Home Improvement

Garages

Garage construction is governed by the city's zoning ordinance to ensure that garages are appropriate for the neighborhood. Failure to comply with requirements governing setbacks, height, and width can result in friction between neighbors, lawsuits and even an order requiring that the garage be removed or rebuilt.

The city’s zoning ordinance also governs the use of garages. Garages may not have kitchens or bathrooms and they cannot be used as living quarters or for home offices.

If you’re planning to expand or build a detached garage, you must

• Locate your property line to ensure that the garage’s location complies with all zoning requirements.
• Obtain a Building Permit to ensure that construction meets Minnesota Building Code standards. The permit review will also ensure that your plan complies with the city's height, width, square footage and setback restrictions.
• Permits can be obtained thru the Inspections Department in City Hall, 5005 Minnetonka Blvd St. Louis Park, MN 55416.

You will need to supply the following information when you apply for the permit:

• Two copies of a lot site plan showing all easements, lot size dimensions, and distances to property lines for the existing home and the proposed garage.
• Two complete sets of building plans that show a scaled view of the proposed garage and drawings that show elevations, wall cross section and roof pitch.

For more information about building or remodeling a garage, call (952) 924-2592 or e-mail gmorrison@stlouispark.org. Or visit the second floor service counter in City Hall between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., weekdays. Click here for information on locating lot lines.