Many residents are unaware that they need permits for many items in Sunfish Lake. The purpose of the permits is to protect the quality of life in Sunfish Lake as well as safeguarding the public health, safety and general welfare of the community.

• Most things dealing with water, electricity, gas etc. require a building permit. Things like putting in a water heater, upgrading your electric, adding a new fireplace, etc. Done improperly these could cause a fire.
• If you wish to pump water from a lake; raise chickens, goats or other farm animals; or maintain a beehive, you need to obtain a permit. Certain restrictions are necessary on those activities in order to protect your neighbors.
• If you want to remove a number of trees on your property you need to obtain approval of the City Forester.  We are a Tree City.
• If you are planning a home improvement project you may be wondering, “Do I need a permit?”  The City of Sunfish Lake requires permits for most building or site improvements. Things like roofing, siding, fences, room or patio additions or repaving your driveway, all require a permit. Permits are required to ensure all construction is completed correctly and complies with the building and zoning codes. Permits are required regardless of whether a contractor or homeowner does the work.

Some may think that obtaining a permit means extra costs, time delays, and unwarranted regulations. However, building and zoning permits ensure that proper considerations are given to safeguard life, health, property and public welfare. Permits do so by regulating the location, design, construction, and quality of materials of all buildings and structures in the community. Residents may sometimes overlook the benefits of obtaining a permit and appropriate inspections, including confidence in knowing that the work has been done in accordance with all codes.

The safest procedure for all residents before commencing any project is call our friendly Sunfish Lake City Planner, Lori Johnson at 612-364-3029 or email her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. She will give you the necessary information and guide you through the steps.

Contact the following individuals for questions concerning permits:

For all building/mechanical/plumbing permits and inspections:

By Phone:  651-552-4116, Candi

By Email:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website:  City of West St. Paul

In Person:  1616 Humboldt Avenue, West St. Paul, MN  55118

Monday - Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 p.m.

Inspection Scheduling:  651-552-4116

For planning/zoning permits:

Lori Johnson, AICP - (612) 364-3029

For electrical permits:

Pete DeGrood
MN State Contract Electrical Inspector for the MN Dept. of Labor and Industry
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For scheduling inspections:
Website: degroodinspections.com

Phone: 507-210-0754
Monday through Friday, 7:00 am - 8:30 am 

For burning permits:

Jim Nayes - (612) 803-9033