued within 3 business days. 

Building Permit Application (PDF) - Please include 11"x17" plans with permit submission. If the permit is for a new construction, then a set of construction sized plans is required in addition to the previously stated.

Zoning Permit Application (PDF) - required for fences, buildings < 200 square feet, and parking pads. Zoning Permit Application should be submitted to Community Development Director Nate Keller nkeller@cityofstjoseph.com 

Sign Permit Application- Permanent Sign (PDF) - required if installing a permanent sign

Sign Permit Application- Temporary Sign (PDF) - required if displaying a temporary sign

Land Disturbance Permit Application (PDF) - required for any new construction or project that disturbs undeveloped soil

Easement Use Application (PDF) Required for fence permit - required if  you are wanting to construct in an easement area