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Permits

Most home improvements require some type of permit. These regulations were established to ensure compliance relating to minimum building safety and zoning requirements within the City of Fairmont. Permit fees defray costs associated with plan review, permit issuance, and inspections.

In addition to new home construction, permit and inspection approvals are required for the following types of projects:

Building Permits:

  • Additions to dwellings, garages, and other out buildings
  • Three season or screen porches
  • Open deck over 30" above grade. Structural repairs replacement of decking, stairs, handrails, guardrails etc
  • Garages and carports
  • Storage buildings in excess of 120 square feet
  • Remodeling, moving, or installing walls and finishing off basements
  • Reroofing
  • Window replacements

Zoning Permits:

  • Fences
  • Signs
  • Open deck if under 30" above grade
  • Storage building less than 120 square feet
  • Steps (landings under 25 sq.ft.)
  • Stairs To Lake (landings under 9 sq. ft.)
  • Demolition

Plumbing/Mechanical Permits:

  • Installation or changes made to plumbing, heating, ventilating or air conditioning systems
  • Installation or changes made to fireplaces, wood stoves or other solid fuel burning appliances

Replacing cabinetry, floor coverings, wallpaper, painting, or similar cosmetic changes do not require permits. Driveways that involve a new curb cut or a change to the existing curb cut require a permit. Sidewalks are exempt from permits. If your property is located in the Shoreland Management Area call our office to check your percentage of impervious coverage prior to starting your project.

Electrical installations or changes to electrical systems are inspected by the State Electrical Inspector, Doug Lutterman at 507-847-4336.

Prior to any excavation or grading it is critical to have all underground utilities located. Before digging, call 48 hours in advance (excluding holidays and weekends) Gopher State One Call: 1-800-252-1166.

Persons living in their home may obtain permits and perform work on their property. This does not include rental or commercial business properties.

If you have the expertise and time, improving your property can be very rewarding and satisfying. The Building Inspection Department has informational material which may be of assistance prior to commencing your proposed project.

Contractors are often hired to perform work for homeowners. For your protection, it is wise to follow these simple tips:

  • Get competing bids from two or more contractors.
  • Ask for verifiable references.
  • Ask for copies of proof of liability insurance, bonding, workman's compensation insurance, and state license. You can inquire at the Building Inspection Department to confirm the validity of a contractor's license.
  • Initiate a contract which totally clarifies the work to be done, the contractor's and property owner's responsibilities and the amount and methods of payment.

Do not sign a contract if you are unsure of the content of the contract including payment arrangements.

  • Never apply for permits in your name if you are reimbursing someone else to do the work for you.

Other information regarding code requirements, asbestos, radon, lead dangers, and general assistance is available at the inspection department.

Office hours for the Building Inspection Department are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays excluding holidays. Please call 507-238-9461 for information or to set a meeting time with any of the inspection personnel.

A proposed project may be exempt from building, plumbing, or mechanical permits however other regulations relating to zoning, utility easement, site drainage, etc. may be applicable. Please contact the Building Inspection Department at 507-238-9461 for further information.

This handout is written as a guide to common questions and problems.
It is not intended nor shall it be considered a complete set of requirements.

Building Official: Pat Parsley             Building Inspector: Terry Tonneson
City of Fairmont 100 Downtown Plaza PO Box 751 Fairmont, MN 56031 (P)507.238.9461 (F)507.238.9044 citygov@fairmont.org