Roofing Contractors in St Paul, MN: Licensing Guide
Minnesota requires roofing contractors to be licensed through the state, not the city, so St Paul homeowners need to know exactly where and how to check credentials before hiring.
By Henry · Roofing & Gutters · Published September 2, 2026 · 6 min read
Who licenses roofing contractors in Minnesota
Unlike some states, Minnesota licenses residential contractors at the state level through the Department of Labor and Industry (DLI), not through the city of St Paul.
A contractor performing more than one special skill (like roofing plus siding or gutters) on a homeowner's dwelling must hold a Residential Building Contractor or Residential Roofer license.
How to look up a license
Visit DLI's iMS system at ims.dli.mn.gov and use the License and Registration Lookup, or continue as a guest without creating an account.
Search by business or individual name to see license status, bond information, continuing education compliance, and any disciplinary history before signing a contract.
Bonding and insurance requirements
Minnesota-licensed residential contractors must carry a surety bond and general liability insurance as a condition of licensure, details of which are visible in the iMS lookup.
Confirm the contractor also carries workers' compensation insurance for crew members working on your roof.
City permitting still applies
Even with a valid state license, any reroofing job in St Paul needs a permit from the Department of Safety and Inspections (DSI), 375 Jackson Street, Suite 220, filed through the city's PAULIE platform.
DSI's reroofing policy also generally bars shingle overlays, so contractors should plan for a full tear-off, particularly relevant for older homes in Payne-Phalen and West Seventh.
Questions to ask before signing
Ask for the contractor's DLI license number, confirm it matches the business name on the contract, and ask who will physically be on your roof (subcontractors should also be checked).
Ask how they handle Minnesota's snow load and ventilation code requirements, especially on additions or older homes.
Red flags in contractor licensing
Watch for contractors who only offer a 'lead' or 'salesperson' registration rather than the actual residential contractor license, or who can't produce a license number on request.
Storm-season door knockers offering deep discounts for immediate signing are a common pattern DLI and consumer agencies warn about after Twin Cities hailstorms.
Where to go for more help
Our St Paul roofing hub outlines the full permit and licensing picture for the metro, and we can match you with vetted, license-verified local roofing contractors.
Common questions
What license does a St Paul roofing contractor need?
A Minnesota Residential Building Contractor or Residential Roofer license issued by the Department of Labor and Industry (DLI).
Where do I check a contractor's license status?
Use DLI's iMS License and Registration Lookup at ims.dli.mn.gov, no account required for guest searches.
Does a state license replace the need for a city permit?
No. A state license is separate from the reroofing permit required by Saint Paul DSI for the actual job.
What should I ask a contractor about insurance?
Ask for proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance, both generally required for licensed Minnesota roofers.
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