▼

Building Inspections

Show All Answers

1. How long will it take to get approval for my permit?

Some residential permits, such as roofing, siding, window replacement, plumbing, mechanical and electrical permits can be issued immediately. Permits which require plan review should expect at least a 7 to 10 business day wait before the permit is ready to be issued. If plans are not complete, the review time will be longer. Therefore, it is important for the applicant to review the plans before submitting to make sure they show specifically what is to be built and how it will be built.

2. Do I need to have a professional draw up construction plans?

Typically, construction plans do not have to be professionally drawn but they must be specific enough with dimensions and materials that someone would be able to construct the project from the plans.

3. How much will my permit cost?

Some permits are a flat fee while other permits are based on the valuation of the cost of material and labor as if a contractor was doing the work. Please call 651-249-2300 for specifics.

4. How can I pay for my permit?

Payment must be either cash or check; the city cannot accept any form of plastic payment.

5. How can I apply for my permit?

Permit applications can be submitted by mail or person to the Community Development Department at Maplewood City Hall located at 1830 County Road B East. Counter hours are Monday – Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Some applications can be faxed to (651) 249-2319, please call to see if appropriate for the type of permit you are applying for.

6. What inspections do I need?

An inspection card listing the expected inspections for your project is included with the building permit. The individual construction handouts also give some general inspection guidelines. For specific questions, please contact a building inspector at (651) 249-2300.

7. When do I need a permit?

Permits are required for any new construction, addition, remodeling project or structural alteration as well as mechanical, electrical and plumbing projects. We do not require permits for finish work such as new cabinets, carpeting or painting. If you are not sure it you need a permit, please contact us at (651) 249-2300.

▼

Citizen's Services

Show All Answers

1. Where are you located?

The Maplewood City Hall is located at 1830 County Road B East, which is two blocks south of Highway 36 and one block east of White Bear Avenue. Call (651) 249-2000 for additional information.

2. I lost my drivers license, what will I need to bring in with me to get a new one?

If there are no changes to your license, you do not need to bring anything in. If there are changes such as new address you will need to bring in a certified copy of your birth certificate and your social security card. For name changes you will also need to bring the marriage certificate or court order document.

3. Where do I take my drivers license test?

The drivers license test can be taken at the Arden Hills test site at 5400 Old Highway 8 (35W and County Road I). For hours and additional locations contact the State of Minnesota, Driver and Vehicle Services website or call (651) 296-2025.

4. What types of special license plates does the state have?

The state has many types of special license plates available – Personalized Plates, Collector Plates (many types), Veteran Plates (many types), and Specialized Plates (Amateur Radio, Citizen Band (CB), Critical Habitat, Collegiate, Firefighter, National Guard, Ready Reserve, and Volunteer Ambulance Attendant). For more information contact the State of Minnesota, Driver and Vehicle Services website or call (651) 296-3166.

5. What are the requirements for a business license?

We issue over 32 different types of business licenses. Requirements vary. Call (651) 249-2005 for specifics or go to our Business Licenses page.

6. When is the next City Council Meeting, and what is on the agenda?

City Council meetings are typically held the second and fourth Monday of the Month. See more information on the Council web page. City Council Page

7. Can I get a copy of a particular City Council Meeting?

Yes. The cost for a DVD is $5.00 (which includes 6.5% tax) this is the charge for each DVD (some council meetings will run longer and require more than 1 DVD).

8. I am thinking about buying a house in Maplewood. Can you tell me what the taxes would be?

Property taxes include not only City taxes but also school district, watershed and county costs. Contact the Ramsey County tax department at (651) 266-2000 for more information or check the Ramsey County website.

9. Who are my legislators and what is my legislative district?

This depends on the precinct you are in and your political party. Call (651) 249-2002 for precinct information and details.

10. Where do I go to vote?

Call the City of Maplewood at (651) 249-2000 with your street address and they can provide you with your precinct and location. Or see the Elections page. Elections

11. Can I apply for a passport at your location? Do you take passport photos?

Yes. We offer passport processing services at our location, including taking photos. Visit our Passports page on this website for additional information.

▼

City Council

Show All Answers

1. When is the next City Council Meeting, and what is on the agenda?

City Council meetings are typically held the second and fourth Monday of the Month. See more information on the Council web page.

▼

Elections

Show All Answers

1. Who is eligible to vote?

· 18 years of age or older;
· A United States citizen; and
· Have lived in Minnesota for at least 20 days by Election Day.

2. How do I register to vote?

You may register to vote in person or by mail at the Ramsey County Elections office or at any city or town hall in Ramsey County.

3. Who should complete a voter registration card?

Everyone must register in order to vote. You must complete a registration card if you have:
· Just turned 18 years old;
· Moved into Maplewood since last registering;
· Moved to another address within Maplewood since last voting;
· Changed your name
· Not voted for the last four years; or
· Never registered to vote

4. Why should I pre-register?

It is true that you can register at the polls on Election Day. However, specific identification is required at that time. Voting will be faster and easier if you are registered to vote when you arrive at the polls on Election Day.

5. How do I register on Election Day?

To register on Election Day, you must present an approved form of identification showing your current Maplewood address. Call (651)249-2001 for information on the allowable forms of identification.

6. What if I cannot get to the poll on Election Day?

You may cast an absentee ballot. Requesting a ballot is a two-step process. First, you must complete an absentee ballot application. If you are eligible to vote absentee, the City Clerk will provide you with an absentee ballot. You can accomplish this process either by mail or in-person.

By Mail
To have an absentee ballot application mailed to you, call (651)249-2003. Leave your name, address, zip code and phone number. Upon receiving the completed application from you, the City Clerk will send you an absentee ballot. If you request an absentee ballot by mail, please allow plenty of time to complete the process. All absentee ballots must be received at the Maplewood City Hall by Election Day.

In Person
Up until the day before the election, you can also request an absentee ballot application, receive your ballot and vote in person at Maplewood City Hall, 1830 County Road B East.

Hours:
8:00 am-4:30 pm Monday-Friday
8:00 am-4:30 pm Friday and Monday before election day.
10:00 am-3:00 pm Saturday before election day.

7. What if I am not registered but still want to cast an absentee ballot?

If you are not a registered voter, you can still register and vote an absentee ballot by presenting one of the accepted proofs of residence at City Hall when you come in to cast your absentee ballot.

8. Interested in serving as an Election Judge?

The City of Maplewood needs people to serve as election judges. These are paid positions. Training is provided. If you are interested and are able to work on Election Day from 6 a.m. until votes are counted in the evening (usually around 10 or 11 p.m.), call (651)249-2002

▼

Fire Department

Show All Answers

1. Do fire fighters stay at the fire station?

No, Maplewood has a paid-per-call Fire Department. Personnel respond from their homes to the stations.

2. How do I obtain information to become a firefighter?

Please call the Chiefs Office at (651)249-2800.

3. What do firefighters get paid?

Up to $15.77 hr per call. $18.00 hr per drills.

4. How many calls does the fire department respond to?

In 2007, 3,873 calls were answered.

5. How many are EMS calls?

70% of the calls received in 2007 were EMS calls. The busiest time for calls is Monday - Friday; 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.

6. How many fire stations does Maplewood have?

Maplewood has five fire stations. Please use the link below for a listing of these stations.
Fire Stations

7. How many fire fighters does Maplewood have?

Maplewood has 79 paid-per-call and 13 full-time fire fighters.

8. Does the fire department need fire fighters?

Yes, we are always interested in good people. If you are interested in working for the Maplewood Fire Department, please call the Chiefs Office at (651)249-2800.

▼

GIS

Show All Answers

1. What is GIS?

GIS or Geographic Information System is a set of digital maps with tabular data in the form of databases attached to them. Other databases can also be linked to the items on the map. Analysis can then be performed on either the spatial or tabular data or on both. The results of a query can be saved as a spatial data subset and be used with other spatial or tabular data to perform more analysis, resulting in a number of possibilities for various "what if" scenarios. Spatial queries may include proximities, contiguities, inclusions, exclusions or integrations.

2. What is GPS?

Global Positioning System (GPS) is a service that utilizes a special receiving unit to determine the location of any point on the globe. A series of twenty four satellites transmit signals to the receiver and through a series of trigonometric functions calculates the coordinates. Originally launched to facilitate the U.S. military, the system was later declassified and made available to the civilian public.

3. What Data Types do you use

Maplewood uses ESRI software to create and maintain its geographic data. All data are stored as either ArcView shapefile or geodatabase files. Databases in various other file formats, such as dBase, Access or delimited ASCII are also linked to the spatial data. Raster data are stored as georeferenced TIFF, MrSID or ESRI grid format files. All data that originates from the department are in Ramsey County coordinates

▼

Grading Permits

Show All Answers

1. When do I need a grading permit?

If you are doing any earth movement greater than 10 c.y. (one truckload of soil) or any quantity of grading that will alter the existing drainage patterns, you will probably need a grading permit.

2. Why do I need a grading permit?

The city regulates filling and excavation work through a permitting process to protect the interest of both the property owner and the community. Grading and filling operations can cause a number of problems related to drainage, erosion and protection of the wetlands, easements and utilities.

The biggest concern is related to drainage and how it may affect neighboring properties.

We suggest talking to your neighbors regarding your grade/fill project before starting it.

3. I want to have a truckload of black dirt delivered to add to my flower beds--do I need a grading permit?

Probably not. If you have any concerns that your landscaping work may be altering existing drainage patterns, please call Maplewood Public Works. We would rather visit you before there is a problem.

4. Someone can give me a few loads of dirt to level off my yard--do I need a grading permit?

Yes. In fact, you will probably need a grading plan, though it may not have to be very detailed. Often the Engineering Division can provide a contour map of your property and discuss the work with you to verify that there will not be any impacts to you or adjacent properties.

You will likely be required to post a refundable cash escrow to ensure establishment of vegetation in the disturbed areas.

5. My neighbor and I want about 500 cubic yards of fill placed on both our properties--do we need a grading permit?

Yes, both of you will probably be required to submit a grading plan prepared by a qualified person. This plan must be reviewed and approved by the Engineering Division. You will be required to submit a written agreement between you and your neighbor.

An erosion control plan and cash escrow for surety will also be required.

6. How long does it take to get a grading permit?

Simple permits can often be issued within a day or two. More complex permits may require a week or more to review.

Note: Sites that disturb over one acre of land also require permits from the watershed district and the MPCA.

▼

Health

Show All Answers

1. Food Establishments, who needs a permit?

Restaurants, bars that serve food, cafeterias, deli’s, snack bars, daycare centers, schools or any similar establishment or event that prepares or serves food that is intended for immediate consumption within the City of Maplewood is required to have a food permit.

2. How do I apply for a food establishment, public swimming pool or lodging permit?

These permits are issued through the Citizens Services Department. Please contact them at (651) 249-2105 to obtain the permit application.

3. What is the cost for a permit?

The cost of a food establishment, public swimming pool or lodging permit changes year to year and is dependent on several factors. Please contact the Citizens Services Department, (651) 249-2105, to determine the cost of the permit you are interested in.

4. How do I report a food-borne illness?

To report a suspected food-borne illness, please call the Minnesota Department of Health at (877) 366-3455 or (651) 201-5655.

5. What is a public health nuisance?

A public health nuisance, defined by Minnesota Statue 145A, is any activity or failure to act that adversely affects the public health. Examples of a public health nuisance include the accumulation of human or animal feces, rotting food waste, evidence of rodent or insect infestation, accumulation of solid waste OR lack of water or sewage disposal. It is important to know and realize that a “messy” or “cluttered” home is not necessarily a public health nuisance. To investigate a public health nuisance we need first hand knowledge of the situation. We do not investigate rumors or anonymous complaints.

A public health nuisance is different from a public nuisance or a code violation. Examples of a public nuisance or a code violation are long grass and/or parking on the grass.

6. How do I make a complaint about my landlord or rental property?

Please be advised that the City of Maplewood does not have a housing code to enforce. We do not get involved in landlord/tenant disputes. It is advised that a tenant put their complaint/concern in writing and send it certified mail (return receipt requested) to the landlord.

7. What to do about mold in your home?

The City of Maplewood does not investigate mold complaints. We are not trained in mold identification, we are not mold experts nor do we have the ability to test for mold. We follow the Minnesota Department of Health’s guidelines in that if you believe you have a mold problem, treat it as a mold problem. Do not test for mold. Rather investigate what the problem is (where did the moisture come from?), remove the wet material, and then remediate the problem. There is no acceptable or minimum standard for mold as mold affects everyone differently.

8. Does my swimming pool need a license?

Swimming pools and whirlpool/spas at apartment buildings, hotels, food establishments, manufactured home parks, recreational camping areas or youth camps need to be licensed. These pools/spas are inspected annually for health and safety violations.

▼

Maplewood Community Center

Show All Answers

1. Where is the Community Center located?

2100 White Bear Avenue, Maplewood, MN 55109

The City of Maplewood is conveniently located just ten minutes from downtown St. Paul and stretches along most of the northern and eastern borders of St. Paul. The Community Center is just south of Highway 36 on the south east corner of White Bear Avenue and County Road B.

2. What's the MCC's phone number?

Customer Service (651) 249-2230
Automated Directory (651) 249-2100

3. What are the MCC's hours?

October through April
Monday through Friday 5:30am - 10:00pm
Saturday 6:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday 9:00am - 9:00 pm

May - September
Monday - Friday 5:30am - 9:00 pm
Saturday 6:00am - 7:00pm
Sunday 9:00am - 7:00pm

4. Do I need to be a member of the community center to use the facility?

Everyone is welcome at the center. The MCC offers daily passes, 10 visit pass cards and special group rates for non members. A wide variety of affordable membership options are available with discounted rates for Maplewood Residents.

5. How old do I have to be to visit the center?

All individuals under the age of 10 must be accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older at all times. Minimum age in the fitness center is 16 or 12 if a fitness orientation with a parent and personal trainer has been completed. We recommend that children under 6 years old be accompanied by an adult in the pool. Patrons using the hot tub must be at least 16 years of age.

6. Does the MCC participate in the fitness discount program?

Members can earn up to a $20.00 credit toward their membership per month through Definity, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Health Partners, UCare and Medica for working out 8-12 times per month (dependent on the program).

7. What forms of payment does the facility accept?

Cash, Check, Visa, MasterCard and Discover are all acceptable form of payment. The center also has an ATM on site.

8. Is child care available?

Children 6 weeks through 9 years of age are welcome in our child care center for a nominal rate while you enjoy the many amenities the MCC has to offer.

9. Are lockers and locker rooms available?

In addition to traditional locker rooms, a separate family locker room is available for families with children under 10 years of age. Free key accessed lockers are available in all locker rooms in addition to mini lockers ($.25) in the admissions area.

10. Does the Community Center offer programs for Seniors?

The MCC is excited to host Active Friends 55+. Various events, programs and activities are available throughout the month including Senior Striders Walking Club, Card Club, Bingo, Stability (chair assisted) Sculpt, Sing-a-longs, Water Fitness, and Educational Seminars.

▼

MCC Aquatics FAQS

Show All Answers

1. How many laps is an aquatic mile?

Approximately 33 laps or 66 lengths of our lap pool.

▼

MCC Swim Lessons

Show All Answers

1. Parent/Child - (Age 9-36 months) Leisure Pool

Our certified instructor facilitates a positive, non- threatening environment where children and adults can participate together. Children will be exposed to basic water adjustment and safety skills. Adults will learn important safety skills for working with children in and around the water. Safety, fun and water adjustment are the primary goals of this class.

2. Tot Swim - (Ages 2-4) Leisure Pool

This is an entry level class for children without their parents. This class is for children who are uncomfortable in the water and will not put their face in the water and are ready for a class without mom or dad. Completion of Parent/Child class is recommended prior to taking Tot Swim.

3. Preschool 1- (Ages 3-6) Leisure Pool

This is an entry level class for children without their parents. Participants need to be 3 years old at the start of class. This class is for the child who is uncomfortable in the water and will not put his/her face in the water.

4. Preschool 2 - (Ages 3-6) Leisure Pool

This class is designed for the child who is able to put his/her face in the water, but have not mastered floating by themselves. Skills include: independent floating on front and back and basic independent swimming.

5. Preschool 3 - (Ages 3-6) Leisure Pool

This level is for the child with a high level of comfort and confidence in and around the water. Children should perform basic skills such as floating and swimming independently. Skills include: independent swimming on front and back, glides and floating.

6. Preschool 4 - (Ages 3-6) Leisure Pool

This level is for children that have successfully completed the Preschool 3 class and still want a smaller class size with children their own age. Swimmers will be learning Level 2 skills.

7. Level 1 - Introduction to Water Skills Leisure Pool

This is an entry level class for children ages 6 and older. No previous experience or skills are necessary for this class. Children will build a sound foundation of water adjustment, safety and skill. Skills will include floating and gliding on front and back and alternating leg and arm movements for a combined stroke.

8. Level 2- Fundamental Aquatic Skills Leisure Pool

For children who have successfully completed either Level 1 , Preschool 3 or possess the equivalent skills for Level 1. Swimmers in this level will build upon the basic skills expanding on the fundamentals of locomotion and safety. Rhythmic breathing, front crawl and back crawl are introduced.

9. Level 3 - Stroke Development Lap Pool

This class emphasizes endurance and improving stroke proficiency. Swimmers who have completed Level 2 or have equivalent skills will be introduced to the front and back glides, front crawl, back crawl and butterfly body motion.

10. Level 4 - Stroke Improvement Lap Pool

Swimmers with Level 3 or equivalent skills will focus on refining their stroke with attention to detail and continue to develop endurance. Open turns, the breaststroke and sidestroke will be introduced.

11. Level 5 - Stroke Refinement Lap Pool

Refine coordination and improved endurance are key emphasis at this level. Flip turns and surface dives are introduced.

12. Level 6 - Lifeguard Readiness (Guard) Lap Pool

Swimmers will strive to swim with great power, efficiency and ease for improved endurance over greater distances and longer time. In additions, students will be introduced to basic Lifeguarding skills such as using a backboard, reaching and throwing assists, and two-person victim removal.

13. Level 6 - Personal Water Safety (Safety) Lap Pool

Swimmers will strive to swim with great power, efficiency and ease for improved endurance over greater distances and longer time. In additions, students will be introduced to personal water safety skills such as self-rescue techniques while clothed, survival float and survival swimming.

14. Level 6 - Fitness Swimmer (Fitness) Lap Pool

Swimmers will strive to swim with great power, efficiency and ease for improved endurance over greater distances and longer time. In additions, students will be introduced to fitness swimming etiquette, use of equipment for water exercise, and application of principles of water exercise and setting up of a fitness program.

15. Teen Swimmers Lap Pool

Beginning swim level for teenagers ages twelve and older with little or no swimming ability. This class is tailored to the individual in every class.

16. Adults Lap Pool

Adult lessons offer the opportunity to participate with other adults in a non-threatening environment. We accommodate all abilities from non swimmers to the tri- athletes. This class is tailored to the individual in every class.

17. Water Safety Aide - (Ages 10+)

Participants in this course will learn how to assist Water Safety Instructors in teaching swimming lessons at the Maplewood Community Center and other facilities we operate. Prerequisite: Successful Completion of Level 4

▼

MCC Wedding FAQS

Show All Answers

1. What time do you have the banquet room reserved for a reception?

Your reservation runs from 10:30 am to 1:00 am.

▼

Nature Center

Show All Answers

1. Is the nature center just for kids?

NO! There is much for adults to learn as well! Browse through information on native landscaping, natural resource library, and take a self –guiding hike around the trails, view our native prairie butterfly gardens or attend one of our many adult seminars.

2. Can I bring a group to the nature center?

Yes, there are self-guided opportunities or you may schedule a program with a naturalist. Please contact the nature center for more information, 651-249-2170... More...

3. Are the nature center trails open in the winter?

Yes! The nature center offers snowshoes for rent for use on the nature center trails. The cost is $3 per pair for 1-2 hours. We do not plow the trail.

4. What is a weed wrench and why would I want to borrow one?

A weed wrench is a large metal tool used for pulling buckthorn out by the roots. Maplewood residents can borrow one from the nature center for a $25 refundable deposit.

5. I found a baby squirrel – can I bring it to the nature center?

No, we don’t have facilities for caring for orphaned or injured animals. Please bring it to the wildlife rehab center located in Roseville, 651-486-9453... More...

6. How do I rent snowshoes at the nature center?

Rental fee is $3/pair, includes instructions. Snowshoes fit ages 4-adult. Leave driver's license at interpretive building, which is open from 8:30-4:30 Tuesday-Saturday. Call 651-249-2170 to reserve snowshoes and check on snow conditions.

7. What are the nature center hours?

The Visitor Center is open Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30 – 4:30 pm all year long. The trails are open 7 days per week, from dawn to dusk.

8. Where is the nature center located?

We are located one block north of Minnehaha Ave., and one and a half blocks west of Century Ave at 2659 East Seventh Street.. Look for the green “Maplewood Nature Center” sign on Century Ave. We are near Dege’s garden center and the Dairy Queen. Click on “Location” under quick links below for a google map.

▼

Planning Division Procedures

Show All Answers

1. What is a Conditional Use Permit?

A Conditional Use Permit (CUP) is a permit acquired from the Planning Division which allows for property to be used in a way that may not necessarily be zoned or otherwise allowed for in the City Code. CUPs are attached to the land rather than the use.

Only the City Council may grant CUPs, and only after a public hearing has been held. Applicants for CUPs are required to attend hearings to present their applications.

2. What is a variance?

The City Code establishes standards for most types of development which commonly occur in Maplewood. These standards regulate where buildings, yards, parking lots, driveways, signs, and lighting may be placed on properties, minimum and maximum sizes, height, potential effects on adjacent properties, and aesthetics.

City ordinance provides relief from the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance in unusual circumstances. In order for a variance to be granted the circumstances must meet state statue findings for granting a variance.

The process used to grant relief from strict requirements of the City Code is called the variance process. In order to receive a variance, property owners must submit a development application, a recently completed lot survey, and a written narrative. Only the City Council may grant variances, and only after a public hearing has been held. Applicants for variances are required to attend hearings to present their applications.

3. What is a Zoning Letter? What information will be provided to me if I request one?

A Zoning Letter informs what can and cannot be done with a particular property based on the current zoning and property past history. Depending on the information required, a Zoning Letter can provide information on legal land uses, zoning, zoning district performance standards, development history, and compliance. The City charges a fee to prepare a zoning letter.

To request a zoning letter you may mail a check and letter of request to:

Planning Division
City of Maplewood
1830 County Road B East
Maplewood, MN 55109

4. How can I find development standards applicable to my project in order to comply with the City Code?

Planning staff is always willing to help you determine any setback, parking or other standard or special requirements for your property.

You can contact us by phone at (651) 249-2300 or by stopping by the Planning Division Monday through Friday 8:00 am To 4:30 pm.

The City Code is also available online.

▼

Residential Property

Show All Answers

1. How do I find my property lines?

Property lines may be located by:
1) Contacting the Planning Division to determine whether the City may have survey information for your property
2) Finding your "corner pins" and measuring the distance between them (if you have some idea of where your lot lines are)
3) Contacting a surveyor

A survey is required for exact placement and for all variance requests.

2. How do I get setback information for my property?

Most setback information is contained in the Zoning Ordinance.

3. How do I get zoning information for my property?

The current zoning map is available online.

Zoning maps are also available for purchase.

You may also call the Planning division at (651)249-2300 for more information.

▼

Sign Placement and Usage

Show All Answers

1. Where can I place a sign?

Signs can be placed in many locations throughout the City of Maplewood. All signs must be placed within the property on which the advertised use is located.

To find out whether the placement of your sign is legal, check City Code.

2. When do I need to get a sign permit?

Generally, all business signs require a Sign Permit before installation.

If you are unsure whether or not the type, size or placement of your sign may be in violation of the City Code, please contact the Planning staff at (651) 249-2300.

3. What is the process for acquiring a sign permit?

Sign permit applications are available through the Planning Division or may be downloaded from the website.

Once the sign permit application has been filled out properly, they may be turned in or sent, along with a site plan including proposed placement, elevation measurements, setback measurements, diagram for connection, and a listing of all materials to the Planning Division. Once Planning receives a sign permit application package, it is reviewed for completeness and accuracy.

Once approved, Planning will contact the applicant when the proper fees have been assessed.

4. How much does a sign permit cost?

The cost of a sign permit varies. Check the sign application to find out how much sign permits cost.

▼

Truth in Housing

Show All Answers

1. How long is a truth in housing good for?

A truth in housing is good for one year provided the owner has not changed.

2. Is the owner required to fix any items?

The owner is only required to disclose, not fix any items.