Informational Brochures
Many building permit applications can now be submitted online directly.
Addition or Remodeling Permit Requirements
Review detailed information about requirements for plan review, as well as permits and inspections required.
Basement Remodeling/Finishing Permit Requirements
Review detailed information about requirements for plan review, as well as permits and inspections required.
Backflow Prevention
Published by the MN Department of Labor and Industry, find out what devices need to be tested, installing the device, and testing and maintenance.
Backflow Prevention Testing Requirements
Building Permits - Information Required to Obtain A Building Permit
New buildings, additions, garages, decks, fences, room/basement additions or finishing...find detailed information about plan review, required permits and inspections.
Deck Permit Requirements
Read about setback/open space requirements, general construction requirements, information required for submission of a building permit application, as well as a list to help avoid some of the most common construction mistakes made.
Do I Need A Permit?
Find out what type of work requires a plan review and/or permit application(s) in the City of Columbia Heights.
Driveways - Residential
Surfacing materials, setbacks, minimum driveway widths...you can find it all here in this informational handout.
Electrical Inspections For Homeowners Made Easy
This informational brochure provides a general overview of residential electrical requirements, as well as links to inspection forms/permits and the State Electrical Inspections contact information.
Emergency Escapes (Egress Windows)
Created by the Department of Labor and Industry Construction Codes and Licensing Division, this brochure provides general guidelines for planning emergency escape (egress) windows and window wells.
Fence Permit Information
Obtain answers to general questions regarding approved fence materials, height and setback requirements for installing a fence in Columbia Heights.
Garages
Developed by the Department of Labor and Industry Construction Codes and Licensing Division, which provides general information to assist in the planning and construction of a residential garage.
Garage Permit Requirements
Review detailed requirements regarding the plan review and permit application process involved in planning and constructing a residential garage.
When Am I Required to Hire a Licensed Contractor?
General guidelines regarding permits/work which requires a homeowner to hire a Licensed Contractor versus when the homeowner CAN apply for the permit and complete the work themseleves.
Hiring A Residential Contractor
Prepared by the MN Department of Labor and Industry, a consumer's guide to hiring a residential building contractor for those planning to contract to have a new home built or an existing home remodeled.
Porches
Review information developed by the Department of Labor and Industry Construction Codes and Licensing Division, which provides general reference information for constructing a porch.
Retaining Wall Permit Requirements
Find out more about the plan review and permit process as well as construction standards for building a retaining wall.
Roofing - Guidelines for Asphalt Shingle ReRoofing
Ensure a successful reroofing project by reviewing this handout, provided by the Department of Labor and Industry, which provides general details and answers to frequently asked questions.
Roofing Permit Requirements
Read about applying for a building permit, permit fees, required inspections and other helpful information.
Sheds/Storage Buildings
Thinking of constructing a shed or storage building on your property? Review this handout for valuable information before starting your project.
Sign Permit Information
General sign standards, exempt signs, prohibited signs.....find out what you need to know here.
Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Review MN State Building Code requirements for the installation of smoke alarms and CO detectors in your home.
Swimming Pools
Browse this handout for permit and general requirements for both above ground and underground swimming pools.