Department of Safety and Inspections Tips

Contact

Project Facilitators Email 375 Jackson Ave Suite 220 Saint Paul, MN 55101 Phone: 651-266-9103

Hours

7:30 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday What are the requirements and steps for building, remodeling, expanding, converting and/or licensing a new business in Saint Paul?

  • A review and approval process of the business plan is required
  • The Department of Safety and Inspections (DSI) has Project Facilitators
    • They have the knowledge to guide you with your project
    • Call them for an appointment to discuss your plans and options
  • Bring the following documentation for review at your preliminary meeting:
    • Five copies of your business plan (hours of operation, food menu, equipment specifications, work experience, plans of operation; etc.)
    • Five copies of your site plan (detailing lot dimensions, off-street parking, landscaping, streets, etc.)
    • Five copies of your building plan (detailing dimensions of dining, bar, kitchen, storage, entertainment, basement, staircase, exit, restroom, etc.)

Business Plan

  • DSI needs to know certain information about your business, and how you plan to run it.
  • DSI does not need a full blown business plan (for instance, do not need a financial statement), but basic information such as hours of operation, food menu, equipment specifications, work experience, plans of operation, etc.
  • A well-written business plan is a requirement of any lending institution that you may contact for a loan.
  • Even if you don't need a loan, you should prepare a good business plan.
  • This will require you to put a great deal of thought as to the risks and benefits of proceeding.
  • It will generate a lot of questions that you may not consider without this effort.
  • A business plan is the foundation of good business.
  • Here are some links to sites that may be able to help you with your business plan. Note: DSI and the City of Saint Paul have no control over these sites, and is not recommending any information contained in them. We are simply providing them for your reference.