Types of Permits
Building Permit
Required for most construction, repair, or extension of structural elements. Interior-only work is reviewed by the Building Official; exterior additions are also reviewed by the City Planner and Engineer.
Apply through the online portal or contact City Hall at 651-426-3403 or info@cityofbirchwood.com
See Fee Schedule for current fees
Conditional Use Permit
Required for certain project types. Reviewed by the Planning Commission (public hearing) and approved by the City Council.
- Grading/filling near lakes or wetlands
- Large landscaping projects (>400 sq ft or 50 cu yds)
- Swimming pools
- Tennis courts
- Ground-mount solar installations
Apply through the online portal or contact City Hall at 651-426-3403 or info@cityofbirchwood.com
See Fee Schedule for current fees
Electrical Permit
Electrical permits are issued by the State of Minnesota, not the City of Birchwood. All electrical work must be permitted and inspected through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. Electrical contractors must hold a valid state license.
Apply at Minnesota Dept. of Labor and Industry →
City Code reference: MN Dept of Labor · Chapter 203
Mechanical / HVAC Permit
Required for installation or replacement of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Mechanical contractors must be licensed by the State of Minnesota.
Apply through the online portal or contact City Hall at 651-426-3403 or info@cityofbirchwood.com
See Fee Schedule for current fees
Plumbing Permit
A separate plumbing permit is required for any plumbing work, including new installations, replacements, or repairs to water supply and drain lines. Plumbing contractors must be licensed by the State of Minnesota.
Apply through the online portal or contact City Hall at 651-426-3403 or info@cityofbirchwood.com
See Fee Schedule for current fees
Roofing Permit
Required for replacement of a roof.
Apply through the online portal or contact City Hall at 651-426-3403 or info@cityofbirchwood.com
See Fee Schedule for current fees
Zoning Permit
Required for smaller projects. Reviewed by city staff in Building, Planning, and Engineering departments.
- Retaining walls
- Sheds >144 sq ft
- Driveways, fences, patios
- Low/unattached decks
- Stairs or lifts to the lake
- Beach sand replacement
- Fences, Patios, and Decks
Apply through the online portal or contact City Hall at 651-426-3403 or info@cityofbirchwood.com
See Fee Schedule for current fees
Not sure which permit you need? Call City Hall at 651-426-3403 or email info@cityofbirchwood.com. You can also bring questions to a Planning Commission meeting.
Quick Permit Lookup
| Project | Permit Needed | City Code |
|---|---|---|
| Build or remodel a house/garage | Building Permit | 301.060, 302 |
| Replace a roof | Roofing Permit | 306.060 |
| Build a deck (<30″ above grade, unattached) | Zoning Permit | 307.010 |
| Build a deck (attached or >30″ above grade) | Building Permit | 307.010 |
| Build a fence | Zoning Permit + notify neighbors | 301.080, 302.070 |
| Build a retaining wall | Zoning Permit | 302.070, 307.010 |
| Build a swimming pool | Conditional Use Permit | 203.040, 306.040 |
| Build a tennis court | Conditional Use Permit | 306.050 |
| Install rooftop solar | Building Permit | 302.100 |
| Install ground-mount solar | Conditional Use Permit | 306.060 |
| Driveway, sidewalk, or patio (>100 sq ft) | Zoning Permit | 302.050, 307.010 |
| Shed or accessory building (>144 sq ft) | Zoning Permit | 307.010 |
| Stairs or lift to lake | Zoning Permit | 302.080, 307.010 |
| Beach sand replacement | Zoning Permit | 301.080, 307.010 |
| Land disturbance (>100 sq ft or 10 cu yds) | Zoning, Conditional Use, or Building Permit | 306.030, 307.010 |
| Plumbing, sewer, or water work | Plumbing Permit / Sewer and Water Permit | 203 |
| HVAC/heating/cooling systems | HVAC Permit | 203 |
| Electrical work | MN State Permit | MN Dept of Labor |
No Permit Required
- Painting or wallpaper
- Carpet or tile flooring
- Cabinet or countertop replacement
- Storm doors, gutters, trim
- Sheds under 144 square feet
- Residential playground equipment
- Gardens
Zoning Variances
If your project does not meet Birchwood zoning standards, you may apply for a variance. Variances are required when you are unable to improve your property within the existing codes. Many lots in Birchwood are odd sizes, and over a century of development means there is substantial variation — variances are common.
A variance may be granted when enforcement would cause practical difficulties due to circumstances unique to your property. To obtain a variance, you must first apply for a permit.
| Example Variance Type | City Code |
|---|---|
| Impervious surface requirements | 302.050 |
| Front, back and side setback requirements | 302.020(2) |
| Height requirements | 302.045 |
Contractor Requirements
Contractors working in Birchwood must carry $1,000,000 in general liability insurance and name Birchwood as additional insured (Code 301.055(1)). Construction, remodeling, electrical, plumbing, and sewer contractors must be licensed by the state. Validate licenses at the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.