Minnesota, Scott County Remodeler Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Scott County Building & Safety Division
The Scott County Building Inspections Department is responsible for enforcing the Minnesota State Building Codes within the county's townships. All permit applications are processed online through the ePermit portal.
Unincorporated Areas
For properties located in unincorporated areas of Scott County, building permits are required for work regulated by the building code. While Scott County handles the building permits, it's important to check with the specific township for any local approvals or development standards related to access, roads, or other township matters.
Demolition Permit Triggers During Remodels
A permit is generally required for demolition work. However, if the demolition is part of a larger remodel project and there is no significant delay between the demolition and the new work, a separate demolition permit may not be necessary. In such cases, the remodel permit application must include details about the materials to be removed. Scott County requires a site plan with demolition permit applications and may inspect the property to ensure proper waste removal.
Converting Non-Living Spaces to Habitable Areas
A building permit is required to convert attics, basements, or garages into habitable living spaces. Depending on the scope of work, additional electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permits may also be necessary. It is recommended to consult with Scott County Planning and Zoning early in the project to review parcel-specific requirements and zoning issues.
- Basements: Habitable space in basements must have a minimum ceiling height of 6'8". An egress window or exterior door is required for emergency escape and rescue, especially in sleeping rooms.
- Attics: Minimum ceiling height requirements for habitable rooms are generally 7'0". Floor area must be at least 70 square feet, with no horizontal dimension less than 7 feet.
- Garages: If converting a garage, you may need to demonstrate how a required on-site parking space will be provided. Detached garages may have setback requirements and potential structural deficiencies that need to meet building code standards.
Resources to Learn More
Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Minnesota, including Scott County.
Minnesota Remodeler Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
Minnesota State Building Codes and Legislation for Remodelers and Residential Renovations
In Minnesota, the regulation of building codes and residential renovations falls under the purview of the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI), specifically its Construction Codes and Licensing Division (CCLD). The state has adopted various codes, primarily based on the International Code Council (ICC) series, to ensure safety and quality in construction and remodeling projects.
1. Specific State Statutes and Codes Adopted
Minnesota has adopted the 2020 Minnesota State Building Code (MSBC), which includes several key components relevant to residential renovations:
- International Building Code (IBC): Minnesota Rules, Chapter 1305 adopts the 2018 IBC.
- International Residential Code (IRC): Minnesota Rules, Chapter 1309 adopts the 2018 IRC. This code is particularly relevant for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.
- International Existing Building Code (IEBC) Equivalents: Minnesota Rules, Chapter 1311 pertains to the "Rehabilitation of Existing Buildings." While not a direct adoption of the IEBC by year, this chapter addresses alterations, repairs, and additions to existing structures, ensuring they meet accessibility standards and other safety requirements.
- Other Relevant Codes: The MSBC also incorporates other codes such as the Minnesota Plumbing Code (Chapter 4714), Minnesota Energy Code, and Minnesota Accessibility Code.
2. Primary State Board or Agencies
The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI), through its Construction Codes and Licensing Division (CCLD), is the primary state agency responsible for promulgating and administering construction-related codes and licensing laws. This division oversees the enforcement of health and safety codes for both new and existing structures.
3. Classification of Remodels and Demolition Guidelines
Minnesota's building codes generally distinguish between cosmetic and structural alterations. While the codes do not explicitly define "cosmetic remodel" versus "structural alteration" in simple terms, the need for permits and adherence to specific code sections is triggered by the scope of work:
- Cosmetic Remodels: Minor updates like painting, replacing flooring, or updating fixtures typically do not require permits unless they involve work on electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems.
- Structural Alterations: Projects involving framing, altering load-bearing walls, converting spaces like attics or basements into habitable areas, or significant changes to the building's structure will require permits and must comply with the relevant sections of the IRC and other applicable codes. For instance, finishing a basement or converting an attic into living space involves specific requirements for ceiling height, emergency egress, insulation, and ventilation.
Demolition Guidelines:
- Demolition permits are generally required for the demolition of residential and commercial structures.
- Before demolition or renovation, especially for structures built before 1978, there are requirements for identifying and removing hazardous materials, including asbestos. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has specific guidelines and notification requirements for demolition projects.
- A pre-demolition inspection may be required by local authorities, such as Ramsey County, to ensure proper removal and disposal of hazardous waste.
- If demolition is part of a larger renovation project, a separate demolition permit may not be necessary if there is no significant delay between demolition and new work, provided the remodel permit application includes details about the materials to be removed.
- Contractors performing demolition must comply with state and local regulations, including proper waste disposal and management.
Resources to Learn More