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

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 Standard Theater Application in PAULIE    Submit Your Adult Theater Application in PAULIE

Overview

Theater means a building or portion of a building in which any motion picture, play, dance, or other performance is presented before an audience.

Mini motion-picture theater means a theater with a capacity for less than 50 persons. Motion picture theater means a theater with a capacity of 50 or more persons.

Adult mini-motion picture theater means a building or portion of a building with a capacity for less than fifty 50 persons used for presenting material, if such building or portion of a building as a prevailing practice excludes minors by virtue of age, or if such material is distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on the depiction or description of "specified sexual activities" or "specified anatomical areas" for observation by patrons therein. No obscene work shall be allowed.

Code Requirements 

See Chapter 415 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code for information about theaters and movie theaters. 

Application Requirements 

Apply online at PAULIE*

Theatres and Movie Theaters License

  • Information needed for your online application:
    • Proof of current Secretary of State registration and Assumed Name Filing
    • Business Purchase Agreement (Only for Change of Ownership applications)
    • Property Lease / rental agreement or proof of ownership
    • Site/Floor Plan
  • Fillable PDFs for your online application:

Mini Motion Picture Theater - Adult

*If you would like to complete your application on paper, please request a paper application by calling 651-266-8989, emailing dsi-informationandcomplaints@ci.stpaul.mn.us or stopping into our office at 375 Jackson Street.

Inspections

This license requires inspection approvals from the Saint Paul Fire Department (Phone: 651-266-8989), Licensing (Phone: 651-266-8989) and Zoning (Phone: 651-266-9008).

Fees

See Fee Table for current license fees. 

Expiration/Renewal

A Theater / Movie Theater License will expire one year from the date of issuance and may be renewed annually.

Last Edited: September 24, 2025