Thinking about adding an ADU to your Summit-University home? Recent city updates made ADUs more flexible across Saint Paul, including allowing up to two ADUs per one-family dwelling and removing the owner-occupancy rule. You want clear steps that respect historic character, align with zoning, and keep your budget on track. This guide breaks down what’s allowed, how approvals work, and a checklist tailored to Summit-University so you can move forward with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Quick ADU rule snapshot
- Up to two ADUs per one-family dwelling are allowed citywide, subject to standards. Owner-occupancy is no longer required. Refer to the city’s ADU summary for details on what changed and what still applies. Review Saint Paul’s ADU guidance.
- Maximum size per ADU: 800 sq ft or 75% of the principal home’s floor area, whichever is greater. See definitions and measurement notes in the city guidance above.
- Detached accessory buildings with an ADU can be up to 25 feet in height. Setbacks and accessory building standards apply. See accessory building standards.
- ADUs stay part of the same parcel. You cannot sell the ADU separately or create a separate tax parcel. Confirm on the city ADU page.
- Parking follows Saint Paul’s off-street parking standards and site review, not a flat one-space-per-ADU rule. Check parking standards.
- Properties in local historic districts require Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) review for exterior work that needs a permit. Find historic district info.
Summit-University specifics
Historic district review
Many Summit-University blocks fall within or border locally designated districts like Historic Hill. If your ADU involves a visible exterior change or a new detached structure, plan for HPC review. Approvals are common when designs fit district character, but the process adds steps and documentation. Start early with staff so your design aligns with guidelines. Learn about HPC requirements.
Neighborhood context
Summit Avenue and adjacent streets have active preservation voices and close attention to visible changes, trees, and parking. If your ADU is highly visible or replaces garage parking, early outreach to neighbors can smooth the path before you apply.
What you can build
Detached ADU or garage conversion
A backyard cottage or garage conversion is allowed, subject to accessory building rules like height and setbacks. Detached structures that include a dwelling can reach up to 25 feet in height and must meet placement rules. If you plan two ADUs for one principal home, at least one typically needs to be detached unless you retain at least 50% of the principal structure’s floor area. Review accessory building standards.
Attached or internal ADU
Basement and upper-floor ADUs are common. You’ll need proper egress windows for sleeping rooms, code-compliant ceiling heights, ventilation, and a defined entrance. The Minnesota State Building Code governs these life safety items. See building code references.
Parking and access
There is no automatic additional parking requirement for every ADU. Parking is reviewed under city standards and site design. Expect to show legal on-lot parking or a compliant layout, especially if you are converting or removing a garage. Check parking standards.
Permitting path in Saint Paul
- Check your zoning. Use the city’s map and, if needed, request a zoning verification letter for formal confirmation. Start with zoning resources.
- Confirm historic status. If you are in a local historic district, contact HPC staff before finalizing design. Review historic district info.
- Prepare a complete plan set. Include site plan with setbacks and parking, elevations, floor plans, and utility connections. An architect or contractor familiar with historic context can help speed approvals.
- Apply in PAULIE. Submit building and trade permits, pay fees, and track inspections in the city’s online portal. Use the PAULIE portal.
- Schedule inspections. DSI and Fire conduct inspections. Renting long term requires a Fire Certificate of Occupancy. Short-term rentals need separate licensing. See rental requirements.
Summit-University owner checklist
- Identify zoning and overlays. If unclear, order a zoning verification letter. Start with zoning resources.
- Confirm if you are in a local historic district and whether HPC review applies. Check historic districts.
- Choose your ADU type: interior, attached addition, or detached. Use the city ADU guide as your baseline. Review ADU guidance.
- Do a preliminary code check. Confirm egress windows, ceiling heights, ventilation, and fire-life safety. See building code references.
- Talk to your lender and insurance agent about ADU impacts on loans and coverage.
- Contact the Ramsey County Assessor to understand assessment changes and any local programs. Visit the Assessor’s page.
- Engage experienced pros if needed. Plan set should cover site plan, elevations for HPC, floor plans, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical.
- Submit permits through PAULIE and track inspections. Use the PAULIE portal.
- If renting, confirm long-term or short-term requirements and licensing. Review rental requirements.
- Save all approvals and final sign-offs for future resale disclosures.
Cost and timeline factors to expect
- Plan review timelines vary by scope, completeness, and whether HPC review is required. Interior conversions often move faster than new detached structures.
- Expect building and trade permit fees. Plumbing permits typically include per-fixture fees, and new or modified sewer connections may add costs. See plumbing and sewer permitting info.
- Adding an ADU often increases assessed value, which can affect property taxes. Check with the Ramsey County Assessor.
- Parking layouts and alley access can trigger redesign if not addressed early. Review parking standards.
Building an ADU in Summit-University can add flexibility, value, and future options when done thoughtfully. If you’d like a local strategy that considers design fit, resale, and neighborhood context, connect with Natasha Cejudo for a clear plan tailored to your home.
FAQs
What are the basic ADU size and height limits in Saint Paul?
- Each ADU can be up to 800 sq ft or 75% of the main home’s floor area, whichever is greater, and a detached ADU in an accessory building can be up to 25 feet in height.
Do Summit-University homes need historic review for a detached ADU?
- If your property is in a local historic district, exterior work that requires a permit, including a new detached ADU, typically needs Heritage Preservation Commission review.
Can I have two ADUs on my Summit-University lot?
- Yes, Saint Paul allows up to two ADUs per one-family dwelling, subject to standards, and at least one may need to be detached depending on how much of the principal structure is retained.
Do I need to provide more parking for an ADU in Saint Paul?
- Parking is reviewed under the city’s off-street parking standards rather than a universal one-space rule, so you must show a compliant on-lot layout during site review.
Can I rent my ADU long term or short term in Saint Paul?
- Long-term rentals are allowed with a Fire Certificate of Occupancy; short-term rentals require a separate city license and additional requirements.
