- Community
- Services
-
Your Government
-
Column 1
- Agendas and Minutes
- Mayor & City Council
- Boards & Commissions
- City Charter
- City Projects
- City Calendar
Column 2
Column 3
-
Frequently Asked Questions
Can't find what you need? See Building and Code Enforcement FAQ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add an accessory dwelling unit, or mother-in-law unit to my house?
Permanent accessory dwelling units are allowed with a Conditional Use Permit; temporary health care accessory dwelling units are allowed through a zoning permit. For additional information, see Section 1302.125 of the Municipal Code, visit the City's information page, or contact the Planning Department at 651-429-8534.
Category: Planning
Can I raise chickens at my home?
Up to four hens are allowed on the property. A zoning permit is required, along with the Hens-Pigeon Agreement. Coops must be at least 50 feet from neighboring homes and 5 feet from lot lines. See the Hens-Pigeon Agreement for more information on requirements.
Category: Planning
Do I need a permit for my driveway?
All driveways, whether putting in a new one or replacing an existing one, require a zoning permit. A site plan must be submitted with the application showing where on the property the driveway will be. Dimensions indicating length, width, and distance to the property line need to be included on the site plan.
Generally, driveways are required to be 5 feet away from the side lot lines. You may request an administrative variance for it to be up to the lot line, which requires approval from the neighboring property owner. For more information, see the Driveway Information Handout.
If you are making changes to a curb cut from the street, contact the Engineering Department at 651-429-8531.
Category: Planning
How can I find the size or dimensions of my lot? Where is my property line?
Ramsey County maintains many property records, which can be accessed through an interactive property map. To bring up information on lot lines, click on the Layer List button at the top of the screen, then click the plus sign to expand Foreground Layers. Under Land Records, check Lot Annotations. The City may also have a copy of a survey on file. To find out, call the Building Department at 651-429-8518 or stop by City Hall.
In order to determine exactly where your property line is, you will need to uncover the markers, or pins, that are located in every corner of your lot. The markers are metal stakes, sometimes with a plastic cap, and are usually buried about six to ten inches under the ground. Read through the guide on how to find your property pins for tips on locating your markers and watch this video.
Category: Planning
My neighbor has an orange yard sign regarding land use approval in their yard, how can I find out more?
To find out more, check the current public notices on the City's homepage, call the Planning Department at 651-429-8534, or come to the public hearing on the date listed on the sign.
Category: Planning
What are the rules about patios?
Patios do not have setback requirements like decks, but are required to meet impervious area and rear yard cover regulations. Impervious area regulations apply to areas in the Shoreland Overlay District and the entire Old White Bear neighborhood. Permits are not required, but you should discuss your project with a Planner to ensure compliance with these regulations.
Category: Planning
What are the rules about swimming pools?
Swimming pools cannot be located within 20 feet of the side or rear lot lines and must have a non-climbable fence with a self closing and latching gate, Additional regulations apply depending on the type of pool. See the Swimming Pools Handout for more information.
Category: Planning
What type of business can I run out of my home?
There are three categories of businesses that may be run out of your home.
- Businesses that do not require customers or clients to visit the premises, don't have employees, and take place entirely in the primary dwelling on the structure may be registered with the Planning Department.
- Businesses such as art studios, contractors' offices, and private music lessons to single students may be allowed with a permit.
- Businesses like hair salons, photography studios, or businesses in a garage may be allowed with a Special Home Occupation Permit, which must be approved by the City Council. For more information, see §1302.120 of the Zoning Code.
To start the process for any home business, contact the Planning Department at 651-429-8561.
Category: Planning
What types of temporary signs can I use at my business?
Commercial properties can display temporary banners, attached to a permanent structure, or window signs by registering them with the City’s Planning Department at 651-429-8534. Sandwich boards with professional graphics may be used, so long as they are not located in the right of way, and do not require registration.
Properties may not display portable signs, signs staked into the ground, flag signs, temporary displays, or inflatables. View the commercial signs handout for more information.
Category: Planning
