Local Regulations Tracker

543.300. Real estate signs.

(a) Location. Real estate signs are allowed as a permitted encroachment in the required front yard. No real estate sign shall be closer than eight (8) feet to any other zoning lot. No real estate sign shall be placed on the public right-of-way, including boulevard trees and utility poles.

(b) Size.

(1) Residence and OR1 Districts. One (1) freestanding or wall real estate sign, not to exceed eight (8) square feet in area, shall be permitted per street frontage. A larger real estate sign may be allowed, provided such sign shall be included in the calculation of the total permitted sign area of the site and shall be regulated as such.

(2) All other districts. One (1) freestanding or wall real estate sign, not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area, shall be permitted per street frontage. A larger real estate sign may be allowed, provided such sign shall be included in the calculation of the total permitted sign area of the site and shall be regulated as such.

(c) Height.

(1) Residence and OR1 Districts. The height of a freestanding real estate sign shall not exceed six (6) feet. A real estate sign mounted on a wall shall not exceed the height requirements of the district in which the sign is located.

(2) All other districts. The height of a freestanding real estate sign shall not exceed fourteen (14) feet. A real estate sign mounted on a wall shall not exceed the height requirements of the district in which the sign is located.

The purpose of the Truth in Housing Ordinance is to inform the buyer and seller of a home, prior to the time of sale, of any major structural defects or hazards to the health and safety of the occupants. The ordinance requires the repair or replacement of unsafe item related to the heating and electrical systems, water heaters, plumbing cross connections, unsafe gas piping, smoke detectors and lack of required utilities.

The ordinance requires that the seller of single and two family dwellings, townhouses, and first time condominium conversions provide a Truth in Housing Disclosure report or a Certificate of Code Compliance to the buyer prior to signing a purchase agreement. The truth in housing report must be prepared by a certified truth in housing evaluator. The ordinance requires that the completed report is available for inspection at the premises at all times when the dwelling is being offered for sale.

A valid disclosure report must be provided to the buyer at closing. The buyer is responsible to make any required repairs within 90 days after closing. Sellers may decide to complete any required repairs before closing.

Owners of vacant properties must register and pay an annual fee. The Vacant Building Registration (VBR) fee is due at the time of registration and each year on the anniversary date of being found vacant. This fee is also adjusted annually and will be increased April 1, of each calendar year. All buildings (including commercial properties) may qualify for the Vacant Building Registration Program. Residential or commercial properties that have one or more of the following conditions may be required to register as vacant:

1. Condemned requiring a code compliance inspection.
2. Unoccupied and unsecured for five days or more
3. Unoccupied and secured by means other than those normally used in the design of the building for 30 days or more
4. Unoccupied with multiple housing maintenance, fire or building code violations existing for 30 days or more
5. Unoccupied more than 365 days with an order having been issued to correct a nuisance condition pursuant to section 227.90
6. A vacant commercial or residential building or structure which is unable to receive a certificate of occupancy due to work stoppage or expired permits

Annual Fee: $6,948 for April 1, 2012 – March 30, 2013

To encourage the rehabilitation of buildings that qualify for the VBR program, the City is allowing the VBR fee to be held in abeyance for six months as long as the property owner is rehabbing the property and meeting other conditions in the Restoration Agreement. Please note, not all properties will qualify for a Restoration Agreement. Restoration Agreements may be an option if the property has been in the VBR program for less than three months, or the anniversary date of the Vacant Building Registration order is less than three months past due.

Visit the city’s Vacant Building Registration website for more information and application forms.

Minneapolis requires that every rental dwelling, including single-family rental dwellings and rental units in owner-occupied duplexes, and rooming and shared-bath units (unless they are in a licensed lodging house) must have a rental license.

Some Rental License General Rules include:

1. The rental license year is from September 1st to August 31st.
2. Licenses must be renewed each year.
3. Rental licenses are not transferable.
4. A 311 Poster must be posted in the rental property along with the rental license certificate.
5. The status of a rental license can be found under Property Information.

The annual license fee for a rental dwelling license or provisional license is $69.00* for the first rental dwelling unit and $19.00 for each additional rental dwelling unit under common ownership in the same building. Additionally, when a dwelling is converted to rental property (or has not had a license for the last 12 months) it must be inspected for compliance with minimum housing standards. The fee for this required inspection is $1000. This fee is in addition to the annual license fee.When a valid rental property changes ownership, it must be inspected (with some exemptions). Change of Ownership Inspection Fee is $450* For more information on Rental License Fees, Click Here.

When a single-family home is converted to rental occupancy for the first time in at least 12 months, an inspection is required (with some exemptions).

Rental License applications are specific to property type. For Application information, Click Here.

For more information on the licensing process, call 311 or outside Minneapolis city limits call (612) 673-3000. Or visit the city’s Rental License Website for additional information.

*Fees listed are annual unless otherwise noted.

PB2-7. – Billposting. No person shall post, paste, fasten, paint or affix any placard, bill, notice or sign upon any structure, tree, stone, fence, thing or enclosure along or within any park or parkway. (Code 1960, As Amend., § 1010.080)

Enforcement of MPRB Ordinance PB 2-7 is applicable to Real Estate Signs located on MPRB land including parkways. All homemade or handmade signs will be removed and immediately disposed of by MPRB staff. The procedure for commercial signs will be: Park Police Officers and Agents will impound sign(s). The sign(s) will be held for a period of 40 days after which unclaimed signs will be disposed of by Park Police.

Realtors may call the Customer Service Department at (612) 230-6400 to verify if their sign(s) have been impounded. Once verified, the realtor may pay the impound fee ($100 per sign) in person at the Administrative Office Welcome Desk. Receipt would then be presented to the Park Police Front Desk located in the same office to claim their sign(s).

REALTOR Sign Letter

Chapter 12 title 14-9 of city code
Essentially, real estate open house signs and arrows are only permitted on private property, and cannot block site lines at intersections. Signs cannot be placed in public road right-of-ways. The right-of-way is the 10-15 feet beyond the curb most often called the boulevard. It is the strip of grass and the sidewalk that our Public Works crews maintain. When there are signs in the ground there, the crews have to stop mowing, get the sign out of the ground, and throw it in their truck. Every year we end up with an extensive collection of real estate signs here in the garage because of signs placed in the public right-of-way. This includes “Open House” arrows placed at intersections, and also signs that have been tied to street signs.

Real estate signs are always permitted in front yards during and shortly after a sale. The problems arise when they are placed on public property. This includes the right-of-ways of the County highways within Andover.

All offsite temporary open house and directional signs for single-family homes are prohibited. Contact the city for sign placement permission regarding multi-unit dwellings.

The city of Blaine does not allow any offsite signage for real estate signs and directional arrows. All real estate signs must be on the property of the selling or leasing lots. Section 34.06(k)

Directional signs having a surface area not greater than five (5) square feet.

Offsite open house directional signs for individual homes are allowed subject to the following:

1. Signs shall be erected for not more than 48 continuous hours.
2. Such signs shall be freestanding, and shall not exceed 6 square feet.
3. Maximum height shall be 4 feet.
4. No more than 3 signs for any single open house shall be displayed within the city at any given time.
5. Open house directional signs shall not be placed on vehicles.
6. Signs shall be at least 10 feet from the curb or shoulder of the road

Onsite real estate signs for the sale or lease of property are allowed subject to following regulations:

1. 1 sign per street frontage is allowed.
2. Residential signs are allowed 6 square feet in area and 6 feet maximum height.
3. Nonresidential signs are allowed 32 square feet maximum in area and 12 feet maximum height.
4. Real estate signs shall be removed upon sale or lease of the property.
5. Signs shall be at least 10 feet from the curb or shoulder of the road.

Temporary real estate signs advertising individual residences for sale shall not require a permit if they are under 8 square feet per side.

Temporary signs shall be set back at least one foot from a public sidewalk or 18 feet from the street pavement if there is no sidewalk. In no case, however, shall a sign be located within a public right-of-way or within 10 feet from any other property line.

May be posted on the day of the open house only, and must have owner permission to post on private property.

Real estate signs are only allowed on the property that is listed for sale and must be posted at least 10 feet back from the property line (which is usually 7 feet to 15 feet back from the curb) or driveway. One sign is allowed per street frontage, so a corner lot may have two signs. The maximum sign size for single-family residential property is 6 square feet in area. Open House signs are allowed to be posted during the day of the open house only. Consult section 214 of Fridley’s City Code online for more details. These sign regulations are strictly enforced in Fridley. Illegal signs are regularly removed and disposed of and citations issued.

No permit shall be required for temporary neighborhood signs, such as signs advertising an open house, garage or craft sale, party or event, provided that such signs are limited to 6 square feet in area, are in place for no more than 72 hours at a time, and for no more than 3 occasions at a given address in 1 year. Up to 4 open house directional signs not exceeding 3 feet in height may be erected in connection with an open house. Signs must be removed within 3 days. No permit shall be required for signs advertising a particular parcel of real estate for sale by an owner or a REALTOR®, provided that the location of the sign is limited to the parcel which is for sale, the sign not be in excess of 6 square feet, not higher than 4 feet tall, and limited in number to 1 sign per road frontage abutting the parcel for sale. Such signs shall be removed within 7 days after the closing of the sale.

Temporary real estate signs advertising for sale an individual residence shall not require a permit if they are under 8 square feet per side.

Temporary signs not exceeding 64 square feet are allowed for not more than 30 days per year and private signs are prohibited in the right-of-way. Temporary real estate signs are permitted in the front yard. We are in the process of incorporating all of the last several years’ worth of ordinance amendments into our City Code so if you use the website you must also check the ordinance amendment section.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are allowed on the day of the event only. No signs located on the right-of-way, property owners permission must be granted.

Not available.

Not available.

Portable signs are prohibited except in cases of prior approval from the city council.

Off-premises real estate signs advertising the sale, rental or lease of business and industrial buildings:

1. One (1) nonilluminated sign is permitted per building.
2. Such signs shall only be permitted in business and industrial districts, and on property located within the same subdivision or development as the building being advertised.
3. Such signs shall not be located closer than one hundred (100) feet from any other such located on the same side of the street.
4. Sign display area shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet, and the height of such signs shall not exceed ten (10) feet
5. Such shall be setback at least ten (10) feet from any property line.
6. Such signs shall be removed within seven (7) days following the lease or sale of the building floor space which it is advertising.
7. Provide written permission of property owner.

Off-premises directional signs which show direction to new residential developments in accordance with the following. The intent of this subparagraph is to allow short term signage, for residential development, to familiarize the public with the new development.

1. Such sign shall only be permitted along major arterials and collectors as identified in the comprehensive plan.
2. Only one (1) sign per corner of an intersection per development shall be permitted. There shall not be more than 4 signs per intersection. Signs shall not be located in any site distance triangle, measured thirty (30) feet from the point of intersection of the property line.
3. Sign display area shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet and the height of such signs shall not exceed ten (10) feet.
4. Such sign hall not be located closer than ten (10) feet from any street right-of-way line, and shall be firmly anchored to the ground.
5. Written permission must be obtained from the property owner upon whose land the proposed sign is to be located.
6. Sign shall be non-illuminated and kept in good condition.
7. Such sign shall be removed twelve (12) months after the sign has been erected. A sign shall be permitted for each phase of a development.
8. Signs for home promotions (Parade of Homes, Spring Preview, etc.) shall be limited to four (4) square feet and shall be permitted only for the duration of the event.

Off-premise signs are prohibited except for temporary off-premise directional signs for new residential subdivisions or developments.

“Lake Minnetonka Area” is a geographical generality describing several smaller cities. There is not one temporary offsite real estate sign ordinance that encompasses this region. To see specific sign ordinances for each locality, please click the links to any of the following cities:

Deephaven
Excelsior
Long Lake
Minnetrista
Mound
Shorewood
Wayzata

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are allowed in reasonable size and placement.

No temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs ordinance found. 03/2005

Temporary real estate signs which advertise the sale, rental or lease of real estate subject to the following specifications:

a. On-premises. On-premises real estate signs advertising the sale, rental or lease of the premises upon which the sign is located.

1. One nonilluminated sign is permitted per street frontage.
2. Sign display area shall not exceed eight square feet per side.
3. All such signs shall be located at least ten feet from any adjacent property line.
4. All temporary real estate signs shall be removed within seven days following the closing, lease or rental of the property.

b. Off-premises. Off-premises real estate signs advertising the sale, rental or lease of a premises.

1. One nonilluminated sign is permitted.
2. Sign display area shall not exceed two square feet per side.
3. All temporary real estate signs shall be removed within 7 days following the closing, lease or rental of the property.

Directional arrows and open house signs are acceptable as long as they do not obstruct views, are out of the right-of-way, and there is not an overwhelming number on any one corner. If there is a sign problem, REALTORS® are typically called and given a 24 hour notice to remove their sign. Please avoid sign placement along State Highway 5 in Waconia. For more information contact the City of Waconia City Planner, Jason Angell at 952.442.3110.

The City of Watertown’s sign ordinance does not permit the placement of signs on public property, including right of way. However, the City Council understands the need for this advertising in the sale of homes, and had allowed these signs to be placed in the right-of-way, provided that the signs are neat and orderly, not blocking vision, are promptly removed after the sale, open house, etc. The City Council has aggressively removed signs of any type found at the intersection of Co Rd 10 and Co Rd 20, and at the intersection of Territorial and Lewis Ave.

The city does not allow any offsite signage except those related to an open house and then only during the hours of an open house. Large-scale events such as the Parade of Homes are considered open houses and temporary signs may be placed in the city boulevards to direct traffic to these homes. The signs must be removed when the event is over and must not be located in the city’s “ring route.”

Real estate signs

1. Open house signs, which state that a particular house will be open for inspection by the public for a limited number of hours on a specific day, may be placed in the city boulevard area only during the open house hours. Signs may be placed within a six-block radius of the open house except as noted.
2. Signs must be set back a minimum of five feet from the curb and may not be placed on any sidewalk.
3. Open house and for sale signs may not be placed on the following described street rights-of- way, easements, roadway surface, sidewalks, medians and decorative surfaces and are hereby determined to be in violation of the sign regulations. Any sign so placed, according to Appendix A, is a nuisance and traffic hazard.

Temporary off-premises directional signs for residential open house events, including model homes and rental units, may be installed by any person as follows:

1. Sign Size: Each sign shall not exceed twenty eight inches by twenty eight inches (28” x 28”) in size.
2. Sign Content: Each sign shall include either the words “open house”, “rental unit available”, or “model home”, and the name and telephone number of the person responsible for the sign.
3. Sign Placement: The signs shall be directional in nature and shall be placed solely to facilitate the direction of traffic to open house events. Placement of the signs shall be as follows:

1. The signs shall not be located more than one mile from the site of the open house event.
2. The signs shall not be placed closer than 5 feet to any curb.
3. The signs shall not be placed on a sidewalk.
4. The signs shall not interfere with traffic visibility.
5. The signs shall not be placed on private property without the written consent of the property owner.

Sign Quantity: To maintain the directional nature of the signs, they shall be limited to a maximum of 12 signs per open house site, with a maximum of 2 signs per intersection.

Sign Duration:

1. The signs may be in place from one hour before to one hour after a weekday open house event.
2. The signs may be in place from 10 p.m. on Fridays through 6 a.m. on Mondays for a weekend open house event.
3. Signs for annual, metro-area, special real estate events, such as the Parade of Homes, may be in place for the duration of the event.

No sign, other than governmental signs, shall be placed upon any city-owned public property or railroad right-of-way. No sign, other than governmental signs, shall be affixed to any utility pole.

Real Estate Signs: Temporary signage for the purpose of selling, renting or leasing individual lots, parcels, homes or buildings may be erected provided: (1) One sign may be placed per street frontage and located within fifteen feet (15′) of the right of way line on the property to be sold or leased. (2) The size of such sign shall be a maximum of six (6) square feet for residentially zoned property and a maximum of thirty two (32) square feet for all other properties. (3) The sign shall be removed upon sale, rental, or lease of the property.

Open House Signs: Open house signs shall not exceed four (4) square feet, six feet (6′) in height and the display of signs is limited to the same day of the open house. Said signs may be placed in the city right of way but not exceed three feet (3′) in height within the thirty foot (30′) triangle of visibility at public or private street intersections or driveway intersections.

The Hampton Sign Ordinance does not address temporary offsite real estate open house signs and arrows.

Offsite real estate signs/directional signs are not allowed by the Inver Grove Heights City Code. Any questions can be forwarded to 651.450.2545.

The City of Lakeville Sign Ordinance prohibits the placement of temporary offsite real estate open house signs and arrows. With questions regarding the Lakeville sign ordinance, call the main number to City Hall, 952.985.4400.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are not allowed in the city of Mendota Heights.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs must be place out of the right-of-way on public property, and must be removed with 7 days.

No temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs within the 25’ sight triangle at intersections, and nothing in the right-of-way. Offsite advertising is prohibited, but temporary direction signs and open house announcements are allowable.

There is nothing in the ordinance to allow temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs. They are removed if left overnight or when there are citizen complaints.

“When a homeowner is preparing to sell their property they must have a Time-of-Sale Evaluation report on site when showing the property. This property includes single family residences, two-family, multiple-family dwellings and mobile homes located within the City.

A list of Time-of-Sale Evaluators (licensed by the City) can be obtained from the Time-of-Sale Coordinator. Please call (651)554-3250 for the list. The homeowner chooses the evaluator and makes arrangements for the inspection. The evaluator will leave a copy of the report with the homeowner.

Any items marked as “Hazardous” on the report have to be fixed before the new homeowner takes possession. Hazardous items are considered to be those conditions or defects that are likely to cause injury to a person or property if not corrected.

The evaluator has ten days to file the report with the City.

If the report has hazardous items listed on it, the homeowner is sent a copy of the report with the hazardous items high-lighted along with a cover letter informing them to call the Fire Department when all the hazardous items have been corrected.

After the Fire Department has made the final inspection they will notify the Time-of-Sale Coordinator and a letter will be sent to the homeowner informing them that the hazardous items listed have been corrected and inspected and now meet the Uniform Building Code.

A copy of the Ordinance, Evaluators List and a list of Items Commonly Found Hazardous can be obtained from the Time-of-Sale Coordinator or by calling 651.554.3250 or go to www.southstpaul.org. “

1. A freestanding sign shall be located no closer than 50 feet from any property line.
2. Signs, other than those of the city, public agency, or other governmental unit, shall not be permitted within the public right-of-way or easements except that the City Council may grant a special permit for temporary signs and decorations to be placed on a right-of-way for a period to be specified at the discretion of the City Council.
3. For the purpose of selling or promoting real estate, signs are limited to one sign per 900 feet of frontage on a public street, but no less than 1 sign per property shall be permitted. The sign is not to exceed 8 square feet. Real estate signs may be located at the property line. Said sign shall be removed no later than 15 days from the date of sale of the property (date of sale does not mean date of closing).
4. Residential identification of directional signs of sufficient number for the purpose of control, direction or orientation may be allowed by the city Council, but such signs shall not exceed 2 square feet per surface. Such signs may be located at the property line.

On January 1, 2017, the City of West St. Paul adopted a limited “point-of-sale” requirement for the Inflow & Infiltration Reduction Program. This means that an I&I inspection must be completed prior to the sale of a property. This is a video inspection of the sewer lateral line from the home to the main in the street. More info

Real Estate sign regulations are detailed in our sign ordinance, which can be found on the City’s web site. Read Section (a), then look in Section ( c), Regulated Signs Exempt from Permit Requirements. Paragraph (15) discusses Real Estate signs, and subsection (A)(v) specifically discusses offsite signs. 

In addition, there is a summary brochure, which is also available here.

Note that these regulations deal with both commercial and residential Real Estate signs. 
Offsite directional signs must be placed on private property (generally behind the sidewalk, or 12 feet from the roadway if there is no sidewalk), and must have the permission of the property owner. They are allowed offsite only when the sales agent is present on the property for sale. The City does confiscate signs illegally placed on traffic medians, islands and public property. Confiscated signs may be reclaimed at the Bloomington Civic Plaza. 
Section 19.116. DIRECTIONAL SIGNS. 

(a) Purpose. The City Council finds that special provisions should govern directional signs, because directional signs are intended to provide information for the convenience of the public, such as the location of exits, entrances, and parking areas and are not intended to identify individual tenants or users, or to provide identification or advertising from public streets or other areas off of the site. Therefore, the following special provisions shall govern such signage. 
(b) Standards. Directional signs shall be located on the site of the use utilizing the directional signs. In addition to other permitted signs, except for single or two-family dwellings, the Issuing Authority may approve directional signage provided the following criteria are satisfied: 
(1) Maximum Size and Height and Minimum Setbacks. 
(A) The maximum sign surface area shall be twelve (12) square feet. Business, project or development identification shall not exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the sign surface area. Freestanding directional signs shall be a maximum height of six (6) feet above the grade of the adjacent parking or driveway surface. Directional signs shall be set back a minimum of twenty (20) feet from the public rights-of-way, and a minimum of five (5) feet from all other property lines; OR 
(B) The maximum sign surface area shall be six (6) square feet. Business, project or development identification shall not exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the sign surface area. Freestanding directional signs shall be a maximum height of three (3) feet above the grade of the adjacent parking or driveway surface. Directional signs shall be set back a minimum of ten (10) feet from all public right-of-way lines, and a minimum of five (5) feet from all other property lines; AND 
(C) Signs mounted on walls shall be mounted only high enough to be visible to on-site users, but in no event above the first story of the building on which it is mounted. 
(2) Maximum Number. No directional sign shall be erected which is not clearly necessary for the safety and convenience of the public. In no instance shall the number of directional signs exceed two per acre of total site area. 
Exception: If a site is less than one (1) acre, the site shall be allowed two directional signs. 
(3) Orientation. Directional signs larger than six (6) square feet shall be oriented for viewing by on-site vehicular and pedestrian traffic, rather than traffic on public streets or on adjacent property. 
(4) Illumination. The sign is either not illuminated, or illuminated in such a manner that it does not cause glare. 
(5) Design. 
(A) Signs shall be fully finished on all visible sides and shall be the same style as the identification sign(s) for the site. 
(B) Directional signs shall be so designed and located that no hazard to vehicular and pedestrian traffic is created. 
(c) Sign Permit Requirements. Sign permits shall be required for the initial installation and any subsequent modification of directional signs conforming with the provisions of this Code. No directional sign shall be installed unless a plan showing the location, size and construction of all directional signs is first approved by the Issuing Authority. 
(Added by Ord. No. 96-40, 8-19-96)

The program provides potential purchasers with information about the condition of a dwelling and requires the correction of immediate hazards. An inspection and a report are required for all single and two-family dwellings, condominiums, townhouses and mobile homes. Multi-family rental buildings over 4 units are not included. The property must be inspected and a report form completed prior to offering the property for sale.

The Housing Evaluation Report must be available for review by potential purchasers at all times when the property is offered for sale. The seller can choose a licensed independent evaluator licensed by the city of Bloomington. The city maintains a list of all licensed inspectors. Only those items which pose an immediate hazard to the occupants of the structure are required to be repaired.

Other deficiencies are noted in the Housing Evaluation Report, but do not require correction. When hazardous items are identified by the inspector, the City of Bloomington follows up to determine whether the hazardous condition has been corrected. Hazardous conditions must be corrected and approved by the city before the dwelling is occupied. If the dwelling is already occupied, corrective action shall be taken by the owner or agent of the owner.

Bloomington has a Rental Licensing and Inspection Program, which covers single family rooms and dwellings, duplexes, and multi-unit housing. Environmental Health Inspectors annually examine both the interior and exterior of all rental property within Bloomington. They respond to citizen complaints concerning rental housing and systematically inspect the exterior of rental units throughout the year.

Fees vary depending on property type. For more information, contact the City’s Licensing Department at 952-563-8728. For a license application, Click Here.

Temporary freestanding offsite real estate signs announcing an “open house” or similar activity for the purpose of showing or displaying a home for sale are permitted provided:

1. The offsite sign is located on privately-owned residential property and there is no objection to the display of the sign on the part of that property owner;
2. The offsite sign is displayed only during the time of the “open house” or showing;
3. The size of the offsite sign shall not exceed three (3) square feet in area.

All signs permitted by this section of the ordinance shall be maintained in an appropriate manner so that the message is clearly legible.

The city has a comprehensive, four-step foreclosure strategy to stabilize the neighborhoods and help ensure the properties are brought back to a productive use. Foreclosed vacant properties registered with the city are eligible for certain city housing programs while funding is available. 

A residential or commercial property where an entire building on a parcel has been vacant for more than 30 days must be registered with the City. For example, this includes a single-family property, a single commercial building that is vacant on a parcel, and a multi-family building that does not have any occupants. Exemptions may include: a parcel of land that does not contain a building, any multi-unit building on a single parcel that has one or more occupied unit(s), extended vacationers with the intention to return to the property (city notification required), or fire-damaged property

Annual Fee: $400 first year vacant, $1,000 one to three years vacant, $3,000 if three-plus years vacant.

Visit the city’s Vacant Building Program website for more information and application forms.

Since June 1, 1975, the City of Brooklyn Center has required rental property to be licensed. If you own property and let it for occupancy but do not occupy the property, you must obtain a rental dwelling license, regardless of compensation or if the property is occupied by a relative.

In April of 2010, a new performance-based rental license program was implemented. License categories are based on the condition of the property as determined by the rental license inspection and by excessive validated public nuisance police calls. A license is not required under the following circumstances:

1) A residential property owned by a “snowbird” where the property is rented to another person for a period of less than 120 consecutive days while the owner is residing out of the state of Minnesota, the owner must occupy the property during the remainder of the year, 
2) A single-family dwelling or a dwelling unit in a duplex occupied by the building owner for a minimum of six months per calendar year,
3) Rented rooms within an owner-occupied dwelling unit, 
Unoccupied dwelling units that have been issued a Vacant Building Registration (see above)

Fees vary based on property type – Click Here for the Fee Matrix.

Temporary open house and/or directional signs may be placed in public view no earlier than 9 a.m. on the actual day of the open house and must be removed no later than 9 p.m. on the same day. Only one sign per intersection is allowed for each open house. Placement of open house directional signs should not block pedestrian or bicycle pathways or sidewalks. Signs must not be placed within the 30-foot clear view triangle at public street intersections. Open house directional signs may not be attached to federal, state, county or city sign posts. The signs may not be placed on center medians or street islands or within 4 feet of the roadway surface.

A temporary area identification sign for the sale or lease of residential projects of two or more dwelling units or lots, and for nonresidential projects, may be erected provided:

1. Sign area must not exceed 100 square feet.
2. Such sign must be removed when the project is 80% sold or leased.
3. Minimum setbacks: All temporary real estate area identification signs must be set back at least 25 feet from all property lines. Sign must be erected only on the property being sold or leased.
4. Maximum height of sign: No temporary real estate area identification sign may exceed eight feet above grade

The City of Brooklyn Park requires that all rental property within the city  be licensed.  This includes apartment complexes, town homes, condominiums, duplexes and single family rental dwellings.  All dwellings that do not qualify for a homestead or relative homestead classification through the Assessing Division are considered to be rental property and require a license.  All rental licenses are renewed on an annual basis.

Fees vary based on property type.  For Fees and inspection Information, Click Here.

Temporary real estate directional signs not exceeding 3 square feet in area and 4 in number showing a directional arrow and placed back of the property line shall be permitted on approach routes to an open house. The top of such signs shall not exceed 3 feet in height. No permit shall be required. Such directional signs shall be for open houses in the City of Champlin only.

Champlin enacted a Vacant Building Registration Program on February 1, 2012. Defined by Champlin’s ordinance, a “vacant building” is a building other than a building being constructed pursuant to a valid building permit that is:

1. Unoccupied and unsecured for five (5) days or more;
2. Unoccupied for sixty (60) days;
3. Unoccupied and an unsafe structure;
4. Unoccupied and posted for no occupancy or unfit for human habitation;
5. Condemned and illegally occupied; or
6. Abandoned building.

A vacant building may be residential or non-residential and includes both condominiums, and townhouses. A property owner must register a vacant building with the City no later than sixty (60) days after the building has become unoccupied. Building includes any portion of a building that is a separately titled, or capable of being separately titled, such as a condominium or townhouse unit, that is part of a larger building structure.

There are a few exemptions including: Extended vacationers or snowbirds (A resident on an extended vacation or alternative living arrangement with the intention to return to the property, up to 180 days); Severe weather event or fire damaged property (A building that has suffered from a fire or a severe weather event is exempt from registration for a period of 90 days to allow for cleanup, repair or demolition); Government-owned properties such as HUD or SBA properties.

Fee: $300 every six months.
Registration forms and instructions are available on the City’s
Vacant Building Program website or can be found by contacting Champlin’s Code Enforcement Officer at (763) 923-7196.

Champlin’s rental licensing program applies to all dwelling units that are leased or rented in whole or in part as dwelling units (including accessory and appurtenant structures such as garages, storage buildings, sidewalks and retaining walls). It does not apply to residences occupied by the owner or by members of the owner’s family and where the renters have access to the entire residence.

A rental license must be obtained for each dwelling unit; two or more units in the same building with a common owner and property identification number shall be covered under one license.

After the license application has been submitted, the city may inspect each dwelling unit to ensure it meets all ordinances, statutes and codes.

Licenses shall be effective upon issuance and shall continue for a period of one year from the next February 1 following issuance for buildings of four or more units, and from the next April 1 following its issuance for buildings of three or fewer units. Licenses are non-transferable and will expire on the date of any transfer of dwelling ownership.

For a Fee Schedule, Application and other information, contact Champlin’s Community Development Department at (763) 421-8100.

Temporary use of portable or movable signs shall be allowed in excess of and in addition to the sign limitations of this ordinance. 
1. General Provisions. 

1. Such signs shall comply with setback provisions for freestanding signs in each zoning district.
2. Such signs shall be limited to thirty-two (32) square feet in area.
3. A permit shall be obtained from the Code Enforcement Official for each location and time period for placement of such signs.
4. Temporary signs shall advertise an activity on the property on which they are located.
5. All pennants, streamers, banners, and other forms of temporary signs must be maintained and not be frayed, torn, or tattered.
6. Temporary signs may not be displayed longer than 60 days per year by any one business.

3. The following provisions shall apply for freestanding signs, reader boards, and other temporary ground signs: 

1. Any freestanding sign, or reader board may be located on a property for continuous periods not to exceed thirty (30) days. No more than one (1) such sign will be allowed.
2. No property shall be allowed more than four (4) such periods in any twelve (12) month period. 03/2005

1. Signs (off-premise) will be restricted to property adjoining the rights-of-way of state trunk highway number 100.
2. The minimum lineal distance between signs (off-premise) is 1,000 feet.
3. The minimum setback from street right-of-way lines is 30 feet.
4. The minimum setback at the intersection of two streets will be 50 feet from either street line.
5. A sign (off-premise) may not be located within 250 feet of any residence, whether such structure is located in a residential district or is a non-conforming use in any other district. A sign (off-premise) may not be located within 250 feet of a public park, school, library, church or similar institution or government.

Crystal’s Vacant Property Ordinance considers a building to be vacant if no person actually and currently conducts lawful business or lawfully resides in any part of the building on a permanent, nontransient basis. When a residential, commercial or industrial building has been vacant for more than 30 days, it must be registered with the city. The registration is valid for one year from the date of issuance. The property owner must secure a new registration annually if the building remains vacant.

Exemptions may include residents on extended vacation or with alternative living arrangements with the intention to return to the property (city notification required), fire-damaged properties, multi-unit buildings with one more more units occupied, or parcels of land not containing buildings.

Annual Fee: $500

Visit the city’s Vacant Building page for more information and application forms, or call 763-531-1000.

All rental dwellings must be licensed and inspected annually. All rental units must have valid rental license prior to occupancy. City Code defines a rental dwelling as any dwelling occupied by someone other than the owner, regardless of the familial relationship between the tenant and owner (i.e. relative homestead property), and regardless of whether any rent is actually paid by the tenant.

Once the Application for Rental Dwelling License and appropriate licensing fee has been received, the property owner or designated manager will be notified by mail of the initial rental inspection. This individual is responsible for notifying the tenants and must be present during all inspections.

After the initial inspection has been completed, any correction orders will be given to the property owner or designated manager. Correction orders must be completed within 30 days of the initial inspection.

Fees vary depending on property type. For a Fee Matrix and more information, visit Crystal’s Rental Licensing Website.

Real estate signs are allowed on the premises only. No temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are allowed.

Temporary offsite directional signs may be erected for the purpose of selling or leasing a single property in accordance with the following limitations:

1. No more than two (2) offsite directional signs may be erected for the sale or lease of a single property.
2. Signs may be erected only from 10:00 p.m. Friday to 6:00 a.m. Monday.
3. Signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet in size and shall not be higher than four (4) feet above the ground.
4. Signs may be placed on land only with the owner’s permission. Signs may not be placed within a public right-of-way, sidewalk or trail, and shall not interfere with traffic visibility.
5. Only one sign for a single property may be installed upon a lot, Registered Land Survey tract, or parcel (as measured by metes and bounds) of land.
6. Each sign shall include the name and telephone number of the owner of the sign.
7. Signs may not be placed more than two (2) miles from the project.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are accepted only during the hours of the open house only.

Property owners who wish to rent out their multi-family/apartments and single-family home, duplex, townhome or condo must apply for an annual business license. This requirement applies to any dwelling unit that is not owner-occupied. For more information, contact Licensing Specialist Elena Roberts at 952-826-1656.  https://www.edinamn.gov/1635/Rental-Housing

| MORE Subdivision 10. Temporary Signs, Banners and Inflatables. The use of temporary signs such as banners, pennants, inflatables (including balloons over 18 inches in diameter) for advertising temporary sales, business openings, special events, similar activities or used for other purposes are limited to the following: 

1. Real estate signs are subject to the following requirements: leasing signs must be removed after initial leasing or within 360 days after a certificate of occupancy is issued if involving a new building or a substantial remodeling. Leasing information integrated into an approved permanent neighborhood identification sign or monument sign and given the same architectural treatment using the same materials and design given to the neighborhood identification or monument sign are not subject to the removal provisions of this section. No real estate or for sale sign shall remain on a property longer than 1 year unless approved by the Building Official or his or her designee.
2. The maximum duration shall not exceed a total of 30 days in any one calendar year. Each property is limited to 3 occurrences in one calendar year.
3. An approved permit shall be obtained prior to display of a temporary sign. A temporary sign displayed without a permit shall be removed and no new temporary sign shall be allowed nor shall a permit be approved within the next 12 months. 02/2005

Golden Valley City ordinance requires all residential property owners who rent out their property be licensed. This includes single family homes, townhomes, duplexes, condominiums, and group homes. Failure to get a rental license may lead to misdemeanor charges.

1. Why License Rental Property?Golden Valley’s rental property licensing ordinance aims to help cut down on the number of housing violations within the city.

   Properties in violation are also safety concerns. The ordinance will help ensure every tenant is living in a safe home.

   If you have questions, contact the Property Maintenance Inspector at 763.593.8074. | MORE

I/I Point of Sale
The Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES), which provides regional wastewater collection and treatment for the metropolitan area, requires the City of Golden Valley to reduce peak flows to the regional wastewater collection system.

Effective January 1, 2007, the City of Golden Valley requires all properties to pass a sanitary sewer inspection before they are advertised for sale (see new section 3.31 of the City code). The new point-of-sale ordinance is intended to help reduce peak sanitary sewer flows caused by Inflow and Infiltration (I/I), or flow of clear water into the sanitary sewer system. It allows the city to inspect private properties to ensure there are no illegal connections to the sanitary sewer system that contribute to excess peak flow discharges.

To comply, Golden Valley property owners must obtain a Certificate of Sanitary Sewer Service Compliance from the city before transferring title of property.

Inspection Process
Before any property is offered for sale or transferred, the city must complete a Point of Sale Sanitary Sewer Service Inspection and issue a Certificate of Compliance (permit can be applied for online by clicking “”Fees”” at the City of Golden Valley website). Any improper connections or significant defects in the sanitary sewer service pipe must be corrected before a Certificate of Compliance is issued. Once a property has a Certificate of Compliance, subsequent sales or title transfers will require an inspection of the sump pump discharge only.

Failure to obtain a Certificate of Sanitary Sewer Service Compliance is a misdemeanor and may result in additional monthly charges on the customer’s utility bill ($500 residential, $1,000 nonresidential) and possible loss of water service.

Fees
The fee for the initial inspection, which includes a televised observation of the sanitary sewer service, is $250 for residential properties and $750 for nonresidential properties. Fees for subsequent inspections of a sump pump discharge are $75. All fees are due at the time of application.

For more information about the I/I Point of Sale Inspection, contact the City of Golden Valley’s Public Works department at 763.593.8030 or visit the city website.”

Temporary Directional Signs 
Offsite temporary signs providing directions to units that ware for sale or rent and open for inspection. Such signs may be displayed Monday through Friday from one-half hour prior to the opening to one-half hour after closing. For weekend “open houses,” such signs may be displayed no earlier that 7pm Friday and no later than 7am Monday. Such signs shall not be located in the public right-of-way. 02/2005

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are not allowed on the right-of-way or they may be picked up. They may be placed on private property only with permission.

Residential property which is vacant for more than 90 days must be registered with the City of Hopkins. This includes: a building in any residential zoning district which contains one to four dwelling units, which is unoccupied for 90 or more consecutive days; or an unimproved lot in any residential zoning district, located within 500 feet of an unoccupied house, where both lots are owned by the same owner. Exemptions may include: all dwelling units which possess a valid rental license (must show proof of advertising “for rent”), homes which are for sale (must show proof of advertising “for sale”), or extended vacationers of no more than 180 days with intent to reoccupy the property (city notification required).

Annual Fee: $500 first year, $1,000 each subsequent year.

Visit the city’s Vacant Properties website for more information and application forms.

The City of Hopkins requires an annual license for all premises rented in whole or in part as a dwelling unit. This includes: all apartment complexes, single family homes, condominiums, townhomes, double bungalows, rooming units, and owner-occupied double bungalows.

The License Fee is $50 per single family unit (including individually-owned condos or townhomes). For buildings with 3 units or more, the fee is $50 per building plus $7.50 per unit. Rental licenses must be renewed every year before October 31. License fees are doubled when an application is received more than 30 days after it is due.

For more information and application forms, visit the City’s Rental Licensing Website.

Keep temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs a standard size and out of the right-of-way.

“Lake Minnetonka Area” is a geographical generality describing several smaller cities. There is not one temporary offsite real estate sign ordinance that encompasses this region. To see specific sign ordinances for each locality, please click the links to any of the following cities:

Deephaven
Excelsior
Long Lake
Minnetrista
Mound
Shorewood
Wayzata

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are not allowed per the Loretto Sign Ordinance.

MAR was informed (01/07/2020) that Maple Grove changed the enforcement process and penalties for the city’s sign ordinance. The owner of the sign (e.g. REALTORS®) may now be cited with an administrative citation and fine. The fine is part of the city’s schedule of fines. Fines can change from year to year and can be leveed per occurrence observed on a specific property, not to exceed $2,000. The fines are $50 the first time and $100 the second time, per sign.

Administrative Penalties Section
Sign Ordinance Section

Agents must be aware that if signs are improperly placed in public rights-of-way, Section 24-6 (f) (3) of the Maple Grove Code gives the government agency owning the right-of-way the right to remove and destroy the sign.

REAL ESTATE SIGN REGULATIONS
Sec. 24-6. General regulations.

(f) Placement of signs on right-of-way or public land.

(1) No sign other than governmental signs shall be erected or placed for any period of time within or upon any public land except as may be authorized in this subsection.

(2) Only governmental signs, signs for a rummage sale posted no more than 120 hours in any eight-day period and signs advertising the sale of real estate between the hours of 6:00 p.m. Friday to 6:00 a.m. Monday may be erected or placed within any public right-of-way or easement. No nongovernmental sign shall be placed in a public right-of-way abutting private property unless permission to place such a sign is first obtained from the owner, occupant or other person having control of the abutting private property.

(3) Any sign other than governmental signs remaining on such property in excess of 120 hours in any eight-day period, or placed for any length of time in violation of subsection (2) of this subsection, may be summarily removed by the city or other governmental agency owning such public right-of-way or easement and, at its discretion, destroyed.

Sec. 24-7. Signs allowed without permit; prohibited signs.
(8) Individual property sale, lease or rental signs. Any on-premises sign announcing the name of the owner, manager, realtor or other person directly involved in the sale or rental of the property or announcing the purpose for which it is being offered.

1. Signs must be removed within ten days after sale or rental of property.
2. Signs may not measure more than 12 square feet in the R-A district, may not measure more than six square feet in R-1, R-2, and R-3 districts, may not measure more than 32 square feet in R-4, R-5 and I districts, and may not measure more than 64 square feet in the B and FF districts.
3. A conditional use permit may be granted by the city council for signs larger than 12 square feet in the R-A district under this subsection if acreage over 20 acres is offered for sale.
4. There shall be only one sign per property. Corner properties, however, may contain two signs, one per frontage.
5. Properties whose land use designation is different from the existing zoning can display signs of the size allowed in the designated zone district before the property is actually rezoned.

On Monday, June 6, the city of Maple Grove passed a Rental License Moratorium for Single-Famliy and Townhomes. The ordinance takes effect July 1st and last for 1 year until July 1, 2023. During that time, the city will not accept or grant any new rental licenses to any Single-Family or Townhome owners. Click here for more information.

543.300. Real estate signs.

(a) Location. Real estate signs are allowed as a permitted encroachment in the required front yard. No real estate sign shall be closer than eight (8) feet to any other zoning lot. No real estate sign shall be placed on the public right-of-way, including boulevard trees and utility poles.

(b) Size.

(1) Residence and OR1 Districts. One (1) freestanding or wall real estate sign, not to exceed eight (8) square feet in area, shall be permitted per street frontage. A larger real estate sign may be allowed, provided such sign shall be included in the calculation of the total permitted sign area of the site and shall be regulated as such.

(2) All other districts. One (1) freestanding or wall real estate sign, not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area, shall be permitted per street frontage. A larger real estate sign may be allowed, provided such sign shall be included in the calculation of the total permitted sign area of the site and shall be regulated as such.

(c) Height.

(1) Residence and OR1 Districts. The height of a freestanding real estate sign shall not exceed six (6) feet. A real estate sign mounted on a wall shall not exceed the height requirements of the district in which the sign is located.

(2) All other districts. The height of a freestanding real estate sign shall not exceed fourteen (14) feet. A real estate sign mounted on a wall shall not exceed the height requirements of the district in which the sign is located.

The purpose of the Truth in Housing Ordinance is to inform the buyer and seller of a home, prior to the time of sale, of any major structural defects or hazards to the health and safety of the occupants. The ordinance requires the repair or replacement of unsafe item related to the heating and electrical systems, water heaters, plumbing cross connections, unsafe gas piping, smoke detectors and lack of required utilities.

The ordinance requires that the seller of single and two family dwellings, townhouses, and first time condominium conversions provide a Truth in Housing Disclosure report or a Certificate of Code Compliance to the buyer prior to signing a purchase agreement. The truth in housing report must be prepared by a certified truth in housing evaluator. The ordinance requires that the completed report is available for inspection at the premises at all times when the dwelling is being offered for sale.

A valid disclosure report must be provided to the buyer at closing. The buyer is responsible to make any required repairs within 90 days after closing. Sellers may decide to complete any required repairs before closing.

Owners of vacant properties must register and pay an annual fee. The Vacant Building Registration (VBR) fee is due at the time of registration and each year on the anniversary date of being found vacant. This fee is also adjusted annually and will be increased April 1, of each calendar year. All buildings (including commercial properties) may qualify for the Vacant Building Registration Program. Residential or commercial properties that have one or more of the following conditions may be required to register as vacant:

1. Condemned requiring a code compliance inspection.
2. Unoccupied and unsecured for five days or more
3. Unoccupied and secured by means other than those normally used in the design of the building for 30 days or more
4. Unoccupied with multiple housing maintenance, fire or building code violations existing for 30 days or more
5. Unoccupied more than 365 days with an order having been issued to correct a nuisance condition pursuant to section 227.90
6. A vacant commercial or residential building or structure which is unable to receive a certificate of occupancy due to work stoppage or expired permits

Annual Fee: $6,948 for April 1, 2012 – March 30, 2013

To encourage the rehabilitation of buildings that qualify for the VBR program, the City is allowing the VBR fee to be held in abeyance for six months as long as the property owner is rehabbing the property and meeting other conditions in the Restoration Agreement. Please note, not all properties will qualify for a Restoration Agreement. Restoration Agreements may be an option if the property has been in the VBR program for less than three months, or the anniversary date of the Vacant Building Registration order is less than three months past due.

Visit the city’s Vacant Building Registration website for more information and application forms.

Minneapolis requires that every rental dwelling, including single-family rental dwellings and rental units in owner-occupied duplexes, and rooming and shared-bath units (unless they are in a licensed lodging house) must have a rental license.

Some Rental License General Rules include:

1. The rental license year is from September 1st to August 31st.
2. Licenses must be renewed each year.
3. Rental licenses are not transferable.
4. A 311 Poster must be posted in the rental property along with the rental license certificate.
5. The status of a rental license can be found under Property Information.

The annual license fee for a rental dwelling license or provisional license is $69.00* for the first rental dwelling unit and $19.00 for each additional rental dwelling unit under common ownership in the same building. Additionally, when a dwelling is converted to rental property (or has not had a license for the last 12 months) it must be inspected for compliance with minimum housing standards. The fee for this required inspection is $1000. This fee is in addition to the annual license fee.When a valid rental property changes ownership, it must be inspected (with some exemptions). Change of Ownership Inspection Fee is $450* For more information on Rental License Fees, Click Here.

When a single-family home is converted to rental occupancy for the first time in at least 12 months, an inspection is required (with some exemptions).

Rental License applications are specific to property type. For Application information, Click Here.

For more information on the licensing process, call 311 or outside Minneapolis city limits call (612) 673-3000. Or visit the city’s Rental License Website for additional information.

*Fees listed are annual unless otherwise noted.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs ordinance states a one sign limit per intersection, and not in the county or state right-of-way. Sign size maximum is 3 square feet, and 6 feet high. All signs must be placed at least 5 ft from public streets and can be posted Thursday through Sunday only.

Temporary offsite real estate open house (not exceeding six square feet) and directional signs (not exceeding two square feet) shall be set back a minimum of 10 feet from the back of the curb or behind the sidewalk. On corner lots, signs are not permitted within 20 feet of any corner formed by the intersection of two streets with the 20-foot sides of the isosceles triangle measured from the back of the curb. Signs cannot be posted more than one day prior to the event and shall be removed by 10 p.m. on the same day of the open house. If the city confiscates a sign for noncompliance with the setback requirements, the city will usually retain the sign for retrieval for a seven-day period before it is permanently disposed of.

A code compliance inspection is required prior to the sale of any residential property, including single-family homes, condominiums, and apartment buildings. The initial code compliance inspection takes about 45 minutes. During the inspection, the building official looks for items in the home that present safety or maintenance concerns. Following the inspection, the homeowner receives a “fix it” list that spells out the repairs that will be needed to bring the property into compliance with the city codes. The home seller must make the specified repairs and have the home reinspected before a Certificate of Compliance will be issued and the home may be sold. If the seller is physically or financially unable to make the repairs, the home may be sold “as is” if the buyer commits to making the repairs within a specified period.

The Code Compliance Inspection fee is $120. The fee covers both the initial inspection and one re-inspection of the property.

Point of Sale Sewer Service Inspection Program
On January 1st 2021, a new city ordinance takes effect- The Point of Sale Sewer Service Inspection Program. This means that an inspection of a home’s sanitary sewer service line must be completed prior to the sale of a property. Read More Here

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are allowed as long as they are taken down daily.

As of January 2016, a Truth in Housing inspection is no longer required prior to the sale of homes in Osseo.

Plymouth ordinance does not address temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs.

Temporary real estate open house and directional signs ordinance specifically states no offsite open house or directional signs. One open house sign may be placed at the property.

This program requires that residential properties pass a housing maintenance code inspection before the title is transferred. Houses that pass inspection are issued a “Certificate of Housing Maintenance Compliance” which must be presented at the closing of the property.

The Inspection must be completed prior to title transfer (closing). If repairs are needed to meet the housing code, the seller or buyer can do them. Repairs done by the seller must be competed and reinspected prior to closing. If the buyer assumes responsibility for the repairs, certain conditions must be met.

The property can be inspected anytime during the selling process. However, it is strongly recommended that the inspection be done prior to listing or advertising the dwelling for sale. The inspection is done by a City housing inspector.

The inspector visually checks the condition of the roof, foundation, doors, and windows, exterior paint or covering, electrical system, plumbing system, chimney, and heating/cooling system. A written report is provided at the end of the inspection listing items to be repaired.

Repairs made by the seller must be completed and inspected before the closing. If you own and occupy the home, you may do the work yourself. All repairs must meet City codes. Code violations must be corrected even if the home does not sell and is taken off the market.

Annual Fee: Varies depending on property type. Single-family homes carry a fee of $100 for the first year, $200 for each subsequent year. Check Richfield’s Vacant Building Registration Application for fees for other property types.

Robbinsdale sign regulations are fairly restrictive. Signs are supposed to be ONLY on the property that’s for sale and are not to be in the city rights-of-way. That means NO signs on boulevard areas in front of homes, at city intersections, directional signs blocks away from the home, at highway off ramps, etc. etc. As staff time allows the extra signs are picked up and disposed of. Signs erected for the sole purpose of sales or rental of property, structures, or space therein are permitted in all zoning districts, provided that the sign is erected on the premises to which the sign refers. The sign may not exceed one quarter square foot of sign area for each foot of property frontage, along which the sign is to be erected, up to a maximum size of 25 square feet in area. Only 1 real estate sign may be erected along each street frontage (still on the property to which the sign refers). If the sign is erected as a free-standing sign, it may not exceed 4 feet in height and must be securely anchored to prevent its dislodgement by normal wind pressure. The sign must be removed within 7 days of sale or rental. The signs are not included in the maximum number of signs allowed under subsection 410.09.

Enforcement of Robbinsdale’s Point of Sale ordinance began May 1, 2009, and requires a disclosure report prepared by independent certified evaluators (hired by the seller). Under this code, licensed evalulators would walk through homes prior to their being placed on the market and shown for sale. This applies to all single-family homes, twin homes, townhouses, and condominiums (except new construction). Reports would indicate items which are acceptable, below standards and require repairs. Required repairs include imminent structural failures, unsafe electrical and plumbing systems, hazardous or unsanitary conditions, and lack of basic items (sinks in kitchens, toilet facilities, etc.). For more information, see links below or contact Rick Pearson at 763.531.1266.

The Point of Sale (POS) inspection must be performed by a certified evaluator. Any person qualified to perform POS or truth-in-housing inspections in the cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul or Bloomington can become certified in Robbinsdale. To obtain certification, an application and documentation of the qualifications from the above cities, insurance, and sign-off of the Code of Ethics form are required. For a list of evaluators currently certified in Robbinsdale, see link below.

Small temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs of less than 2 square feet may be posted for 5 days before and 1 day after the event. They must be out of the county right-of-way, or they will be picked up by MNDOT. In the city, keep signs back far enough from corners and roads to maintain a clear view.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are allowed providing they are free-standing and placed on private property with owner’s permission. They may be displayed for no more than 3 consecutive days. Signs that are excessive or get complaints are removed and stored at the fire station for collection.

The City of St. Anthony has passed a Sewer Lateral Infiltration and Infill Point of Sale inspection requirement that will impact all home sales in the city moving forward.

Any homes advertised for sale after Mar. 1, 2023 will need to submit a televised sewer lateral inspection video and inspection report to St. Anthony Public Works for review so that a Certificate of Compliance can be issued prior to the sale.The homeowner will need to hire a plumbing contractor to perform the sewer inspection and provide a video and report. The video file name must include the property address. The inspection video must include footage of the full sewer lateral from the property to the sewer main.

Learn more and upload inspection reports and videos here.

All off-premises sign are prohibited in the City of St. Louis Park. 02/2005

“The City of St. Louis Park requires property inspections whenever a property is sold or ownership is transferred. To ensure you are ready for closing, apply for your inspection before or immediately after you place your property up for sale. A Property Maintenance Certificate MUST be presented to the buyer and title company when the property transfer occurs at closing.

To schedule an inspection, the homeowner or the owner’s agent may either call the Inspections Department at 952.924.2588 or go to St. Louis Park City Hall, 5005 Minnetonka Boulevard (three blocks east of Highway 100; located on the second floor – Inspections Department). You may also apply online at www.stlouispark.org (click on Permits).

The fee for the housing inspection includes the initial inspection and any follow-up inspections that may be needed. Inspection appointments are typically available within one to three days. A city inspector will visit your property to check that the siding, roof, garage and interior complies with St. Louis Park’s property maintenance code. A typical inspection takes about 45 to 60 minutes. Fees are:

$195 house or townhome
$115 condo
$275 duplex

If the inspector finds no code violations, a Property Maintenance Certificate is issued.

If code violations are found, work orders are issued for the needed repairs. In most cases, corrections must meet the code requirements that were in place when the building was constructed. If a portion of the home was remodeled, the remodeled section must comply with the building code that was in effect when the remodeling occurred. (Exception: smoke detectors are required in all buildings, no matter when constructed.)

In most cases, the seller makes the code corrections. However, buyers may obtain a temporary property maintenance certificate if they sign an agreement acknowledging the work orders and agreeing to make all required code work within a specific time period. Buyers and sellers must use the City’s Agreement Form and pay a $50 service fee. In addition, sufficient funds must be put in escrow to cover the cost outlined in the agreement. A city representative must also sign off on the agreement.

After repairs have been completed, a city housing inspector will return for a follow-up inspection to verify that all work meets code. Once this is done, a Property Maintenance Certificate is issued. Certificates are good for one year. “

The City of St. Louis Park has detailed information regarding Rental Property and City Programs: 4D Affordable Housing, Crime Free/drug free rental housing, Housing Inclusionary Policy, Incentive Programs and Loans, Rental Assistance, Rental Licensing, Tenant Protection Ordinance for Affordable Multi-Family READ MORE

The St. Louis Park City Council adopted a notice of eviction ordinance requiring rental property owners to provide seven days’ written notice to tenants prior to initiating an eviction action for non-payment of rent or other financial obligations. The ordinance goes into effect Feb. 1, 2021. View the notice of eviction ordinance. READ MORE

Sign ordinance does not allow temporary offsite signage arrows or open house notices. However, the ordinance does allow for the standard real estate signs. There are agents that use offsite open house signs and arrows, but they make sure to have them up only for the Saturday or Sunday that they are holding the open house and then collect the signs at the conclusion of the open house. If the City discovers illegal or offsite signage has been installed the signage will be collected and held at City Hall. The first infraction is a warning and sign is returned to the owner when they come to pick it up at City Hall, subsequent infractions would result in fines.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are not addressed specifically by ordinance. They are tolerated for the duration of an open house only, providing they are small and not obstructing right-of-way and clear view. Signs are frequently removed by city officials and private citizens when they are improperly placed.

All temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs may be posted for the day of the open house only.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are not specifically addressed in the sign ordinance.

Placement revolves around when the REALTOR® will be on location and not within the right of way. Little Canada is a very active community on enforcement of signs and frequently remove and dispose of signs in violation.

Directional/Information Signs

1. On-Premise Signs. Shall not be larger than four (4) square feet unless approved by the City Council. The number of said signs shall not exceed four (4) unless approved by the City Council.
2. Off-Premise Signs. Said signs shall be limited to situations where access is questionable and/or confusing and resulting traffic safety may be jeopardized or traffic inappropriately utilizes residential, minor streets. Said sign shall require a conditional use permit as approved by the City Council. The size of the sign shall be determined by the City Council and shall contain no advertising.

On-Site Real Estate Signs: A sign advertising the sale, lease, or rental of real estate upon which the sign is located.

1. For single and double dwelling lots, (1) on-site real estate sign not exceeding (9) square feet is permitted for each street upon which the property has frontage.
2. For all other types of property, (1) on-site real estate sign is permitted for each street upon which the property has frontage. Each sign shall not exceed a ratio of (1) square foot of sign area for each (1,000) square feet of lot area. In no case shall the area of any one sign exceed (64) square feet or (10) feet in height.
3. All real estate signs shall pertain to the sale, lease, or rental of the property only and must be removed within (7) calendar days of the close of the property or when 90 percent or more of the dwelling units on the property have been sold, leased, or rented.

Off-Site Directional or Open House Real Estate Signs: A sign located within the right-of-way that advertises the sale, lease, or rental of real estate or the open house for such real estate located off the premises where the sign is located.

Off-site directional or open house real estate signs not exceeding (3) square feet and (3) feet in height may be placed on the public right-of-way. No part of such sign shall be closer than (5) feet to the street pavement or (1) foot to a sidewalk or trail. Said sign shall not be placed between the street and a sidewalk or trail. Signs are limited to (1) real estate listing and (1) open house sign per corner at each intersection, with a maximum of (4) separate real estate listings and (4) separate open house signs per intersection. Off-site directional signs may be placed in the right-of-way for (30) days per real estate listing and open house real estate signs may be placed in the right-of-way on the day of the open house only.

Off-Site Real Estate Signs: A sign advertising the sale, lease, or rental of real estate for single or multiple-family housing developments located off the premises where the sign is located.

Off-site real estate signs exceeding (3) square feet may be placed on private property. Such signs require a permit, shall not be located in the right-of-way, and the sign owner/installer must supply written permission to the city from the property owner on which property the sign is installed. Each development is limited to one such sign. The maximum area of any such sign shall be (64) square feet and the maximum height shall be (6) feet. The sign must be removed when at least 90 percent of the dwelling units approved by the city have been sold or rented.

Maplewood requires that a Truth-in-Housing inspection be completed before a property is listed or shown. The ordinance includes single-family, duplexes, condominiums and townhouses. The city maintains a list of licensed Maplewood inspectors. Before a residence can be shown for sale, the owner must have the property evaluated by a truth-in-housing inspector. After the inspection is complete, the owner must have the report on display and available on site for perspective buyers. A copy of the disclosure report must be issued to the buyer before the execution of a contractual agreement.

A housing disclosure shall be prepared by a city approved housing evaluator. The report shall include a) an evaluation by the inspector of the building and the property. The evaluation will include, but not be limited to, items addressed in Maplewood’s housing maintenance, siding and junk removal ordinances. The city shall be responsible for determining whether there is an ordinance violation, and a signed statement by the owner related to the condition of the property must be completed.

Owners must have their own truth-in housing evaluation done before listing or property for sale. A truth-in-sale-of-housing disclosure report is only valid for one owner or for one year.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs ordinance states that signs cannot remain up for more than 3 days. They must be at least 5 feet from the curb, and not attached to any poles or obstructing any views. The size of signs must not exceed 4 square feet.

The following signs are subject only to section 9-040 (5) and do not require permits:

A single, small sign per street frontage on each lot displayed for garage sales, rummage sales, sale of produce grown on the premises, real estate sales, Parade of Homes production, or church or school events. Additional notes:

1. Signs are permitted on private property only, may be placed only upon approval of the property owner, may not exceed six square feet in area and may not exceed four feet in height.
2. In addition, signs advertising garage sales, rummage sales, Parade of Homes promotions, or church events may be displayed for no more than one week prior to the event and must be removed within one day after the sale or event.
3. Real estate sale signs erected off the premises offered for sale may be displayed for no more than three days in any seven-day period.
4. No sign provided for in this subsection may be located closer than seven feet to the paved portion of a street.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are not allowed in North Oaks. One For Sale sign on the property for sale is allowed.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs up to 3 square feet, and 3 feet high may be posted on private property only, with permission from the property owner. No more than 4 such signs may be posted.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are permitted on weekends for the time of the open house. For more information contact Rick Talmot, Code Compliance Officer at the City of Roseville at 651.792.7082.

The City of St. Paul does not allow any temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs on the city right-of-way. Agent may place on private property with the consent of the property owner.

The City of St. Paul has provided in its Legislative Code an ordinance concerning the sale of housing within the City’s limits known as Chapter 189, the Truth-In-Sale of Housing Ordinance. This ordinance provides for a Truth-In-Sale of Housing Disclosure Report that may only be compiled by an independent evaluator who has been tested and licensed by the City.

Failure to obtain a Truth-In-Sale of Housing Disclosure Report before marketing a house for sale, or failure to make that disclosure report available to prospective buyers is a violation of law and is punishable as a misdemeanor carrying up to 90 days in jail and/or a $700.00 fine.

This disclosure report is an overview of the building components and fixtures. It is to inform a prospective buyer of the observed condition of a dwelling at the time of the evaluation. The disclosure report is intended to provide basic information to the home buyer and seller prior to the time of sale; not necessarily detailed information. Prospective buyers may also seek additional opinions from various experts in the inspections field prior to purchase.

One and two-family dwellings, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops require a Truth-In-Sale of Housing Disclosure Report whenever there is an intended change in ownership.

The report is valid for one (1) year from the date on the report and is only valid for the owner named on the report.

The ordinance requires an evaluation be done within three (3) calendar days of a dwelling being offered, listed or posted for sale. The Disclosure Report must be conspicuously displayed at the dwelling that is for sale at all times for review by potential buyers. A valid Disclosure Report issued for the dwelling must be provided to the buyer before or at the time of the sale of the dwelling. It is the responsibility of the owner or the owner’s agent to comply with these requirements.

Evaluators are private contractors, not employees or contractors of the City. The City does, however, maintain a list of licensed Evaluators and will provide this list (which includes their phone numbers) to anyone requesting it. You may also contact an Evaluator through a REALTOR® or agent. The City will not recommend an Evaluator.

Rent Stabilization:

Beginning on May 1, 2022, St. Paul’s Rent Stabilization ordinance limits rent increases to 3% in any 12-month period even if there is a change of occupancy. It also directs the city to create a process for landlords to request an exception to the rent cap based on the right to a reasonable return on investment, and to consider seven factors when determining if an exception is justified. Learn more about the rent stabilization ordinance at https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/safety-inspections/rent-buy-sell-property/rent-stabilization

S.A.F.E. Ordinance:

The St. Paul’s Stable Accessible, Fair & Equitable Housing (S.A.F.E.) ordinance includes Tenant Screening Guidelines, Security Deposit Limitations, Just Cause Notice Policy, and Advance Notice of Sale for Affordable Property Policy is effective March 1, 2021 and more information can be found here:

https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/financial-empowerment/stable-accessible-fair-equitable-safe-housing

Only one temporary real estate sign is permitted per property unless the property is a corner lot abutting a collector or arterial roadway, in which case a sign may be displayed along each roadway. Sign(s) shall be setback at least 3 feet from the edge of any roadway or back of curb and at least 2 feet from the edge of a sidewalk or trail, whichever is the greater. Signs shall not be erected between the pavement or curb and any sidewalk or trail.

1. To preserve public safety, on any corner lot, no sign shall be erected which may cause danger to traffic by obscuring the view
2. Offsite directional signs, other than for an open house, are prohibited.
3. Offsite real estate directional sales signs for an open house are permissible only when associated with the sale or lease of individual single, double, and townhouse-style units, provided:

1. The sign face area does not exceed 18″ x 24″ (3 sq. ft.);
2. The sign height does not exceed 4 feet in height above the ground surface;
3. Not more than one such sign may be located at any intersection, except two signs may be located at an intersection with a collector or arterial street. They may only be displayed from one hour before until one hour after the scheduled; and
4. They are located at least 2 feet from the edge of any roadway or back of curb and at least 2 feet from the edge of a sidewalk or trail.

If you have any questions, please contact Rob Warwick, Associate Planner, 651.490.4681.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are addressed under the offsite advertising ordinance for White Bear Lake. No off-premises signs are allowed.

Temporary real estate signs located on the premises of the structure or land advertised for sale or lease, shall not exceed 6 square feet of display surface and shall be no closer than 10 feet to a front property line. There shall be only one such sign per front property lot except for corner lots, which are considered as having two front property lots. These signs shall be removed from teh property within 10 days following the lease or closing of sale. These signs do not require a sign permit.

Temporary real estate signs located off the premises of the structure or land advertised for sale or lease, shall not exceed 32 square feet of display surface and shall be no closer than 20 feet from any front property line. If this sign is displayed on private residential property, the owner must give consent to having the sign displayed. This type of sign shall not be illuminated. This type of sign does require a permit

Temporary real estate signs announcing or promoting a new residential, commercial project, industrial project, or multifamily development, provided that each residential project contains at least 6 dwellings or lots must meet the following conditions:

1. Sign shall not exceed 100 square feet of display surface.
2. Sign shall be at least 130 feet from any pre-existing home.
3. One such sign is permitted for each major thoroughfare the project abuts.
4. The sign(s) are removed within 2 years unless an extension of teim is granted by the Town Board.

Temporary real estate signs located on the premises of a multiple dwelling unit advertised for sale, lease or rent, shall not exceed 16 square feet of display surface and only one ground or wall sign is allowed per building on front lots facing public streets. This type of sign does require a sign permit.

Stay clear of MNDOT highways 282, 21 and 169, they will confiscate. Small temporary signs may be posted clear of right-of-way in Jordan, ask property owners permission to post on private property.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are allowed on private property but not in the public right-of-way.

Prior Lake – Policy for Temporary Signs

The City of Prior Lake does not require sign permits for Yard Sale Signs, Election Signs or similar Temporary Signage. There are, however, criteria for the location of these signs. These criteria are listed and shown in the picture below [use link to picture examples]

• Do not place these signs within the street right-of-way. Instead, locate the signs on the building side of curbs and sidewalks. This area is usually private property.
• On corners, you can determine the approximate right-of-way line by measuring 50 feet along the curb line on each street, and drawing an imaginary line connecting these two points to
  form a triangle. No sign taller than 2 1/feet should be located within this triangle. Instead, place the signs on the building side of the imaginary line you have just created.
• Do not attach signs to utility poles or light standards, as these are also considered public
• Do not place signs on any publicly owned property, such as parks, wetlands and City
• Yard Sale signs may be displayed 7 days prior to the sale and must be removed immediately after the end of the yard sale.
• In a State general election year, such signs may not be posted until 46 days before the date of the State primary election and must be removed within 10 days following the State
  general election.

Signs located within City, County or State right-of-way, or on other City property, may be removed by
City staff. These signs will be stored at the City Public Works building for two weeks. The signs may
be retrieved by visiting the Public Works Building at 17073 Adelmann Street. Any unclaimed signs will
be discarded after two weeks.

More Information, Click Below

http://156.99.83.130/Weblink8External/DocView.aspx?id=485161&page=1&dbid=0

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are allowed for the duration of an Open House ONLY, providing they are on private property(with permission) and out of the road right-of-way. No directional signage is allowed in the city of Savage. For more information talk to Colleen Johnson, 952.882.2693.

Real estate open house and directional signage is allowed without the issuance of a temporary sign permit, and in compliance with the following:

1. Signs shall not exceed 4 square feet in area per side;
2. Signs shall not exceed 3 feet in height;
3. At intersections, one open house sign or project directional sign shall be permitted per approach to the intersection, and each sign at an intersection shall be located outside the 30 foot sight triangle for the intersection.
4. All real estate open house and directional signs shall be located no less than 5 feet from the edge of a street;
5. Signs may be displayed from 6 p.m. Friday until 8 a.m. the following Monday morning.

Temporary real estate signs are not directly addressed, however, temporary placement of open house signs is permitted. All signs must remain at least 10 feet from any roadway.

Open house and directional signs are prohibited except for on the property of the home for sale.

Temporary directional signs for “open house” purposed are permitted under the following conditions:

1. no sign shall exceed 3 square feet in area.
2. no sign may be placed more than 2 hours prior to a scheduled open house showing and must be removed within 1 hour after the close of the open house.
3. no more than 3 temporary directional signs may be placed.

Temporary Sign. A sign which is designed or intended to be displayed for a short period of time and is not permanently installed. This includes banners, pennants, and flags that are other than a political jurisdiction, garage sales signs, and flyers, for sale real estate signs, sandwich or curb signs.

Permit Not Required. The following signs or activities do not require a permit or permit fee. However, the requirements of Subdivision 10 of this Section pertaining to Temporary Signs do apply. Temporary on site and off site real estate signs pertaining to the sale, rental, or development of real property.

It is unlawful for any person to construct, erect, install or maintain any sign in the City of Hugo, except in conformance with the city’s sign ordinance. The information below is a brief overview of the Hugo sign ordinance. Refer to Sec. 90-265 in the City of Hugo’s code for the full set of rules.

No sign is allowed to be placed in the City of Hugo’s street right-of-ways.

Signs are not allowed to be posted on any utility poles or on private property without permission from the property owner. The City of Hugo has the right to remove and discard any signs in the public right-of-way, without notice or compensation.

Open house signs are allowed subject to the following regulations:

Open house signs may be no larger than 4 square feet in surface. These signs are only allowed on the same day as the open house and only during the time of an open house. They must be removed promptly following the completion of an open house.

Temporary on-site real estate and construction signs are allowed subject to the following regulations:

Residential properties less than 5 acres in size:

1. One sign per property is allowed per contractor.
2. Signs are allowed up to 6 square feet in area and 6 feet maximum height.
3. Signs shall be removed upon sale or lease of the property or completion of construction project.
4. Signs shall be at least 10 feet from the curb or shoulder of the road.

Commercial, Industrial, or Residential properties of 5 acres or more:

1. One sign per property is allowed per contractor.
2. Signs are allowed up to 32 square feet in area and 8 feet maximum height.
3. Signs shall be removed upon sale or lease of the property or completion of construction project.
4. Signs shall be at least 10 feet from the curb or shoulder of the road.

Please be aware that some signs are allowed with out a permit and others require a permit. If you have questions please contact City Hall at 651.762.6300. | VIEW BROCHURE

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are not allowed on any public property in Lake Elmo, but may be placed on private property with permission only.

Keep any temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs out of the city and county right-of-way. The county confiscates signs along Highway #18, and holds them for a day or two to claim.

It is alright to have temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs in someone’s yard with permission, however, not in the County Road #18 right-of-way.

No permit required for temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs. Not to exceed 3 square feet. Allowed in the city right-of-way.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs ordinance states that signs are acceptable adjacent to, but out of the public right-of-way. Signs must be less than 6 square feet in size, and only one per street frontage. All temporary sign must be removed with 7 days.

Open House signs may be placed thoughout the city from Saturday, beginning at 6am, through Sunday, at 10 pm and on Monday through Friday, from 5pm to 8pm. “Spring Preview” and “Fall Showcase” signs for the Parade of Homes may be placed throughout the city for a total of four weeks, beginning two weeks prior to the events. 03/2005

No signs may be posted on city right-of-ways, park property, telephone or power poles. This regulation also applies to county and state right-of-ways. You must ask the property owners permission before placing signs on private property. Any signs placed must be back 15 feet from the curb lines.

Temporary real estate “open house” signs may be placed in the right of way provided that:

1. The sign not be placed in a manner that creates a nuisance to adjacent owners, does not create a safety hazard or block the view of entrances to streets or intersections.
2. A sign may be placed one–half hour before the open house and must be removed each day immediately after the open house closes.
3. A maximum of four signs in residential zoning district for each open house.
4. A sign must not exceed six square feet.
5. Signs are limited to a four block radius of the open house.

Temporary offsite real estate open house and directional signs are addressed under the offsite advertising ordinance for White Bear Lake. No off-premises signs are allowed.

Open house directional signs. Offsite open house signs for the sale of individual homes are allowed subject to the following:

1. Such signs shall be erected for not more than forty-eight continuous hours.
2. Such signs shall be freestanding, and shall not exceed six square feet.
3. Maximum height shall be four feet.
4. No more than three signs for any open house shall be displayed.
5. Open house directional signs shall not be placed on vehicles.“In addition, sign set-back must be at least 5 feet from the curb or shoulder, not on median or islands.” 03/2005