• What does it cover?
• Where does it apply?
• Who enforces it?
• Who can help me with a question?
• Where can I get a copy?
• Where can I learn more about it?
• What if I don't agree with an interpretation by my code official?

What does it cover?

This chapter of the state building code contains the minimum standards for change of occupancy, alteration, or repair of existing buildings and structures. Subjects regulated include various life-safety provisions applicable to alterations to existing buildings and occupancies undergoing a change in use. The Minnesota's Existing Building code consists of chapters one to six of the Guidelines for the Rehabilitation of Existing Buildings (GREB) as published by the International Conference of Building Officials and the amendments to that document located in chapter 1311.

Where does it apply?

The Minnesota State Building Code is the standard for construction statewide, however, the code is enforced by certain cities and townships (PDF).

Who enforces it?

Local building officials and their inspectors enforce this chapter of the code in those jurisdictions that administer the State Building Code.

Who can help me with a question? 

You can contact your local building official, one of their inspectors, or Building Codes and Standards at the Department of Labor and Industry. 

Where can I get a copy?

You can directly access the amendments, known as chapter 1311 of the State Building Code, by clicking on Chapter 1311 in parts or Entire Chapter 1311 . You can review this chapter of the code and the 2000 Guidelines for the Rehabilitation of Existing Buildings (GREB) at the office of your local building official, Building Codes and Standards at the Department of Labor and Industry, and many local libraries. You can purchase chapter 1311 as part of the State Building Code, from Minnesota's Bookstore.

Where can I learn more about it?

Information about and training in the Minnesota Existing Building Code may be offered by various agencies and organizations. For information about the code or notice of any current training opportunities, contact Building Codes and Standards at the Department of Labor and Industry.

What if I don't agree with my code official?

You should first make sure you understand what the code says about the subject and how your local building official or their inspector is interpreting the applicable code section(s). To assist you with this, you may want to research the background of the provision(s) through your building official or staff from Building Codes and Standards at the Department of Labor and Industry. If you still disagree, you may be able to appeal the local building official's final decision to that municipality's board of appeals. This is a group of individuals that will meet, discuss, and vote on the matter. If that municipality does not have a board of appeals, you can submit a request to be heard by the State Appeals Board.