Citywide Permits and Licenses

The City of White Bear Lake administers a variety of permits and licenses. Please select from the list below to be directed to the specific type of permit or license you seek. If you are not finding what you seek, please contact the City of White Bear Lake at (651) 429-8526 to be directed accordingly.

Image of an application

The Building Department is currently accepting permit applications through one of the following methods:

Mechanical Contractors, General Commercial Contractors & Tree Trimmers are required to obtain an annual local city license.  City of White Bear Lake licenses expire on December 31st annually.

Picture:  Downtown Friendliness by Mike Brooks

The City of White Bear Lake issues various types of business licenses and related permits. Commonly requested business license applications are provided here for your convenience.  For a full list of business licenses that are regulated by the City, refer to the Municipal Code. Most licenses are valid through the City's business cycle which begins on April 1 and ends on March 31.

For questions related to business licenses, contact the City Clerk, clerk@whitebearlake.org, or call (651) 429-8508.

Fireworks by Matt Todd

The White Bear Lake Fire Department issues permits for various activities related to fire safety.  These permits ensure the activity is in compliance with federal, state and local laws.

License Bureau

The License Bureau will be closed Monday, May 27th, 2024 in observance of Memorial Day. 

Hours of Operation
Monday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday:  8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday:  8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

The White Bear Lake License Bureau offers walk-in service only. We do not provide appointments for any service at this time. Due to increased transaction times and customer volume, customers must be in line 45 minutes prior to close - 4:15 p.m. (M/W/TH/F) and 5:15 p.m. (T).

Picture of the Shoreline at Lions Park

There are 24 parks in White Bear Lake providing everything from public docks to an 18-hole disc golf course! City parks are open between the hours of 6 a.m.-10 p.m. 

Picture of the White Bear Lake Public Safety Building

For more information or to obtain the correct permit or form click on the following links.

Citizen's Complaint Form
File a formal complaint. For informal complaints, feedback or to make a commendation, please Contact Us.

rental

The City of White Bear Lake regulates rental property to ensure minimum standards provide for public health, safety and welfare within its jurisdiction under Chapter 502 of the City's Municipal Code

Standards apply to all buildings which are rented in whole or part as a dwelling for persons other than the property owner's family. It includes accessory structures such as garages and storage buildings, and appurtenances such as sidewalks, parking lots, and retaining walls, which are on the lot where the rental property is located. The code does not apply to Minnesota Department of Health licensed rest homes, convalescent care facilities, and nursing homes, nor to hotels and motels.

Boring Machine

Right-of-way is the property on which the street is located and that extends behind the curb approximately 10 to 15 feet. Any work performed within the City's right-of-way requires a permit.  Read more for the application and permit fees.

Questions?  Contact the Engineering Department at (651) 429-8531.