Licensing and Plan Review for Minnesota vacation home rentals

1. Plans and specifications must be submitted, in duplicate, for review prior to new construction. The plans must be approved before starting construction. Submit a completed plan review application along with a check or money order for the required fee made payable to the Minnesota Department of Health.
2. New establishments and existing establishments that are adding units must obtain a permit or statement from the local unit of government granting zoning approval for the use of the land as a lodging establishment. Include a copy of this permit or statement with the construction plans.
3. Plumbing must be installed according to the Minnesota Plumbing Code. Plans covering the plumbing must also be included. A separate bulletin covering the details of submitting plumbing plans is available. More information at Plumbing Plan Review.
4. Plans must be submitted for any individual sewage treatment system. An individual sewage treatment system must be designed by a licensed sewer designer and installed by a licensed sewer installer. A separate application is available that describes the information that must be submitted. Please indicate if the establishment is on municipal sewer service.
5. The water supply for the establishment must comply with the rules governing public water supplies and water wells. Please indicate if the establishment obtains water from a municipal supply.
6. After your plans have been reviewed, you will receive a letter indicating any changes that need to be made and any concerns that have been noted. Construction may start after you receive the approval letter. You will also be instructed to contact the sanitarian covering the area for an on-site inspection prior to opening the establishment. If the inspection is satisfactory, the sanitarian will provide you with a license application and approval for opening the establishment. A satisfactory plumbing inspection must also be conducted prior to the opening.
7. If a continental breakfast is provided to guests and your establishment does not have a food and beverage license, a limited food license will be required. Include a menu and equipment list with the lodging plans. Food and beverage equipment must meet the standards of NSF International.
8. The plans must include the following:
   • a completed plan review application;
   • the layout of the sleeping rooms showing the room size and maximum occupancy;
   • the exits to hallways or outdoors, fire escapes and window locations;
   • the descriptions of ventilation and heating equipment;
   • the floor and wall finishes;
   • the location of the automatic dispensing ice machine and vending machines for the public; and
   • the location of the laundry facilities and storage areas.