When to apply for a permit

You will need a permit if you want to include certain items in your boulevard garden.

A permit is required for:

• Fences
• Irrigation systems
• Other fixtures
• Alternative ground cover (such as landscape rock and mulch)

In this section

• Items that need a permit
• Learn how to apply for a permit
• Permit process details
• Gardens in parkways and roads
• Boulevard garden rules

Ground cover and mulch

• Mulch covering more than 6ft parallel to the curb
• Landscape rock
• Stones

Fixed items

Anything that is fixed in place on the boulevard requires a permit. This includes:

• Fences
• Ornaments
• Irrigation systems
• Birdbaths
• Pots
• Stepping stones
• Other items

Step one

• Fill out the special boulevard cover permit application.
• Pay your permit application fee. This is a one-time fee.

Apply for a permit

Step two

The City will review your application. If approved, we will send you:

• An acceptance form
• An insurance endorsement form

Step three

• Return the completed forms to us.
• Once you return both forms, the City will issue your permit.

If your application is denied

We will tell you how to appeal.

Acceptance form

If we approve your application, we'll send you an acceptance form.

In the form, the property owner must agree to the terms that the City sets for the permit.

Return your forms to us

Contact the Right-of-Way office

Insurance and liability coverage forms

If we approve your application, we'll send you an insurance form.

The property owner's insurance must:

1. Complete the insurance endorsement form.
2. Complete a certificate of liability coverage form.*

Return the completed forms to us.

*The City must be additional insured

The insurance must name the City of Minneapolis as an additional insured party. Use the mailing address listed in the application as the additional insured address.