Chanhassen, MN

Chanhassen splits driveway and curb cut work into two permit tracks. Engineering issues the permit when you're cutting a new opening in the curb, replacing a driveway in its existing footprint, or doing earthwork or grading involving more than 50 cubic yards of material (or any amount that could change drainage). Building Inspections issues the permit when the project is part of new construction, includes structural changes, or substantially widens an existing driveway. Many projects need both. Minor maintenance like sealcoating and crack fill require no permit.

All permits in Chanhassen must be applied for online — that policy took effect January 1, 2022. The portal is BS&A Online at bsaonline.com (search for City of Chanhassen). Homeowners can register through BS&A in order to access approved plans online, but it's optional for application. Contractors must be registered with BS&A before applying; call Building Inspections at 952-227-1180 to get a web-PIN, and current state license information has to be on file for any residential work. After submission, plan review takes at least 10 working days for most projects. Fees are paid at the time the permit is issued, and the official Chanhassen fee schedule is updated annually by ordinance — view the current schedule at chanhassenmn.gov/government/city-code/fee-schedule. Specific dollar amounts for driveway and curb cut permits are listed there; call Building Inspections at 952-227-1180 or email bldgsupport@chanhassenmn.gov to confirm the current fee before applying.

Building Inspections, Engineering, and Planning all operate out of City Hall at 7700 Market Boulevard, with mailing address PO Box 147, Chanhassen, MN 55317. Each division has its own direct line and email: Building Inspections at 952-227-1180 (bldgsupport@chanhassenmn.gov), Engineering at 952-227-1160 (engdept@chanhassenmn.gov), and Planning & Zoning at 952-227-1106 (aweidman@chanhassenmn.gov). All three are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The main city number is 952-227-1100.

The Engineering Department also reviews building permits to confirm compliance with City Council-approved grading plans and any conditions attached to the original development approval — if your lot is in a newer subdivision, expect Engineering to verify your driveway location matches what was approved at platting. Drainage and utility easements typically run 10 feet in front and rear yards and 5 feet along side property lines; hardscape (and plantings) should generally stay at least 15 feet away from the curb or street because of underground utilities in that area. The city has adopted the 2020 Minnesota State Building Code (which incorporates the 2018 IBC and IRC). Online inspection requests are accepted for Building, Plumbing, and Mechanical permits, and inspectors arrive within a one-hour window of the scheduled time. If your driveway connects to a Carver County road, a separate Carver County access permit may also be required.