FOR RESIDENTS
Garages & Structures 
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 residential accessory building permit to ensure that construction meets State 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 by coming to the Inspections Department in City Hall, 5005 Minnetonka Blvd.
You will need the following information when you apply for the permit
- Two copies of a lot survey 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 p.m., weekdays. Click here for information on locating lot lines.
Garages and accessory structures
The City's property maintenance code requires property to be maintained. These problems represent violations of the City property maintenance code and must be corrected
Garages or storage sheds that are structurally unsound or have rotted wood Improperly working garages door openers.
Junk
Lumber, scrap metal, tires, auto parts, inoperable cars or junk vehicles, junk and other items must be stored inside a garage or storage shed, not outside.
Garbage Carts
Promptly put away garbage carts and recycling containers. City ordinance allows garbage carts and recycling bins to be at the curb for no more than 24 hours. Garbage carts and recycling bins may not be stored in the front yard or front setback.
Grass and Weeds -
Weeds and grass must be trimmed. If they grow higher than six inches, the City of St. Louis Park can have them cut at the property owner's expense. If you have a complaint about uncut grass or weeds, call (952) 924-2562 or e-mail lbocksell@stlouispark.org.
Shrubs and Trees
Please trim trees and shrubs along alleys. Shrubs and branches overhanging alleys hinder drivers' visibility and scratch vehicles.
Seasonal Tasks
One way to keep home maintenance chores manageable is by dividing tasks on a seasonal basis. To see a seasonal checklist, click here.
Structures that show extensive deterioration (rotted or bare wood, severely deteriorated roofs, leaning structures, broken windows, etc.) are in violation of the city property maintenance code. Owners may be contacted by the city and required to correct these conditions. Sound maintenance will protect your housing investment and ensure the quality of St. Louis Park's housing stock.