Building Permits

General Permit Information

All building and related permits ensure that projects will be constructed according to nationally recognized standards. The standards are designed to protect buildings from collapse and fire, and to ensure the safety of all building occupants. Review of permit applications also ensures that projects meet zoning requirements, such as yard coverage, setbacks and building height. Outside agency review and approval may also be required.

Permits, such as residential plumbing, mechanical, and like-for-like window replacements may be issued at the time of application. Other residential and commercial permit applications requiring review may take up to five working days or more to process. Applications for permits should be submitted well in advance of the scheduled starting date. This will allow time for City staff to offer assistance through the process and issue permit at the start of the project. This is especially true during the summer construction season.

Fees

All building permit fees, with the exception of electrical fees, can be found on the City's fee schedule (page 1 to 2).

The City's electrical fees are determined by Tokle Inspections. 
View 2023 Electrical Fees

Refunds

Per City Code, all building permit fees, plan review fees, and related inspection fees are determined by the City Council, excluding the Minnesota State surcharge. The Building Official may authorize refunding of any fee paid hereunder that was erroneously paid or collected. The Building Official may authorize refunding of not more than 80 percent of the permit fee paid when no work has been done under a permit issued in accordance with the code. The Building Official may authorize refunding of not more than 80 percent of the plan review fee paid when an applicant for a permit for which a plan review fee has been paid is withdrawn or canceled before any plan reviewing is done. The Building Official shall not authorize refunding of any fee paid except on written application filed by the original permittee not later than 180 days after the date of fee payment.

View City Code Chapter 5, Article 2, Sec. 5-11 and Sec. 5-12

Information for Contractors and Residents

Contractors or residents planning to apply for permits to do work on properties in the City of Oakdale should review What Requires a Permit before beginning applications. 

Online Permits

As of February 6, 2023, all building permits are now being done via an online permitting process. Visit our online services page to set up your account and begin the permit process.

The following permits applications are available using the online permitting system: 

Anyone who comes to City Hall to complete a building permit will be asked to create an online account to begin the permit process. A computer is available for use at the permitting counter. 

Inspections

Please review the Building Permits Inspections Page for more information on scheduling an inspection.

Data Requests

To submit a data request for any permit or rental license completed after February 6, 2023, you can search on the online services portal using the "Search" function in the upper right-hand corner. You can search by address or permit number if you select "Record".

For any other permit or license completed before February 6, complete a Data Request Form and send to City Clerk, Sara Ludwig at sara.ludwig@oakdalemn.gov.