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1. Do I need a witness to vote absentee?

A witness is needed for the absentee ballots of all voters. 

Minnesota Election Law requires every voter to show their blank ballot to a witness prior to filling it out. The same witness must also fully complete the witness section on the ballot return signature envelope. Any registered voter in the state can act as a witness. Additional witnesses that do not have a state residency requirement are a:

• College Registrar
• County, City or Town Clerk
• Judicial Officer
• Notary Public
• Any other official who can administer an oath

2. What if I am unable to sign my absentee ballot application?

If you are unable to sign your application you may simply place an "X" mark on the signature line. You may also authorize someone else to sign it for you by having that person sign your name and their name next to it with a note stating that such authorization was given by the voter. A Power of Attorney signature is not acceptable on its own.

3. How do I know if my absentee ballot has been accepted?

You can track the status of your absentee ballot. You will have to provide your name, date of birth, and the same identification number you included on your application.

Track Your Absentee Ballot

4. Why is my absentee ballot rejected?

If your absentee ballot is rejected no later than Friday prior to Election Day, we will send you a replacement ballot and a letter explaining what you need to do to correct the error. The following situations may cause your absentee ballot to be rejected:

• Voter does not sign the return signature envelope
• Witness section not completed or insufficiently completed (must include witness name, witness’s Minnesota address and signature, or a notary information with an official seal or stamp)
• A proof of residence not recorded on the return signature envelope for a non-registered absentee voter
• No voter registration application included by a non-registered voter
• Ballot arrives late after the deadline or is dropped off by a voter at the polling place on Election day

5. I live temporarily or permanently outside of the US territory. Who do I contact for an absentee ballot request?

You need to complete a different absentee ballot application directly through the Ramsey County Elections Office or the Secretary of State’s Office.

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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 may be issued in 1-3 days. Residential permits which require plan review should expect at least a 7 to 10 business day wait before the permit is ready to be issued. Some commercial permits may take up to 4 to 8 weeks for plan review. 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. Please speak to our Building Inspector or Building Official to verify if your project will need architectural or engineered drawings.

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?

Check payments can be mailed or dropped off. Cash payments can be accepted in person. Currently, credit card payments can only be taken over the phone and an additional 2.5% non-refundable credit card processing fee will be added. 

5. How can I apply for my permit?

1. Permit applications can be submitted by mail or person to:

     Community Development Department:
     1902 County Road B E
     Maplewood, MN 55109

2. Complete submittals can be placed in the drop box outside the front door at City Hall 24/7. Verify you have all of the information you need and put the submittal in a clearly marked envelope.

3. Permits that don't need to be reviewed can be emailed to building@maplewoodmn.gov if you would like to pay with a credit card. An additional 2.5% non-refundable credit card processing fee will be added. Permits that need to be reviewed can also be emailed to this email address.

    

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:

• Addition
• Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing projects
• New construction project
• Remodeling project
• Structural alteration

We do not require permits for finish work such as new cabinets, carpeting, or painting. If you are not sure if you need a permit, please contact us at 651-249-2300.

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1. How long will it take to get my business license?

Some business licenses can be issued within a day or two; however, licenses which require authorization from other departments should expect at least a 7 to 10 business days before a license is ready to be issued. Licenses which require Council approval or background investigations may experience at least 2 to 4 weeks before a license can be issued.

If applications are not complete, processing time will be longer. Therefore, it is important for the applicant to review all application requirements before submitting.

2. If I purchase a business that already has a license, will that license transfer over to me?

No. Licenses are specific to the owner of the business. Whenever any licensee sells his business, the new owner must re-apply for the license.

3. If I move my business to a different location in Maplewood, will my license transfer, too?

No. Licenses are specific to the location of the business. Whenever any licensee moves his business within Maplewood, a new license must be applied for under the new address.

4. How can I pay for my business license?

Payment can be made using cash, check or credit card. Please call to pay using a credit card.

5. How can I submit my business license application?

Completed Business License applications can be submitted the following ways:

Email to licensing@maplewoodmn.gov 

Mail to:
Maplewood City Hall
Attn: Business License Specialist
1830 County Road B E
Maplewood, MN 55109

In person at Maplewood City Hall:
Monday through Friday
8 am to 4:30 pm

6. Which do I need? A business license, or a business registration?

The City of Maplewood issues over 30 types of business licenses. Refer to the list of required licenses on the Business Licensing page for more details. If your business does not require a license, you must apply for a business registration instead. If you are not sure it you need a license or registration, please contact us at 651-249-2005.

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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. 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. Agendas can be viewed on the City Council web page.

City Council Page

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

Yes. The cost for a DVD is $5 (which includes 6.5% tax); this is the charge for each DVD. Please know that some council meetings may run longer and will require more than one DVD.

4. 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.

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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.

Agendas can be viewed on the City Council web page.

2. 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. Please know that some council meetings may run longer and will require more than 1 DVD.

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

You can vote before election day in two ways:

• By an absentee ballot during the 46 days before election day
• By voting early and casting your ballot directly into the voting machine during the 7 days before election day

2. How do I vote absentee?

You can vote absentee in person or by mail.

In Person

Maplewood City Hall
1830 County Road B E
Maplewood, MN 55109

Hours:
Monday through Friday
8 am to 4:30 pm

Saturday Before Election Day
10 am to 3 pm

Monday Before Election Day
8 am to 5 pm

To have your  absentee ballot application mailed to you, contact Ramsey County Elections at 651-266-2171

For more information about voting absentee, visit the Ramsey County Voting web page.

Find Your Polling Location

3. Where do I go to vote?

Use the Online Polling Place Finder.

Register to Vote

4. Who is eligible to vote?

To vote, you must be:

• 18 years of age and older
• A United States citizen
• Have lived in Minnesota for at least 20 days by election day

5. How do I pre-register to vote?

You may pre-register to vote online, or in person or by mail at the Ramsey County Elections office.

Download and print the Voter Registration Application (PDF). 

The pre-registration period ends  21 days before election. For more information on how to register to vote, visit the Ramsey County "Prepare to Vote" page.

6. Why should I pre-register to vote?

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.

7. 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. View a list of approved election day registration documents. 

8. Who should complete a voter registration application?

Everyone must register in order to vote. You must complete a voter registration application 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
• Never registered to vote

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

Use the online Minnesota Legislature "Who Represents Me?" Tool.

10. 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 am until votes are counted in the evening (usually around 10 or 11 pm), call 651-249-2003.

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1. How many fire stations does Maplewood have?

The City of Maplewood has 2 fire stations

South Station -- 600 McKnight Road North, Maplewood, MN 55119

North Station -- 1530 County Road C East, Maplewood, MN 55109

2. How many firefighters does Maplewood have?

The Fire-EMS Department has more than 30 full-time firefighter - paramedics, including the leadership staff.

3. Do firefighters stay at the fire station?

Yes. There are full-time at all three fire stations, and all stations are staffed 24/7.

4. How many calls does the Fire Department respond to?

The Fire Department responds to more than 6500 calls annually.  About 80% of the call are medical in nature. 

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

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

6. Does the fire department need firefighters?

The fire department hires on a rolling basis. If you are interested in working for the Maplewood Fire Department, please check the City of Maplewood's Job Postings periodically for opportunities. 

7. Could the Fire Department come to fill up our pool?

No, the Fire Department does not fill up pools for residences.

8. Is the Fire Department currently hiring?

We would love to have you join the Maplewood Fire Department. If you are interested in working as a firefighter/Paramedic, please check the City of Maplewood’s Job Postings periodically for opportunities. 

9. How many are EMS calls?

In 2020, the Fire Department responded to 5512 EMS calls, which accounts for 85% of the calls received. The busiest time for calls is Monday - Friday; 8:00 am to 10:00 pm.

10. Who do I contact for questions about my ambulance bill?

Please contact TransMedic at 651-450-7133.

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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.

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1. What food establishments need a permit?

The following are required to have a food permit:

• Bars that serve food
• Cafeterias
• Daycare centers
• Delis
• Restaurants
• Schools
• Snack bars
• Any similar establishment or event that prepares or serves food that is intended for immediate consumption within the City of Maplewood

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 651-249-2005 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 at 651-249-2005 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:

• Accumulation of human or animal feces
• Accumulation of solid waste
• Evidence of rodent or insect infestation
• Lack of water or sewage disposal
• Rotting food waste

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 need to be licensed if they are at:

• Apartment buildings
• Food establishments
• Hotels
• Manufactured home parks
• Recreational camping areas
• Youth camps need to be licensed

These pools/spas are inspected annually for health and safety violations.

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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
• 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:

• Compliance
• Development history
• Legal land uses
• Zoning
• Zoning district performance standards

Zoning verifications can be requested by submitting an application online via the Citizen Access portal. Please use the reference guide below to assist you in registering for an account and submitting an application.

1. Registering for an Account
2. Submitting an Application

The fee for a Zoning Letter is $100. Payment can be made with a credit card upon submittal of the request (a 2.5% convenience fee applies) or you can mail or bring in a check payment to: 

City of Maplewood (Attn: Planning Division)
1902 County Road B E
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 651-249-2302 or 651-249-2303, or by stopping by the Planning Division Monday through Friday 8 am to 4:30 pm. Our office is located at:
1902 County Road B E
Maplewood, MN 55109

The City Code is also available online.

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1. What is your phone number?

Our main administration phone number is 651.249.2600.

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1. Does my property require a license?

The license requirement does not apply to the following:

1. A residential dwelling that is occupied by the owner or the owner's qualifying relatives (parent, stepparent, child, stepchild, grandparent, grandchild, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, nephew or niece; this relationship may be either by blood or by marriage).
2. A residential dwelling when the dwelling is rented for a period of less than 120 consecutive days and the owner occupies the property during the remainder of the year (e.g. "snowbirds").
3. Minnesota Department of Health-licensed rest homes, convalescent care facilities, group homes, nursing homes, hotels, motels, or cooperatives.
4. A facility for which a reasonable accommodation has been granted by the city under the Federal Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988.

2. How long is my license valid for?

First-time Rental Property licenses are issued with an expiration date of one year from the end of the quarter in which they were applied (see below) and must be renewed annually. 

• Quarter 1: January 1 - March 31
• Quarter 2: April 1 - June 30
• Quarter 3: July 1 - September 30
• Quarter 4: October 1 - December 31

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1. How do I find my property lines?

Property lines may be located by:

• Contacting the Planning Division to determine whether the City may have survey information for your property
• Finding your "corner pins" and measuring the distance between them (if you have some idea of where your lot lines are)
• 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?

Please visit our Interactive Zoning Map.

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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 651-249-2303.

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

Sign permit applications are available through the Planning Division or may be downloaded from our Sign Permit page. Once the sign permit application has been filled out properly, they may be turned in or sent to the Planning Division, along with a site plan including:

• Diagram for connection
• Elevation measurements
• Listing of all materials
• Proposed placement
• Setback measurements

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 (PDF) to find out how much sign permits cost.

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1. How do I report a sidewalk in need of repair?

Call the Maplewood Public Works Department at 651-249-2400. The city doesn't repair every sidewalk regularity. It collects and chronicles each complaint and assess the overall need for repair and replacement periodically.

2. Who do I contact for street light issues?

Call Xcel Energy at 800-960-6235.

Report a street light issue to Xcel

3. How does Maplewood’s street cleaning work?

The street cleaning schedule is as follows:

• Spring: There are two rounds of cleaning. The first begins as temperatures allow, with the aim to sweep the majority of winter deicing materials and other road debris prior to spring rainfalls. In the second clean-up, we take care of right turn islands, center medians, bridge decks, and sidewalks.
• Summer: Cleaning occurs as needed after major storms.
• Fall: Starts mid-October and continues as weather permits.

It’s a State and City violation to blow or place leaves or any other materials onto a public roadway.

See the full sweeping policy here

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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.