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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.