Rental Housing Licensing

Rental Housing License Requirements

Property owners operating residential rental properties in South St. Paul must obtain an annual rental license. Rental properties must be inspected at least once every three years.

It is the property owner’s responsibility to ensure timely inspections. Failure to obtain a hazard-free inspection within 30 days of expiration may result in license revocation and future ineligibility for rental licenses.

Inspections are scheduled by the property owner or their agent. View the list of licensed rental inspectors:

Rental Inspectors

Rental License Fee Structure (Effective January 1, 2025)

Rental license fees have changed to reflect the growing rental housing stock in South St. Paul. The increase helps ensure compliance with city code while maintaining affordable housing options.

New rental license fees effective January 1, 2025:

Administrative Fee – New Applications Only: $50.00
Investigation Fee – New Applications Only: $25.00
Single-Family Dwelling (includes Townhouse, Condo, Apartment, Mobile Home): $100.00
Duplex: $125.00
Triplex: $150.00
Multi-Family Dwellings (4+ units): $50 Building Fee + $30 per unit

Obtaining a New Rental License

You can obtain rental license application materials in the following ways:

Pick up an application at City Hall.
Request an application by mail.
Download the application: Rental License Application (PDF)

Applications will not be accepted, and licenses will not be issued without payment and a valid inspection on file.

Renewing a Rental License

Rental licenses are renewed annually, covering June 1 of the current year through May 31 of the following year. Renewal materials are mailed out each year.

If you have questions about renewal, call (651) 554-3208.

Submit completed forms to:

City of South St. Paul
City Clerk/Licensing
125 3rd Avenue N
South St. Paul, MN 55075