Required for roof replacement, re-roofing, and structural roof repairs in Scott County townships.
Required for new homes, additions, garages, and structures over 200 sq ft. Fees based on project valuation.
Required for accessory buildings over 200 sq ft including garages, sheds, and pole barns.
Common questions about Scott County permits, engineered drawing requirements, ePermit technology fees, contractor licensing, and unpermitted work.
When does Scott County require engineered drawings sealed by a licensed engineer?
New construction, additions, and structural projects in Scott County townships typically require construction drawings sealed by a Minnesota-licensed structural engineer. This applies to new homes, garages, and major structural alterations. Simple projects like roofing and mechanical work don't require engineered drawings. If you're unsure whether your project needs sealed plans, call Scott County Building Inspections at (952) 496-8160 Ext. 1 before applying — submitting without required engineered plans will delay your permit.
What is the Scott County ePermit technology fee?
Scott County charges a technology fee on top of standard permit fees when you apply through the ePermit online portal. This is a processing fee for the online system — typically a small percentage of the permit fee. Pay by credit card at the time of application for faster processing. All documents must be properly named per county requirements or your application will be rejected and need to be resubmitted.
Does my contractor need to be licensed in Scott County?
Yes. All contractors doing permitted work must hold a valid Minnesota state license whether the permit is issued by the county or a city. HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work require specific state trade licenses. Verify any contractor at the DOLI contractor lookup before hiring. If they won't pull a permit, walk away.
What happens if I do work without a permit in Scott County?
Scott County Building Inspections can require completed work to be opened or removed for inspection at your cost. A penalty fee is charged on top of the permit fee. Unpermitted work must be disclosed when selling and can delay or kill a sale. In shoreland areas near Scott County lakes and rivers, unpermitted work may also trigger additional Planning and Zoning enforcement.
Use the Scott County GIS system to confirm if your property is in a township (county jurisdiction) or within city limits. Type your address or Property ID number (PID) in the GIS search bar.
Register as a user in the Scott County ePermit Portal. Prepare all required documents in PDF format with proper naming conventions. Include site plans, engineered designs if applicable, and contractor information.
Apply through the ePermit portal with all required documents. Pay technology fee and application fees online with credit card for faster processing. All documents must be properly named per county requirements.
After permit approval, schedule inspections by calling (952) 496-8160 Ext. 1. Print approved permit posting card and stamped plans in full color to keep on-site for inspectors.
Cold climate requires R-49 attic insulation, R-20 walls, and proper air sealing per Minnesota Energy Code. Energy code compliance certificate required for new construction.
Roofing and siding materials must meet wind resistance requirements. Proper fastening patterns and wind-rated products required for all exterior installations.
All footings must extend at least 42 inches below grade to prevent frost heave. Proper foundation drainage required in all construction.
Properties near lakes and rivers have special shoreland requirements. Agricultural buildings may be exempt from permits under certain conditions—verify with Planning and Zoning.
