Besides being hardy, Minnesotans are famous do-it-yourselfers. From building decks to installing Minneapolis furnaces, we’ll tackle nearly any home improvement project by ourselves.

However, some home improvement tasks are better left to the professionals. For example, according to the Minneapolis Development Review there are a number of issues which need to be addressed before you can replace your Minneapolis furnace. Are you prepared to meet these permit restrictions?

Owners/occupiers of single family homes are eligible to get mechanical permits for Minneapolis furnace installation. However, gas piping and venting for heating appliances must be performed by licensed professionals who are required to obtain a separate permit.

In Minneapolis, mechanical permits are always required for:

o Minneapolis furnace or boiler replacement/installation
o Ductwork, radiators, infloor/baseboard heating installation
o Gas appliance connection to gas piping
o Air conditioning replacement/installation
o Low temperature refrigeration

In addition, radon mitigation systems also require mechanical permits and may only be installed by licensed contractors.

There are three levels of residential HVAC replacement permits. Level I includes miscellaneous HVAC work but excludes burners. The Minneapolis Development Review lists the items this permit covers as:

o Radiation piping for space heating
o Supplies & returns 4 openings or less (greater than 4 openings go to level 3)
o Fresh air intake, air cleaner, humidifier, venting, fans, gas piping (heating systems only), radon mitigation, and other accessories.
o Air conditioner add-on or replacement
o Solid fuel heating devices (wood, pellets, etc.)

Level II covers all level I projects and includes Minneapolis furnace or boiler replacement. The Level II HVAC permit comprises:

o Replacement of boiler plus incidental piping
o Replacement of furnace only with or without A/C – plenum included (no duct work beyond plenum)
o Adding or replacing space heating units

The Level III permit covers both levels I and II and extends to replacement of complete systems which require licensed professionals to complete all gas connection work. This includes:

o Removal of existing systems and installation of a new (boiler or forced air system)
o Installation of a new system to serve an existing non-conditioned space or addition

The City of Minneapolis suggests that if you have any questions regarding HVAC projects, you can call 311 if you are within the City limits. If you live outside Minneapolis city limits, call 612-673-3000.

The City of Minneapolis urges homeowners to contact a Minneapolis furnace installation or repair professional to learn the scope and requirements of the work to be performed.

As your go-to heating professions, Welter Heating would be happy to help you assess your heater repair or replacement project. Contact us today for a free estimate and our professional advice.

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