Knowledge Base

Effective May 1, 2025, the City of Rochester will require a building permit and inspections for all residential re-roofing, re-siding and window replacement projects. While these requirements are already in place for commercial and multi-family properties, this update will specifically affect residential properties, including single-family homes, two-family homes and townhouses.

• Re-Roofing Project
  • Building Permit Required?
    • Yes
  • Plan Required
    • Simplified roof
  • Permit Fee
    • Fixed
  • Inspections Required
    • Roof sheathing
    • Underlayment
    • Final
  • Does a contractor performing work require a State license or registration?
    
    • Yes
  • Can a homeowner perform work without a license?
    • Yes
• Re-Siding Project
  • Building Permit Required?
    • Yes
  • Plan Required
    • None
  • Permit Fee
    • Fixed
  • Inspections Required
    • Wall sheating
    • Weather barrier
    • Final
  • Does a contractor performing work require a State license or registration?
    
    • Yes
  • Can a homeowner perform work without a license?
    • Yes
• Window Replacement
  • Building Permit Required?
    • Yes
  • Plan Required
    • Simplified floor
  • Permit Fee
    • Valuation based
  • Inspections Required
    • Framing
    • Weather barrier
    • Final
  • Does a contractor performing work require a State license or registration?
    
    • Yes
  • Can a homeowner perform work without a license?
    • Yes

Licensing Requirements

• Homeowners are not required to hold a state license and registration to perform these tasks.
• Roofing contractors must have a state-issued roofing contractor license.
• A state-issued Residential Contractor’s License is required for contractors performing more than one specialized skill. Siding installation and window installation are considered distinct specialized skills in the State of Minnesota. Therefore, a contractor handling both components of the project must hold a Residential Contractor’s License.
• License and registration status will be verified at the time of permit submittal. 

Learn more about Roofing, Siding and Window Permits at:

Building Permits | City of Rochester