Greetings from the Department of Building Safety of New Ulm!

This year’s construction season has been busy and has no clear end in sight. If you are one of the many who are either building now or have an upcoming project, congratulations! One of the first steps in your project is to determine if you need a building permit. The following information is provided to assist you with the proper steps to obtaining a building permit.

Do I need a building permit?

The easiest way to determine if your project requires a building permit would be to contact the Department of Building Safety at 507-359-8245 and tell us what your project is, and how extensive it will be.

If your project requires a building permit, we ask that you stop by our office located at City Hall, 100 North Broadway, to complete an application. Please bring the following with you:

• The intended use of a new space in writing.

• The expected cost of the project.

• A clear site plan showing existing structures with the new area drawn in on the plan.

• A floor plan of the new space (remodels included)

• Material specifications and drawings (Ex: Truss manufacturers cut sheets)

• Ideas for future expansion of space (Ex: building a deck that may later become a sunroom)

• Any other ideas or issues you may want to ask about.

New construction and remodels have requirements that often overlap. but can be different in some ways. We want to be part of a successful project ensuring the design is built for you to enjoy as well as future generations of users and occupants.

Beneficial information such as brochures, Minnesota State building codes and permit applications can be viewed at https://www.newulmmn.gov/166/Building-Safety.