Do I Need a Permit for a Deck in Minneapolis?

Direct Answer: Usually yes. Minneapolis's deck guidance says deck projects require a permit, including tearing down an old deck and rebuilding the same size. The narrow exception is a freestanding deck that is less than 30 inches high, is not attached to a structure with frost footings, and does not serve the main entrance to the dwelling. Even then, zoning rules for size and location still apply.

Verified against official municipal and state sources: July 13, 2026. Requirements change — confirm with the city before applying.

Key Takeaways

• Minneapolis's deck page links to City wood-deck guidelines and Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry residential deck fact sheets (Decks).
• The City's deck permit PDF says deck projects require a permit, even when replacing an old deck with one of the same size (Decks and Building Permits PDF).
• Minneapolis's exempt-work page gives the low-deck exception: freestanding, less than 30 inches high, not attached to a structure with frost footings, and not serving the main entrance (Construction work exempt from permit).
• Zoning still reviews size and location; the deck PDF tells applicants to contact zoning for setbacks before preparing plans.
• Minneapolis enforces the Minnesota State Building Code locally, so state deck rules and City zoning both matter.

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Permit or Exempt?

The key question is not just height. A low platform can still require review if it is attached, supported by frost footings, or functions as the main entrance landing. A higher deck, attached deck, deck with stairs/guards, or replacement of structural framing should be treated as permit-required.

Minneapolis also expects a site plan. The City's deck PDF describes a site plan as a representation of the property showing property lines, house, garage, and where the deck will be built. It also warns that the fence is not the property line and suggests contacting zoning for setbacks before preparing plans.

What to Prepare

• Site plan with property lines, house, garage, deck location, and distances.
• Deck drawings showing posts, beams, joists, stairs, guards, and footings.
• Height above grade.
• Whether it is freestanding or attached.
• Whether it serves a required entrance.

For broader code context, see Do I Need a Permit to Build a Deck? and Deck Footings, Frost Depth, and Code Requirements Explained.

FAQ

Can I rebuild the same deck without a permit?

Minneapolis's deck PDF says deck projects require a permit even if you are tearing down an old deck and reconstructing one the same size.

Are low decks exempt?

Only if they meet every condition: freestanding, under 30 inches, not attached to frost-footing structures, and not serving the main entrance.

Does zoning still matter if no building permit is required?

Yes. Minneapolis still requires zoning compliance for size and location.

Verify Your Address

Check GovCodex's Minneapolis permit catalog or run a permit check before you draw plans, especially if your lot is narrow, corner, sloped, or near water.