General Information

Zoning Verification letters are generally a request from homeowners, mortgage lenders, appraisers, and legal advisors. A zoning letter demonstrates that the use of the property is in compliance with all municipal zoning code regulations and whether the use and/or property has obtained any zoning permits that could further impact future development of the subject property. 

Application Process

In order to process your request, we need the following information sent to our office in letter form.

The request should be addressed to:

Department of Safety & Inspections - Zoning
375 Jackson Street, Suite 220
Saint Paul, MN 55101

Or via email: DSI-ZoningReview@stpaul.gov

The request should include the following information pertaining to the property:

  • Legal Address
  • Property Identification Number(s) (PINs)
  • Current or Proposed use of the property
  • To whom the letter should be addressed
  • Required Fee (Make checks payable to The City of Saint Paul)

Payment 

Please include a check with the request or call our information line at 651-266-8989 and ask to be transferred to a permit or licensing clerk to pay with a credit card over the phone. If you would like to drop off the letter, you can also pay the fee at the office. Zoning letter fees are as follows:

Single Family/Duplex: $105 per PIN

All other properties: $242 per PIN

Expedited Letters: Additional $105 per PIN

*Effective April 3, 2021, a 2.49% service fee will be charged for all credit or debit card transactions and will appear as a separate transaction on your card statement. This fee is charged by the service provider the Department of Safety and Inspections uses to handle credit card transactions. The City will not receive any of the convenience fees.

Generally, zoning letter requests are completed within 7-10 business days after the letter has been entered by the front counter staff into our database. If you need an expedited letter, the return time is typically 3-5 business days. Please contact Frances (651-266-9022/frances.birch@stpaul.gov) or Farhan (651-266-9089/farhan.omar@stpaul.gov) if you have any questions.

Last Edited: February 21, 2023