Courtesy Bench

A Courtesy Bench license is required of any person or company that places a bench or similar structure on or adjacent to the public rights-of-way at or near mass-transit stops for the use of the general public.

Code Requirements

Guidance relating to Courtesy Benches is contained in the Maplewood City Code, Chapter 14, Article V. All license holders are required to be familiar with the provisions of this Chapter and with applicable Minnesota Statutes and federal regulations.

Bench next to a path leading to a small footbridge

Apply for a License

Application for a Courtesy Bench license has been transitioned to an online licensing system (Accela) and is available for access via the Citizen Access portal. Paper applications are no longer accepted, unless applicants are unable to use the online system.

The following documents are required to be submitted with this application: 

  • A detailed map and list showing the exact requested location of each proposed courtesy bench.
  • Evidence of consent of adjoining residential property owners or lessees within 100 feet of the proposed location of each courtesy bench.
  • Certificate of Insurance (see SAMPLE)
  • Permit to Self-Insure (if applicant is self-insured for workers' compensation)

Guide to Using the Citizen Access Portal 

Please use the reference guides below to assist you in registering for an account and applying for a license. If you need additional assistance, please contact us at 651-249-2005.

  1. Registering for an Account
  2. Applying for a License

Expiration/Renewal

License term runs January 1 through December 31, annually. Prior to expiration of the license, notification of renewal will occur through email and licenses may be renewed online via the Citizen Access portal.