Parking ramp operating certificate

All parking ramps in the city must have a license.

Definition

A parking ramp is a building or structure with more than one level where people can:

  • Park motor vehicles
  • Store motor vehicles
  • Maintain or work on motor vehicles

If a parking ramp has a ground-level lot and at least one floor above or below it, it counts as more than one level.

Inside of a parking ramp, at the gate

What to know

Before you begin

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First application

  • Find the date on your parking ramp’s Certificate of Occupancy. You need it to know when to apply for your first operating certificate.
  • Your first application is due within 5 years after the CoO date. After that, you must renew your certificate every year.

Renewal

  • Submit your renewal application at least 30 days before your certificate expires to avoid late fees.

Example certification schedule

  • Certificate of Occupancy Date: Apr. 5, 2020

First operating certificate

  • License required: Apr. 5, 2025 (5 years after CoO date)
  • Apply by: Mar. 5, 2025 (30 days before it expires)

Annual Renewals

  • License expires every Apr. 5 (2026, 2027, 2028, etc.)
  • Apply by Mar. 5 each year

Fees

Standard fee: $252.90

Fee starting 30 days after expiration date: $505.80

Application

See ramp operating certificate application

How to submit your application

Email your documents to the parking ramps team

Requirements

Get inspections and a certificate

Parking ramp owner/operators must have regular inspections and an operating certificate to keep their license.

Read the parking ramp ordinance

Insurance and penalties

Both the ramp owner and the engineer must have liability insurance. If you don’t get or renew your certificate on time, you’ll pay double the fee. Breaking the rules can lead to extra fines.

Steps to apply

Step 1

Work with an engineer

Find a qualified civil or structural engineer to:

    • Complete an inspection
    • Provide a report with findings and recommendations

See a list of qualified engineers

Step 2

Submit application

Step 3

Pay the fee

Pay by phone

To pay with a credit card, call: 612-673-3734

Mail a check

Mail check to: Attn: Ramp Program

Step 4

Post the certificate

Once your application is approved, you’ll get your operating certificate. Post it where people can see it, like in the office or main booth.

Report an issue

Contact us

Ramp Program

Community Planning & Economic Development 

Email Parking Ramps

Address

505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 320
Minneapolis, MN 55415