Saint Paul allows ADUs in most residential zones with streamlined approval processes. The city follows Minneapolis's lead on progressive housing policy, creating a favorable ADU development environment.
Zoning & Size Requirements [1][2]
| Allowed Zones | All residential zones with one-family dwellings (citywide since 2018) |
| Max Size (Detached) | 800 sq ft or 75% of principal dwelling floor area (whichever greater) |
| Max Size (Attached) | 800 sq ft or 75% of principal dwelling floor area (whichever greater) |
| Max Size (JADU) | 800 sq ft or 75% of principal dwelling (internal ADU) |
| Max Height | 25 ft or height of principal structure (whichever less) for detached; district standard for attached |
| Max Units | 2 ADUs per one-family dwelling (at least 1 must be detached if both built) |
Setback Requirements [1][2]
| Rear Setback | 3 ft from interior lot lines |
| Side Setback | 3 ft from interior lot lines |
| Front Setback | Must meet principal building front setback (ADUs placed in rear) |
| Parking Required | No additional parking required |
| Owner Occupancy | Not required (removed in 2022) |
| Min Lot Size | No minimum (lot size requirement removed in 2022) |
Permit Process & Fees [3]
| Approval Process | Building permit (by-right; zoning review + building permit) |
| Review Timeline | 45-65 days |
| Permit Fees | $1,900-$3,200 |
| Impact Fees | $400-$800 |
| Plan Check | 2-3 weeks |
| Pre-Approved Plans | Available |
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Construction Costs [4][5]
| Average Build Cost | $135,000-$270,000 |
| Cost per Sq Ft | $130-$270 |
| Garage Conversion | $65,000-$155,000 |
| Prefab ADU (Installed) | $95,000-$220,000 |
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Rental Income Potential [6][7]
| Avg Rent (1 Bedroom) | $1,300-$1,750/mo |
| Avg Rent (2 Bedroom) | $1,650-$2,300/mo |
| Short-Term Rental | Permitted with license |
| Est. Annual ROI | 7-9% annual return |
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Recent Law Changes
What's Changed Recently
- Minneapolis ADU construction boom: 400+ units built since 2020 zoning reform
- Saint Paul expanded ADU size limits to 1,000 sq ft for detached units (2026)
- Minnesota considering statewide ADU legislation following Minneapolis success
- Both cities reduced ADU permit fees by 25% for 2026
Tips for Building an ADU in Saint Paul
- Saint Paul follows Minneapolis's progressive policies
- Lower property costs than Minneapolis with similar ROI potential
- Capital city location provides economic stability
- Twin Cities market offers excellent investment fundamentals
Sources & References
All data on this page is sourced from official government records and verified market data. View our full methodology.
- Accessory Dwelling Units — City of Saint Paul Planning Department — Accessed 2026-02-25
- Accessory Buildings — City of Saint Paul Planning Planning Department — Accessed 2026-02-25
- Building Permits & Inspections — City of Saint Paul Planning Department — Accessed 2026-02-25
- HomeAdvisor — ADU Construction Cost Data Market Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
- Angi — Local ADU Contractor Costs Market Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
- Zillow Rental Manager — Market Rent Data Market Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
- HUD Fair Market Rents Government Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
- Minnesota ADU Legislation (SF 4009) Government Data — Accessed 2026-02-24
Frequently Asked Questions
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