Building & Zoning Department

Swimming Pool & Fencing Guidelines
Before purchasing a pool please make sure you know the City Ordinance regarding pools and hot tubs. Depending on the size of private swimming pool, hot tub, and spa you may be required to install a fence. Below is the swimming pool and fencing guidelines per City Ordinance.
City of Pipestone follows the 2007 State of Minnesota Building Codes and Requirements which by reference adopts the 2006 International Building Code (IBC).

Obtaining a Building Permit

To obtain a building permit:
  • Develop plans for review
  • Review building site / plans with administrator
  • Complete Application for Building Permit
  • City will issue permit upon approval
    • Permit will last 1 calendar year from issued date

Obtaining a Historic District Building Permit

To obtain a building permit for Historic District:
  • Develop plans for review
  • Complete Application for Historic District
  • Review by Historic Preservation Committee
  • Upon approval by Historic Preservation Committee, Review with Building Administrator
  • Complete application for Building Permit
  • City will issue permit upon approval
    • Permit will last 1 calendar year from issued date
View the map below to see the area designated as the Historic District of Pipestone.
2017 Pipestone Historic District

The following types of projects DO NOT require a Building Permit

  • Painting (Interior or Exterior)
  • Wallpaper
  • Installing new floor covering (vinyl, carpet, hardwood) 
  • Retaining walls less than 4" high
  • Recreational equipment such as swings, jungle gyms, etc.
  • Replacing existing kitchen and/or bathroom cabinets
  • Adding attic insulation
  • Installing gutters and downspouts
  • Replacing existing plumbing fixtures and fixture fittings
  • Replace a faucet or a trap on an existing system
  • Installing or replacing a water softener (only in new or rearranged water lines are installed)
  • Installing a new or replacing an air conditioner (without new ductwork being installed)

The following types of projects DO require a Building Permit

  • Repair or replacement of roofing
  • Repair or replacement of siding or soffit/fasica
  • Replacement of windows
  • Basement waterproofing
  • Repair or replace porch or deck
  • Any and all building additions
  • Finishing unfinished space (basement, attic, etc.)
  • Removing/moving a load bearing wall or partition
  • Repair of damaged structural elements (wall studs, columns, footings, foundations, joists, rafters, beams, etc.)