Introducing PAULIE: The City's New Permitting and Licensing Platform

The City of Saint Paul is now using PAULIE. This new platform reimagines how we handle permits, licenses, inspections, and enforcement. You can now apply, track application status, and communicate with City staff in one centralized, secure, and mobile-friendly platform.​

To get started, click the "Get Ready" button below. This will take you to our dedicated PAULIE webpage, providing important information about what to expect in the new platform.​

Get Ready to Apply in PAULIE

You can choose from the following permit types:

  • Electrical Commercial Solar PV Systems
  • Electrical Contractor Residential Solar PV Systems
  • Electrical Homeowner Residential Solar PV Systems

When you're ready to apply:​

  • Open the application link. This will bring you to the application listing in PAULIE. If you're not already logged in, you'll first need to log in or register for a free account. ​
  • Register for a free account. This will allow you to track all licensing, permitting, and inspection needs in one place.​
  • Follow application instructions. PAULIE will guide you through the application process step-by-step. You can save and continue your application at any time.

Submit your Application in PAULIE

Code Requirements

All work must be done to the standards of the latest edition of the National Electrical Code adopted by the State of Minnesota.

Application Requirements

Inspections

Please call the inspector listed on your permit for required inspection(s), between 7:30 am and 9:00 am, Monday-Friday. Contractors with one- and two-family residential permits can schedule their inspections online here. Note: the contractor must be present for all Solar/PV Electrical permit inspections. 

 Fees

DescriptionAmount

0-20 kW (kilowatt) System

$138.00

21-40 kW System

$332.00

Above 40 kW

$315, plus $3.00 for every kW above 40 kW

State Surcharge (minimum)

$1.00

The fee is based on the total estimated alternating current (ac) energy output of the solar system in kilowatts (kW). A kilowatt is equal to 1,000 watts. The solar PV fee includes the solar panels, inverters, disconnecting means, overcurrent devices, metering, conductors, and related equipment between the solar panels and service equipment. Fractions of a kilowatt (kW) will be rounded to the nearest whole number. '

Expiration/Renewal

Each permit issued shall expire if the work authorized by the permit is not commenced within 180 days from the date issued, or if the work is suspended or abandoned at any time after the work has begun for a period of 180 days. In addition, exterior work done on a single-family or two-family dwelling (including garages) must be completed within one year from the date issued. Interior and exterior work done on commercial properties (including hotels and apartment buildings) where the permit valuation is under $500,000 must be completed within one year from the date issued. See Chapter 33.04 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code and section 3800.3780 Subpart of the Minnesota Rules.

Questions

Contact the Electrical Inspection Department at 651-266-9003 (7:30 am to 9:00 am, Monday-Friday), or send an email to the DSI Message Center.

For questions about State standards, contact the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry at 651-284-5064.

Last Edited: September 17, 2025