When applying for a permit, which entity must you pay a fee to?

When applying for a permit, the payment of the fee is typically directed to the local municipality. Each city or county has its own processes and requirements regarding permits, including the fees that must be paid to process those applications. This local structure allows municipalities to effectively manage their own building and zoning regulations, ensuring compliance with local ordinances and codes. Therefore, the correct choice reflects the standard practice where local governments collect the necessary fees to issue permits as part of their regulatory functions.

Other entities, such as the State of Minnesota or specific departments like the Department of Labor and Industry (DLI), may have oversight or regulations relevant to construction, but they are not the ones who directly collect permit fees from applicants. The building official may review the applications but is an individual representing the municipality rather than the payment recipient.