ADU Rules in Saint Paul, Minnesota

Saint Paul is the Ramsey County seat and Minnesota's state capital, with a population of about 310,000. The smaller of the Twin Cities (paired with Minneapolis), Saint Paul has a more European character with many historic neighborhoods, the State Capitol, Cathedral of Saint Paul, and Grand Avenue. Saint Paul and Minneapolis are entirely separate cities with independent governments and zoning codes. Minnesota enacted statewide ADU legislation in 2024.

Saint Paul vs. Minneapolis

• Saint Paul: Ramsey County, state capital — use Saint Paul's permit process
• Minneapolis: Hennepin County — separate city, separate Zoning Code
• Minneapolis 2040 applies only to Minneapolis; Saint Paul has its own separate zoning reform process

Minnesota Statewide ADU Law (2024)

Minnesota's 2024 Housing Solutions Act requires cities to allow ADUs by right. Verify how Saint Paul has implemented state requirements.

Saint Paul Zoning Code

The City of Saint Paul Zoning Code governs all land use in Saint Paul city limits.

Permitted ADU Types

Per Saint Paul Zoning Code and state law (verify current standards):

• Detached ADUs: Allowed in eligible residential zones
• Attached ADUs: With separate entrance
• Interior conversions: Basement and other conversions

Verify current provisions with Saint Paul's Department of Safety and Inspections.

Size Limits

Per Saint Paul Zoning Code:

• Maximum floor area per zone
• Lot coverage restrictions

Setbacks

Per Saint Paul residential zone:

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback

Mississippi River Critical Area

Saint Paul sits on the Mississippi River. The Mississippi River Critical Area designation applies to properties near the river, with additional review requirements.

Minnesota Shoreland Management Act

Properties near the Mississippi River or other public waters are subject to Minnesota's Shoreland Management Act. Verify shoreland status for waterfront properties.

Historic Districts

Saint Paul has numerous local historic districts. Properties in historic districts require review by the Heritage Preservation Commission.

Permit Process

1. Verify zoning and state ADU law: Saint Paul Dept. of Safety and Inspections
2. Mississippi River Critical Area review: If near the river
3. Historic Preservation review: If in a local historic district
4. Submit plans: Saint Paul Building Inspections
5. Building permit and inspections
6. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of Saint Paul Department of Safety and Inspections 375 Jackson Street, Suite 220, Saint Paul, MN 55101 Phone: (651) 266-8989 Website: stpaul.gov/departments/safety-inspections

Disclaimer: Saint Paul and Minneapolis are separate cities. Minnesota enacted statewide ADU legislation in 2024. Verify current standards before starting any project.