Construction Services & Inspections

• Construction Services & Inspections (CSI) is the main point of contact for your project. CSI will help you understand the process, guide you to assembling a complete permit application and route your project to all of the City divisions that will need to review and approve your project.
• In addition to complying with the Minnesota Building Code, your project must comply with the Duluth Unified Development (Zoning) Code, Minnesota Fire Code, and Duluth Engineering ordinances and policies.
• Contact the Fire Marshal's office in the Duluth Life Safety Division at (218) 730-4380 to verify the distance from the nearest fire hydrant to the proposed building. The Minnesota Fire Code requires that your proposed dwelling needs to be within a certain distance from a fire hydrant.
• Contact the Duluth Engineering Division at (218) 730-5200 to discuss available utilities, utility connection costs, driveway permits, and other permits for work in the right-of-way (street or alley).
• If your project is in close proximity to a creek or shoreline or located in a wetland or flood hazard area, it may be subject to additional regulations and require additional permits or special approvals. Contact Construction Services at (218) 730-5240 to discuss the details. 
• You will need to submit a site plan based on a boundary survey. Please review the Residential Survey and Site Plan Packet. St. Louis County keeps an updated list of professional land surveyors in the St. Louis County area on their website here.
• Minimum required setbacks from property lines depend on the zone district where your property is located and building code requirements. Usually zoning setbacks are greater than building code setback requirements. You can find the zone district and setback requirements on the Zoning Regulations web page. You will need to find your property on the Zoning Map, then look for setback requirements for that district. You can also call Construction Services at (218) 730-5240 for help determining the zone district and setback requirements. 

• To help ensure a complete building permit application at time of submittal, please use the Residential Plan Review Checklist for New Dwellings. A completed checklist must be submitted along with your application and plans.
• Residential Plan Review Building Permit Application. Be sure all areas are completed such as valuation, contact information, and required applicant signatures.
• Erosion Control Permit Application. The Erosion Control Permit Application is a Duluth Engineering Division permit. You will submit this along with your building permit application to the Construction Services office. It will then be routed to the Duluth Engineering Division to be reviewed. Both owner's and the contractor's (if applicable) signatures are required on the front page of the application.
• Shoreland Permit – applicable only if there is any land disturbance located in a shoreland buffer zone. City staff is responsible for filling out necessary paperwork for this application.
• HVAC, Plumbing, Gas Piping, and Electrical work requires separate permits. These permits will not be issued until the building permit is issued. If you would like to read more information regarding these types of permits, please visit this page.
• Boundary Survey. You will need a boundary survey signed by a professional land surveyor licensed in the State of Minnesota. Please review the Survey and Site Plan Packet. St. Louis County keeps an updated list of professional land surveyors in the St. Louis County area on their website here.
• Building Plans. Building plans, including a site plan, must be drawn to scale, dimensioned, drawn on suitable material, legible, and of sufficient clarity and detail to show all work proposed, how it will be constructed, the location of the work on the site and/or in the building, how it will comply with the building and zoning codes, and other applicable regulations. Plans meeting these criteria may be submitted digitally or on paper. If you are drawing your plans on paper (not on a computer), you will need to use tools of the trade: good quality paper, an architectural scale, a straight edge, and dark pencil or ink. Your contractor, a drafter, or an architect may be able to prepare plans for you.
• Site Plan. Please see the Survey and Site Plan Packet, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for site plan requirements.
• Elevation Drawings. Please see the Sample Drawings, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for elevation drawing requirements.
• Foundation Plan (this may be incorporated with the basement plan). Please see the Sample Drawings, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for foundation plan requirements.
• Floor Plan(s). Provide complete plans for each floor, including the basement and finished attic space. Please see the Sample Floor Plan, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for floor plan requirements.
• Wall Section Plan(s). Provide one plan for each type of wall assembly. Please see the Sample Wall Section, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for wall section requirements.
• Stair Section. Please feel free to use the Residential Stairs Form for guidance.
• Structural Loads. Confirm on plans that bearing for beams has a continuous load path to the foundation. Be sure to use the Residential Header & Girder Span Requirements Form to ensure proper size.
• Engineered Drawings & Engineered Product Design - if applicable. If something cannot be reviewed within the prescriptive requirements of the MN Residential Building Code, a structural engineer licensed in the State of Minnesota may be required to stamp and sign structural plans.
• Roof & Floor Truss Shop Drawings. These can typically be a delayed submittal, unless the Plans Examiner reviewing the plans determines they are necessary to complete their review.
• Deck Plans - if applicable. Please see the following link to the Residential Deck Application Packet for items required for review.
• Manufactured and Modular Homes. If your project is a manufactured home or modular home, the HUD or IBC Seal numbers will be required prior to final inspection.
• Septic System or Well. If your lot requires a septic system and/or well, you will need to submit proof of approval of the septic system from St. Louis County at the building permit application submittal, and proof of a compliant well from the Minnesota Department of Health prior to Certificate of Occupancy.
• Special Approvals. If your project required Planning Commission or City Council approval, you will need to submit proof of approval, such as the action letter, at time of building permit application submittal.

Building Permit Fees. Building permit fees are based on the valuation of the project. For new residential buildings, residential additions, decks, and garages, the valuation is based on a standard per square foot cost. The state surcharge fee, required, is also based on the valuation of the project. Plan review fees are required and are a percentage of the permit fee. Construction Services will calculate the valuation for new residential buildings, residential additions, decks, and garages to determine total permit fees, which are paid when the permit is approved. 

If you'd like to estimate your permit fees, you can use the Residential Valuation Schedule Form to calculate the valuation per square foot. Then, you can use the Permit Fee Calculator or Fee Schedule to calculate fees.

Following is a list of typical items calculated on new dwellings:

New Foundation (always)

Living Areas for Stories Above Grade (always)

Newly Constructed Finished Basements (based on scope of work)

Unfinished Basements (based on scope of work)

Attached Garages (based on scope of work)

Covered Decks & Porches, Open Sides (based on scope of work)

Open Decks (based on scope of work)

WLSSD Capacity Availability Fee (CAF). For new dwelling units, Construction Services collects a $940 fee which is passed on to WLSSD. Please see the WLSSD Capacity Availability Information Form for more information regarding CAF.

Erosion Control Permit. Please see fees referenced on the Erosion Control Application.

Shoreland Permit (if applicable). $52 fee.

Sub-Permit Fees (Electrical, Plumbing, Gas Piping, HVAC). Please see the following link to find out which sub-permits are based on set fees vs valuation (labor & material of project).

Engineering Fees. Please contact Duluth Engineering Division directly at (218) 730-5200 to discuss utility hook-up, driveway permit, and other possible fees for work in the right-of-way.

It is the permit holder’s responsibility to schedule inspections. Please see Residential Permit Holder Responsibilities for information about what inspections will be required by the assigned inspectors and how to schedule an inspection. The Certificate of Occupancy must be issued prior to occupancy of your new home. Once all inspections, including for general construction, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work, are approved, the construction inspector will issue a Certificate of Occupancy. 

• Construction Services & Inspections is the main point of contact for your project. CSI will help you understand the process, guide you to assembling a complete permit application and route your project to all of the City divisions that will need to review and approve your project.
• In addition to complying with the Minnesota Building Code, your project must comply with the Duluth Unified Development (Zoning) Code, and Duluth Engineering ordinances and policies.
• Contact the Duluth Engineering Division at (218) 730-5200 to discuss available utilities, utility connection costs, driveway permits, and other permits for work in the right-of-way (street or alley).
• If your project is in close proximity to a creek or shoreline or located in a wetland or flood hazard area, it may be subject to additional regulations and require additional permits or special approvals. Contact Construction Services at (218) 730- 5240 to discuss the details. 
• You will need to submit a site plan based on a boundary survey. Please review the Survey and Site Plan Packet. St. Louis County keeps an updated list of professional land surveyors in the St. Louis County area on their website here.
• Minimum required setbacks from property lines depend on the zone district where your property is located and building code requirements. Usually zoning setbacks are greater than building code setback requirements. You can find the zone district and setback requirements on the Zoning Regulations web page. You will need to find your property on the Zoning Map, then look for setback requirements for that district. You can also call Construction Services at (218) 730-5240 for help determining the zone district and setback requirements. 

• To help ensure a complete building permit application at time of submittal, please use the Residential Plan Review Checklist for Additions. A completed checklist must be submitted along with your application and plans.
• Residential Plan Review Building Permit Application. Be sure all areas are completed such as valuation, contact information, and required applicant signatures
• Erosion Control Permit Application - if proposed land disturbance is located with-in a shoreland buffer zone, and/or your project is disturbing approximately 3,000 square feet, or greater, of land. The Erosion Control Permit Application is a Duluth Engineering Division permit. You will submit this along with your building permit application to the Construction Services office. It will then be routed to the Duluth Engineering Division to be reviewed. Both owner's and the contractor's (if applicable) signatures are required on the front page of the application.
• Shoreland Permit – applicable only if there is any land disturbance located in a shoreland buffer zone. City staff is responsible for filling out necessary paperwork for this application.
• HVAC, Plumbing, Gas Piping, and Electrical work requires separate permits. These permits will not be issued until the building permit is issued. If you would like to read more information regarding these types of permits, please visit this page.
• Boundary Survey. You will need a boundary survey signed by a professional land surveyor licensed in the State of Minnesota. Please review the Survey and Site Plan Packet. St. Louis County keeps an updated list of professional land surveyors in the St. Louis County area on their website here.
• Building Plans. Building plans, including a site plan, must be drawn to scale, dimensioned, drawn on suitable material, legible, and of sufficient clarity and detail to show all work proposed, how it will be constructed, the location of the work on the site and/or in the building, how it will comply with the building and zoning codes, and other applicable regulations. Plans meeting these criteria may be submitted digitally or on paper. If you are drawing your plans on paper (not on a computer), you will need to use tools of the trade: good quality paper, an architectural scale, a straight edge, and dark pencil or ink. Your contractor, a drafter, or an architect may be able to prepare plans for you.
• Site Plan. Please see the Site Plan Packet, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for site plan requirements.
• Elevation Drawings. Please see the Sample Drawings, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for elevation drawing requirements.
• Foundation Plan (this may be incorporated with the basement plan). Please see the Sample Drawings, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for foundation plan requirements.
• Floor Plan(s). Provide complete plans for each floor, including the basement and finished attic space. Please see the Sample Floor Plan, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for floor plan requirements.
• Wall Section Plan(s). Provide one plan for each type of wall assembly. Please see the Sample Wall Section, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for wall section requirements.
• Stair Section. Please feel free to use the Residential Stairs Form for guidance.
• Structural Loads. Confirm on plans that bearing for beams has a continuous load path to the foundation. Be sure to use the Residential Header & Girder Span Requirements Form to ensure proper size.
• Engineered Drawings & Engineered Product Design - if applicable. If something cannot be reviewed within the prescriptive requirements of the MN Residential Building Code, a structural engineer licensed in the State of Minnesota may be required to stamp and sign structural plans.
• Roof & Floor Truss Shop Drawings. These can typically be a delayed submittal, unless the Plans Examiner reviewing the plans determines they are necessary to complete their review.
• Deck Plans - if applicable. Please see the following link to the Residential Deck Application Packet for items required for review.
• Special Approvals. If your project required Planning Commission or City Council approval, you will need to submit proof of approval, such as the action letter, at time of building permit application submittal.

Building Permit Fees. Building permit fees are based on the valuation of the project. For new residential buildings, residential additions, decks, and garages, the valuation is based on a standard per square foot cost. The state surcharge fee, required, is also based on the valuation of the project. Plan review fees are required and are a percentage of the permit fee. Construction Services will calculate the valuation for new residential buildings, residential additions, decks, and garages to determine total permit fees, which are paid when the permit is approved. 

If you'd like to estimate your permit fees, you can use the Residential Valuation Schedule Form to calculate the valuation per square foot. Then, you can use the Permit Fee Calculator or Fee Schedule to calculate fees.

Following is a list of typical items calculated on new dwellings:

New Foundation (always)

Living Areas for Stories Above Grade (always)

Newly Constructed Finished Basements (based on scope of work)

Unfinished Basements (based on scope of work)

Attached Garages (based on scope of work)

Covered Decks & Porches, Open Sides (based on scope of work)

Open Decks (based on scope of work)

WLSSD Capacity Availability Fee (CAF). For new dwelling units, Construction Services collects a $940 fee which is passed on to WLSSD. Please see the WLSSD Capacity Availability Information Form for more information regarding CAF.

Erosion Control Permit. Please see fees referenced on the Erosion Control Application.

Shoreland Permit (if applicable). $52 fee.

 Sub-Permit Fees (Electrical, Plumbing, Gas Piping, HVAC).  Please see the following link to find out which sub-permits are based on set fees vs valuation (labor & material of project).

 Engineering Fees. Please contact Duluth Engineering Division directly at (218) 730-5200.

It is the permit holder’s responsibility to schedule inspections. Please see Residential Permit Holder Responsibilities for information about what inspections will be required by the assigned inspectors and how to schedule an inspection.

A Certificate of Occupancy may be required if your project is a change of use. The Certificate of Occupancy must be issued prior to occupancy of your new home. Once all inspections, including for general construction, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work, are approved, the construction inspector will issue a Certificate of Occupancy. 

• Construction Services & Inspections (CSI) is the main point of contact for your project. CSI will help you understand the process, guide you to assembling a complete permit application and route your project to all of the City divisions that will need to review and approve your project.
• If you are creating new habitable space (example: living room, rec room, bedroom) in the basement, a preliminary inspection will be required after you submit a complete building permit application to this office. The preliminary inspection is to ensure the basement ceiling meets minimum required ceiling height requirements and the basement has adequate egress. The Land Use Technician will give you the inspector’s contact information, once your application is processed and routed for review.
• You will need to produce accurate, scaled and dimensioned drawings. You may need to hire a drafter to produce plans.
• Be sure to use the Residential Header & Girder Span Requirements Form to ensure proper size. If construction deviates from the Residential Header & Girder Span Requirements table, it is possible that plans will need to be designed and stamped by a structural engineer licensed in Minnesota.
• If land disturbance is in close proximity to a creek or shoreline, or located in a wetland or flood hazard area, it may be subject to additional regulations and require additional permits or special approvals. Contact Construction Services at (218) 730-5240 to discuss the details. 

• To help ensure a complete building permit application at time of submittal, please use the Residential Plan Review Checklist for Interior Remodel. A completed checklist must be submitted along with your application and plans.
• Residential Plan Review Building Permit Application. Be sure all areas are completed such as valuation, contact information, and required applicant signatures.
• Shoreland Permit – applicable only if there is any land disturbance located in a shoreland buffer zone. City staff is responsible for filling out necessary paperwork for this application.
• HVAC, Plumbing, Gas Piping, and Electrical work requires separate permits. These permits will not be issued until the building permit is issued. If you would like to read more information regarding these types of permits, please visit this page.
• Building Plans. Building plans must be drawn to scale, dimensioned, drawn on suitable material, legible, and of sufficient clarity and detail to show all work proposed, how it will be constructed, the location of the work on the site and/or in the building, how it will comply with the building and zoning codes, and other applicable regulations. Plans meeting these criteria may be submitted digitally or on paper. If you are drawing your plans on paper (not on a computer), you will need to use tools of the trade: good quality paper, an architectural scale, a straight edge, and dark pencil or ink. Your contractor, a drafter, or an architect may be able to prepare plans for you.
• Site Plan – if window well is needed. Please see the Site Plan Packet, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for site plan requirements. You will need a boundary survey signed by a professional land surveyor licensed in the State of Minnesota. Please review the Survey and Site Plan Packet. St. Louis County keeps an updated list of professional land surveyors in the St. Louis County area on their website here.
• Window Well Form - if applicable. Be sure to complete Worksheet on page two.
• Floor Plan(s). Provide complete plans for each floor, including the basement and finished attic space. Please see the Sample Floor Plan, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for floor plan requirements.
• Wall Section Plan(s). Provide one plan for each type of wall assembly. Please see the Sample Wall Section, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for wall section requirements.
• Stair Section. Please feel free to use the Residential Stairs Form for guidance.
• Structural Loads. Confirm on plans that bearing for beams has a continuous load path to the foundation. Be sure to use the Residential Header & Girder Span Requirements Form to ensure proper size.
• Engineered Drawings & Engineered Product Design - if applicable. If something cannot be reviewed within the prescriptive requirements of the MN Residential Building Code, a structural engineer licensed in the State of Minnesota may be required to stamp and sign structural plans.
• Roof & Floor Truss Shop Drawings. These can typically be a delayed submittal, unless the Plans Examiner reviewing the plans determines they are necessary to complete their review.
• Deck Plans - if applicable. Please see the following link to the Residential Deck Application Packet for items required for review.
• Special Approvals. If your project required Planning Commission or City Council approval, you will need to submit proof of approval, such as the action letter, at time of building permit application submittal.
• If converting from single family dwelling to two family dwelling, you will need to submit the following additional information:
1. The MN State Residential Building Code requires dwelling units to be separated from one another. The wall(s) / floor(s) that separate the units from one another are required to be constructed with one-hour fire resistance. This must be shown on the submitted plans.
2. The utilities may be shared, such that each unit has access to the shared utilities in a common area. However, separate ventilation systems are required for each new unit. Each unit must have its own separate ventilation system prior to issuing the Certificate of Occupancy.
3. Be sure to verify you meet minimum lot size and off-street parking requirements with the Duluth Planning Division prior to submitting the building permit application to this office.

Building Permit Fees. Building permit fees are based on the valuation of the project. The state surcharge fee, required, is also based on the valuation of the project. Plan review fees are required and are a percentage of the permit fee. 

You can use the Permit Fee Calculator or Fee Schedule to calculate fees.

WLSSD Capacity Availability Fee (CAF). If adding new dwelling units, Construction Services collects a $940 fee which is passed on to WLSSD. Please see the WLSSD Capacity Availability Information Form for more information regarding CAF.

Shoreland Permit (if applicable). $52 fee.

Sub-Permit Fees (Electrical, Plumbing, Gas Piping, HVAC). Please see the following link to find out which sub-permits are based on set fees vs valuation (labor & material of project).

It is the permit holder’s responsibility to schedule inspections. Please see Residential Permit Holder Responsibilities for information about what inspections will be required by the assigned inspectors and how to schedule an inspection.

A Certificate of Occupancy may be required if your project is a change of use. The Certificate of Occupancy must be issued prior to occupancy of your new home. Once all inspections, including for general construction, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work, are approved, the construction inspector will issue a Certificate of Occupancy.

• You may still need to provide drawings to use to demonstrate where in the house the work is taking place.

• General Building Permit Application. Be sure all areas are completed such as valuation, contact information, and required applicant signatures.
• HVAC, Plumbing, Gas Piping, and Electrical work requires separate permits. These permits will not be issued until the building permit is issued. If you would like to read more information regarding these types of permits, please visit this page.

Building Permit Fees. Building permit fees are based on the valuation of the project. The state surcharge fee, required, is also based on the valuation of the project. No plan review fee is collected.

You can use the Permit Fee Calculator or Fee Schedule to calculate fees.

Sub-Permit Fees (Electrical, Plumbing, Gas Piping, HVAC). Please see the following link to find out which sub-permits are based on set fees vs valuation (labor & material of project).

It is the permit holder’s responsibility to schedule inspections. Please see Residential Permit Holder Responsibilities for information about what inspections will be required by the assigned inspectors and how to schedule an inspection.

• Construction Services & Inspections (CSI) is the main point of contact for your project. CSI will help you understand the process, guide you to assembling a complete permit application and route your project to all of the City divisions that will need to review and approve your project.
• If you are planning on creating future habitable space (example: living room, rec room, bedroom) in the basement, a preliminary inspection will be required after you submit a complete building permit application to this office. The preliminary inspection is to ensure the basement ceiling meets minimum ceiling height, and the basement has adequate egress. The Land Use Technician will give you the inspector’s contact information, once your application is processed and routed for review.
• If land disturbance is in close proximity to a creek or shoreline or located in a wetland or flood hazard area, it may be subject to additional regulations and require additional permits or special approvals. Contact Construction Services at (218) 730-5240 to discuss the details.

• Residential Plan Review Building Permit Application. Be sure all areas are completed such as valuation, contact information, and required applicant signatures.
• Shoreland Permit – applicable only if there is any land disturbance located in a shoreland buffer zone. City staff is responsible for filling out necessary paperwork for this application.
• HVAC, Plumbing, Gas Piping, and Electrical work requires separate permits. These permits will not be issued until the building permit is issued. If you would like to read more information regarding these types of permits, please visit this page.
• Site Plan – if window well is needed. Please see the Site Plan Packet, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for site plan requirements. You will need a boundary survey signed by a professional land surveyor licensed in the State of Minnesota. Please review the Survey and Site Plan Packets. St. Louis County keeps an updated list of professional land surveyors in the St. Louis County area on their website here.
• Window Well Form. Be sure to complete Worksheet on page two.
• Floor Plan(s). Provide complete plans for each floor, including the basement and finished attic space. Please see the Sample Floor Plan, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for floor plan requirements.

Building Permit Fees. Building permit fees are based on the valuation of the project. The state surcharge fee, required, is also based on the valuation of the project. Plan review fees are required and are a percentage of the permit fee. 

You can use the Permit Fee Calculator or Fee Schedule to calculate fees.

Shoreland Permit (if applicable). $52 fee.

Sub-Permit Fees (Electrical, Plumbing, Gas Piping, HVAC). Please see the following link to find out which sub-permits are based on set fees vs valuation (labor & material of project).

It is the permit holder’s responsibility to schedule inspections. Please contact the inspector directly for what inspections will be required.

• Building Permit Application. Be sure all areas are completed such as valuation, contact information, and required applicant signatures OR you can apply online here.

Building Permit Fees. Building permit fees are based on the valuation of the project. The state surcharge fee, required, is also based on the valuation of the project. No plan review fee is collected.

You can use the Permit Fee Calculator or Fee Schedule to calculate fees.

It is the permit holder’s responsibility to schedule inspections. Contact the inspector listed on your issued permit to schedule final inspection once ALL work is complete.

• Construction Services & Inspections (CSI) is the main point of contact for your project. CSI will help you understand the process, guide you to assembling a complete permit application and route your project to all of the City divisions that will need to review and approve your project.
• A permit is required if the deck is attached to an existing structure or is 30 inches (or more) above grade.
• Decks over 14 feet above grade, will require a complete design of the framing, connections, and foundation by a structural engineer licensed in Minnesota.
• Multi-level Decks: If the area of any level of a multi-level deck exceeds 120 square feet or if the vertical distance between the top of the floor of the lower level and the bottom of the joist of the upper level exceeds ten (10) feet, design must be by a structural engineer licensed in Minnesota. If the proposed deck does not require an engineer, footings must be sized to carry the load from all levels. Design for 42-pound live load plus 10-pound dead load, and assume 1500 psf soil bearing capacity.
• If your project is in close proximity to a creek or shoreline or located in a wetland or flood hazard area, it may be subject to additional regulations and require additional permits or special approvals. Contact Construction Services at (218) 730- 5240 to discuss the details. 
• You will need to submit a site plan based on a boundary survey. Please review the Survey and Site Plan Packet. St. Louis County keeps an updated list of professional land surveyors in the St. Louis County area on their website here.
• Minimum required setbacks from property lines depend on the zone district where your property is located and building code requirements. Usually zoning setbacks are greater than building code setback requirements. You can find the zone district and setback requirements on the Zoning Regulations web page. You will need to find your property on the Zoning Map, then look for setback requirements for that district. You can also call Construction Services at (218) 730-5240 for help determining the zone district and setback requirements.

• Use the Residential Deck Application Packet for your building permit application submittal.
• Shoreland Permit – applicable only if there is any land disturbance located in a shoreland buffer zone. City staff is responsible for filling out necessary paperwork for this application.
• Site Plan. Please see the Site Plan Packet, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for site plan requirements. You may need a boundary survey signed by a professional land surveyor licensed in the State of Minnesota. Please review the Survey and Site Plan Packet. St. Louis County keeps an updated list of professional land surveyors in the St. Louis County area on their website here.
• Helical Pile Specification and Installer Designation Form – if applicable. If installing helical piles, the Helical Pile Form will be required prior to the issuance of the permit. 

Building Permit Fees. Building permit fees are based on the valuation of the project. For new decks the valuation is based on a standard per square foot cost. The state surcharge fee, required, is also based on the valuation of the project. Plan review fees are typically not collected for new decks, unless the proposed deck requires special plan review. Construction Services will calculate the valuation for new residential decks to determine total permit fees, which are paid when the permit is approved. 

If you'd like to estimate your permit fees, you can use the Residential Valuation Schedule Form to calculate the valuation per square foot. Then, you can use the Permit Fee Calculator or Fee Schedule to calculate fees.

Shoreland Permit (if applicable). $52 fee.

It is the permit holder’s responsibility to schedule inspections. Please see Residential Permit Holder Responsibilities for information about what inspections will be required by the assigned inspectors and how to schedule an inspection. 

• Construction Services & Inspections (CSI) is the main point of contact for your project. CSI will help you understand the process, guide you to assembling a complete permit application and route your project to all of the City divisions that will need to review and approve your project.
• One-story detached accessory structures, used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, where floor area does not exceed 200 square feet, do not require a building permit. However, you will still need to meet minimum zoning requirements. 
• If you are planning on building a habitable accessory structure, please refer to option one above for new dwellings.
• If you are planning on building a pole or post frame building or multi-story building, please refer to the Residential Plan Review Checklist for Accessory Structure. Pole and Post Frame Buildings do not meet the prescriptive requirements of the MN Building Codes; therefore, these types of structures must be designed to meet performance-based design requirements. Pole or Post frame building plans must be prepared by, and stamped by a structural engineer licensed in the Minnesota. Many suppliers of post frame building kits have engineers on staff that can provide this service for you.
• Contact the Duluth Engineering Division at (218) 730-5200 to discuss available utilities, utility connection costs, driveway permits, and other permits for work in the right-of-way (street or alley).
• If your project is in close proximity to a creek or shoreline or located in a wetland or flood hazard area, it may be subject to additional regulations and require additional permits or special approvals. Contact Construction Services at (218) 730- 5240 to discuss the details. 
• You will need to submit a site plan based on a boundary survey. Please review the Survey and Site Plan Packet. St. Louis County keeps an updated list of professional land surveyors in the St. Louis County area on their website here.
• Minimum required setbacks from property lines depend on the zone district where your property is located and building code requirements. Usually zoning setbacks are greater than building code setback requirements. You can find the zone district and setback requirements on the Zoning Regulations web page. You will need to find your property on the Zoning Map, then look for setback requirements for that district. You can also call Construction Services at (218) 730-5240 for help determining the zone district and setback requirements.

• If you are planning on building one story wood light framed detached residential garage, use the Residential Detached Garage Info & Application Packet for your building permit application submittal.
• Erosion Control Permit Application - if proposed land disturbance is located with-in a shoreland buffer zone, and/or your project is disturbing approximately 3,000 square feet, or greater, of land. The Erosion Control Permit Application is a Duluth Engineering Division permit. You will submit this along with your building permit application to the Construction Services office. It will then be routed to the Engineering Division to be reviewed. Both owner's and the contractor's (if applicable) signatures are required on the front page of the application.
• Shoreland Permit – applicable only if there is any land disturbance located in a shoreland buffer zone. City staff is responsible for filling out necessary paperwork for this application.
• HVAC, Plumbing, Gas Piping, and Electrical work requires separate permits. These permits will not be issued until the building permit is issued. If you would like to read more information regarding these types of permits, please visit this page.
• Boundary Survey. You will need a boundary survey signed by a professional land surveyor licensed in the State of Minnesota. Please review the Survey and Site Plan Packet. St. Louis County keeps an updated list of professional land surveyors in the St. Louis County area on their website here.
• Site Plan. Please see the Survey and Site Plan Packet, and page two of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for site plan requirements.

Building Permit Fees. Building permit fees are based on the valuation of the project. For new detached garages the valuation is based on a standard per square foot cost. The state surcharge fee, required, is also based on the valuation of the project. Plan review fees are typically not collected for new detached garages, unless the proposed detached garage requires special plan review. Construction Services will calculate the valuation for new residential garage to determine total permit fees, which are paid when the permit is approved. 

If you'd like to estimate your permit fees, you can use the Residential Valuation Schedule Form to calculate the valuation per square foot. Then, you can use the Permit Fee Calculator or Fee Schedule to calculate fees.

Shoreland Permit (if applicable). $52 fee.

Erosion Control Permit (if applicable). if proposed land disturbance is with-in a shoreland buffer zone, and/or your project is disturbing approximately 3,000 square feet, or greater, of land. Please see fees referenced on Erosion Control Application.

It is the permit holder’s responsibility to schedule inspections. Please see Residential Permit Holder Responsibilities for information about what inspections will be required by the assigned inspectors and how to schedule an inspection.

• Construction Services & Inspections (CSI) is the main point of contact for your project. CSI will help you understand the process, guide you to assembling a complete permit application and route your project to all of the City divisions that will need to review and approve your project.
• Fill and Grading Permit is required if scope of work is outside the following:

No permit is required when:

1. The volume of fill to be placed is less than 10 cubic yards; and
2. Fill is less than two feet in depth and placed on natural terrain flatter than 5 to 1 (20% slope); or
3. When approved by the building official, grading in an isolated, self-contained area if there is no danger to public or private property; and
4. Work does not obstruct a drainage course.

• Erosion Control Permit is required when a Fill and Grading Permit is required.
• Contact the Duluth Engineering Division at (218) 730-5200 to discuss available utilities, utility connection costs, driveway permits, and other permits for work in the right-of-way (street or alley).
• If your project is in close proximity to a creek or shoreline or located in a wetland or flood hazard area, it may be subject to additional regulations and require additional permits or special approvals. Contact Construction Services at (218) 730- 5240 to discuss the details. 
• You will need to submit a site plan based on a boundary survey. Please review the Survey and Site Plan Packet. St. Louis County keeps an updated list of professional land surveyors in the St. Louis County area on their website here.

• Fill out the Filling and Grading Permit Application Packet, and necessary documents and plans instructed on the application packet.
• Fill out the Erosion Control Permit Application, and necessary documents and plans instructed on the application.
• Shoreland Permit – if any land disturbance located in a shoreland buffer zone. City staff is responsible for filling out necessary paperwork for application.
• A preliminary site inspection will take place by the assigned inspector, once a complete application is submitted to this office.

Fill & Grading Permit Fees. Fill & Grading Permit Fees are based on the volume of soil or other material to be moved in cubic yards and/or area of land disturbance in square feet.  Construction Services will calculate to determine total permit fees, which are paid when the permit is approved.

Shoreland Permit (if applicable). $52 fee.

Erosion Control Permit Fee. Please see fees referenced on Erosion Control Application.

It is the permit holder’s responsibility to schedule inspections. Please contact the inspector directly for what inspections will be required.

• Fence – A zoning permit is required for all fences over four feet in height. A building permit is required for all fences over seven feet in height in addition to a zoning permit.
• If a proposed fence is over seven feet in height, the plans will need to be stamped by a structural engineer licensed in Minnesota.
• Please review the Fence Info Sheet to review zoning regulations.
• A building permit is required for retaining walls that are over four feet in height, or any retaining wall, regardless of height, that is supporting a surcharge such as a driveway or building. Height of retaining wall is measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, not from grade to the top of the wall. Plans for retaining walls will need to be stamped by a structural engineer licensed in Minnesota.
• If your project is in close proximity to a creek or shoreline or located in a wetland or flood hazard area, it may be subject to additional regulations and require additional permits or special approvals. Contact Construction Services at (218) 730- 5240 to discuss the details. 
• You will need to submit a site plan based on a boundary survey. Please review the Survey and Site Plan Packet. St. Louis County keeps an updated list of professional land surveyors in the St. Louis County area on their website here.

• If fence - fill out and submit a Zoning Fence Permit Application.
• Fill out and submit a Residential Plan Review Building Permit Application. Be sure all areas are completed such as valuation, contact information, and required applicant signatures.
• Submit plans (including foundation) stamped and signed by Minnesota licensed Structural Engineer.
• Boundary Survey. Signed by a professional land surveyor licensed in the State of Minnesota. If you are unable to locate at least three survey pins on your lot, you will need a boundary survey. Please review the Survey and Site Plan Packet. St. Louis County keeps an updated list of professional land surveyors in the St. Louis County Area on their website here.
• Site Plan. Please see Survey and Site Plan Packet, and page 2 of the Residential Plan Review Checklist for site plan requirements.

Building Permit Fees. Building permit fees are based on the valuation of the project. The state surcharge fee, required, is also based on the valuation of the project. Plan review fees are required and are a percentage of the permit fee. 

You can use the Permit Fee Calculator or Fee Schedule to calculate fees.

Shoreland Permit (if applicable). $52 fee.

*If Fence Permit: Refer to the Zoning Permit Application regarding application fee for the Zoning Fence Permit. This fee will be required at application submittal.

It is the permit holder’s responsibility to schedule inspections. Please contact the inspector listed on your issued building permit directly regarding what inspections will be required.

Please note: A planner from the Planning Division may perform separate inspections per the Unified Development Code for fences.