Building a Detached Garage

Garage Door

Permits that are Required

  • Building permits are required for detached garages. If you are building an attached garage, please contact the Inspections Department for specific information. Submit an application and two sets of your building plans to the City of Hopkins Inspections Department. Building permits for garages will typically be processed within 5 business days of receiving a complete set of plans.
  • If you will be installing a heating or air exchange system in your garage, you will also need a mechanical permit.
  • For any electrical work being done, you will need an electrical permit.
  • If you will be installing any plumbing, you will need a plumbing permit.

Inspections

It is the responsibility of the permit applicant to call the Inspections Department to arrange for the inspections. Advance notice of 24 hours is required. Three inspections are usually required for the construction of a garage. They are:

  • Slab Inspection - To be made after all formwork and reinforcing is in place but prior to the pouring of concrete.
  • Framing Inspection - To be made after all framing and bracing is complete, rough electrical (if any) is approved, but prior to the application of siding or roofing.
  • Final Inspection - To be made upon completion of the garage and grading is complete.

You will also need inspections if you have applied for permits in addition to your building permit.

Code Requirements for Detached Garages

View code requirements in the Garages: An Overview of Permit and Code Requirements document (PDF).

Notice: This information is intended as a guide to the subject matter and is based in part on the 2015 Minnesota State Building Code and Hopkins City Ordinances. While every attempt has been made to insure the correctness of this information, no guarantees are made to its accuracy or completeness. Responsibility for compliance with applicable codes and ordinances falls on the owner or contractor. For specific questions regarding code requirements, refer to the Minnesota Building Code.