Permits & Licenses

Online Permitting & Licensing

The City of Buffalo is now partnering with Citizenserve to provide comprehensive community development e-government application, processing and payment solutions for building permits, planning and zoning.

Please see the list of permit types and subtypes (PDF) to indicate which options/subtype you should choose.

Permitting

Information regarding Special Events permits or how to get your event posted on the Electronic Community Sign.

Licensing

Information regarding Fireworks Application, Golf Cart, Liquor, Temporary Liquor, Tobacco, or Wine Licensing please use the drop-down menu located to the left.

New in 2023

As of January 1, 2023 fences 6 feet or under and sheds/accessory structures 200 sq ft or less do not need a permit. Please follow the requirements that are listed below.Shed

Fences

6 feet high or under (PDF)

Shed/Accessory Structure

200 sq ft or less (PDF)

Chicken Keeping

Effective 9/1/23 the Buffalo City Council passed a new ordinance allowing chickens to be raised within the city. The ordinance requires that the owner of the chickens shall live in the dwelling on the property and the property owner is in receipt of the permit. To see the ordinance and all other rules visit the Backyard Chicken page.

Through the Citizenserve portal you have access to all of our online services including building and zoning permits, and land use applications. To access the portal, click on the Citizenserve button above.

Payment Options:

E-Check

Paying with an e-check is FREE.

Credit or Debit Card 

Starting January 1, 2023, the City of Buffalo will be charging a credit card convenience fee on our permits and licenses. That fee is 2.75%, with a minimum charge of $2.95. 

Contact Us

  1. Permits & Licenses

    Email Permits & Licenses

    Physical Address
    City Center
    212 Central Avenue
    Buffalo, MN 55313

    Phone: 763-682-1181

Permits & Licensing