Building Inspections is responsible for the administration of the State of Minnesota Building Code. There are several documents that comprise the Code, but the main documents are the International  Building Code and the International Residential Code.

Building permits are required for most types of construction. The usual process for obtaining a building permit is to complete an application and submit the proper documents. Review of the application and documents may take 3- 10 days. Other permits that are required include plumbing and mechanical.

Building permits are required for all new construction and most home improvements. The purpose of the permit is to ensure that the building project meets minimum standards to safeguard life, limb, health, property and public welfare enforced by the City of Robbinsdale. The fees charged for building permits are used to defray the cost of code enforcement.

If you have questions about whether or not you need a building permit, please contact the Building Inspections Department at (763) 531-1268.

Do not take out a building permit for the contractor. When the contractor signs the permit, the contractor is agreeing to do the work according to code. If you sign for the permit, you are liable for correcting the contractor's work if it should fall short of City or State building code standards. Make sure your contractor has a permit and that the contractor calls for inspections. An inspection card will be issued and should be displayed near the work area.

We recommend that you involve the Building Department in the initial planning of your project to avoid unnecessary and perhaps unpleasant surprises along the way. If you are unsure of whom to contact first or what steps to take, call the Building Department at (763) 531-1268.

If you are constructing a new structure or remodeling or changing the use of an existing structure Building Department plan review will be required. The plan approval process assures safe buildings and related site improvements that make Robbinsdale a better community.