Deck Permit in St. Paul, MN (2026)
Everything you need to know about getting a deck permit in St. Paul: fees, requirements, exemptions, and direct links to the St. Paul Dept. of Safety and Inspections.
Quick Facts for St. Paul
Permit Fees
Valuation-based per Section 33.04 of St. Paul Legislative Code. Starts at $36 for $0-$500 valuation.
Processing Time
Permits expire if work not commenced within 180 days.
Apply Online
Yes — via PAULIE Online Permitting
Building Code
Minnesota State Building Code (based on IRC/IBC with MN amendments)
Contact: (651) 266-8989
Do You Need a Deck Permit in St. Paul?
Permit Exemption
Decks not more than 30 inches above grade, not attached to a structure with frost footings, and not part of accessible route are exempt. Exception: ALL decks in Historic Preservation Areas require a permit.
If your deck does NOT meet all exemption criteria, you must obtain a permit before construction. Building without a required permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, and required demolition.
St. Paul-Specific Deck Rules
How to Get a Deck Permit in St. Paul
Check if your deck needs a permit
Review the exemption criteria above. If your deck exceeds any threshold, a permit is required.
Prepare your plans
You'll need a site plan, deck dimensions, framing details, and footing specifications. Check St. Paul's specific documentation requirements.
Submit your application
Apply through PAULIE Online Permitting . Pay the permit fee at submission.
Build and schedule inspections
Once approved, post your permit visibly and schedule required inspections (typically footing, framing, and final).
Official St. Paul Resources
Estimate Your Deck Cost
Get an instant cost estimate for your deck project in St. Paul.
Deck Cost CalculatorSources
Data verified April 2026. Fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. Always confirm current information with St. Paul's St. Paul Dept. of Safety and Inspections.