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1. What types of improvements do not affect property taxes?

The following improvements do not affect property taxes: re-roofing, painting, landscaping and other cosmetic improvements.

2. Can I work on my own house?

Homeowners can do all of their own work as long as they obtain the necessary permits required. Permits are required to construct, add onto, alter, remove, demolish or repair any structure. This includes everything from new homes and garages to remodeling projects that might include additions, siding, windows, roofs, decks, storage sheds, fireplaces, wood stoves, swimming pools and hot tubs. Permits are also required for signs and commercial construction.

3. How much do building permits cost?

The cost depends on the value of the work being done and the various City Code requirements of Chapter 206. Call 763-572-3604 for an estimate. We cannot provide an exact figure until we have reviewed the plans.

4. What hours am I allowed to complete construction?

Construction is permitted in Fridley during the following hours:
7:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Monday-Friday
9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Saturdays
Construction is not permitted on Sundays or holidays.

5. Do I need a permit to install a retaining wall?

If the wall will be under four feet high, you do not need a building permit, but you need approval from the Engineering Department. If the retaining wall will be over four feet high, it requires a building permit and engineered drawings must be submitted to the city to obtain the permit.

6. Do I need a permit to install a water heater?

Yes, a plumbing permit is required.

7. Do I need a permit to build a shed in my yard?

A shed requires a permit if it is over 200 square feet in size. Sheds must be placed at least three feet from your side or back property line and off any easements across your property. Sheds also must be anchored and the maximum height of a shed is 14 feet to the mean distance between eaves and ridge of a gable, hip or gambrel roof. Make sure your new shed plus any existing garage space does not exceed 1,400 square feet.

8. Do I need a permit to put in a paved area?

You don't need a permit for a driveway, cement patio or sidewalk, but make sure these improvements are placed at least 3 feet inside your side or back property line. Structural slabs, however, do require a permit.

9. What do I need a permit for?

A permit is needed for all new construction, additions, remodeling, alterations and most replacements. Improvements that can be done without a permit might include fences (fence handout), painting, papering, floor coverings or any other cosmetic changes. See the State Building Code, Section 1300.0120, Permits, on the State of Minnesota web site for more details or see Permit Requirements For Building & Construction page.