Building

The Building Official oversees building construction in the City limits and enforces the Minnesota Building Code.

City of Thief River Falls Building Official

Greg Hufnagle: 218-681-2500 [email protected]

A Building Permit is required for most projects. Apply for a building permit in person at the City of Thief River Falls Building Official’s office inside City Hall or online. Apply Online for a Building Permit. Call 218-681-2500 for additional information prior to the start-up of construction.

Examples of work requiring a permit include, but are not limited to:

• Building a house
• Finishing a basement
• Adding a room
• Building a garage or deck 
• Replacing windows or siding
• Remodeling
• Demolishing a building
• Moving a building
• Moving a manufactured home
• Shingling/Re-roofing
• Re-siding
• Soffit & fascia
• Foundation work/anchors

You do not need a permit for painting, wall papering, kitchen cabinet or vanity replacement, installation of carpeting, vinyl or wood floors, fences less than 7 feet high, lawn sheds 200 sq. ft.or less, decks less than 30 inches high that are not attached to the house, sidewalks and driveways.  

Mechanical Permits
Mechanical Permits are required for the installation or replacement of mechanical systems in new and existing buildings. This includes furnaces, air conditioners, air to air exchangers, garage furnaces, boilers, gas fireplaces, etc. Apply online for a Mechanical Permit.

Plumbing Permits
Plumbing Permits are required for new construction and any alterations to existing plumbing systems. Apply online for a Plumbing Permit.

Because of setbacks, it is very important to check with the city’s building department prior to construction of non-permit decks, fences and lawn sheds by calling 218-681-2500.