Saint Paul’s Department of Safety and Inspections (DSI) is the main starting point for construction permitting, building inspections, zoning review, and many trade permits. The City now uses PAULIE, its centralized online permitting and licensing system, for applications, document uploads, payments, status tracking, and inspections. Building work is regulated under Minnesota building codes together with Saint Paul ordinances.
Zoning review is closely integrated with permitting. Zoning approval is required for building permits and can also apply to changes of use, occupancy, and signage. The zoning code controls permitted uses, building size and location, parking, signs, and overlay districts. Larger projects may also require Site Plan Review, with decisions involving the Zoning Administrator, Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, or City Council depending on the request.
Historic properties follow a separate preservation review path. Exterior work on locally designated heritage sites and properties within local historic districts requires approval from Saint Paul Heritage Preservation before applicable City permits are issued. Applications are submitted through PAULIE and may receive administrative review or require Heritage Preservation Commission consideration.
Other approvals depend on where work occurs. Public Works regulates use of streets, sidewalks, boulevards, and other public right-of-way, while Saint Paul Forestry requires a permit for planting, pruning, treating, stump work, or removal involving public boulevard trees. Applicants can begin with the City’s PAULIE permitting system and then identify any zoning, historic, right-of-way, or forestry reviews that apply.