Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $300–$1,000 Building permit (valuation) plus 35% plan review and trade permits.
Fee Method Project-based

What's Required in Minneapolis

  • Building permit required for wall removal or structural layout changes
  • Electrical permit required for all new circuits, lighting, and outlets
  • Plumbing permit required for relocating sinks, gas lines, or dishwashers
  • Mechanical permit required for range hood exhaust venting
  • GFCI protection mandatory for all kitchen countertop outlets
  • Floor plan showing existing vs. proposed layout required for review

Do You Need a Permit to Remodel a Kitchen in Minneapolis?

It depends on what you're changing, not on the word β€œremodel.” Minneapolis lists kitchen remodels as permit-required work, and in practice the permit attaches to the plumbing, electrical, and structural scope β€” not to cosmetic swaps. Permit fees typically run $300–$1,000 (project-based), issued by the City of Minneapolis Community Planning and Economic Development. A remodel that moves the sink, adds circuits, relocates the range, or opens a wall is firmly in permit territory β€” and often means separate trade permits rather than one ticket.

Kitchen Work That Usually Doesn't Need a Permit

The cosmetic layer is generally yours to change freely: swapping cabinets in the same footprint, new countertops, flooring, backsplash, paint, and replacing appliances that use existing hookups. The moment the project touches what's behind the finishes β€” supply lines, drains, gas, new circuits, walls, or venting β€” it stops being cosmetic in the city's eyes. If your remodel straddles the line, describe the full scope to the City of Minneapolis Community Planning and Economic Development up front; retrofitting a permit onto half-finished work is the expensive path.

How to Get a Kitchen Remodel Permit in Minneapolis

1

Step 1: Prep Drawings

Create scale drawings showing the kitchen layout and utility locations.

2

Step 2: ProjectDox Submission

Upload plans to ProjectDox under 'Residential Interior Remodel'.

3

Step 3: Trade Permits

Licensed contractors pull separate electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits.

4

Step 4: Fee Payment

Pay building fees plus the 35% interior remodel plan review surcharge.

5

Step 5: Inspections

Schedule rough-in (trades/framing) and final inspections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, for structural changes or any modifications to plumbing, electrical, or gas systems.
Expect to pay $300–$1,000 total including the 35% plan review and trade permits.
Cosmetic updates like cabinet or floor covering replacement are exempt if utilities aren't moved.