In Person

Interior Remodeling and Alterations

When do I need a permit?

A permit is required for interior remodeling projects that change the interior structure of a single-family dwelling. For information about permits, see Permits Overview.

If your construction project has accessibility issues please view the informational handouts on accessibility on our applications and forms page or at the State of Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry web page on accessibility.

Interior remodels that require a permit include:

• Finishing an attic
• Remodeling a basement
• Building an addition
• Tearing down or adding walls
• Closing a door opening or making a new door opening
• Installing or replacing interior doors
• Adding or tearing out a staircase (PDF)
• Remodeling a kitchen or bathroom
• Installing or replacing fixtures (sink, garbage disposal, bathtub, toilet, shower etc)
• Replacing a kitchen gas stove
• Replacing a gas dryer
• Any changes to the electrical system, except for replacing outlets or existing light fixtures
• Installing a new light fixture (not replacing an existing one)
• Hard wired smoke detectors
• Adding or tearing out a fireplace or chimney
• Converting a wood-burning fireplace to gas
• Installing or replacing a gas furnace
• Adding insulation or outside walls (but not in the attic)
• Installing new windows – see Window Replacement

For more complete information, see Common Required Repairs.

Interior remodels that do NOT require a permit include:

• Painting, wallpapering, or paneling walls
• Installing or replacing woodwork or molding (around doors, windows, ceilings, floors)
• Replacing window coverings such as drapes, shutters, or blinds
• Tearing up or installing flooring such as carpeting, wood, or vinyl
  Important: The old flooring may contain asbestos, contact a licensed asbestos removal company.
• Installing battery-operated smoke alarms or carbon monoxide detectors. (Hard wired smoke detectors DO require an electrical permit.)

For more information about heating systems, water heaters, smoke detectors, and gas piping, see Common Required Repairs.

The City of Minneapolis publishes information bulletins containing design guidelines and other important compliance requirements for popular residential building projects and topics.