Some counties welcome barndominiums, but metro and suburban areas may restrict them.
The MN Department of Labor and Industry administers the state building code. Municipalities with populations over 2,500 must enforce it. Smaller communities may opt in.
Primary Code
Minnesota State Building Code
Code Version
2018 IBC / 2018 IRC with MN amendments
Adoption Level
Statewide
Statewide Enforcement
Yes
State provides plan review and inspection services for communities without local enforcement. The DLI specifically addresses barndominiums/shouses in their guidance.
Residential
Required
Commercial
Required
Agricultural
Not Required
Size threshold: structures under 200 sq ft may be exempt.
Agricultural buildings are exempt from the state building code per Minnesota Statute 326B.103, Subd. 11. However, electrical and plumbing work still require permits.
Accessory structures under 200 sq ft typically exempt.
Heavy snow loads throughout the state. Northern MN has the highest loads. Extreme cold affects material performance and foundation design.
Wind Load
95–120 mph
moderate zone
Snow Load
35–80 psf
Seismic
A–B
Category
Flood
FEMA Regulated
Energy Code
MN Energy Code
Version
2018 IECC with MN amendments
Strict energy code due to extreme climate. Above-code insulation requirements.
License Type
Residential Building Contractor or Residential Remodeler license
Minnesota requires licensing for residential contractors. Commercial contractors need appropriate state licensing.
Front
25–40 ft
Side
5–15 ft
Rear
15–30 ft
Varies by municipality and county. Shoreland zoning applies near lakes and rivers.
Frost depth 42-60 inches depending on location. Full basements are standard. Extreme cold requires careful insulation and moisture management.
Popular statewide. Heavy snow load engineering required.
Agricultural exemption available. Steel barns very common for livestock and grain storage.
MN DLI has specific guidance for 'barndominiums/shouses.' Must meet residential code when used as a dwelling. Fire separation required between living and shop spaces.
Heated garages common. Energy code requirements apply.
Full state building code compliance required.
HOAs present in Twin Cities metro suburbs. Rural and northern Minnesota generally unrestricted.
Flood zones along the Mississippi, Minnesota, and Red rivers. Shoreland zoning regulations add requirements near water bodies.
Verify the information above directly from these official sources. Regulations change — always confirm with your local building department before starting construction.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local building department, planning office, or a licensed professional before starting construction. Homestead Steel Structures & Design is not a legal authority on building codes or zoning regulations. Last updated February 2026.
