Licensed contractors are required by law for certain types of permit work.
What to know when hiring a residential contractor
Residential building contractors are licensed by the State of Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. Permits for any residential construction, remodeling, or roofing projects are issued only to contractors who hold a current state license.
State of Minnesota Residential building licenses
- Residential building contractor (i.e., general contractor) license
The contractor can construct, remodel, or roof/re-roof a new or existing single family residence and two-, three-, or four-dwelling structures. - Residential remodeling license
The contractor can remodel or roof/re-roof a new or existing single family residence and two-, three-, or four-dwelling structures. - Residential roofer license
The contractor can roof or re-roof residential structures only.
Find a licensed building contractor
The Minnesota Commerce Department explains how to hire a contractor.
To check the status of a contractor's license or find a licensed contractor, see the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry for the company name or State license number.
Residential building contractors – City licensed
If the contractor does not meet the state requirements listed above, they must obtain a Residential Specialty Contractor through the City of Minneapolis, Licenses and Consumer Services Division. Residential Specialty Contractors are only permitted to perform one (1) type of work (e.g., masonry, drywall, etc.) under their license. Contractors proposing projects such as additions, remodels, garages, etc. must have a State of Minnesota general contactor license or residential remodelers license.
Electrical contractors
Mechanical and heating contractors
Mechanical /Heating Contractors are licensed by the City of Minneapolis, Licenses and Consumer Services Division.
Plumbing contractors
Plumbers are licensed by the City of Minneapolis, Licenses and Consumer Services Division.
Solid waste haulers (for street use permits)
Solid Waste Haulers and Wrecking Contractors are the only contractors authorized by City of Minneapolis Ordinance to obtain a permit to place a dumpster on the street in Minneapolis, they are licensed by the City of Minneapolis, Licenses and Consumer Services Division.
Note: Any additional permitting – including hooding of parking meters, no parking signs, etc. – must be obtained separately (and in addition to, if needed) from the Department of Public Works.
Wrecking contractors
Wrecking Contractors are licensed by the City of Minneapolis, Licenses and Consumer Services Division.