FAQs • Edina, MN • CivicEngage

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Administration

1. When are the City Council meetings?

The City Council meets at 7 p.m. on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Upcoming meeting agendas are posted the Friday before a meeting. View the list of upcoming Council meetings.

View an upcoming meeting agenda, past meeting agendas, minutes and recordings of the meetings.

For more information, contact City Clerk Sharon Allison at 952-826-0408.

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Affordable Housing

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1. What is affordable housing?: Affordable housing includes houses and multifamily options that are affordable to households with low and moderate incomes. In Edina, demand from teachers, caregivers and those in many other occupations far exceeds the available affordable homes.

2. Who qualifies for affordable housing? What are the income limits?

Housing is considered affordable when a household does not spend more than 30 percent of its income on housing expenses.

Affordable housing programs generally serve households with incomes at or below 60 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI) for rental housing or at or below 115 percent of AMI for owning a home.

Income Limits by Household Size (2022)

Household Size	50% of AMI	60% of AMI	115% of AMI
1 person	$41,100	$49,320	$94,530
2 people	$46,950	$56,340	$107,985
3 people	$52,800	$63,360	$121,440
4 people	$58,650	$70,380	$135,895
5 people	$63,350	$76,020	$145,705

3. What are the rent limits on affordable housing?

Maximum Gross Rents That Can Be Charged (2022)

Bedrooms	30% of AMI	50% of AMI	60% of AMI
Studio	$616	$1,027	$1,233
1 Bedroom	$660	$1,100	$1,320
2 Bedrooms	$792	$1,320	$1,584
3 Bedrooms	$915	$1,525	$1,830
4 Bedrooms	$1,020	$1,701	$2,041

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Aquatic Center

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1. Do I have to pay admission even though I am not going to swim?: All guests are required to pay admission to get into the park. There is no way to separate or regulate those who are not using the amenities.

2. Do you allow floatation devices?: U.S. Coast Guard approved flotation devices are allowed in the Main pool and the Tube slide only (they are not permitted in the zero depth pool, diving boards, zip line, or body slide). A limited number of approved flotation devices are available for use at the Aquatic Center. Inflatable devices and puddle jumpers are not permitted.

3. What age do you need to be in order to visit the pool without a parent or guardian?: There is no minimum age as we feel it is up to the parents discretion and based upon the child's swimming ability and maturity.

4. Are there additional fees once I get in to the Edina Aquatic Center?: All amenities, with the exception of the concession stand and The Lost Wave surf simulator, are included in the daily admission fee. Season passes include the surf simulator. Height restrictions apply.

5. How warm is the water?: For swimmers' comfort, the water temperature in all pools is kept at 82 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit.

6. Are swim diapers required on tots?: Swim diapers are required on all children 3 and under and on children over age 3 who are not completely potty trained. You can purchase a swim diaper from the admissions counter.

7. Do you have lifeguards on duty?: The pool is staffed by certified lifeguards who complete a rigorous national training program. The pool also undergoes safety audits throughout the season.

8. How deep is the water playground for small children?: At its deepest point, it's 18 inches.

9. Do you have locker rooms and lockers?

Yes, we have men's and women's locker rooms. Lockers are for daily use only. You must bring your own lock. All locks must be removed at the end of the day.

Please note the locker rooms are not air conditioned.

10. What rules are there concerning dress code?: All adults and children that are swimming must wear appropriate swim attire. Street clothes are not permitted to be worn in the pool.

11. I lost an item by the pool, where can I find it?: Call or stop by the Edina Aquatic Center to report a lost item. Please note that the Edina Aquatic Center only keeps items for one week.

12. I forgot some important swimming related items at home!: The Edina Aquatic Center has you covered. Swim diapers, dive rings, goggles, beach towels and sunscreen are available for purchase at the admission window.

13. Can I bring in food or a cooler?: The Edina Aquatic Center does not allow outside food or beverages into the facility. Coolers, glass containers, alcohol and tobacco are also not allowed. Concessions are available on-site.

14. Can I bring in my own sun/lawn chair?

Yes. Portable sun/lawn chairs are allowed.

Portable umbrellas and tents are not permitted.

15. How do I make a birthday party reservation?: We would love to host your child's next birthday party! Contact Pam at 952-833-9544 or reserve online through our website link.

16. How do you notify people if you close in inclement weather?: Weather closures are posted on our Facebook page. When thunderstorms or other inclement weather is in the forecast, please check there before heading to the Aquatic Center.

17. How do I get a job at the Aquatic Center?: The Edina Aquatic Center hires all team members on a seasonal basis for each operating season (early June through late August). Applicants must be available through the entire season. All applicants must complete an online application form and have a personal interview. Visit the City's job page to view available positions and to apply.

18. Will you donate passes for my fundraiser?

As a facility supported by taxpayers, Edina Aquatic Center can't donate items.

However, if someone wants to purchase passes and donate them to your fundraiser, we'd be glad to help.

19. Do you offer swim lessons?

The City of Edina has partnered with the Edina Swim Club to provide quality swimming lessons for a variety of ages at the Edina Aquatic Center.

Check the Edina Swim Club website to learn more or sign up.

20. Why does the Aquatic Center open in June and close in August?

It all comes down to staffing, primarily lifeguards. To keep all of the amenities open at the Aquatic Center, we need 20 lifeguards at a time. That's many more lifeguards than most other community pools need.

Many of our lifeguards are students who aren't available until the end of May or mid-June, and we need time to train them. Many also return to schooling in August, as soon as activities begin. Although we hire many lifeguards, there aren't enough available in early or late summer to stay open.

We did attempt one year to try to keep the facility open longer into summer by closing some of the amenities, but that upset guests who wanted the full experience.

Each year we examine several factors before choosing the season dates. It fluctuates slightly from year to year, but generally runs early June through the third Sunday in August.

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Arden Park

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1. How was Arden Park improved?

The project by the City of Edina and the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District made the following improvements to Arden Park:

o Improved water quality – the stormwater management features of this project keep 30 pounds of phosphorus and 18,000 pounds of sediment out of Minnehaha Creek every year

o Restored stream health and habitat – removing the 54th Street dam and re-meandering Minnehaha Creek restores over 2,100 feet of streambank, adds 230 feet of stream length, and creates diverse aquatic and terrestrial habitat

o Four new creek accesses allow paddling, tubing, fishing, or wading

o New park shelter and outdoor gathering space

o Enhanced open space

o Upgraded hockey rink

o Expanded trail network and new boardwalk

o 400+ new trees planted

o Invasive buckthorn and ash trees preventatively removed

o Expanded pollinator habitat

2. Who takes care of the vegetation and weed maintenance at Arden Park?

Newly constructed areas of the park landscape will be cared for by the project contractors until fall 2022 and later maintained by the City of Edina. The contractor is responsible for:

Invasive weed management
Continued buckthorn management
Spot herbicide treatment and mowing of perennial weeds along Minnehaha Boulevard
Mowing of annual/biennial weeds along 54th Street and Brookview Avenue
Watering and protection of newly planted trees
Maintenance of plantings in the stormwater swales
Streambank plantings

To report a concern related to one of these areas, please contact either the City of Edina project manager or the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District project manager.

3. Why isn't the Arden grass like other park fields?

Arden Park is a nature-based park with a focus on natural features. It does not have a formal field for organized sports. The turf area is for random play, picnics and similar activities.

The Arden grass is growing in from grass seed without irrigation. This type of method can be slow to establish. Environmentally it is best to use irrigation only on highly active sports fields. Parks is reducing irrigation use on this type of unscheduled park grass to save water as a resource.

Park Maintenance is responsible for mowing the grass.

4. Where can I report park vandalism?: See the Report a Problem in Parks page for how to report by phone, app or online. Situations posing imminent danger should be reported to 911 immediately.

5. Who do I contact for questions about Arden Park?

For questions regarding the remeandered creek, stormwater system, and new plantings, please contact Laura Domyancich-Lee at Minnehaha Creek Watershed District at [email protected] or 952-641-4582.

For questions regarding the park open space, park trails, skating rinks, park shelter or playground, please contact City of Edina Parks & Recreation Department at 952-826-0367.

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Assessing

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1. What caused the historic increase in value?: Many factors contributed to the dramatic increase in value, most notably the competitive real estate market and a shortage of homes for sale.

2. How does the City Assessor determine the market value of my home?: The annual assessment process analyzes what a property would sell for in an open market transaction. The assessor estimates values based on actual sales of comparable properties.

3. What factors determine a property’s value?: A property’s market value can be affected by multiple factors such as size, age, condition, quality of construction and other features such as fireplaces, decks, porches, etc. As a result, two neighboring homes, while looking similar from the exterior, can have varying market values.

4. If my home value went up 15%, will my taxes go up 15% too?: A property valuation increase does not equate to a property tax increase. Many factors will determine the amount each taxpayer owes, including property classification, individual value change and homestead market value exclusions.

5. What happens if the sales prices go back down this year?: If future sales indicate market values have dropped, assessors will follow the trend down, as the estimated market value of each home is based on actual sale prices of comparable properties.

6. I just moved into a home. Who do I speak to about homesteading?

You can apply for a homesteading classification online or by mail. Visit the Homestead Classification page for instructions.

To apply, you must have a copy of the deed and Certificate of Real Estate Value provided at closing and Social Security numbers of all owners, spouses not on deeds and/or qualified relatives who occupy the property.

If you need assistance or for more information, please contact our Assessing Department at 952-826-0425.

7. Who are City appraisers and what are their credentials?

Appraisers employed by the City of Edina Assessing Department are professionals with stringent training and experience requirements set by the State Board of Assessors. The State Board of Assessors administers licensure of appraisers. The City of Edina Assessing Department staff appraisers are:

Adrienne Ledermann
Jon Crowe
Shelagh Stoerzinger
Nate Stulc

For additional information, contact the Assessor's Office at 952-826-0365.

8. What is market value?

Minnesota Statute 272.03 defines "market value" as "the usual selling price at the place where the property … is … at the time of assessment." It is "the price that could be obtained at a private sale or an auction sale, if the assessor determines the price from an auction sale represents an arms-length transaction. The price obtained at a forced sale shall not be considered."

In other words, market value is the price that would prevail under competitive open-market conditions.

For additional information, contact the Assessor’s Office at 952-826-0365.

9. What does the Assessor's Office do?

The law requires assessors to establish an estimated market value annually on each property. In addition to market changes, numerous physical changes affect the value of land and building.

The Assessor also determines the classification, or use, of each parcel. For instance, property may be residential homestead, residential non-homestead, apartment, industrial, commercial, etc. Classification rates are set by state legislative action and vary by property classification.

For additional information, contact the Assessor’s Office at 952-826-0365.

10. What is the difference between 'Estimated Market Value' and 'Taxable Market Value'?

While estimated market value (EMV) shows what your property would likely sell for on the open market, "taxable market value" (TMV) is used to determine your taxes.

A property’s TMV is its estimated market value minus any tax exemptions, deferrals and value exclusions that apply. For example, some homeowners have a Homestead Market Value Exclusion, which reduces the amount of home value that is subject to tax.

For additional information, contact the Assessor’s Office at 952-826-0365.

11. How does my property value affect my property taxes?

Property value does not directly affect your property tax bill. It is used to calculate your share of the local property tax levy for the year.

This levy is the total property tax revenue needed to fund the budgets set by your county, city, and school district.

Your property’s taxable market value is multiplied by its classification rate to determine its share of the levy.

Increasing or decreasing your property’s market value does not change the overall amount of property tax revenue that is collected.

For additional information, contact the Assessor’s Office at 952-826-0365.

12. What if I disagree with the assessor’s value?

Detailed appeal options can be found on the Valuation Notice mailed to property owners in March of every year.

If after receiving your market value notice in March, you believe your property classification is incorrect, call the Edina Assessing Office at 952-826-0365.

If you disagree with your current value, collect information to show why you believe your estimated market value is incorrect, such as a recent appraisal of your property, recent sales of similar properties, etc.

First, contact the City of Edina Assessor’s Office at 952-826-0365 to discuss your valuation with the appropriate appraiser.

If you are unable to resolve the valuation issue with the appraisal staff, the next step is to complete an application to attend the local Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting identified on your value notice. Staff will help you with this process. You must start with your local board.

If your concern still is not resolved at the local level, you may then proceed to the County Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting. These steps must be accomplished according to the timeline set forth in the market value notice.

If your concern is still not resolved, you may petition the Minnesota Tax Court. Tax Court Petitions may be filed after you receive your value notice and before April 30 of the year the taxes are payable.

For more information, contact the Minnesota Tax Court at 651-539-3260 or MN Relay at 800-627-3529. Or online at: Minnesota Tax Court / Minnesota.gov (mn.gov)

13. Can I pay my property taxes at City Hall?

Property taxes cannot be paid at City Hall. Current property taxes can be paid online at www.Hennepin.us, by mail to Hennepin County Treasurer, A-600 Government Center, Minneapolis, MN 55487 or in person at all Hennepin County Service Centers. For more information, visit www.Hennepin.us.

For more information, contact Edina’s Assessing Division at 952-826-0365.

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Assessing - Special Assessments

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1. How was street reconstruction funded and what is the new method or the change?: The City’s Utility Funds covers the cost of curb and gutter, sanitary sewer, domestic water and stormwater utility improvements in a neighborhood reconstruction project. Under the City’s previous Special Assessment Policy, residents are assessed the rest of the project cost, (major costs include road base and pavement) or 100% of the cost for the street reconstruction portion of the project. The new policy will transition from 100% assessment to 100% taxes with a transition period of 16-years.

2. Why did the City’s Special Assessment Policy change?: The old policy is not financially or legally sustainable. Recent estimates for special assessments in neighborhoods with homes of all sizes have climbed as high as $32,000, a figure that is not sustainable. Under State Statutes, the City can assess properties for public improvements, but the benefit to property values must be equal to or greater than the assessment. As assessments climb, it may be difficult for the City to prove the market benefit.

3. How would the City phase in the new policy?: The cost of subcuts and retaining walls will be removed from special assessments in the first year or 2021 construction projects. After the first year, assessments would be reduced each year until it reaches no assessment at Year 16. Sample assessment amounts by year are provided in the appendix of the assessment policy.

4. The street by my house was recently reconstructed and I paid a special assessment. Will I be impacted by a change in the policy?: Yes. All taxpayers will begin paying taxes to the city for street reconstruction each year. In the first year, City taxes on the median-valued home would increase by approximately $40 for funding street reconstruction. In the remaining 15 years of the transition of either option, City taxes on the median-valued single-family home would increase by $11 per year for funding street reconstruction. Over the 16-years, the cumulative amount paid to the city from a median-valued single-family home is estimated at $1,865. Note that higher-valued homes would pay more in City taxes and lesser valued homes would pay less.

5. I paid a special assessment. How will I benefit by a change in the policy?: The policy change benefits all taxpayers by creating a sustainable funding source to ensure high quality streets. The streets provide the traveling public pathways to key destinations. These trips occur 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in a variety of modes for a variety of reasons. Residents, businesses, emergency services, and others expect a high level of service to ensure disruptions do not occur.

6. Can the City refund residents who have been previously assessed for street reconstruction?: No; the State Statute that allows the City to assess for public improvements is very clear on this matter. If the special assessments were validly levied and collected, there is no way for the City to refund previously paid special assessments.

7. Can residents who are still paying off a previous special assessment be taxed differently?: Minnesota’s power of taxation is found in Article X of the Constitution of the State of Minnesota. The article states that taxes will be uniform. The City cannot tax properties of the same class differently based on the fact that they were also part of a special assessment.

8. What happens with a special assessment that has been levied on a property when it is sold?: Typically during the sale of a home, the buyer and seller negotiate paying off the assessment into price of the home.

9. What is the current interest rate for special assessments not paid in full?: The City borrows money to fund street reconstruction. The interest rate applied to unpaid portions of the special assessments is 1 percent above the rate at which the City borrows. Historically, that rate was typically between 3 and 4 percent.

10. Approximately what percentage of single-family homes have paid for a street reconstruction project under the current Special Assessment Policy?: The City has reconstructed approximately half of the local streets. Therefore, approximately half of the properties have paid an assessment. Approximately 4% of properties change owners per year. If they moved into a neighborhood after street construction, some property owners within a recently constructed street may not have paid for an assessment. We anticipate it will take approximately 25 years to complete reconstruction of the remaining local streets at which point the cycle starts over.

11. How are street reconstruction areas prioritized for reconstruction?: Data is collected on the condition of the pavement, watermain, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, and lighting systems. The condition of the systems are compared to the remaining life in those systems to determine if now is the right time to maintain the systems or reconstruct the systems. Once reconstruction is determined the right plan of action, street reconstruction areas are compared to planning documents such as the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan to determine additional needs. After all the needs are identified, staff tries to prioritize based on need with consideration of impacts to residents in an area over multiple years.

12. Can the city delay the street reconstruction project in my neighborhood so my neighborhood can have a smaller assessment?: It is not recommended to delay a street reconstruction project after staff has determined the systems need replacement. The street and utility systems are vital pieces of infrastructure. Delaying reconstruction increases the risk of outages to customers. Staff has considered many factors in prioritizing street reconstruction neighborhoods to keep up with the needs of the community

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Body-Worn Cameras

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1. When will the Edina Police Department begin using body-worn cameras?: Body-worn cameras were deployed in December 2020 and are now in use.

2. Why use body-worn cameras?: The Edina Police Department has used in-squad, or “dash cam” footage for many years. The footage has proved to be an excellent tool for collecting evidence, documenting encounters and providing enhanced transparency and accountability. Body-worn cameras will dramatically expand this capability.

3. Will all police officers wear them?: All uniformed officers will wear a body camera.

4. Will officers be able to decide when to stop or start recording?

During some encounters, officers will use their discretion when deciding whether or not to record. Officers are required to continue recording once started until the conclusion of the incident, or until it becomes apparent that additional recording is unlikely to capture information having evidentiary value. Officers will document in their reports when a video is recorded, any instances when video was not recorded when it should have been and any time a recording is stopped prior to the end of an incident.

Officers are required to record when they are involved in:

Pursuit
Traffic stop
Investigative stop of a pedestrian
Searches, seizures and arrests
Use of force
Adversarial, hostile or confrontational encounters
Any other activities likely to yield information having evidentiary value

Recording is not required during medical situations unless there is a reason to use the camera to collect evidence.

5. Will officers be able to record in a home or other private area?: Body-worn cameras can be used to record any police encounter. This includes inside private homes and other sensitive areas where officers must respond. Recording is not required during medical situations unless there is a reason to use the camera to collect evidence. It should be noted that most body-worn camera data is considered private under Minnesota law and thus not accessible to third parties who are not directly involved in the situation.

6. Do people have to be notified when the body-worn camera is recording?: Officers don’t have to tell people that a body-worn camera is being operated or that the individuals are being recorded. Officers will wear the body cameras on the front of their uniform in plain sight. People should assume police officers with body-worn cameras are recording. It’s okay to ask the officer if the camera is on or to ask the officer to turn on the camera.

7. Can I ask the officers to turn off their cameras?: Officers are required to continue recording once started until the conclusion of the incident, or until it becomes apparent that additional recording is unlikely to capture information having evidentiary value. In many cases, officers will not be able to end a recording solely based on an individual’s request. If a specific privacy concern outweighs any legitimate law enforcement interest in continued recording, an officer may consider a request to stop recording.

8. How often will officers be recording?

Body-worn cameras will be recording whenever officers are involved in:

Pursuit
Traffic stop
Investigative stop of a pedestrian
Searches, seizures and arrests
Use of force
Adversarial, hostile or confrontational encounters
Any other activities likely to yield information having evidentiary value

9. How will body-worn cameras be used in schools?: School Resource Officers who work in plain clothes and not in uniform will generally not wear cameras but have the discretion to do so pursuant to needs of a specific investigation or task. Any officers in uniform responding to or working within the schools will utilize their cameras in the same manner they would in any other location.

10. What are the guidelines for officers responding to mental health crisis situations?: When responding to an apparent mental health event or crisis, body-worn cameras will be activated as necessary to document any use of force and any other information having evidentiary value. Body-worn cameras don’t need to be activated when doing so would serve only to record symptoms or behaviors believed to be attributable to the mental health issue. Officers will generally not record inside medical or mental health facilities unless necessary to document criminal activity, use of force or an adversarial encounter.

11. When and how will a body-worn camera video be made public?

Body-worn camera video is presumptively private data in Minnesota.
When a police investigation is active, the data is classified as confidential and will not be released.
If a police investigation is no longer active, individuals can access body-worn camera data only if they are in the recorded video. Data on other individuals who do not consent to the release must be redacted.

In a few limited circumstances, data that is no longer part of an active investigation may be classified as public. This includes data documenting the use of force by a peace officer that results in substantial bodily harm, discharge of a firearm by a peace officer other than for training or animal control, data that a data subject requests be made accessible to the public (subject to redaction), and data documenting final disposition of a disciplinary action against a public employee.

Data practices laws are complex and requests are handled on a case-by-case basis to assure compliance with the law and to protect the subjects of the data. Those seeking access to body-worn camera recordings may contact the police department to request data.

12. Who reviews the body-worn camera videos?: Officers can review their own video and supervisors can review all officer videos. State law requires an independent audit of the Police Department’s body-worn camera program every two years. The audit’s purpose is to ensure officers comply with the recording policy along with ensuring data is stored and released to the public properly.

13. What are the limitations of body-worn cameras?: A body-worn camera is an electronic device worn on an officer’s uniform that must be small, rugged and have a battery capable of lasting an entire 12-hour shift. Viewers of body camera footage might expect to see “Made for TV” quality video with good lighting, multiple angles and ideal perspective. In reality, body-camera video is shot from a fixed angle on the front of an officer’s uniform and often in far from ideal conditions. No camera is capable of seeing the same way the person wearing it does. While body-camera video may provide useful additional information and evidence, it can only tell a part of a story. Body-camera footage can supplement but never replace a thorough investigation.

14. Can the cameras pre-record events?: Yes. When an officer activates their camera, it will capture at least 30 seconds of video prior to the activation.

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Braemar Arena

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1. How do I reserve a meeting room?: Braemar Arena has several spaces for meetings, conferences, team parties, birthday parties, and tournament headquarters. If you would like to learn more about the availability of the facility, reference the Facility schedule tab or call our office between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at 952-833-9506.

2. How do I inquire about ice availability?: Our Ice Schedules are available on the Facility Schedule tab of our website. Check to see if there is available ice, then contact Facility Scheduler Corey McConnach to reserve the space. There may be other reservations pending that are not currently live on the calendar, so the space is not guaranteed. He can also be reached via telephone at 952-833-9518.

3. How do we reserve a Birthday Party?: Braemar Arena and Field offers a variety of birthday party options to include private reservation space or during open public use times. To learn more about the options and availability, email Peg Greiser. You can also reach her from 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Monday- Friday at 952-833-9506.

4. What do I do if I lost something during my visit?: We have a lost and found located in the South Arena near the stairs. If you lost a valuable item, please let us know at 952.833.9500. We keep any valuable or small items in the office.

5. When is Public Skating?: We have many opportunities for Public Skate from Open Skate, Adult Open Hockey, and Developmental Hockey. More information can be found on our Events & Public Skating page.

6. How do I pay an invoice for facility use?: To pay an invoice or pay for facility use, you can call us at 952.833.9500 from 8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. Monday through Friday. To pay outside of those times, locate the drop box near guest services, mail in payment, or stop in and we can process payment and send a receipt confirmation after processed.

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Braemar Arena - Facility Reservations

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1. How do I book ice?: First check our availability on the Facility Schedule. When you have found a date and time that works for you, complete the Facility Reservation Request Form.

2. How will I know if my request has been reserved?: You will receive an email confirmation when your reservation has been made.

3. When do I pay for my reservation?: Payment is due at the time your reservation is confirmed. If a contract agreement has been signed, then the account will be billed monthly.

4. How much does it cost to rent ice?: Ice rates start at $105 an hour for the East, South and West rinks and vary depending on season, time of day and holidays. In the Winter, the outdoor Backyard Rink varies from $75 to $150 an hour.

5. What if I need to cancel my reservation?: A 30-day notice must be given to receive a full refund.

6. What type of meeting spaces are available?

Three distinct meeting rooms are available for rent at $30/hour.

The Conference Room measures 15 feet by 20 feet and is best suited for a conference style meeting for 15 people or less. Two white boards make this a productive planning space.

The EHA Room measures 29 feet by 22 feet with windows overlooking the South arena. This room can be set for 90 for an assembly style meeting or for 43 with tables and chairs.

The Ballet Room measures 43 feet by 22 feet and is accessed from the East rink. Two walls feature full length mirrors with ballet bars and another with windows, overlooks the South Arena. The accordion divider can split this room into two separate spaces. Occupancy is 135 for an assembly set or 63 with tables and chairs. The faux-wood floors make this a perfect space for a dance or yoga class.

The Main Lobby, West Mezzanine and Backyard plaza are open spaces and are also available for less formal meetings.

7. Will you close the Backyard Rink due to weather?

The Backyard rink will be closed when the air temperature is at or below -10 or a wind chill of -15. Edina Parks and Recreation used the National Weather Service (weather.gov) as our official thermometer.

We will notify organizations with reservations during a closure by 1pm on the day of their rental.

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Braemar Field - Facility Reservations

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1. How do I reserve the field?: First check our availability on the Facility Schedule. When you have found a date and time that works for you, complete the Facility Reservation Request Form.

2. How will I know if my request has been reserved?: Corey McConnach, our facility scheduler will send you an email confirming your reservation.

3. When do I pay for my reservation?: Payment is due at the time your reservation is confirmed. If a contract agreement has been signed, the account will be billed monthly.

4. How much does it cost to rent the field?: Rates range from $50 to $400 per hour depending on field size, season and day and time. We offer varying field rentals to fit your group's needs.

5. What if I need to cancel my reservation?: A 30-day notice is required for a full refund.

6. What equipment is available for use?

six soccer nets
four lacrosse nets
three pitching mounds
three L-screens
batting tees

7. How can I find out the indoor temperature (November 1-April 30)?: Call Braemar Field Guest Services at 952-833-9512.

8. When is the walking track open?: Our almost quarter-mile turf track is open from the beginning of November through the end of April. It is open weekdays from 6am-9pm and weekends from 8am-9pm, but closed for safety reasons during lacrosse, baseball and softball practices. See the calendar for current dates and times.

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Building Inspections

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1. When is a permit required?

Construction activities within the City of Edina are regulated by the Edina City Code and Minnesota State Building Code. The following permits may be required for your project:

• Building Permit: Required for any construction, alteration, repair, relocation, enlargement, demolition or change of use or occupancy to any building or structure regulated by the state building code. This includes building additions, decks, sheds more than 200 square feet, work to a permanent weather resistive surface (siding, roofing, windows) and finishing of previously unfinished spaces.

• Plumbing Permit: Required for the installation, alteration, repair or extension of any plumbing system or individual sewage disposal system. This includes the installation or replacement of a fixture, water heater, water softener, a backflow preventer for a lawn irrigation system and any other activity as required by the building official or plumbing inspector.

• Mechanical Permit: Required for the installation, alteration, repair or extension of any heating, ventilation or exhaust system, refrigeration unit, air conditioning unit, manufactured gas or wood fireplaces and stoves, manufactured chimney and venting systems, hot water, low pressure steam equipment or other mechanical equipment as required by the building official or mechanical inspector.

• Sewer/Water Permit: Required for any connection, disconnection, modification or repair to a sanitary sewer or water service distribution system.

• Electrical Permit: Required for any installation, alteration, repair or extension of electrical work for light, heat, power and any other activity as required by the building official or electrical inspector. All electrical permits are issued by the State of Minnesota. For more questions, please call 763-205-5015.

• Grading Permit: Required for any disturbance of more than 2,500 square feet of soil or exceeds more than ten cubic yards of cut or fill. For more information see the Stormwater for Single-Double Dwelling Units (PDF). For questions, please call 952-826-0371.

Permits for new or existing structures will be issued to homeowners who homestead the property or contractors licensed by the State of Minnesota. The exception to this rule is mechanical and plumbing work. In both new and existing structures, mechanical and plumbing permits will only be issued to contractors licensed by the City of Edina when the owner does not reside in the home.

Please contact the Building Inspections Division at 952-826-0372 for more specific information or with specific questions about your project.

2. How do I apply for a permit?

The City of Edina uses electronic permit application submission and plan review processes.

3. When are inspections required?

Construction activities within the City of Edina are regulated by Edina City Code and the Minnesota State Building Code. Under these codes, it is the responsibility of the permit holder to schedule all required inspections, provide access to the area that must be inspected and provide a means for completion of the inspection.

Contact the building inspections division Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. at 952-826-0372. Please have the permit number ready when calling.

4. How long does it take to get a permit?: The permit review timeline is dependent on several factors, including the number of permits under review at any given time and the completeness of those permit applications. We strive to meet the general rule of thumb of 5 to 10 business days for residential permits and 15 business days for commercial permits.

5. Can I start work without a permit?: No. Beginning work without a permit is a violation of state law. The city will fine a property owner or contractor who begins work without first obtaining a permit.

6. How much will a permit cost?

There is a permit fee estimator located on our City website at:

Estimate Permit Fees

7. How do I apply for an RPZ/PVB Permit?

Please send your RPZ/PVB report to [email protected] along with a good phone number to contact you.

We will setup the permit for you and then call for payment. The cost is $34.25 per report.

8. What work on my condo/townhome needs a permit?: Permits are required when you are doing construction to your unit for most types of work. Please see Edina Multi-Family Buildings: When is a Permit Needed (PDF) outlining who can do the work and which projects need permits. There may be exceptions.

9. What are the regulations regarding noise and after-hours work?

For demolition and construction of a new single family home: Deliveries of equipment and material to the site, work crews on site and construction and demolition activity are prohibited except between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. Work is prohibited on Sundays and holidays (New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas). Edina City Code Chapter 10, Article IV

For all other construction-related projects: No person shall engage in or permit construction and repair activities involving the use of any kind of electric, diesel or gas-powered motor vehicles or machine or other power equipment, audible beyond the property line of the property where the activity is occurring, except:

For projects requiring a building permit with a building project value of $50,000.00 or less:

Monday—Friday, 7:00 a.m.—7:00 p.m.
Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays (New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas), 9:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m.

For projects requiring a building permit with a building project value of more than $50,000.00:

Monday—Friday, 7:00 a.m.—7:00 p.m.
Saturdays, 9:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m.
Sundays and Holidays (New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas), no work

Edina City Code Chapter 23, Article II, Division 5, Sec. 23-124

The City recommends that if a neighbor is disrupted by construction noise outside of allowable hours, contact the Edina Police Department's non-emergency line at 952-826-1600.

10. How do I search for permits on a site address?

You can search for permits on a site address by going to:

Search for Permits

11. When does a permit expire?: A permit will be considered expired if there has been no work or inspection done in 180 days. The Chief Building Official is authorized to grant extension of time if there is justifiable cause demonstrated.

12. How do I get dumpster approval for the 50th & France district?: View the 50th & France District Construction Dumpster Regulation information.

13. Does my dock need a permit?

Does my dock need a permit?

The City does not issue permits for docks.

The DNR does not require a permit to install, construct, or reconstruct a dock on shoreline property you own if you comply with this DNR guidance.

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Cable TV Complaints

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1. I have a question or problem with my cable bill. Who do I contact?

If you are a Comcast/Xfinity customer, call 1-800-Xfinity (1-800-934-6489).

The City of Edina is not involved in cable billing and does not have access to your cable account.

2. I lost the envelope. Where do I send my cable bill payment?

Comcast

P.O. Box 34744

Seattle, WA 98124-1744

3. My cable is out. Who do I call?

Comcast/Xfinity: 1-800-Xfinity (1-800-934-6489).

4. Who do I call about a cable service or equipment problem?

Comcast/Xfinity: 1-800-Xfinity (1-800-934-6489).

5. I've contacted my cable company multiple times but the issue isn't resolved. Can you help?

If you are an Edina resident who has been unable to resolve your cable TV issue with the company, we can contact their government liaison to request assistance. You should receive a response from the company within several business days after the liaison has been notified.

We will need to some information from you, such as the cable company, your account number with that company, your contact information and a description of the problem. We’ll also need approximate dates you contacted the company regarding the issue and what response you received.

Please fill out this form so we have all the information for contacting the company on your behalf.

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Climate Action

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1. How is climate change already having an impact on Edina?

Climate change is a global phenomenon with local impacts. It presents one of the most profound challenges of our time. There is broad, international consensus among climate scientists that the Earth’s climate system is being destabilized because of increasing greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere. Two changes to Minnesota’s climate are occurring already: shorter winters with fewer cold extremes, and more heavy and extreme precipitation.

The primary changes to climate characteristics for the City of Edina specifically include:

Warmer annual average temperatures with significant warming in winter months
Increase in extreme heat days
Increase in heavy rain fall events, and corresponding flood potential
Increase in time between precipitation and drought potential
Greater variability in temperature and precipitation trends

From 1980 through 2018, the City has experienced:

an increase in annual average temperature
an increase in the number of days above 95 degrees
an increase in the number of heavy rain events
a decrease in the number of days below 32 degrees

Some of the most significant changes in the climate relate to variability.

Climate variability can be seen in the changes in annual precipitation for Edina. Overall annual precipitation has increased; however, this increase is not evenly distributed throughout the year. Fall and winter precipitation have increased up to 15.5%, while spring and summer precipitation have remained nearly unchanged. The City’s climate is anticipated to continue to warm through this century and beyond.

2. Climate change is a global issue – what can one community/family/person even make a difference?: According to the City’s Climate Change Survey, 68% of community members have been personally impacted by the effects of climate change. The Climate Action Plan is a community plan. There is emphasis on municipal and individual action to reach the goals set out in the Plan. Just as climate change is a global issue with local impacts; local action can have a global impact. There is a level of accountability at stake here as well. The United States is one of the top emitters of greenhouse gases in the world. There is a high level of responsibility for the United States and its residents to reduce their share of emissions and decrease the impacts of climate change at the local and global level.

3. What is the Climate Action Plan?

Climate action plans are a tool used by organizations, communities, and cities to respond to a changing climate. A city’s characteristics such as economy, resources, and natural landscape are factors in creating strategies for mitigating (reducing) and adapting (adjusting) to local climate change impacts.

The creation and implementation of a Climate Action Plan (CAP) is an organized way for the City to contribute to solving the global climate crisis. CAPs can also help a community’s resident and business communities create improved resilience to the current and future impacts and risks of climate change. Climate action can also create investment in innovation, jobs and actions that save households and businesses money while improving quality of life—especially for community members on the frontlines of climate change

The City Council approved Edina's first Climate Action Plan in December 2021. The plan includes 200 actions that can be taken in Edina to meet goals by 2030. The City’s greenhouse gas emission goals target a reduction in City operations and communitywide emissions by 45 percent below 2019 levels and achieve net zero emissions by 2050, in line with the 2015 global Paris Agreement.

Goals are arranged under the categories: Transportation & Land Use, Water & Wastewater, Buildings & Energy, Local Food & Agriculture, Green Space & Trees, Climate Health & Safety and Climate Economy.

Click here to read the plan!

4. How was the plan developed – and by whom?: The Plan was developed with a 26-person planning team consisting of residents, business community members, institutional representatives, City commission members, and City staff. The plan was developed from April 2021 through September 2021 through planning workshops. Residents most vulnerable to climate change shared their input through four focus groups. The full Edina community was invited to share their input through two surveys, engagement at the summer Farmer’s Market, and through comments on the draft plan.

5. How is the City tracking progress on climate actions?: The Community Climate Action Report has been created to track progress within Edina on sustainability and Climate Action Plan goals. Check it out to see updates on each section of the Climate Action Plan!

6. What can my family and I do?: There are many things that you and your family can do! The Climate Action Plan has eight different sectors with corresponding goals and strategies. Start with finding ways to reduce your impact in each area: Transportation, Energy, Waste, Water, Local Food, Greenspace, Climate Health, and Economy. There are also additional resources on the Better Together site that provide actionable items for individuals, students, groups, etc. to participate in. You can find these resources and the full Climate Action Plan here!

7. I'm ready to get involved in climate action! How can I host a CAP-in-a-Box meeting?

The “CAP-in-a-Box” toolbox is designed to help any community member introduce Edina’s Climate Action Plan to a small group and lead a discussion of ideas for strategies and activities they can do to help fight climate change. Community groups in Edina and community members interested in spreading the word and taking action on climate change should use this toolbox. Community groups may include interest groups like garden clubs, recreation leagues, youth groups, faith communities, civic groups or neighborhood groups.

Click here to check out the Resource box on the right-hand side of the site, called “Host a CAP-in-a-box at your next community meeting!”

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Climate Action Fund

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1. Is there a cap on the funding amount available per project?: There is no cap on the funding amount at this time. The City Manager approves annual fund allocations.

2. Who receives the cost share funds?: The property owner receives the funds.

3. Can I stack incentives?: Yes! Applicants can receive cost-share funds related to energy efficiency and electrification at the same time. Solar installations are eligible for cost-share funds after energy efficiency projects have been completed. Participating in Edina's Climate Action Fund does not affect your ability to receive tax credits or rebates from the federal government through the Inflation Reduction Act.

4. What if I have to wait for an Energy Audit? Can I go ahead and apply for the CAP Fund if I know what projects I want to do?: No, an energy audit from the last 36 months is required to access Climate Action Funds.

5. I want to apply for a solar cost-share, but do not wish to undertake any energy efficiency projects. Can I still apply?

o Homes that already receive a score of 95+ can seek a solar cost-share without additional energy efficiency projects. Email [email protected] to submit your home energy audit showing a score of 95+ in order to receive the solar cost-share application.

o Businesses that do not have any energy efficiency recommendations in their energy audit report can seek a solar cost-share without additional energy efficiency projects. Email [email protected] to receive the solar cost-share application.

6. Can I apply for the cost share program at the same time I apply for the permits, or do I need permit approval before I apply?: Please apply for the cost share program after permit approval, in case any changes need to be made to your design that will affect the cost or energy management estimates.

7. Can the solar contractor or energy assessor submit the application on behalf of the property owner?

The contractor or energy assessor can fill out and sign the application form. Confirmation of application receipt will be sent to the applicant and property owner.

8. I already received a different energy assessment not listed above. Am I eligible for the cost share?: Maybe. Contact the Sustainability Division to discuss how to qualify.

9. Does a project have to begin after the Climate Action Fund application is approved?: Projects that have commenced prior to pre-approval may be approved for the cost share on a case-by-case basis. Contact the Sustainability Division with details.

10. My project was completed before 2022, when the Climate Action Fund was approved by City Council. Can I receive cost share funds?: Only projects completed in 2022 or later are eligible.

11. I want to install a high-efficiency clothes dryer, is there cost-share funding from the Climate Action Fund for this project?: The Climate Action Fund supports the highest impact energy efficiency projects, which at this time does not include clothes dryers. Residents can still access cost-share funding via the Inflation Reduction Act. Visit https://www.irs.gov/credits-and-deductions-under-the-inflation-reduction-act-of-2022 and https://www.rewiringamerica.org/app/ira-calculator to understand what cost-share funds may be available from the federal government.

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Come Home 2 Edina

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1. Who is the program for?: Anyone, really. Are you an Edina teacher, police officer or firefighter and want to live in the community in which you work? Do you have a young family, but felt Edina living was out of reach? Maybe you grew up in Edina and want to move back? Maybe you don't like the commute to your office job? These are just a few of the many, many people for whom the program was created.

2. Is this a City of Edina program?: No. This program was founded and is sponsored by the East Edina Housing Foundation, also known as the Edina Housing Foundation.

3. What is the Edina Housing Foundation?: The Edina Housing Foundation (EHF) is a non-profit corporation that provides financial assistance to Edina home buyers in an effort to attract new families to the Edina community.

4. Why was this fund established?: The truth is, a 2010 census identified that over 20% of Edina homeowners are over 65 years of age. It's time to begin attracting younger families to Edina and this generous 2nd mortgage program was created to do just that.

5. Aren't the taxes in Edina really high?: No. Edina taxes are actually lower than surrounding communities.

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Comprehensive Plan

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1. What is a Comprehensive Plan?

A Comprehensive Plan is a vision of what a city wants to be. It is also a framework for shaping future growth and change, protecting what a community values, enhancing what the community wants to improve, and creating what the community feels is lacking. It also helps clarify the relationships between the community, its neighboring municipalities and the region.

A Comprehensive Plan contains information about current conditions, trends, and goals and policies for land use, community design, housing, transportation, parks, recreation, and natural resources, water resources, heritage preservation, and community services and facilities.

In Minnesota, authority for land-use planning and regulation is vested primarily in local governments (townships, cities and counties). The Metropolitan Land Planning Act, a State law first passed in 1976 and amended several times since, requires local governments in the seven-county Twin Cities area to develop local comprehensive plans. The plans must contain a number of elements, among them:

Maps and data showing current and future land use
A plan for staging development (for communities that intend to expand the area in which they provide urban services)
A housing plan
A surface water management plan
Plans for public facilities, like transportation, sewers and parks
Other elements

2. What are the chapters of the Comprehensive Plan?

Chapter 1: Introduction

Chapter 2: Community Profile

Chapter 3: Land Use

Chapter 4: Housing Chapter

Chapter 5: Transportation

Chapter 6: Parks

Chapter 7: Water

Chapter 8: Environment

Chapter 9: Community Services

Chapter 10: Economic Competitiveness & Economic Development

Chapter 11: Human Rights

Chapter 12: Health

Chapter 13: Heritage Preservation

Chapter 14: Arts & Culture

Chapter 15: Implementation

The Comprehensive Plan also includes a number of small area plans, including:

50th & France Small Area Plan
44th & France Small Area Plan
Southdale Small Area Plan
Wooddale/Valley View Small Area Plan
70th & Cahill Small Area Plan

3. Why did Edina update its Comprehensive Plan?

Minnesota State law requires that Comprehensive Plans must be reviewed and updated at least once every 10 years.

The City of Edina currently has a Comprehensive Plan that is used to guide City decisions. As Edina moves toward the future, the needs of the City and its residents will change. The changes need to be reflected and addressed in the Comprehensive Plan to better serve the community -- its currents residents and those who will come here in the future.

4. Who leads the process to update the Comprehensive Plan?

By Edina City Code, the Edina Planning Commission is responsible for preparing, reviewing and making recommendations on the Comprehensive Plan, including its required updates.

A Planning Commission Task Force, comprised of residents who are currently on the Planning Commission, oversaw the preparation of the proposed Comprehensive Plan. The Task Force, with assistance from City staff, conducted a series of public meetings, listening sessions, focus groups and interviews to provide timely information on work progress, and to obtain input and feedback.

Several consultant firms assisted with the technical review of the draft.

5. How does the City use the Comprehensive Plan?

The Comprehensive Plan is used to respond to development, changes in the community (such as increased traffic), and other factors that may have an impact on a community. It can also be used to guide and shape future development, working in conjunction with residents, business owners and land owners. The Comprehensive Plan sets forth a vision and goals, along with a chapter for implementing those goals.

The Planning Commission uses the Comprehensive Plan as the basis for its deliberations and decisions regarding review of development applications, and for its recommendations to the City Council. The City Council, other appointed Commissions, and City departments use the Comprehensive Plan to develop programs and the Capital Improvement Plan. Property owners and developers use it to consider potential future uses and development of property.

6. How many meetings did the City have to update the Comprehensive Plan?

The most recent Comprehensive Update is an update of the 2008 plan update, and did not require a complete re-writing of the plan.

The process established by the Edina City Council included more than 180 meetings, including regular work sessions by the Planning Commission’s Comprehensive Plan Task Force, large-group public meetings, smaller community meetings in specific areas of the city (such as in the areas surrounding the elementary schools), listening sessions (small meetings held in response to invitations by community organizations or neighborhood groups), intergenerational dialogue with residents and other stakeholders, as well as ample opportunity for comment on the City’s website and through other means.

7. What is the Metropolitan Council’s role in the Edina Comprehensive Plan?: The Metropolitan Council reviews and approves all Comprehensive Plans prepared by municipalities in the seven-county metro area, including Edina’s. The Metropolitan Council works in partnership with communities to use these Comprehensive Plans and its regional system plans to guide public and private development in the region.

8. What is the Metropolitan Council? How are members chosen?

The Metropolitan Council is the regional planning agency serving the Twin Cities seven-county metropolitan area. It provides essential services to the region. The Metropolitan Council works with local communities to:

Operate the region's largest bus system
Collect and treat wastewater
Engage communities and the public in planning for future growth
Provide forecasts of the region's population and household growth
Provide affordable housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income individuals and families
Provide planning, acquisitions and funding for a regional system of parks and trails
Provide a framework for decisions and implementation for regional systems including aviation, transportation, parks and open space, water quality and water management

The 17-member Metropolitan Council has 16 members who each represent a geographic district and one chair who serves at-large. They are all appointed by the governor. The State Senate confirms Council member appointments.

9. The Metropolitan Council has given the City some forecasts about future growth. What if the City doesn’t agree with those forecasts?

The Comprehensive Plan does not establish a population goal.

The Metropolitan Council completes population forecasts for the seven-county metro area as part of its regional planning mandate in State Statute. Forecasts are meant to be realistic assumptions that can be used to guide investments in infrastructure and public services. They are not goals, aspirations or targets.

The regional forecast looks at the region’s business conditions and competitive advantages that determine economic and employment levels which, in turn, drive population growth by attracting people to the Twin Cities. Additional land use modeling looks at how populations, demographics, regional policies and available land affect real estate supply and demand.

From the Metropolitan Council’s perspective, a central function of comprehensive planning is to be able to anticipate growth and plan responsibly for it. Their direct purview relates to regional systems for parks, transportation and water resources, as well as additional regional requirements pertaining to affordable housing. In support of this, the Metropolitan Council provides specific guidance to communities about information needed to inform development and system planning and implementation.

The Metropolitan Council periodically adjusts forecasts based on new data, to ensure they are as accurate as possible. This has occurred recently with Edina and several other cities.

Forecasting growth and land use change are complex endeavors, particularly at a sub-regional level, due to the number of variables that contribute to change. As a result, it is necessary for the Metropolitan Council to at times adjust the forecasts based on new data they receive.

In addition to other data tracking, the region’s annual population and household estimate program provides insights as to whether near-term forecasts are accurate. For instance, in mid-2018, the Metropolitan Council completed its 2017 estimates. These showed that some communities were growing faster than anticipated with new units, so that the 2020 forecast numbers may be too low given current trends.

The Metropolitan Council informed staff that their projection for Edina was too low as the City had already hit the 2020 projection. The Metropolitan Council gave the City a 2040 population projection of 63,600 to include in the 2018 Comprehensive Plan Update. This was based on recent development in Edina and the recent Comprehensive Plan Amendments for those developments. The increase would be about 19 percent from Edina’s current population. Again, this projection is not a mandate, goal, aspiration or target.

10. What changed from the 2008 Comprehensive Plan?

All chapters of the Comprehensive Plan have been rewritten. The writing style for each chapter is that of the group that worked on it.

Chapters the City elected to include in 2008 (but not required by the Metropolitan Council) included Community Facilities & Services, Environment & Energy and Heritage Preservation. Those chapters have been rewritten as well.

New chapters have been added, including Economic Competitiveness & Economic Development, per encouragement from the Metropolitan Council; and Community Health, Arts & Culture and Human Rights, based on City of Edina priorities. Most, if not all, of the chapters had a specific Commission assigned to review and rewrite the 2008 chapter or create a City-elective chapter that was identified as a priority during the Vision Edina process that preceded work on the 2018 Comprehensive Plan.

The 2008 Edina Comprehensive Plan identified several areas in Edina as “Potential Areas of Change.” During the 2018 Edina Comprehensive Plan process, small area plans were completed by resident-led work groups for those potential areas of change. All Small Area Plans have been approved by the City Council, and are included in the Comprehensive Plan.

There are also a number of new plans and initiatives that have been added and incorporated into the 2018 Comprehensive Plan since 2008, including the Pedestrian Bike Plan, Living Streets Plan and Water Resource Management Plan.

11. Which consultants worked on the 2018 Comprehensive Plan and what were their roles?

Consultants that worked on the 2018 Comprehensive Plan were:

Biko Associates, Inc. -- William Smith, Daniel Lubben, Aida Strom
Bolton & Menk, Inc. -- Haila Maze, Sarah Strain
Cornejo Consultants -- Dan Cornejo
Economic Development Services, Inc. -- Janna King
Griffin Design, LLC. -- Timothy J. Griffin, Joseph Hang
ZAN Associates, Inc. -- Dan Edgerton, Faith Xiong, Coal Dorius, Tom Holmes
Bob Close Studio, LLC. -- Bob Close
Architecture Field Office -- Mic Johnson, Sarah Crouch

Based on comments from the City Council’s advisory Commissions, the consultants took primary responsibility for assembly of the Comprehensive Plan elements and small area plans, while providing support and assistance to other City staff and resident advisory groups and assisting in community engagement.

Biko Associates, Inc., was responsible for ensuring responsiveness of Comprehensive Plan elements to Metropolitan Council requirements, especially with regard to conformance with all metropolitan systems policy plans, consistency with requirements of the Metropolitan Land Planning Act and Metropolitan Council policies, and compatibility with the plans of other local jurisdictions, including school districts.

12. What is a small area plan?

Small area plans provide guidance on land use, transportation, housing, environmental protection and parks/natural spaces uses and improvements in a specific identified geographic area. Ultimately, the goal of a small area plan is to improve the quality of life within the geographic area, as well as the greater community.

Small area plans help to implement the goals of Edina’s Comprehensive Plan. Small area plans determine land use regulations and help to guide future redevelopment proposals. City staff also use small area plans to identify infrastructure improvements necessary to support the uses proposed in the plan. Small area plans do not, however, guarantee redevelopment will occur or that proposed public improvements will take place. Other factors, such as market conditions or budget priorities, will play an important role in how a small area plan is implemented. It is important to remember that small area plans are intended to provide guidance over a long period of time.

The 44th & France, 50th & France, Wooddale/Valley View, 70th & Cahill and the Greater Southdale areas had been identified as areas of potential change in the 2008 Comprehensive Plan to be studied for small area completion. Wooddale/Valley View was completed with the remainder of small area plans completed as part of the 2018 Plan Update. All were planned to be elements in the 2018 Edina Comprehensive Plan update.

Local residents, business owners and other stakeholders worked together with members of the Comprehensive Plan Task Force, consultants and City staff to draft the small area plans for City Council approval.

13. Did other jurisdictions have any comments on the proposed Comprehensive Plan?

After the City Council approved a draft of the Comprehensive Plan, there was a six-month comment period for surrounding jurisdictions to provide feedback. The comment period closed Nov. 8. The following agencies provided comment:

Hennepin County and Minnesota Department of Transportation:

Both commented on the Transportation chapter
Neither found any issues or concerns

Three Rivers Park District:

Revisions to three maps to better illustrate the Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail
Language revisions to better and more accurately describe Three Rivers Park District properties, trails and trail alignments and identify the preferred alignment for the Canadian Pacific Rail Regional Trail
Revisions to address typographical errors

City of Bloomington:

Revision to a map to demonstrate Bloomington’s decision to no longer support the Conceptual East/West Connector, a bridge over I-494 between France Avenue and Normandale Boulevard

14. Can the Comprehensive Plan be amended? If so, how?

Yes, the Comprehensive Plan may be amended at the direction of the City Council.

An applicant may request and receive a land use change by recommendation of the Planning Commission, approval of the City Council and review and approval by the Metropolitan Council. Public hearings are held for all amendments to the Comprehensive Plan.

15. When will work begin on the 2028 Comp Plan?: Work is anticipated to begin in 2026 on the 2028 Comp Plan update.

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Drive 25

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1. How were the new speed limits chosen?

Multiple factors were taken into consideration for the new speed limits, including;

Traffic volume
Adjacent land use and access
Crash history
Lane configuration
Multi-modal infrastructure
Balancing local and regional traffic

2. Are other cities changing their speed limits?: Yes; Minneapolis and St. Paul lowered their local speed limits in 2020 and St. Louis Park is in the process of changing theirs, as well. Nationally, other cities that have lowered local speed limits include New York City, Seattle, Portland and Boston.

3. Are county roads like France or Vernon Avenues going to change?: Not as part of this initiative. State legislation only gives the City the ability to change speed limits on streets under the City's jurisdiction, which covers about 90% of the streets in Edina. Streets that are not shown on the map include private streets and those operated by Hennepin County of the Minnesota Department of Transportation. The speed limit on those streets will remain as is unless changed by their respective agencies.

4. How is the City funding this initiative?

Funding for the new speed limit signs and communication efforts will come from the Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety (PACS) Fund. This fund, generated via franchise fees on gas and electric bills, primarily pays for improvements to Edina's non-motorized transportation network. This network includes sidewalks, bikeways and pedestrian safety infrastructure.

Full cost for implementation is currently estimated at $10,000.

5. How will the new speed limits be enforced?: The Police Department enforces speed limits through verbal warnings and citations issued at traffic stops. The Traffic Division also uses a movable, radar speed trailer to inform drivers of their speeds relative to the posted limit. Occasionally, targeted enforcement is used at specific locations during specific time frames where residents or staff have identified speed concerns.

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Economic Development for Residents

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1. How do I start a business in Edina?: There are many resources available to help you start a business in Edina. Read suggestions from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development at https://mn.gov/deed/business/starting-business/.

2. Are home-based businesses allowed in Edina?: Yes. While Edina’s neighborhoods are primarily focused on providing great places to live, local laws do allow the operation of many types of businesses from your home. If business operations are contained within the home and not disruptive to neighbors, your home business is probably OK. If your business creates unusual noise, traffic or disruption to your neighbors, your business should be relocated to a commercial or industrial site instead. Learn more additional information about home-based businesses.

3. How many people work in Edina?

For many years, nearly as many people work in Edina as live in Edina (about 52,000). This strong daytime population helps create the high consumer demand that attracts so many restaurants and retailers to Edina.

With the recent changes in hybrid work, current employee counts are not available.

4. How can we attract a new business to Edina?

If you have a suggestion for a new business that you think should be located in Edina, please contact Economic Development Manager Bill Neuendorf at [email protected].

The Economic Development Division is in frequent communication with brokers, leasing agents and business prospects.

5. Who can I contact with a complaint about a local business?

It is best if complaints, concerns or suggestions are brought up directly with the manager or owner of the local business. The City rarely has the authority to modify polices or force a business to change or close.

If you have concerns regarding the safety of the business, please reach out to Edina City Hall. Concerns about swimming pool safety and food safety should be directed to the Edina Public Health Division. Concerns about building or fire safety should be directed to the Edina Building Department. Concerns about crime and security should be directed to the Edina Police Department.

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Edina Liquor

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1. Does Edina Liquor offer delivery?

Yes! Edina Liquor will deliver to homes and businesses in Edina.

Shop online now to place your order.

Delivery information, including delivery hours and rules.

2. What if I have a product request?: Please email product inquiries to Edina Liquor.

3. Does Edina Liquor have a frequent shopper, loyalty or rewards program?

Yes. We value our customers and want to thank them for choosing Edina Liquor. The Edina Liquor Rewards program does just that, without the need for a card, keeping receipts or filling out forms to collect your reward.

Edina Liquor Rewards allows shoppers to earn points for their purchases, then redeem them when they choose. Profits from Edina Liquor still get poured back into the community, supporting facilities including the Edina Art Center, Braemar Arena and Centennial Lakes Park.

“The simplicity of Edina Liquor Rewards is really great. There is no card or anything to carry,” said Mike McBride, Assistant General Manager of Store Operations. “All you need to know is your phone number. We do the rest for you.”

4. How do I enroll in Edina Liquor Rewards?

You can enroll for free for at any one of the three Edina Liquor locations: 3943 W. 50th St.; 5013 Vernon Ave. and 6755 York Ave. All you need to provide is your name and cellphone number. You will receive a text with a link to verify your account. There is no annual fee or charge to be a Rewards member.

If you don’t have a smartphone, staff can enroll you manually.

5. Do I have to carry a card for Edina Liquor Rewards?: No. Edina Liquor Rewards doesn’t use a card, make you do math or require you to show receipts. All you need is your phone number.

6. How do I earn points for Edina Liquor Rewards?

You earn 1 point for each $1 spent (taxes are exempt from point accrual or rewards). You can redeem them at the following levels:

100 Reward points = $5 off total purchase

250 Reward points = $15 off total purchase

400 Reward points = $25 off total purchase

1,000 Reward points = $100 off total purchase

You can redeem as soon as you reach a level or hold onto your points for a bigger Reward level.

Online/delivery purchases and buying gift cards do not accrue points at this time. Purchases paid for with a gift card are eligible for points.

How are points tracked?

Each time you make a purchase in an Edina Liquor store and use your rewards account, points will be automatically calculated and added.

7. How do I redeem Edina Liquor Rewards points?

Edina Liquor team members should ask you at checkout if you’d like to redeem rewards you’ve earned. You can redeem them right away or save your points for a higher reward level.

How can I learn more?

Ask an Edina Liquor team member or visit EdinaLiquor.com.

8. What is the benefit of shopping at municipal liquor stores?: The stores, operated by the City of Edina, put profits back into the City, reducing taxes and helping pay for City services. Truly, buying locally benefits locally.

9. What are your hours and locations?

Our three locations and their hours can be found here.

Please call ahead or check our Facebook page for holiday hours.

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Edinborough Park - Birthday Parties

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1. Is the birthday child counted as one of my ten guests?: Yes. All children between the ages of 1-17 years, including the birthday child and siblings are counted as part of your 10 guests. Adults ages 18 and up are free, but are included in the 20 person limit at the tables.

2. If I have more than ten children attending my party, what is the fee for additional wristbands?: $10/child ages 1-17. This fee covers the PlayPark admission as well as the services Edinborough Park provides for your party, including staff coordination, set up and maintenance. The party host is responsible for paying any additional guest fees prior to leaving the facility.

3. I would like to have more than 20 people attend my birthday party, what do I do?: Please contact the birthday party coordinator directly. Depending on space availability, the party coordinator can suggest some other options or package upgrades for an additional fee.

4. Can kids come early/stay late for my party? What do I do with all my party supplies?

Yes. Party guests can arrive early to play or stay after the end of your party at no additional fee. Have your guests check in at the Guest Services desk upon arrival-admission is good (within our general operating hours)all day. Please keep all party items in your car before your party and return your party items to your car after your party.

Please note that the tables on the upper level across from the Guest Services desk are not available for birthday party use or storage.

5. If I bring in my own food and it needs to be heated, is there a place I can warm food at Edinborough Park?: No. Edinborough Park is not equipped to heat or cook outside food for birthday parties. Please note electric warming devices (crockpots, microwaves, hotplates, etc.) are also prohibited at your birthday site.

6. Can I have food delivered to Edinborough Park? Is food available for purchase at the park?

Yes . The majority of the local restaurants are familiar with Edinborough Park and our birthday party sites. Just give your name and address of Edinborough Park(7700 York Ave. S., Edina) and the restaurant will deliver your food directly to the park lobby. Once they arrive we will direct them to your site or you may come up to the lobby to meet them.

No. Our concessions stand is currently closed.

7. Can I decorate my birthday party site?: Yes. Table top decorations are OK. Leave the balloons at home though as they are not permitted in Edinborough Park. Confetti, streamers, piñatas, banners and hanging signs are also not permitted.

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Edinborough Park - PlayPark

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1. Is there a fee to use the PlayPark?: Yes. General admission for ages 1 year-17 years is $9.00/child(tax included). Parents/Guardians may play for free. Frequent PlayPark users should consider purchasing a 10 admission pass for $80.00 or an annual membership (price varies depending on residency and number of children) - both may be purchased online or at the Edinborough Park Guest Services desk.

2. What are the PlayPark hours?: Aside from a few holiday closures, Edinborough Park, the Summit and Adventure Peak are open every day of the week: Currently the hours are Monday-Thursday from 9:00 am - 8:00 pm, Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 am-7:00 pm and Sundays from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Reservations are not required.

3. What ages are allowed to play in the PlayPark?

Edinborough's Adventure Peak is designed for children up to age 12. The Summit play area has small sized basketball hoops, a bouncy house and various trikes and toys suitable for children up to age 12. Little Peak is for ages 4 and under with their parent/guardian only. Ages 1-17 are charged admission, but parents/guardians ages 18 and up may play for free. Edinborough does not charge admission for infants under age 1.

The park was designed and built with wider tunnels so that parents could actively play with their children.

4. Do you have an area for toddlers and younger children?: "Little Peak" is a padded play, gated area located in the Adventure Peak space and is for ages 4 and under and their parents/guardians. It includes a small slide and climbing area, as well as interactive musical elements. Please note this is a "Socks Only" zone (no bare feet or shoes).

5. When you say "PlayPark", what does that include?: The PlayPark includes Adventure Peak, our large climbing structure, Little Peak, our toddler padded play area, and The Summit, a multipurpose space with a bouncy house, balls, scooters, and small basketball hoops. Admission to the PlayPark includes both areas. Please bring your socks, as Adventure Peak, Little Peak, and both bouncy houses are "Socks Only" zones.

6. Can I bring my own play equipment in?: No. For the safety of all guests, balls, toys and other play equipment should be kept at home.

7. Why are socks required in Adventure Peak and Little Peak?: To keep our PlayPark areas clean and out of consideration for all of our guests, socks are required. Socks are sold at the Guest Services desk if you forget to bring yours.

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Elections & Voting - Citizen Judges

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1. What are election judges?: Election judges are responsible for the administration of election procedures in each poling place on Election Day. Election judges help guarantee that the rights of voters are protected on Election Day. Become a member of this proud team working to guarantee the election process is fair and in accordance with our laws. Election judges are vital to efficient and honest elections.

2. What are some of the duties of election judges?: Duties are:
- Set up for 7 a.m. opening of the polls
- Aid voters signing into the precinct
- Distribute ballots to voters
- Monitor precinct ballot counter
- Register new voters
- Help voters who require assistance
- Process absentee ballots
- Record and certify vote totals

3. Who is eligible to be an election judge?

An election judge must be:

1. Eligible to vote in the State of Minnesota;

2. Able to read, write and speak English;

3. Appointed by the City Council and;

4. Trained and currently certified as an election judge. Party balance must be maintained within each polling place. Minnesota election law requires that not more than one half of the judges in a polling place belong to the same major political party.

4. What are student election judges?

Sixteen- and 17-year-old students can work as election judge trainees. It's a great way to learn about elections and voting and earn cash at the same time! You will be assigned the same duties as other judges, with the exception of tasks requiring party affiliation. You will need to attend and complete the same training as other judges. You cannot be asked to work past 10 p.m.

Edina has for several years used students as election judges in their polling places. Student judges must be U.S. citizens; at least 16 years of age; serve in the county in which they reside; be enrolled in a Minnesota high school or be home schooled; be in good academic standing; and have written permission from their school and parents.

5. Are election judges paid?: Yes, election judges are paid an hourly wage. State law allows time off from work without loss of wages to serve as an election judge with 20 days prior notice to the employer. The City Clerk can provide an employer's notification letter to persons to use with their employer. Judges work at either or both the Primary election and General election.

6. How are judges selected?: Appointments are made by the City Clerk, depending on the needs for each election, and approved by the City Council. Each precinct has a voting place staffed by a board of up to 12 election judges.

7. How are election judges trained?

Judges are required to attend a state mandated, two-hour training class. Judges are paid to attend the class. Several classes are conducted by City election staff at City Hall during the day and in the evening.

City Hall is located at:

4801 W 50th Street

Edina, MN 55424

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Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)

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1. Why is EAB harmful to Ash trees?

While the adult EAB beetle only nibbles on ash foliage, causing little damage, the problem lies with the larvae. Female borers lay their eggs underneath an ash tree’s outer bark. As the larvae grow and mature, they tunnel and feed on the tree’s inner bark, destroying its xylem and phloem tissue. This disrupts the tree’s ability to transport water, mineral nutrients and photosynthetic sugars to all parts of the tree, eventually killing it.

Multiple species of borers exist in addition to EAB. Borers, in general, will primarily attack only unhealthy or stressed host plants. In its native range, EAB works in a similar manner. However, since our native ash trees do not have any inherent defenses against EAB, all species of ash trees in Minnesota, whether healthy or not, are susceptible to destructive attacks.

2. How many trees has EAB killed?: EAB has killed millions of ash trees in an already affected area of 11 mid-eastern states and portions of lower Canada.

3. How will EAB affect Minnesota, and specifically, Edina?

Minnesota has the third largest population of Ash trees in the country. In urban areas, the Ash tree became the predominant “replacement” tree when trees were lost to Dutch elm disease. The Ash tree is also vital to many natural areas throughout the state.

In Edina, the Ash population is estimated at 50,000. The most valuable Ash trees (based on size, health, location and landscape importance) are primarily situated on residential lots, some parkland and a few boulevard areas throughout the City. An outbreak could greatly affect the City’s tree population.

4. Should I chemically treat my Ash trees?

Chemical treatments are available to help protect healthy Ash trees or those minimally affected. If you choose to use chemical protection, keep in mind that application must take place every two to three years, depending on the chemical and application method used, and can be somewhat expensive.

The decision to commit to long-term use of chemical protection is a private one, but some factors to consider are the relative importance and health of the tree or trees in your landscape and the affordability of a long-term commitment. As with all trees, Ash trees have multiple potential blights or diseases that will not be helped by EAB protection.

The City Forester recommends people with Ash trees contact a private arborist or tree care company to evaluate their options. He discourages the use of store-bought treatments that you spread on the ground to protect trees from Emerald Ash Borer. These may contaminate the surrounding soil and spread into groundwater or run off into nearby streams or drainages. They also can harm pollinators. Arborists inject trees directly, a method that is believed to have fewer concerns for water quality and is less likely to spread chemicals to water bodies, animals, insects or surrounding plants.

5. Is chemical treatment effective?: While research has shown rates of effectiveness to vary from chemical to chemical, no chemical protection method can be 100 percent effective.

6. What are my other management options?

Another management option - also widely suggested for Dutch elm disease - is to consider planting another tree or trees on your landscape to have a replacement in the event you lose an important Ash tree. This option can be considered whether or not you also choose to chemically treat an Ash.

Residents are strongly encouraged to learn more about the disease in order to respond in a well-informed manner based on the latest factual research.

7. What tree company or arborist do you recommend?

It would be inappropriate for the City to promote a particular tree company or arborist.

However, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture has a checklist for hiring a tree care company and a license information search (select Tree Care Registry as the license type) to assist in finding one.

8. Is a firewood quarantine in place?

Ramsey and Hennepin counties are currently under Department of Agriculture quarantines in regard to the movement of ash wood. EAB has a wider spread when infested wood is moved. If purchasing firewood, be certain it is not infested with EAB.

Do not transport firewood to or from another county.

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Engineering - Flooding and Drainage

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1. What is a 100-year flood?: A 100-year flood is the flood event that has a 1% probability of happening in any given year. However, this does not mean that it will only happen once every 100 years. This area has had multiple 100-year rainfall events in the last 30 years.

2. Am I eligible to purchase flood insurance?

Yes. The City of Edina participates in the National Flood Insurance Program which means anyone residing in Edina is eligible to purchase a National Flood Insurance Program flood insurance policy.

The agent who helps you with your homeowners or renters insurance may also be able to help you with purchasing flood insurance. Or see FEMA's Find a Flood Insurance Provider to locate one.

If your insurance agent does not sell flood insurance, you can contact the National Flood Insurance Program Help Center at 800-427-4661.

3. Who needs flood insurance?

MYTH: Only residents of high-risk flood zones need to insure their property.

FACT: Even if you live in an area that is not flood-prone, it is advisable to have flood insurance. Anyone can be financially vulnerable to floods. People outside of high-risk areas file more than 25 percent of National Flood Insurance Program claims. The National Flood Insurance Program’s preferred-risk policies are designed for residential properties located in low- to moderate-risk flood zones.

More Myths and Facts about Flood Insurance in this fact sheet.

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Engineering - Lakes & Ponds

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1. The surface of my lake or pond appears green. What is it?: It could be algae, or more likely, it's duckweed. Check out this duckweed fact sheet to find out.

2. Are motor boats allowed on lakes, ponds, and streams?: City code Chapter 24, Article 7, Division 2, Section 24-257 states, "...no person shall, on any lake, pond or stream within the city use any mechanically propelled boat or other watercraft, unless being used for emergency rescue or the maintenance of the lake, pond or stream."

3. Does my dock need a permit?

The City does not issue permits for docks.

The DNR does not require a permit to install, construct, or reconstruct a dock on shoreline property you own if you comply with this DNR guidance.

4. Can swimming pool water be pumped into the street and/or the storm sewer?: Dechlorinated swimming pool water discharge is allowed in the street and storm sewer. Salt water pools must be discharged to the sanitary sewer system and discharge is not allowed in the street or storm sewer system. City Code Chapter 23, Article II, Division 4, Sec. 23-95.

5. What is done to control mosquitoes?: The Metropolitan Mosquito Control District performs mosquito control for the metro area. Find more information at www.mmcd.org.

6. I have new sod or recently seeded my lawn. Can I water it daily?

The City has watering restrictions in place to promote water conservation.

Permits are available at no-cost to allow proper watering of new sod or seeded areas. Daily watering of new sod and seed is recommended for the first 14 days to establish root growth. After two weeks, normal watering should be sufficient for establishing a new lawn. The planting of new sod or seed during very dry times of the year is discouraged. Contact the Public Works Department to inquire about a permit 952-826-0300.

7. Do residential lakeshore property owners pay higher taxes than non-lakeshore property owners?: Assessors study and analyze the real estate market when estimating market value. If the real estate market indicates that buyers pay a premium for lakeshore property, this would be reflected in the assessor's market value. Contact the Assessing Department for more information.

8. Who owns the lake bed?

Check out this link to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Water Law Basics and ’Pardon Me Myth! - Who Owns the Lake Bed?’

Minnesota has riparian water rights. People can be anywhere on the water as long as they gained access to the water legally. Even if the land under the water is privately owned, the water above it is available to anyone owning shoreland. Where the public is a riparian landowner, such as a public road or at a public access, the public has riparian rights.

9. Who manages the flow of Minnehaha Creek?: Minnehaha Creek Watershed District operates the Gray's Bay Dam to manage the flow of Minnehaha Creek. Review their plan as well as historical and real-time data at minnehahacreek.org.

10. Do I need a permit to install a fountain?: A permit from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is required to operate an aeration system on public waters in Minnesota. Learn more and apply for a permit.

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Finance

Show All Answers

1. Can I pay my utility bill online?

Payments can be made online, by phone or by text with a credit or debit card or bank account. Bills can be viewed and paid at any time and residents have the option to pay more than one invoice at a time.

Additionally, customers will be able to securely store payment information for future use and still be able to enjoy the convenience of scheduling automatic payments. Existing users of the City’s current online utility billing portal are required to re-enroll to select notification and automatic billing preferences, and access the full functionality of the site.

New features include:

Email notifications when your bill is ready, just before the due date and when a scheduled payment is pending.
Option to pay by phone at any time. The phone number to make payments is 844-476-3107.
Ability to register online to receive notifications by text message and/or pay by text.
Option to make a one-time payment or create an account to gain access to all features.
Ability to schedule payments or enroll in AutoPay.

For more information, call Utility Billing at 952-826-0373.

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Fire

Show All Answers

1. How do I pay my ambulance bill?: Your ambulance bill can be paid by visiting the LifeQuest website.

2. Where can I find information on the new Fire Station 2 project?: All information on the new Fire Station 2 project can be found at BetterTogetherEdina.org/Fire-Station-2.

3. Where do I obtain a Recreational Fire Permit?: Complete a free recreational fire permit form.

4. How can I get a copy of my ambulance run report?: All ambulance run reports medical records must be requested through our provider at [email protected] or fax to 855-738-1998

5. How do I dispose of unwanted medication or needles?

Edina Fire Department does not accept unwanted medications, prescription or nonprescription drugs, syringes, lancets or EpiPens.

Medications: Visit this Hennepin County page for guidelines and a list or map of places that accept medications (please note most do not take any needles).

Syringes, lancets and other needles: Hennepin County offers these guidelines and tips along with options for disposal. Residents also visit the Problem Waste Drop-off Center at 1400 W. 96th St. in Bloomington.

6. Can I have a grill on the deck or patio of my apartment or condo?: Probably not. The City’s policy, found here (PDF), outlines what is and isn’t allowed. In addition, your landlord may have rules restricting grills.

7. Does the Fire Department do blood pressure checks?

Please note no blood pressure checks are being offered right now due to COVID-19.

When then resume, Edina Fire Department will offer free blood pressure checks at Fire Station 1

6250 Tracy Ave. South from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day.
No appointment necessary
Available as long as Firefighters are not on 911 calls

8. How can I post emergency information (Life File) in my home for paramedics to find?

Paramedics and other Edina emergency responders will look for what’s called a Life File form if they respond to your home. This form, which you fill out, lets them know vital information like medications you take, hospital preference, insurance information and emergency contacts. This form is especially helpful if you or another family member is unconscious or unable to respond clearly.

The below links will help you find and fill out this form. You can put the completed form in an envelope clearly marked "Life File" on your refrigerator. If you do not want it posted there, paramedics also will look for it by your medicine cabinet or on the back of your front door. Just make sure it is in plain sight in one of these locations.

9. Where can I get my Fire extinguishers serviced?: Fire extinguishers should be maintained annually by a fire extinguisher professional. The Edina Fire Department maintains a list of Licensed Fire Extinguisher Service Companies (PDF) to assist you in finding a professional licensed in Edina.

10. Does the Fire Department check car seats?

The City of Edina does not offer car seat checks. However, plenty of assistance is available.

How to Choose and Install

Find a Seat Inspection Clinic

Laws and FAQs

Child Passenger Safety

For Older Adults

Visit CarFit for a program that offers older adults the opportunity to check how well their vehicles "fit" them.

11. Can I tour the fire station?

Currently all tours are canceled due to COVID-19.

When they resume, Edina residents are welcome to tour Fire Station #1. Typically, individuals can stop by at their convenience. Edina groups should call 952-826-0339

12. How do I reserve a public education event?: Edina groups should call 952-826-0339 to schedule a speaker for an event.

13. Can I have a birthday party at the fire station?: No. The Department does not allow the use of the fire station for birthday parties.

14. How do I schedule a fire truck to visit my block party?: Call 952-826-0339 to schedule a fire truck visit.

15. Can I have a recreational fire?: Yes. Fill out your free online permit and access rules and regulations of recreational fires.

16. Where can I dispose of an expired fire extinguisher?

An expired or expelled fire extinguisher can be brought to one of the Hennepin County waste disposal sights for recycling.

https://www.hennepin.us/residents/recycling-hazardous-waste/drop-off-facilities

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Fire Station Study

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1. What is the Edina Fire Department’s goal for responding to fire and Advanced Life Support calls?: The Edina Fire Department has a goal in the Comprehensive Plan of placing an ambulance on the scene of Advanced Life Support calls within six minutes of dispatch.

2. What were the major findings of the Edina Fire Department’s 2019 Response Time and Station Location Study?

With the continued increase in requests for service, maintaining response times would be difficult for the Edina Fire Department without the construction and staffing of a relocated Fire Station 2 and a new Fire Station 3.

In the near future, Station 2 should be staffed with two 24-hour Advanced Life Support ambulances in the southeast quadrant of the city. Additionally, the staffing of an engine or aerial crew should be a strong consideration.

3. Why would Fire Station 2 need to be expanded or rebuilt?: Fire Station 2 on York Avenue is in fair condition, but the facility and site will not support the additional development necessary to add a second Advanced Life Support crew and, eventually, an engine company. Moving the station to provide a more balanced coverage area, when compared to the current location, will better serve the growing areas of the community and provide a better response time to a greater area of the city.

4. Why would the City need a third fire station in the future?: Growth in the northeast quadrant of the city is expected. It is anticipated that in five to 10 years, there will be a need for a station in the general location of Edina City Hall to support the need for Advanced Life Support response and fire response.

5. How quickly would a new fire station or fire stations be built?: The study suggests that a new Fire Station 2 is needed in less than five years and a Fire Station 3 is needed in the next five to 10 years.

6. Where exactly would the fire stations be built?: The study recommends two to four acres of land for each, but the stations could be built on smaller parcels like Fire Station 1. The City is currently working to secure a site for a new Fire Station 2.

7. When will the City further consider these suggestions?: Staff will propose Fire Station 2 be included in the City’s next Capital Improvement Plan.

8. How would the City pay for the new fire stations?: The City would likely sell General Obligation Bonds to pay for the construction of the new facilities.

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General

Show All Answers

1. Where is the Social Security Building?

The Social Security Administration has a local office at 6161 American Boulevard W., Suite 100, Bloomington, MN 55438. It's phone number is 1-800-772-1213. Its hours are 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, and 9 a.m.-noon Wednesday.

If you need a Social Security Card, your personal information needs to be updated or your employer asked you to visit a Social Security office, visit the Card Center, 1811 Chicago Ave., Suite 2, Minneapolis MN, 55404. Its hours are 9 a.m.3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

2. Where do I go to renew my driver's license and get tabs for my car?

In Edina, you may renew your driver’s license or get tabs for your vehicle at the Hennepin County Service Center.

Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. The phone number is 612-348-8240.

Southdale Mall Address: 1225 Southdale Center, Edina, MN 55435
Phone: (612) 348-8240

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Groundwater Plume

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1. Is Edina’s drinking water safe?: YES! Edina’s drinking water is safe and meets or exceeds all federal and state standards. Part of the reason for that is Edina treats its water supply to remove contamination. Treatment can be costly but is vital to ensure the safety and quality of drinking water.

2. Who sets the standard for Edina’s drinking water?: Drinking water standards are set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and regulated through the Safe Drinking Water Act. Here, standards are enforced by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

The City of Edina works with the MDH to test drinking water for more than 100 contaminants. It is not unusual to detect contaminants in small amounts. No water supply is ever completely free of contaminants. Drinking water standards protect people from substances that may be harmful to their health.

3. How often is Edina’s water tested?: The Minnesota Department of Health tests for volatile organic compounds at Water Treatment Plant 6 and Wells 2, 4, 7, 13 and 15 wells quarterly. Testing for other things such as fluoride and chlorine is done by the Public Works staff daily.

4. What’s the history of groundwater contamination in Edina?

In the early 2000s, Well 7, a well in Sherwood Park drawing from the Prairie du Chien/Jordan Aquifer, tested above the Maximum Contaminant Level set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for vinyl chloride, a colorless organic gas with a sweet odor. At that time, Well No. 7 was a seasonal well and was operated only in the summer.

Well 7 was shut down in early October 2003 and was not turned on again until after a high-capacity treatment plant was built at the Danen’s Building at 5120 Brookside Ave. in 2012. The plant is equipped with an aeration system specially designed to filter out volatile organic compounds. The treatment plant is Water Treatment Facility No. 6. It treats four of the City’s 18 wells, including Well 7.

5. What is vinyl chloride?

Vinyl chloride is an organic colorless gas at normal temperatures and is a liquid at temperatures at or below 56 degrees Fahrenheit. It can be smelled at concentrations of 3,000 parts per million (ppm) in air and tasted at approximately 3.4 ppm in water. Vinyl chloride is a man-made substance, or the result of a breakdown of a man-made substance.

Vinyl chloride is used in the manufacture of numerous products in building and construction, automotive industry, electrical wire insulation and cables, piping, industrial and household equipment and medical supplies and is depended upon heavily by the rubber, paper and glass industries.

6. Where does vinyl chloride come from?: The typical source of vinyl chloride, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is discharge from plastics factories. Vinyl chloride can also be a byproduct of degradation of other complex chlorinated compounds such as cleaning agents and solvents.

7. What are the health risks of exposure to vinyl chloride?

The effects of drinking high levels of vinyl chloride are unknown. Potential health risks are damage to the nervous system and liver.

No symptoms of sickness or disease have been reported to the City since the problem was discovered.

8. How much did it cost to build Water Treatment Plant 6?

Total cost of the Water Treatment Facility was more than $8 million. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency paid for the design of the plant, which totaled more than $250,000.

The approximate cost to operate Water Treatment Facility No. 6 is about $440,000 annually.

9. Is water from private wells safe?: Water from private wells should be tested by their owners. Private wells used for irrigation are much shallower than the Jordan aquifer where the contamination exists.

10. What is the source of contamination?

The source of the contamination has not yet been determined.

Typically, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) staff try to find the sources of contaminants. MPCA staff collected and analyzed samples from monitoring wells, industrial wells, irrigation wells and other municipal wells located in the western Twin Cities metro area. The results showed a “volatile organic compound trail” that allowed the MPCA to trace the contamination back 2.3 miles, to a contamination site in St. Louis Park.

The MPCA has narrowed the list of contaminators to five properties. However, MPCA has exhausted funding in identifying the exact source of contamination.

11. Where is the plume?: The site is generally bounded by West 33^rd Street to the north, South France Avenue to the east, West 58^th street to the south and Blake Road to the west. Multiple land uses are present in the area, including residential, recreational, commercial, industrial and vacant properties. There is not a hard boundary; the plume shifts slightly in the Prairie du Chien/Jordan Aquifer.

12. Is the contamination just vinyl chloride?: No. The deep groundwater plume, dubbed the Highway 100 and County Road 3 Groundwater Plume Site, contamination consists of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including tetrachloroethylene (PCE), trichloroethylene (TCE), cis dichloroethylene (DCE) and vinyl chloride (VC), collectively known as chlorinated VOCs. PCE is an industrial solvent used to degrease metals. Under the right conditions, PCE can break down in the environment to form TCE, DCE and VC.

13. What is TCE?: According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE) and trichloroethane (TCA) are the most frequently detected volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) in ground water in the United States. Due to its unique properties and solvent effects, TCE has been widely used as an ingredient in industrial cleaning solutions and as a “universal” degreasing agent.

14. What are the health concerns of TCE in drinking water?: In 2013, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) conducted a toxicological review of TCE in drinking water. MDH concluded that the main health concerns from exposure to TCE at the lowest exposures are immune system effects such as immunosuppression or autoimmune disease, including hypersensitivity; an increased chance of cancer from long-term exposure; and heart defects in the developing fetus if the pregnant mother is exposed in the first trimester. Other health effects related to TCE are observed only at higher exposures.

15. What amount of TCE in drinking water is safe?

In 2013, MDH developed a Health-Based Value, or guideline, of 0.4 micrograms of TCE per liter. This level of TCE is safe for all people exposed to TCE in drinking water at any time during their life, including pregnant women and their fetuses, infants, children and other sensitive people, including those with impaired immunity.

A level of 2 micrograms per liter of TCE in drinking water protects all people who are exposed for an entire lifetime from cancer. The increased risk for cancer is estimated to be 1 additional cancer case in 100,000 people, which is considered a negligible cancer risk. The level is also safe for healthy adults who are only exposed to TCE after age 18, and protects pregnant women and their developing fetuses from heart defects.

16. How big is the plume of contamination?: The plume is 324 to 545 feet below ground. About 1,940 properties in Edina are above the Highway 100 and County Road 3 Groundwater Plume. They have an estimated market value of $1.454 billion.

17. How was the size of the deep plume determined?

Existing wells that are open to the deep aquifer and used to define the plume include:

monitoring wells installed as part of an investigation at Reilly Tar & Chemical Corp., a different contaminated site in St. Louis Park
industrial production wells
golf course irrigation wells
municipal wells

With sample data from these wells, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency was able to determine the extent and magnitude of the plume in this drinking water aquifer. The plume is defined by wells where chlorinated volatile organic compound contamination was detected above the Minnesota Department of Health’s drinking water standards.

18. What’s the difference between the deep groundwater plume and the shallow groundwater plume?

The area in St. Louis Park closest to the suspected source of contamination has contamination above the bedrock, too. This perchloroethylene/trichloroethylene (PCE/TCE) soil vapor plume resulted in soil and vapor issues in certain properties. Those issues were mitigated by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) in 2008. In 2015, the MPCA verified the soil vapor intrusion mitigation systems installed in those residential properties were still operating. No vapor intrusion problems were identified.

The shallow plume is only in St. Louis Park and is not migrating.

19. Is there any chance this contamination could extend into another of Edina’s wells?: The spread is unlikely. The strategy of pumping the northernmost wells (Wells 2, 7 and 15) is to create a hydraulic barrier to halt the spread of the plume has proven to be effective. No wells to the south have had any contamination. Based on the sampling data, both the shallow and deep groundwater plumes are not spreading.

20. Will my property be tested?: Local drinking water is certified safe. There are no soil or vapor issues in Edina. Local soil tests are not warranted.

21. Is it safe to garden or harvest my fruits and vegetables?: Water coming out of Water Treatment Plant No. 6 is safe. Yards and gardens irrigated from private wells are safe, too, as the irrigation process aerates the water. Also, water evaporates.

22. What’s next in dealing with the solvent plume?

The cities of Edina and St. Louis Park continue to treat drinking water to ensure it is safe.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has applied to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the solvent plume site to be placed on the National Priorities List (NPL). Minnesota has requested and is pursuing the NPL listing with the EPA for a number of reasons. This groundwater contamination plume is at least 324 feet deep and covers areas within both St. Louis Park and Edina. The State has dedicated a large amount of funding and staffing to define the area to date; however, there is still much work to be done to investigate and eventually clean up the area of contamination.

The amount of funding required to identify the source area, pursue potentially responsible parties and implement a cleanup plan far surpasses the amount of funding the State’s Superfund program receives each year. Funding support from the federal government will assist with additional investigation activities and bring in additional technical expertise and specialized legal counsel to effectively address the complexities of the site. If a potentially responsible party or parties can be identified, cost recovery efforts can be pursued.

23. Are there other National Priorities List sites in Minnesota or across the nation that have groundwater plumes as the basis for listing?

Yes. Many of the more than 1,300 sites that have been listed on the National Priorities List include a groundwater contamination plume. Two examples in Minnesota are the New Brighton/Arden Hills Superfund Site (also known as the Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant or TCAAP Site) and the Baytown Groundwater Contamination site.

The TCAAP Site plume extends under several cities, including New Brighton, Arden Hills, Columbia Heights, St. Anthony and Minneapolis.

The Baytown Groundwater Contamination plume is approximately five miles long, covers about seven square miles, and extends from the eastern portion of the City of Lake Elmo through Baytown Township, West Lakeland Township and the City of Bayport to the St. Croix River.

24. What effect does the Highway 100 and County Road 3 Groundwater Plume Site have on property values?

The National Priorities List (NPL) listing is for the deep groundwater plume. The deep groundwater plume is at a depth of 324-545 feet. Due to its depth, the deep contamination does not affect individual properties.

The major concern of the deep groundwater plume is its impact to the cities’ municipal wells. To mitigate this impact, both the cities of St. Louis Park and Edina have installed treatment systems to ensure their drinking water meets the requirements of the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and the State’s drinking water guidance values. Once the site is placed on the NPL, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will continue working to identify sources of the deep groundwater contamination plume.

If you have additional questions regarding property value, the EPA suggests that concerned property owners consult a professional property appraiser who can give a more accurate response to property value questions and concerns.

25. What is the difference between the Reilly Tar & Chemical site and the Highway 100 and County Road 3 Groundwater Plume Site?

These are two different chemical releases that were caused by different sources.

The Reilly Tar & Chemical Corp. contamination is mainly creosote, which contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that were at one time used in wood-treating operations. The Reilly site has previously been listed on the federal National Priorities List, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency have been overseeing cleanup there since the late 1970s.

Contamination at the Reilly site is the result of:

wastes discharged directly to a ditch that flowed into a wetland on the southern side of the property
contaminated soil from leaky pipes and various processes that spilled during operations
creosote and waste materials that likely seeped down several wells historically located on the property

For more information, visit the EPA’s Reilly Tar webpage.

26. Are you really sure my drinking water is safe?

YES! Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets standards for drinking water quality and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) enforces these drinking water standards for public water supplies. The treatment systems for both cities are designed to treat for VOC contamination associated with the Highway 100 and County Road 3 Groundwater Plume Site.

In addition to the federal SDWA, MDH has Health Risk Limits (HRLs) and Health Based Values (HBVs) that are used as guidance values for public drinking water supplies. HRLs and HBVs may be more stringent than federal SDWA levels.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has worked with both cities to design treatment plants to clean the drinking water to meet these more stringent values.

27. What’s next?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in September 2020added the Highway 100 and County Road 3 Groundwater Plume to the Superfund National Priorities List. The listing ensures the cities of Edina and St. Louis Park have a permanent solution to groundwater contamination.

The amount of funding required to help identify the source area, pursue potentially responsible parties and implement a cleanup plan far surpasses the amount of funding the State’s Superfund program receives each year. Funding support from the federal government will assist with additional investigation activities and bring in additional technical expertise and specialized legal counsel to effectively address the complexities of the site. If a potentially responsible party or parties can be identified, cost recovery efforts can be pursued.

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Health

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1. Do body art, tattoo or massage operators or businesses need a license?

Yes. The City of Edina requires body art and massage facilities to obtain a business license to operate in the City. Inspections are conducted to insure sanitation and safety requirements are met.

For information about obtaining or renewing a body art or massage operator’s license, contact the Deputy City Clerk at 952-826-0409.

If you have a health concern regarding one of these operations in Edina, please call the Health Department at 952-826-0370.

2. I think I got food poisoning from an Edina restaurant. Who do I contact?

Report suspected foodborne illness online or call the City of Edina Health Division at 952-826-0370 or the Minnesota Department of Health Foodborne Illness Hotline at 877-366-3455.

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Heritage Landmarks

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1. What is the process for becoming an Edina Heritage Landmark?: At the direction of the eligible property owner, Edina’s Heritage Preservation Commission can ask the Planning Department staff to prepare a nomination report. City Council then holds public hearings and can register new Edina Heritage Landmarks, which are protected from future destruction through an associated Plan of Treatment.

2. How does Edina Heritage Landmark designation affect the property owner?: If the owner wants to make significant exterior changes, they must get approval from the Heritage Preservation Commission, following the Plan of Treatment developed for that property. Each of these plans follows the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for historic preservation, with demolition prohibited except when safety is impacted. The HPC approval process ensures that proposed exterior alterations are compatible with the historic nature of the property.

3. If an eligible property owner pursues Heritage Landmark designation, do they have to fix it up?: No. They may maintain the current look of their building, meeting the same local housing and building codes that pertain to all buildings in Edina. Owners of commercial properties may be eligible to access a 20% federal tax credit if they become listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which the State Historic Preservation Office can help them pursue.

4. What happens to the value of a property that becomes an Edina Heritage Landmark?

National studies have shown that property values within historic districts tend to rise, as buyers value not only the district’s historic elements, but also protection from teardowns. Edina’s Country Club District is a prime example of this effect.

For individual properties, owners considering pursuit of Heritage Landmark designation must consider both losing their ability to sell their home to a developer for tear-down, as well as gaining the cache of being selected as a unique property that merits preservation for posterity.

5. How can I learn more about having my property become eligible or nominated for designation?: Contact Emily Bodeker, Assistant City Planner, at [email protected] or 952-826-0462. You can also join monthly meetings of the Heritage Preservation Commission or contact any of the commissioners to learn more.

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Human Resources

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1. What benefits am I eligible for?: Regular full‐time, extended part-time, and regular part‐time employees are eligible for the City’s benefit program. Flexible Part‐time/ temporary/seasonal (PTS) employees do not qualify unless specifically noted.

2. When will my benefits begin (as a new employee)?: New employees must elect their benefits within 30 days of hire, and most benefits are effective on the first of the month on or after the date of hire, unless noted otherwise.

3. What jobs are available?: All of our job openings are posted online on the
Current Job Openings page.

4. What paperwork is needed to get on the payroll system?: If you are offered a position, the Human Resources department will email you regarding completing new hire paperwork. For most positions, this will be completed online through our onboarding system (NeoGov).

5. When and how do I get paid?: At the City of Edina, all employees are paid every other Friday through Direct Deposit.

6. How can I apply?: The City uses the secure GovernmentJobs.com (NeoGov) to process its employment applications. All applications must be submitted online. To apply:
- Choose the job title you are interested in and then select the "Apply" link.
- Use either a current NeoGov account or create a new account.
- If you need assistance filling out an application, please view the Online Employment Application Guide.
- Applications must be completely submitted by the closing date and time indicated on the announcement. Application materials received after the deadline or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Online Employment Application Guide (PDF)

7. Can I apply directly with the hiring department?: No, all applications should be submitted online.

8. I don't have a NeoGov account. How do I create one?: If you need assistance creating an account or filling out an application, please view the Online Employment Application Guide (PDF)

9. Do I need to submit an application for each job I'm interested in?: Yes, you will need to complete a separate application for each position you want to apply for.

10. Is the information on my application secure?: Online applications are stored on a secure site. Only authorized employees and hiring authorities have access to the information submitted. Certain information on the application may be defined by state law as public information. For important information concerning your application, read the Data Practices Advisory (PDF).

11. How will I know the City received my application?: Login to your Government Jobs account, select your name in the top right corner and view Applications and Status. It will say the status for each application you’ve completed.

12. How and when will I be notified if I was selected for an interview?: All applications are reviewed after the position closes. For most positions, you will be notified via phone or email approximately 1 to 2 weeks after the position close date.

13. How and when will I be notified if I was selected for the position?: The length of time varies, depending on position. For most positions, you will be notified via phone or email shortly after the final interview.

14. How long does the hiring process take?: The length of time varies, depending on position. A typical hiring process consists of the following steps:
1. Online Application
2. Application Review
3. Phone Screen (in some cases)
4. First Interview
5. Second Interview (in some cases)
6. Background and Reference Check
7. Contingent Offer
8. Physical, Drug Test, Psychological Exam (in some cases)
9. Start Date

15. What does Veteran's Preference mean?: The City of Edina awards preference to qualified veterans and spouses of deceased or disabled veterans for all non-temporary positions, subject to Minnesota Statute 197.455. For purposes of offering a preference, a veteran is defined under the Veterans Preference Act as a citizen of the United States or a resident alien separated from active duty under honorable conditions from any branch of the U.S. armed forces:
- After having served on active duty for 181 consecutive days
- By reason of disability incurred while serving on active duty (not active duty for training)
- Who has met the minimum active duty required as defined by CFR, Title 38, Section 3.12a (to qualify, the individual must have completed the full period for which a person was federally called to active duty.)
- Who has active military service certified under federal law (world war service by particular groups, such as: women air force service pilots, merchant marine, etc.).

To claim Veteran’s Preference, complete the Veteran’s Preference section in the application and include supporting documentation.

16. I'm interested in a position but I don't see a current posting that matches my interest. What do I do?: To get future notifications of job openings, complete a
Job Interest Card.

17. How long do you keep applications on file?: Applications are kept on file for one year.

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Life File

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1. What information should I supply?

You decide how much information to supply on the Life File. Supply as much as you are comfortable sharing, and leave blank any information you don’t want to share.
Review your Life File form (PDF) at least once a year to make necessary changes.
Update your Life File whenever information changes such as medications, phone numbers, surgeries, diagnosed conditions, insurance, etc.

2. How do I complete a "Life File" form?

Print a copy of the Life File form (PDF).
- Limited printed copies will be available for those without computers at the Edina Senior Center located at 5280 Grandview Square.
Use a pencil to complete the form so it is easy to update.
Suggested information to include:
- Allergy information
- Diseases/conditions information
- Emergency contact information
- Medical insurance information
- Medication information
- Other pertinent information
- Personal information

3. Where do I put my "Life File" form once it's completed?

Place the completed Life File form (PDF) in an envelope clearly marked “Life File.”
Use a magnet or tape to attach the envelope to the front of your refrigerator.
Paramedics are trained to look for the Life File on your refrigerator during an emergency.

4. Why is "Life File" a good idea?

It saves valuable time during an emergency.
It provides important medical information to paramedics even if you are unable to answer questions.

5. Who should have a "Life File"?

Everyone, regardless of age, should have a Life File – no one knows when the information might be needed.
Complete one form for each person in your household.
Even if you have no allergies, no diseases or use no medications – it is important for the emergency room doctor to know that!

6. Is "Life File" replacing the "Vial of Life"?

Yes! The Life File system is replacing the "Vial of Life." If you currently have a Vial of Life in your refrigerator, please replace it with the Life File.
Paramedics will be looking on the outside of your refrigerator for the Life File envelope and will no longer look in your refrigerator for the Vial of Life.

For more information, contact the Edina Fire Department at 952-826-0326.

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Organics Recycling

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1. My organics cart was not picked up on my scheduled day. What should I do?: Vierkant will be picking up and emptying carts until the evening hours on their daily routes, especially when construction impedes their daily progress. Please wait to bring your carts inside if they have not been emptied yet as they may still be working to get to your neighborhood. If your cart does get accidently missed for pick up, please call Vierkant as soon as possible to request it be emptied. Their main office number is 612-922-2505.

2. What day is my organics recycling picked up/How frequently is the cart emptied?

Organics recycling is picked up every week, the same day as your regular trash day.

Enter your address or just click your home area on this interactive map to see your collection day and annual schedule. For a downloadable calendar (PDF), see the pickup schedules tab on the Recycling page.

3. Can tea bags go into the organics bin?: Yes, tea bags can go in there. A couple things to make sure of first though: 1) make sure it is the paper bag kind of tea bag, not the plastic netting ones. The plastic ones are usually triangular. If they are the plastic kind, you can open them up and put the leaves into your organics bin, but the plastic part must be disposed of in the garbage can. 2) If your tea bag has a small metal staple on the top, remove that beforehand putting it in the bin.

4. Can I use regular plastic bags to collect organics?

No. Plastic bags are not compostable and are a contaminant. You risk turning an entire load of compostable material into garbage if you use plastic bags. Use bags labeled “BPI-certified compostable.” These bags can be purchased at retail locations such as Jerry’s Do it Best Hardware, Cub, Lunds & Byerly’s, and your local co-op.

Paper grocery bags are acceptable, as are lawn and leaf bags. These types of bags are good for drier items like fruit peels. Paper bags are not ideally suited for wet items like coffee grounds, and we highly recommend using the green compostable film bags for dairy and meat products to reduce pests.

5. Do the materials have to be bagged before putting inside the cart?: No. The bagging of organics is a guidance based on what has worked best previously. It is highly recommended for all dairy and meat items, as these tend to create smell. Larger and dry items can certainly be put directly into the cart without bagging.

6. How is organics recycling different from backyard composting?

You can compost more materials with organics recycling than in your backyard compost bin. Large-scale commercial composting facilities maintain higher temperatures than backyard compost bins. These temperatures are needed to kill bacteria and break down items that cannot be composted in a backyard compost bin, including meat, bones, dairy products and compostable plastics. Backyard composting is still a great option for recycling fruit and vegetable scraps and yard waste into a soil amendment that you can use at home.

If you’re currently composting in your backyard, please don’t stop. Backyard composting is higher on our waste reduction strategy than curbside organics recycling, and it’s a practice that should be celebrated.

7. What is the difference between biodegradable vs compostable?: In terms of organics recycling, compostable items are materials which will break down at the commercial composting facility. Biodegradable items may also be compostable, but some of these items take hundreds of years to break down and therefore we do not want them in the curbside organics carts. An example of this would be chewing gum.

8. How do I know if the item is for recycling bin or for the compost/organics recycling bin?

Items which go in the organics recycling bin need to say "100% compostable" on them or be some type of food waste. If it will not break down into dirt, we do not want it in the organics recycling cart. If it has a number in a triangle on it, or is an inorganic material, it also should not go into the organics recycling bin. Please go to our traditional recycling webpage for more information about what can and cannot be placed in your regular recycling bin.

9. I live in an apartment/condo and I would like to participate. How do I get started?: Your housing association can work directly with your current waste hauler to offer this service. Apartments, condos, and all high-density housing complexes can have a significant environmental impact, both good and bad. It’s important that organics recycling is offered to everyone.

10. Do businesses in Edina participate in the organics recycling program?: Several businesses in Edina do participate in organics recycling through their refuse haulers. All large businesses in Hennepin County are required to start doing this by January 1, 2022. Learn more about Edina’s Green Business Recognition Program. There are even grants available to help businesses get started!

11. What should I do if I want to participate, but I don't have room in my garage?: There are a few solutions you could try: 1) Replace your yard waste cart with lawn and leaf bags. Most people do not use their yard waste container all 12 months of the year. 2) Store your cans outside. This is allowable. 3) Share a cart with your neighbors who have bigger garages!

12. What are the benefits of organics recycling?

(Information from the International Composting Foundation)

The use of landfill space and incineration can be reduced by at least one-third when organics are recycled.
Methane, a greenhouse twenty-five times as powerful as carbon dioxide, can be significantly reduced through the recycling of organics instead of their being landfilled.
Soil health and productivity is dependent on organic matter – the essence of compost -- to provide the sustenance for the biological diversity in the soil. Plants depend on this to convert materials into plant-available nutrients and to keep the soil well-aerated. Additional benefits include the reduced need for pesticide usage to ward off soil-borne and other plant diseases.
Compost offers a significant answer to climate change mitigation. Compost’s return to the soil serves as a “carbon bank,” helping to store carbon thereby removing it from the atmosphere.
Compost is a huge benefit for both water conservation and quality. When used in water quality projects, compost bind pollutants to the organics material and prevents them from entering our lakes, wetlands, streams and rivers. Soil erosion is mitigated, and water-holding capacity improved through compost’s enhancement of soil structure, binding soil particles together.
Supports a local economy. About 700 jobs are supported by Minnesota’s composting industry, which produces $148 million in gross economic activity per year. The composting industry supports four to eight times more jobs on a per ton basis than landfilling operations.

13. Why is Organics Recycling part of Edina’s services?

The City of Edina strives to be a leader among cities in sustainable practices and in making the changes necessary to address climate change.

In response to the State of Minnesota directing the counties in Minnesota to reduce the amount of waste that goes to a landfill (see state statutes here), Hennepin County implemented an ordinance to require cities in the county make organic collection available to the residents by Jan. 1, 2022.

The Edina City Council approved a curbside residential collection program in March 2019, which went into effect in summer 2020. The city’s solid waste ordinances may be viewed here.

The organics program was built using the same model as the existing recycling program, where every single-family, double- and multi-unit properties up to eight will receive a cart to get maximum participation in the program.

14. How much does this program cost me?: $5.50 per month

15. Can I change the size of my organics cart?

Residents may request to change the size of their cart. Vierkant Disposal will change the size one time in a 12-month period. To make such a request, call Vierkant at 612-922-2505.

The standard size of the organics carts being delivered to homes is 35 gallons – the smallest available.

Recycling Container Guide

16. Can I opt out or decline a cart?: You can decline or return your cart by contacting the Organics Recycling Coordinator Twila Singh at 952-826-1657 or [email protected]. Email is preferred so that the address is accurate. While you are not required to keep the cart, this is a citywide utility service, in addition to our traditional recycling, and the cost cannot be removed from your utility bill.

17. Where does the stuff I put in the organics cart go?: The organics collected curbside are taken to a commercial facility in Shakopee, Minnesota, and recycled into compost, a nutrient-rich material that is used in landscaping and road construction projects to improve our soil. The facility is open for public tours and more information can be found here.

18. I want to promote this on social media. Which hashtags should I use?: We encourage residents to use the hashtag #EdinaRecycles when posting about their recycling achievements on social media.

19. What about these jumping worms I heard about?: At the composting facility, the piles of materials which are broken down into compost are temperature monitored. The piles are kept above 131-160 degrees for weeks straight. Jumping worms die between 85-104 degrees for 3 consecutive days. We have chosen to partner with a reputable industrial composting facility and jumping worms have not been an issue in their products.

20. How can I prevent or get rid of maggots in my organics recycling cart?

Remember that this is a temporary problem, unique to our beautiful Minnesota summers. One suggestion which has worked well thus far, has been to line the organics cart with a lawn and leaf bag. Then deposit the bagged organics into the lawn and leaf bag, and close that inside the cart. This works especially well if the green compostable bags are used in conjunction with the lawn and leaf bags. The idea is to create a physical barrier between the material and the flies.

From the City of Minneapolis website: “Maggots are a common, naturally occurring problem with many organics recycling programs. Even if you didn’t see them, maggots were commonly found in garbage carts before the City implemented the organics recycling program. Maggots are fly larvae and occur when flies lay eggs on organic materials. Maggots are more common in warmer temperatures. To prevent maggots inside your organics recycling cart, you must prevent mature flies from laying eggs in on your food scraps by eliminating odors and reducing their access to organic materials. A physical barrier works best.

If you find them in your cart, try leaving the lid open for a couple of hours, the City of Minneapolis recommends. Maggots will crawl to the top of the cart and often be eaten by birds.

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Parking Permits 50th & France

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1. Do part-time workers have to buy a permit?

Yes. All employees of businesses in the 50th & France district who choose to park in the Edina parking ramps MUST display a valid permit and park in the designated areas of the parking ramps so that adequate parking remains available for customers. Vehicles displaying a valid permit can park in excess of the posted limits applicable to customers.

Daily permits for designated North and South ramp spaces ($1 each) or a $20 annual permit for the North Ramp rooftop are available for employees who work only a few shifts each month.

2. Where can employees park?

Employees with valid "Regular" permits (annual, quarterly or daily) can park in:

North Ramp, Levels 3 or 4 only
South Ramp, rooftop only

Employees with "Premium" permits can park in:

South Ramp, lowest level
North Ramp, designated areas of Levels 1 and 2

Employees with Rooftop permits can park in:

North Ramp, Level 4 spaces that are exposed to the sky

Overnight permit holders can park in:

North Ramp, lower level

Please note that South "Premium" permits aren't valid in the North ramp and North "Premium" permits aren't valid in the South ramp. Regular permit holders can park in any regular permit area in either ramp. Regular permits are not valid in Premium spaces.

Surface parking is intended for customers. The most convenient locations are also reserved for customer use. Signs are posted in the ramps to clarify employee parking areas.

3. What are the types of permits and their cost?

Premium Permits

Where: The lower-most level of the South Ramp and designated areas of Levels 1 and 2 of the North Ramp. Permit holders also can park in the regular permit spots. Note that permits are issued for a specific area; holders can’t park in the other premium areas.
Availability: Only a limited number of premium permits will be issued. These permits are not available online. Eligible businesses will be contacted directly. Maximum 20 per business.
Cost: $300 per year plus Minnesota sales tax

Regular permits

Where: Rooftop of South Ramp and Levels 3 and 4 of North Ramp
Availability: Available as annual permit or quarterly. Must be purchased online.
Cost: $120 per year plus Minnesota sales tax or $45 per quarter plus tax

Daily Permits

Where: Rooftop of South Ramp and Levels 3 and 4 of North Ramp
Availability: Available throughout the year. Must be purchased online.
Cost: Packets of 10 daily permits are sold for $10 plus Minnesota sales tax

Rooftop Permits

Where: North Ramp Level 4 spaces that are exposed to the sky
Availability: Annual permit available throughout the year for part-time or occasional workers. Must be purchased online.
Cost: $20 plus Minnesota sales tax

Overnight Permits

Where: Designated stalls of the North Ramp
Availability: A limit of four overnight passes will be issued per business. Residents of the designated affordable housing units at Nolan Mains are allowed to purchase overnight permits for up to two vehicles. Other Nolan Mains tenants who do not have an assigned parking stall also can purchase a permit. Must be purchased online.
Cost: $50 per month plus Minnesota sales tax

North Overnight Daily

Where: Designated stalls of the North Ramp
Availability: Sold only to Nolan Mains residents (or management) to provide for overnight parking of guests. Passes are sold only in packets of 10. The information on each permit must be filled out and the permit displayed in the vehicle for it to be valid. Must be purchased online.
Cost: Packets of 10 permits are sold for $30 plus Minnesota sales tax

4. What is the difference between "Regular" and "Premium" permits?

"Premium" permits are issued for parking stalls in desirable locations but with access that can be confusing for customers to navigate. Premium permits are intended for full-time employees who generally work traditional business hours.

The number of Premium permits is limited to help ensure holders can find an available space during busy daytime hours.

Vehicles with a "premium" permit are also allowed to park in the designated employee parking areas used by "Regular" permit holders.

Please note that North "Premium" permits are not valid in the South ramp and South "Premium" permits aren’t valid in the North ramp.

Premium permits are not sold online. Eligible businesses will be contacted directly on how to purchase them.

5. Where are Rooftop permits valid?: Employers requested a lower-price option for part-time employees and others who may not be able to spend a lot for parking. This permit is valid only on the rooftop of the North Ramp.

6. How long can I park with a permit?: Vehicles with a valid permit for that area are allowed to park in any of the employee designated spaces in excess of the posted limits. There is no maximum time limit for employees with valid permits except that around-the-clock parking is generally not permitted. Overnight parking is allowed only for vehicles that display a valid overnight permit and park in the designated stalls.

7. Do I have to purchase permits online?

Yes. All permits other than premium must be purchased online and will be mailed to you. (Businesses eligible for premium permits will be contacted directly.)

There are no in-person sales or picking up of parking permits.

8. When are parking rules enforced?: By Municipal Code, posted hourly restrictions are actively enforced between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

9. Where do I place the permit in my car?: Permits must be adhered to the inside portion of the rear window to be visible from the rear. Permits should not hinder the driver’s vision. Vehicles must be parked front-end forward so that the permit is visible from the rear.

10. Can employees park in the Center Ramp?: No. There is no employee parking allowed in the Center Ramp.

11. Why isn't parking free?: Each month, the City spends approximately $38 per stall in operations and maintenance costs of the parking ramps and related infrastructure at 50th & France. This does not include the cost to build the ramps. There is no such thing as “free” parking.

12. Why doesn’t my employer pay for my permit?: Some employers purchase parking permits while others do not. This is a decision made by the individual business, and the City does not take a position on employee benefits provided by individual businesses.

13. Where do I park if I am not working but shopping at 50th & France?: Employees are encouraged to park in the more remote stalls even during non-work hours. This will add to the overall convenience of customers and should improve the climate for your own business.

14. I work on the Minneapolis side of 50th & France. Where can I park?: The City of Edina issues permits only to employees of businesses located in Edina. Other parking options are available for employees located east of France Avenue in Minneapolis. Contact the 50th & France Business Association for more information.

15. What if I don’t want to park in the ramps?

On-street parking is also available. Vehicles parked illegally and in violation of posted signs, however, may be ticketed if they are reported as a nuisance.

Driving is not the only way to get to work. Walking, bicycling, carpooling and public transit can be good options as well. 50th & France has frequent bus service on Routes 6 and 46. Contact Commuter Services or Metro Transit for more information.

16. I have a disability plate; where can I park?: Employees with valid disability plates or tags are not required to purchase a parking permit and are allowed to park in any designated stall. Stalls for people with physical disabilities are located in each ramp and surface parking areas. These stalls are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Unless marked, there is no time limit for these stalls.

17. What if I drive multiple vehicles?: Holders of an annual Regular or Premium permit can purchase a second permit for $10. Note the second car must have the same registered owner as the original permit.

18. What happens if I get a new car?

When a vehicle is sold or traded, a replacement permit will be issued for $10. Fill out this form to get a replacement.

Please note the replacement must be of the same type and time frame as the original permit. Also, once the replacement is issued, the original permit is invalid. Parking with the original permit will result in a ticket.

19. Can I share a permit with a co-worker?: No. Citations will be issued for fraudulent use.

20. What happens if I don't buy a permit?: Employee parking in violation of City Code by failing to obtain a permit or failure to park in the designated location will be ticketed or towed at owner expense.

21. What if I receive a parking ticket?: Parking citations are issued by the Edina Police Department and processed through Hennepin County courts. Payments can be made online, via mail, in person or over the phone. If you believe the citation to be in error, please contact the Hennepin County Violations Bureau at 612-348-2040 or visit MNcourts.gov/Hennepin.

22. I lost my parking permit. What do I do?

If you lost your permit, you can purchase a replacement for $10. Fill out this form for the replacement.

Please note that the original permit will be invalidated once a replacement is issued; using it to park is illegal and will result in a ticket.

23. What if I forgot to display the permit?

Vehicles without valid permits visibly displayed are subject to receive a ticket. There are no exceptions.

Please note that any vehicle displaying a permit must match the permit information or will be cited.

Daily permits are available for purchase from the 50th & France Business Association.

24. What are the general rules for 50th & France employees parking in the ramps??

Rules and regulations for parking in the City facilities are included in Chapter 24, Article VIII, Division 5 of the Edina City Code. The rules are summarized below:

Annual permits are valid from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31.
Posted hourly restrictions are actively enforced between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Every employee who chooses to park in the City facilities must purchase a parking permit or display a valid pass.
Employees who have a State Disability Permit or Disability License Plates are not required to purchase a parking permit. Employees with disabilities may park in any public parking stall when valid permit or plates are displayed.
Permit holders may only park in the designated areas of the City facilities as described below.
Daytime permits are issued only to employees of businesses located within the City of Edina at 50th & France.
Permits may be cancelled by the City if the permit holder ceases to reside at or be employed by a business at 50th and France in Edina. A pro-rated refund can be made provided that the original permit is returned.
The window-cling style permit must be displayed in the window to be visible from the rear. Permits should not hinder the driver’s vision. Vehicles must be parked front-end forward so that the permit is visible from the rear.
Permits may not be replicated, sold, traded or otherwise transferred.
Overnight parking is not permitted, unless an “Overnight Permit” is issued to an eligible Edina business or resident.
A second permit can be purchased by employees with an annual Regular or Premium Permit who may drive multiple vehicles registered to the same household.
Vehicles parked in violation of City Code by failing to obtain a permit or failure to park in the designated location will be ticketed or towed at owner expense. Tickets are adjudicated by Hennepin County. The City is unable to waive parking citations.

25. What are the "after hours" rules for the Premium parking stalls?: After 4 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends the premium parking stalls in the North and South ramps are available to any customer or employee with any type of valid permit on a first-come, first-serve basis.

26. What if I have an idea to make parking better?: You are welcome to send suggestions or comments to Economic Development Manager Bill Neuendorf at [email protected].

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Parks & Recreation

Show All Answers

1. Are there specific hours the general park areas are open?: Yes; the general park areas are open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

2. Is alcohol allowed in the parks?

No. Alcohol is prohibited in the parks.

See a list of park rules.

3. Is smoking or vaping allowed in parks?

No. Tobacco use is banned. This includes cigars, cigarettes and smokeless tobacco.

Vaping is not allowed.

4. Are there park rules or regulations?

Yes. Here is a list of them, divided by category.

Some basic ones:

- Most parks are open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. unless otherwise posted.

- Smoking, vaping and alcohol are not allowed.

- Dogs must be on a leash unless in a designated off-leash park.

- Please pick up after your pet.

5. Do you have a lost and found?: Yes; seasonally staff will bring items to the Parks & Recreation Department at City Hall. If an item is labeled with a name and phone number we will contact that person. Items are typically discarded after one month.

6. Can I reserve a park shelter or picnic table?

Yes! Park shelter buildings are available to rent at eight parks across Edina. Six picnic shelters also are available to rent.

Reservations for each year open in February. Rentals are available from May through late October. Arneson Acres is the only park rental available year-round.

She the Rent a Park Building or Picnic Shelter page for descriptions, capacity, price and how to reserve.

7. Do I have to reserve a park shelter building in order to use it?: Yes; park shelter buildings need to be reserved and there is a fee.

8. Do I have to reserve a picnic shelter in order to use it?: Yes; for exclusive use of a picnic shelter it is required you make a reservation and there is a fee.

9. When I reserve a shelter building or picnic shelter do I have exclusive use of the park as well?: No; you will have exclusive use of the shelter building/picnic shelter during the time stated on your permit. The park is open to the public.

10. May I reserve a park if I do not live in Edina?: No; only Edina residents can reserve parks.

11. Does staff take care of setting up a shelter building/picnic shelter when it is reserved?: No; when you reserve a shelter building or picnic shelter you are in charge of the set up.

12. Is there staff present at the park when I have my event?: No; staff will not be present at your reserved event. You will need to pick up a key for the shelter building at Edina City Hall in the Parks & Recreation Department.

13. Where can I play pickleball?

Warmer Months

• All tennis courts in City parks are striped for pickleball. To find a court near you, visit the Park Finder. Click on Activities (the child swing logo) and select Tennis Court.

• Mooty Pickleball Courts - Five dedicated pickleball courts are at the north end of Rosland Park, off West 64th Street by the pedestrian bridge over the Crosstown Highway (Minnesota Highway 62). These courts are often reserved for classes, lessons and leagues.

Colder months

• Two indoor courts at Edinborough Park,7700 York Ave. S., are available 6:30 to 8:45 a.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. Sundays. Advance reservations are required. Fee is $20 an hour for Edina residents/$25 for others. You must bring your own equipment. Make a reservation.

14. Do you offer pickleball lessons?: Yes! Pickleball lessons are offered in spring, summer and fall for youth and adults. Check our online catalog and make sure to check the Adult 55+, Adult Activities/Sports, Youth Activities and Private Lessons categories to see all the listings.

15. Do you have pickleball leagues?: Yes, in the warmer months. Check the online catalog for current leagues.

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Pets and Animals

Show All Answers

1. How do I get a license for my dog?

Licensing a dog - new or renewal - can be done online or in person. Renewals also can be done by mail.

Online

Dog license form

In Person

Visit the Edina Police Department office at City Hall, 4801 W. 50th St., 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.

Renewals by Mail

Send current rabies vaccination information and a check for the licensing fee to:

Edina Police Division
4801 W 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424-1394

Expiration: All dog licenses expire Dec. 31 of each year.

Fees

$20 - neutered or spayed dog
$30 - dog not spayed or neutered
$6 - duplicate tag (if you lost previous one)
$10 - late fee for licenses renewed after March 1

License numbers are valid for the life of a dog. Request a new number only if the tag is unreadable.

Off-Leash Collars

Off-leash collars are required on dogs using the off-leash dog park at Van Valkenburg Park. You can buy one when you get your license (either online or in person) or purchase it separately using the Off-Leash Collar form.

2. How do I get an off-leash collar for my dog?

Off Leash Collar

When off the owners property, all dogs and cats must be leashed. This includes City parks. An exception is in the City's off-leash dog area (OLA) at Van Valkenburg Park and off-season at Strachauer Park. Purchase an Off Leash Collar.

The off-leash area is open daily 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Dogs must wear an OLA collar.

Dogs must be properly vaccinated and must be leashed when entering and exiting the OLA. No glass containers, smoking, female dogs in season, unauthorized motorized equipment or vehicles, bicycles or individual dogs known to be aggressive are allowed.

Children under age 6 are not allowed within the OLA; children under 12 must be closely supervised by an adult. Dog owners are responsible for damage and injuries inflicted by their dogs and must properly clean up after them.

Other rules are listed on signs within the park. OLA permits with collars cost $25 for residents and $50 for non-residents. Discounts are given for multiple dogs.
Discounts are given on multiple Off-Leash Area collars only at:

Edina Police Division
4801 W 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424-1394

3. Can I raise chickens on my property?: Yes. Residents can keep up to four hens per household, provided they are properly cared for and not allowed to wander off your property. No roosters are allowed due to noise concerns. Because there is little injury, health or safety risk in raising chickens, residents do not need to obtain a license, registration or permit. Up to 18 hen chicks may be raised for educational purposes.

4. What can I do about my neighbor’s barking dog?: City Ordinance Chapter 8, Division 2, Section 8-241 states that a violation occurs when the animal noise happens repeatedly over at least a five-minute period of time, and there is one minute or less time lapse between each animal noise during the five minute period. If these conditions are met, call 952-826-1600, 24 hours, to report the violation. For more animal information, visit Animal Control.

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Planning

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1. How do I comment on a current project proposal?: If there is a current public hearing proposal, you can comment on the Better Together Edina page.

2. Are group homes allowed in Edina?: Group homes of 6 people and under are a permitted use in the R-1 and R-2 district.

3. How do I request a zoning verification letter?: To request a zoning letter please contact Liz Olson, Administrative Support Specialist directly at [email protected] or 952-826-0465. Zoning letters require a payment of $175.00 per address. Checks can be made payable to "The City of Edina" and mailed to Edina City Hall (Attention Liz Olson) at 4801 50th St. W., Edina, MN 55424.

4. Does the City allow vacation rental by owners?

Vacation rentals like VRBO and AIRBNB are not allowed in Edina. Single-family residential properties are to be used as the residence of an owner or tenant of the unit. If the owner does not reside in the unit, a tenant may reside, but for a period of not less than 30 consecutive days.

For more information, contact the Planning Division at 952-826-0369.

5. How do I locate my corner property irons?

Tips and hints for locating corner property irons:

PROTECT YOURSELF from injury. Find out where underground utilities are buried BEFORE digging. Call Gopher State One Call at 651-252-1166 to have your utilities located. This is a FREE service.
Renting a metal detector can give you an indication of an iron location before you start digging. Be careful not to disturb the iron monument when digging.
You may not be able to find one or more of your property irons. Sometimes irons are dug up when utility work, street construction or similar activity has taken place near your property corners.
If an adjacent neighbor has recently done construction, they likely had to locate their irons and may be able to show you where they found a shared iron(s).
Utility poles, hedges, sidewalk edges, fences, etc. are not necessarily correct indicators of property line location.
A survey of your property can also help in finding your corner irons. The City of Edina may have a survey on file in the Building Inspections Division or you can visit the City of Edina website to see if a survey was filed for your property. Click here to search for a survey by address

6. How do I find what a property is zoned?: View The City of Edina’s interactive zoning map and view by address.

7. What regulations apply to fences?

Residential Fencing Regulations?

Fence Ordinance Handout (PDF)
In the City of Edina Fences cannot exceed four (4) feet in height in the front yard and side street setback areas.
In the City of Edina maximum fence height in the side and rear yard is six (6) feet.
Finished side of fence is to face neighboring properties.
If a corner lot, or lot with special circumstances (i.e. abutting commercial, industrial or busy street) please contact the Planning Division at 952-826-0369.
The City of Edina requires pools to be entirely fenced with a non-climbable fence with a minimum height of four (4) feet. The fence gate is to be self-closing and self-latching.
View the fence ordinance in Sec. 36-1255. - Fences in the R-1 and R-2 districts.

8. Where can I place a driveway on my property?

There are no setbacks for driveways located on Single Dwelling Unit and Double Dwelling Unit lots. The driveway can go up to the property line; however, vehicles are required to park 5-feet from the side property line and 15-feet from the travelled portion of the street. To discuss if a curb cut permit is required, please contact the Engineering Department at 952-826-0371.

9. Where can I build a shed on my property?

A shed constructed in the rear yard entirely behind the house is required to maintain a 3-foot side yard and 3-foot rear yard setback, including any overhang.*

A shed located in a side yard is required to maintain a 5-foot side yard setback.*

If you have a corner lot please contact the Planning Division at 952-826-0369 for further information.*

Sheds count towards the total building coverage for the lot.

*In all the above cases if a shed is larger than 200 square feet a building permit is required. You can contact the Building Inspections Division for further information at 952-826-0372 .

10. Where can I park/store recreational vehicles, boats, ATVs, snowmobiles, etc.?

Recreational vehicles, boats, ATVs, snowmobiles, special purpose trailers or other vehicles designed or used for off-road purposes may be parked or stored in a garage or lawfully erected building, or may be parked or stored outdoors as follows: Sec. 26-338

11. When does the Planning Commission meet?

The Edina Planning commission regularly meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month unless otherwise indicated.

The application deadline is 30-days prior to each meeting date.

You can view the online City of Edina meeting calendar here.

12. Does the City require a renter's license?

Yes, effective Nov. 4, 2019, rental owners or property management will need to apply for the rental license annually. The license will be effective on date applied/approved for. For more information on rental licensing, contact the Health Department at 952-826-1656.

Short-term rentals, such Airbnb and VRBO, are not permitted in Edina. For more information on short-term rentals, contact the Planning Department at 952-826-0369.

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Police

Show All Answers

1. How can I get fingerprinted?

Fingerprinting services are available on Wednesday evenings between 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the Edina Police Department by appointment only based on the next available opening only. Times cannot be selected. Services are only available to Edina residents or teachers. Bring proof of residency and/or proof of employment (for Edina Public Schools). There is a $15 fee for the first card, $5 for each additional card. All applicants must wear facial masks during the appointment and will be asked a series of screening questions prior to the fingerprinting being conducted.

For more information or to make an appointment, please visit https://www.edinamn.gov/1768/Book-An-Appointment or call 952-826-1610. Please note, fingerprinting could be delayed or cancelled without notice due to the availability of the fingerprint machine.

2. Does the City have an alarm policy?

We have no permit requirements. Alarm subscribers are assessed a fee for each false alarm to which the Police Department responds. A false alarm is defined by the responding officer as one in which an alarm was activated and the cause of the activation was not criminal activity. The fee for the first false alarm is $25; the second, third and fourth alarms in the calendar year are $110 each. The fifth and subsequent alarms in a calendar year are billed at $200.

For other alarm questions, call Brittany Kramer during business hours at 952-826-0474.

3. Do you allow soliciting in Edina?

The City required peddlers and solicitors carry and display a permit.

View the application and return it to the Edina Police Department, 4801 W. 50th St. Do not sign the application until you bring it into the Police Department. Make sure to have two passport-like photos, brochures/credentials, check or cash in the amount of $30 and your State-issued ID.

Once the application is reviewed and approved, you will need to pick up your badge. Permits allow soliciting in the City of Edina for 14 consecutive days. If you would like to continue for longer than 14 days, you will need to resubmit everything.

For more information, please contact the Edina Police Department’s non-emergency line at 952-826-1610.

4. If I’m in a car accident, do I need to call the police?: You need to call 911 if there are any injuries or if public property is damaged in the accident. Police do not have to be called for minor property damage accidents.

5. I received a citation. How do I pay it or contest it?

Payment can be made online, in mail, in person or over the phone with the Violations Bureau. If you would like to contest the citation you must also contact the Violations Bureau.

For more details about how to pay or contest a citation visit the Hennepin County Violations Bureau website.

Mailing address:

District Court Administrator
c/o Violations Bureau
300 South Sixth Street
Minneapolis, MN 55487-0014

Phone: (612) 348-2040

Website: www.mncourts.gov/Hennepin

6. Is there a curfew for juveniles in Edina?

Yes, juveniles may not be present in any public place or business open to the public according to the following schedule:

Teens ages 15 to 17 must be out of public areas by 11 p.m. on weeknights and by midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
Twelve- to 14-year-olds must be out of public areas by 10 p.m. on weeknights and by 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Children under 12 must be out of public areas by 9 p.m. on weeknights and 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

For more information, please view City Code Chapter 22, Division 2.

7. How do I get property back or contact the lost and found?: Call Police Administration at 952-826-1610 during business hours (8am-4:30pm) if you lost something in Edina. Property that is confiscated can only be claimed by contacting Property and Evidence Technician Krystal Ludgate for an appointment at 952-826-0472. Unclaimed items are regularly auctioned at Surplus Liquidation Auctions.

8. How can I get a copy of a police or accident report?

You must apply in person during regular business hours, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding holidays and weekends. Please bring your driver’s license or other identification as it may be required to release the report.

For copies of reports, there is no charge for the first 10 pages. After that, the charge is 25 cents per page.

For more information, please call 952-826-1610.

9. I want to thank an officer or Police staff member. How do I do that?

The best way is to fill out the Edina Police Department Commendation Form.

This way we can track the compliments and ensure they are passed along to those your are commending and their supervisors. We might also use the information as the basis for an official commendation or other recognition.

You can also find the form via the shortcut EdinaMN.gov/ThankPolice.

10. Can I file a complaint online against a police officer or other Edina Police Department member?

Yes. The Edina Police Department Complaint Form is for reporting allegations of misconduct by any Police Department staff member.

You can also find this form via the shortcut EdinaMN.gov/PoliceComplaint.

11. How do I apply for a permit to purchase a gun or report a firearm transfer?

For Purchases

An application for a permit to purchase a firearm must be completed in person at the Edina Police Department office at City Hall, 4801 W. 50^th St. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays except City holidays.

You must be an Edina resident. Residents of other cities/jurisdictions should contact their respective agencies for the process where they live.

You may fill out the application in advance (see this PDF from the Department of Public Safety) but DO NOT SIGN IT. You must sign it in person at the Police Department and show proper identification.

For Transfers

The completed transfer form (see above link) for a weapon can be submitted in the following ways:

Drop off at The Edina Police Department office at City Hall
Mail to Edina Police Department, 4801 W. 50th St., Edina, MN 55424
Fax to 952-826-1607

12. How do I properly dispose of medication?

For small quantities of medication, the Edina Police Department provides medication disposal bags residents can use in their homes to discard medication. Each bag allow for the disposal of up to 90 pills, 12 ounces of liquid medication of 12 transdermal patches. The bags contain activated carbon, which neutralizes the medication and prevents it from contaminating groundwater and drinking water.

Disposal Bags

How to properly dispose of medication in the disposal bags:

Place medication in the bag
Fill the bag halfway with warm water
Wait for 30 seconds
Seal the bag
Discards sealed bag

Get a Medication Disposal Bag

Medication disposal bags are available for pickup Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Police Department and Fire Station Number 1.

Drop Box

Large or small quantities of medications can be disposed of at any of Hennepin County’s six drop-box locations.

13. Are there any predatory offenders in the community, and where do they live?

Approximately 19,000 registered predatory offenders lived in Minnesota as of January 2020. State law limits public notification of sex offenders to what’s known as Level 3 offenders, those who are deemed more likely to reoffend.

Search for Level 3 offenders by city, county, name or zip code on the state’s sex offender tracking site.

If a Level 3 offender moved in to Edina, that would require a community notification meeting and a public notice published in the Edina Sun-Current along with other notification methods.

Learn more about community notification and how to protect your family from sex offenders on the state’s Community Notification information page.

For more information, contact Edina Police Detective Kenna Dick at 952-826-0491. For information about noncompliant registered predatory offenders, see the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension site.

14. Where can I report elder abuse?: Mandated reporters, designated facility reporters, law enforcement, counties, and lead investigative agencies must complete all required fields and submit the report when complete to meet a duty as a mandated reporter under MS626.5572 Subdivision 16. Fill out an online report.

15. Where can I get help for domestic abuse?: Cornerstone has free legal services such as Criminal Justice Intervention and Civil Justice involving obtaining an Order for Protection or Harassing Restraining Order. Visit the Cornerstone website.

16. May I park on the street in the winter?: From November 1 through March 31, all vehicles must be off the streets between 1 and 6 a.m. In addition, no vehicle may be parked in any street after a snowfall of at least 1.5 inches until the street has been plowed to its full width. For more information, please call 952-826-1610.

17. How can I make a donation to help prevent crime in Edina?: The Crime Fund is a non-profit, tax-exempt community organization that is operated by members of the community. The K-9 unit and Neighbors Home Watch are examples of valuable programs funded through the Crime Prevention Fund. For questions, please call 952-826-1610 during business hours Monday through Friday. You may contribute to the Edina Crime Prevention Fund by visiting the Edina Crime Fund.

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Public Works

Show All Answers

1. When will my street be plowed after a snow storm?

Streets will be plowed after a snow accumulation of 1.5 inches or more, drifting of snow that causes problems for travel and icy conditions that seriously affect travel.

Street Plowing Priority

Primary: Major roads and those that provide access to medical services, fire stations, police and other critical services are plowed first. Those are followed by other key transportation streets, including those that provide access to schools and businesses.
Secondary: Residential streets.
Alleys: Plowed by a separate vehicle, usually along with or after secondary routes.
Timing: Depending on storm severity and length, primary routes may be plowed several times before secondary routes. Crews try to plow secondary routes only once per storm, if reasonable, so homeowners only need to clear the end of their driveway one time.

Learn more about snow plowing.

View the snow plow route map (PDF)

2. A snow plow just left my street. Why is there a pile of snow at the end of my driveway?: Snow plows are not able to "skip" your driveway. Snow build up from plows may differ from home to home due to a variety of factors like corner lots, snow accumulation along the gutter line or distance between driveway openings.

3. A plow hit and damaged my mailbox. Who is going to fix it?: At the homeowner’s request, the City will replace the mailbox with a standard-size, non-decorative metal mailbox and replace the support post, if necessary. Alternatively, the City will reimburse the mailbox owner the cost of repair parts, up to $100, for the replacement of the mailbox and post with a submitted receipt for replacement parts.

4. My water bill seems high this month. Why has it increased?

Common reasons for a high water bill could be summer irrigation usage, dripping or leaky faucets, running toilets, or malfunctioning water softener.

High Water Bill Troubleshooting Tips(PDF)

5. When will the street be completely fixed after a winter water break?: As soon as weather permits in the spring, water main breaks are prioritized for repair.

6. Who fixes my sod or irrigation system if it gets damaged by a plow?: The City will repair plow damages with black dirt or seed each spring. Irrigation damage will be looked at on an individual basis. Please call 952-826-0376 to report any damage.

7. Who do I call for problems with my water and sewer service?

Please call Public Works directly at 952-826-0375 to report water/sewer problems.

Their regular office hours are 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

To report a water or sewer emergency outside of regular office hours, please call the City Dispatcher at 952-826-1600 for after-hours water/sewer emergencies.

8. I need a dumpster on my property. What are my options?

There are two options for placement of these items:

1- Place on private property. (Driveway or yard). With this option, you can leave the items 24 hours a day until the project is done.

2- Place refuse containers (dumpsters) in a designated "Street Parking" lane. This is allowed for a maximum of 12 daytime hours before it needs to be removed. No exceptions. Refuse containers placed illegally will be ticketed and removed at the owner's expense.

You may not block a lane of traffic, bike lane, or bus lane and there is no permit allowing you to do so.

For more information, please contact the Planning Department at 952-826-0369.

9. Fall is almost over. When will my snow stakes be installed?: Snow stakes are installed every fall generally after Halloween. They must be installed before the ground freezes or a major snowfall arrive.

10. There is a pothole on my street. When will it be fixed?: Potholes are repaired during the summer blacktop season. Service requests submitted by residents to Edina311 help us identify areas in need of a repair. If you notice a pothole please report it to Edina311.

11. I've noticed colored flags in my yard. What do they mean?

Gopher State One Call takes requests from callers who plan to do excavation work. The utility companies or a utility locating services company mark the locations of the underground utilities with corresponding paint and flags.

White = Proposed excavation
Pink = Temporary survey markings
Red = Electric power lines, cables, conduit and lighting cables
Yellow = Gas, oil, steam, petroleum or gaseous materials
Blue = Potable water
Purple = Reclaimed water, irrigation and slurry lines
Green = Sewer and Drain Lines.

12. When will my fire hydrant be flushed?: The Utilities Division will flush hydrants for two weeks in May from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hydrants will be flushed on the east side of Minnesota Highway 100 the first week and on the west side the second week. Other hydrants will also be flushed throughout the year as weather and water demand allows.

13. When can I expect my street to be swept?: Residential street sweeping takes place twice a year, once in the summer and in the fall. It takes four to five weeks to get the entire City swept. Weather predicts when the operation is in full swing.

14. I have yard debris from a storm. Will the City pick it up?: No. The City does not pick up yard debris. Please contact your garbage hauler for pickup options.

15. My yard waste was not picked up. Why?

The City does not pick up brush or yard waste. Residents who have yard waste they’d like to dispose of should check with their hauler.

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Recycling and Garbage

Show All Answers

1. How do I report a missed pickup?

Garbage: Please contact your hauler.

Recycling: Email [email protected]

Organics Recycling: Call Vierkant at 612-922-2505

2. Why don't we have weekly recycling pickup?

Weekly recycling was considered by the City Council in the City’s last Request for Proposals for Residential Recycling.

The rates for weekly collection and every other week collection were presented to Council. The cost for weekly collection was nearly double what is currently paid. At the time, when an organics recycling program was also being explored, the City Council chose to keep recycling costs down and stay with the current schedule.

3. Can I get a second recycling cart? Is there a charge for that?

Yes, you can get a different-sized cart or a second cart. See "Cart sizes, upgrades, extra carts" section of the recycling page for details.

There is no extra charge for the cart or collection from it.

4. Do I need to clean items before recycling them?

Items need to be rinsed out and cleaned of any food debris. They don’t need to be dishwasher clean.

Please dry them before placing in your cart. This prevents contaminating other items and also avoids turning paper recycling into a soggy mess.

Clean and dry recyclables also help keep your cart clean.

5. My neighbor has discarded materials in their yard. Who do I speak to in order to address this?

Please call the Health Division at 952-826-0370. They will check to see if it is a City Code violation and, if so, notify the property owner.

6. Where do I get rid of junk, old mattresses and computers?: Items of this nature can be brought to the Hennepin County Drop-off Facility in Bloomington, located at 1400 West 96th Street. Call the Hennepin County Environmental Services at 612-348-3777 or visit their website at www.Hennepin.us for more information.

7. How do I dispose of a Christmas tree?

From Dec. 27-Jan. 28, Christmas trees, garlands and spruce tops may be recycled for free at the SMSC Organics Recycling Facility, 1905 Mystic Lake Drive South in Shakopee. It's open 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays-Fridays except for closing on New Year's Eve and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Details are on the SMSC blog.

If you want your Christmas tree picked up curbside, please contact your trash hauler for options. Haulers have various requirements and fees, so make sure to check first before putting your tree out.

Do not put your tree in your organics bin.

Of note, Hennepin County doesn't operate a drop-off site for Christmas trees.

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Redevelopment for Neighbors

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1. Is the work permitted?: View permit information. Once you enter the address and get a result, click on the permit number to review the permit details. Note, some steps, like tree clearing, reclamation, etc., do not require permits.

2. How will the home be laid out?: If you'd like to see a site plan, call the contractor and request to see the design. For more information, please call 952-826-0369.

3. What do I do if I have concerns about the setback of the new home in relation to my property?

Ask to see a copy of the land survey for the new construction site. A land survey is performed for the purpose of locating, describing, monumenting and mapping the boundaries and corners of a parcel of land. It may also include mapping of the topography of the parcel, and the location of buildings or other improvements on the parcel. A land survey would define the dimensions of the lot and show whether any of the property is encroaching upon an adjacent parcel.

Compare the survey to the stakes that the surveyor placed in the ground. If the survey looks incorrect, you have the right to hire, at your cost, your own land surveyor to confirm that the property lines have been marked correctly. For more information, please call 952-826-0369.

4. How will I know who is doing the project?: Prior to beginning any permitted work on the site, a contractor must install a sign identifying the contractor's company name, contact information, the address of the project, and a contact number for the City of Edina to report problems. For more information, please call 952-826-0369.

5. How can I learn more about the contractor?

Once you know the name of the contractor, do some online research. What other houses have they built? What features are commonly seen in the developer’s residential projects? What have its clients said about them? What about neighbors of those projects?

The State of Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry has the authority to license and regulate building contractors and remodelers. Are there any licensing actions or complaints that have been filed against this builder with the State of Minnesota Department of Labor? Check the status of a license.

6. Why do I have to attend the pre-construction meeting? What is covered in the meeting?

For a demolition permit, at least 15 days before demolition occurs, the permit holder must provide written notification to all property owners within 300 feet of the demolition site notifying the property owners of a proposed demolition and invite them to a neighborhood meeting. The neighborhood meeting must be held at least five days for demolition begins.

Attending this meeting is highly recommended. Topics discussed may include hours of operation, construction schedule (demolition, excavation, deliveries, concrete work and completion date), storm water and erosion control, noise mitigation, dust control, equipment, etc.

Bring a list of questions you want to ask. For example, How can work be coordinated so that trucks don't block the street any more than necessary? Who is going to take responsibility for shoveling the snow from the sidewalk?

Make sure that whatever information is communicated to the neighbors is also being communicated to the subcontractors. Has the contractor conveyed pertinent information and laws to its subcontractors? For more information, please call 952-826-0369.

7. Why should I document everything?

In the event of damage to your property that may be caused by the nearby construction activity, it is in your best interest to have evidence showing how your property looked before the construction began.

Photograph "before" conditions in the exterior and interior of your home. Include photos of the area between your home and your neighbor's home that is being reconstructed. If you can show where the water flows during a rainstorm, even better. For more information, please call 952-826-0369.

8. What are construction management issues? What can I do about them?

Construction management issues can be temporary nuisances or permanent conditions. This guide can assist in instructing you how to report any issues that require follow up from City officials.

File a complaint regarding a residential demolition or new construction site

9. What are the regulations regarding noise and after-hours work?

For projects requiring a building permit with a building project value of $50,000.00 or less:

Monday—Friday, 7:00 a.m.—7:00 p.m.
Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays (New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas), 9:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m.

For projects requiring a building permit with a building project value of more than $50,000.00:

Monday—Friday, 7:00 a.m.—7:00 p.m.
Saturdays, 9:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m.
Sundays and Holidays (New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas), no work

Edina City Code Chapter 23, Article II, Division 5, Sec. 23-124

The City recommends that if a neighbor is disrupted by construction noise outside of allowable hours, contact the Edina Police Department's non-emergency line at 952-826-1600.

10. How can I file a complaint?

Should an issue arise, contact the contractor directly to express your complaint or concern. More often than not, an issue can be resolved this way.

If you do not wish to confront a subcontractor directly on-site, call the contractor’s contact information that is posted on the sign at the construction site. The contractor must also accept responsibility for the action of its subcontractors.

If the contractor is not resolving the issue and you would like to determine if your concern can be resolved by enforcement of City Code, please call the Residential Redevelopment Coordinator at 952-833-9521 or fill out the online complaint form.

11. What should I do if I experience property damage?

If you experience property damage that you know or suspect was caused by construction activities, contact an attorney for assistance. Disputes between private contractors and property owners are civil matters and the City generally does not intervene in private disputes. Again, be sure to document everything inside and outside of your property, as well as any conversations.

In certain cases (particularly those involving personal safety), it may be appropriate to contact the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, which may intervene in cases related to consumer protection.

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Rental Housing Program

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1. How much does a license cost?: For a single unit (townhome, home, condominium), it’s $180. For a duplex (both sides rented), it’s $360. For apartments, it’s $180 plus $17 per unit. Licenses must be renewed annually at the same fee.

2. Where can I go for assistance for my rent payment?: If you are a tenant and need help with rent, contact VEAP at 952-888-9616 or visit their website.

3. How can I pay for my rental license?: You can pay online when applying or send in a check with your application.

4. What if I already had an inspection and have made the corrections requested?: Please contact the Inspector that inspected the property. In some cases, pictures and short videos will be accepted during this time.

5. What is a rental inspection and licensing program?: This program requires all rental properties in Edina be licensed. City staff will inspect the properties routinely to make sure they are compliant with fire and health codes.

6. Why does the city need this program?

This program will help ensure rental properties are safe for tenants. Landlords and/or tenants may be unaware of potential hazards. Or properties might be fine, but the tenants might be doing something to endanger themselves or the property.

In some cases, tenants are aware their rental has serious issues, but are afraid to report the problem for fear of being kicked out, Hawkinson said. With the affordable rental vacancy rate at less than 1 percent in Edina, those tenants can’t take any risks. Often those are seniors on fixed incomes.

7. How many rental properties does Edina have?: No one knows the exact number because previously there had been no licensing or registration program. A very rough estimate is more than 100 apartment complexes with nearly 6,700 units and more than 1,200 homes are rented in Edina.

8. Do other cities have a program like this?: Yes. Minneapolis, Bloomington, Eden Prairie, St. Louis Park and Hopkins are among the cities that have rental licensing programs.

9. Doesn’t the city already inspect apartments and other rentals?: Common areas of apartments buildings are inspected, but all other inspections have been complaint based. If no one complains, a problem can go unaddressed.

10. How often will properties be inspected?

Single-family homes, condos and townhome rentals will be inspected every-other year.

Common spaces in apartment buildings will be inspected annually, and a third of the units will be inspected each year, so all the units will be inspected over a three-year period.

Inspections will be scheduled in advance to give landlords and tenants due notice and minimize inconvenience. Properties where violations are found may be inspected more often.

11. Who will be doing the inspections?: Edina’s Health Division, which will run the program, has hired two inspectors for that along with another person to handle licensing and support.

12. What kind of things will they look for?: Inspectors will look for functioning smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors if required, adequate and unblocked escape routes, grills on decks, functioning plumbing and heating, safe wiring, mold, bugs, rodents and general sanitation.

13. What happens if a problem is found on inspection?: Inspectors will focus on educating tenants and landlords. The goal is to get them in compliance, so they will be given time to correct most issues.

14. What happens if a landlord doesn’t apply for a license?: As the program starts up, landlords will be educated on the program. However, a landlord who intentionally avoids licensing will be subject to fines.

15. I don’t own any rental properties. Are my taxes paying for this program?: The licensing fees were set to cover the cost of the program so other taxpayers would not have to pay for it.

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SafeCam

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1. What is the SafeCam program?: The SafeCam program was launched in December 2021 by the Edina Police Department. It is a 100 percent voluntary, opt-in initiative that allows residents and businesses to register the location of their private video surveillance systems with the department. This allows officers to contact them should a crime occur in or near where the camera is installed. Opting in to the SafeCam program does not give Edina Police access to video footage until granted by the home or business owner. Interested property owners can register here.

2. Why does the Police Department need access to private video footage?: When a crime occurs, video footage is one of the most valuable tools available to investigators and officers. Knowing the location of video surveillance systems allows the Police to quickly reach out to those owners and ask for their footage, instead of trying to track down where video footage exists, if at all.

3. Do other police departments have programs like this?: Yes. Edina is one of several agencies in the metro and the state of Minnesota that have similar programs, called SafeCam or otherwise.

4. What kind of cameras could be registered?: Any kind of video surveillance cameras are important – video doorbells, wireless video camera systems, and home security cameras are just some of the common types. Note – registering for the SafeCam program only records the address and basic characteristics of the cameras, not the brand or serial number of the cameras.

5. Does the Police Department have direct access to my video footage?: No. Registering for the SafeCam program only adds an address to the Police Department’s database and map of camera locations throughout the City. If a crime occurs in the area and video footage is needed, the Police Department will reach out directly to the owner to request the footage.

6. Can I opt out?: Yes. Once registered for the SafeCam program, you may opt out of the program at any time by calling the Police Department at 952-826-1610.

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Senior Center

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1. What are the Senior Center hours of operation?: The senior center is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

2. How old do you have to be to become a Senior Center member?: 55 years of age and older.

3. Do I have to be a member to come to the Senior Center?: Membership is encouraged, as the financial support it provides is important to the sustainability of the organization; however, it is not required to participate in our programs and services.

4. What is the cost for an annual membership?

$17 for an individual

$27 for a couple

*A couple is considered two people at the same address.

5. What types of programs and classes are offered at the Senior Center?

We have several on-going programs including card groups, billiards, Edina Singing Seniors as well as classes and many “lifelong learning” series.

We also offer several health related programs and a free blood-pressure checks. We offer day trips, multi-day trips and even trips to other countries. For further information, call the senior center at 952-833-9570, take a look at information on this website under Plan Your Day, or send us an email.

All the details are available in the newsletter publication, The Times, available to members of the Edina Senior Center. Not a member? Request a complimentary copy of the newsletter by calling the Edina Senior Center at 952-833-9570.

6. Where is the Senior Center located?

5280 Grandview Square

Edina, MN 55436

7. Do you have to be a resident of Edina to become a member?: No, all are welcome and encouraged to join!

8. Is the Edina Senior Center open on holidays?

The Edina Senior Center is closed most holidays including the following:

New Year's Day - Monday, January 2, 2017
Martin Luther King Day - Monday, January 16, 2017
Presidents Day - Monday, February 20, 2017
Memorial Day - Monday, May 29, 2017
Independence Day - Tuesday, July 4, 2017
Labor Day - Monday, September 4, 2017
Veteran's Day - Friday, November 10, 2017
Thanksgiving Day - Thursday, November 23, 2017
Day After Thanksgiving - Friday, November 24, 2017
Christmas Day - Monday, December 25, 2017

9. Does the Senior Center offer Bridge?

Yes, the senior center has quite a few Bridge offerings. For dates and times, please visit our calendar page for details.

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Service Line Warranty Program

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1. Is the Service Line Warranty Program a City of Edina program?: No. This program offering water, sewer and in-home plumbing insurance is run by Service Line Warranties of America (SLWA), a private company that is also known as Utility Service Partners, Inc. The warranty program is endorsed by the National League of Cities and works with more than 240 cities across the country.

2. Why am I getting letters about this insurance?: All Edina utility customers are receiving letters informing them of the three programs offered by SLWA: water line warranty, sewer line warranty and internal plumbing warranty. SLWA has chosen to send an introductory letter for each program and a reminder, totaling six letters, each year of the program. Property owners should check with insurance agencies to see if their homeowner’s policies already covers these services. Enrollment is optional.

3. Why is the City seal on these mailings?: The City Council endorsed the program on Nov. 1, 2016, joining about 240 other cities around the country, and several in the Twin Cities area. As part of the agreement, the company can use the City’s name and logo in letters, bills and marketing materials. SLWA is responsible for all costs of the program, including mailings and promotion.

4. Why would the City make such an agreement with a private company?: City staff recommended the program as an option to help residents whose water and sewer lines aren’t covered by their homeowner’s insurance. Staff regularly heard complaints from residents who discovered, when a break or failure occurred, that they were responsible for repair costs. Staff found the SLWA warranty program as an option to help people avoid expensive repair costs.

5. Is it mandatory I sign up for this insurance program?: No. This program is entirely optional. Residents should treat it like any other insurance or warranty program. It’s up to residents to evaluate if they want to purchase warranty coverage.

6. How do I opt out of letters regarding the Service Line Warranty Program?: Call SLWA at 1-844-257-8795 to have your name and address removed from their contact lists.

7. Why doesn't the City send an explanation letter first to inform residents of the program?

If the City sent letters, taxpayers would pay for those mailing and the staff time for them. By having the company send the letters, residents aren’t paying for that.

When the program launched, the City issued a press release. Information explaining the program has regularly been included in issues of city publications including Public Works Pipeline. The City also keeps this FAQ to help address resident questions.

8. Why would I need this? Isn’t the City responsible if water or sewer lines break or fail?: The City is responsible only for its portion of the lines. For water lines, the City’s responsibility ends at the curb stop, which is located between 5 and 15 feet from the street. For sewer, it ends at the main, a much longer distance from a home and could require excavation into the street, which can be more costly to repair.

9. What could go wrong with my water and sewer lines?: Age, ground shifts, fluctuating temperature and tree root penetration are among the most common factors that can damage or break lines. Household sewer lines also may become clogged by flushing inappropriate items down toilets or drains.

10. How often do these problems happen in Edina?: The City averages about 180 calls a year for water and sewer line problems. More than half end up being the homeowner’s responsibility. This number does not include every incident because some sewer problems, such as tree root intrusion or line repairs, are done on the private side of lines without City knowledge. We encourage people to call Edina Public Works first, but it doesn’t always happen.

11. I have copper pipes. Don't those last forever?: No, copper pipes don’t last forever. The industry life expectancy of a copper service line is 50 years.

12. Doesn’t my homeowner’s insurance already cover this?: You should check your policy or with your agent. While some homeowner’s policies cover water and sewer lines, others don’t.

13. What’s the average cost when there is a problem?: Costs can vary greatly, but the average cost for a water service line repair is about $1,200 to $1,500. If lines need replacing, the average cost is $2,000 to $3,000, according to Public Works. Sewer line repairs can be much more expensive because a street repair may be involved.

14. I live in Edina, but get water service from Minneapolis. Can I still sign up?: Yes. The program applies to all Edina residents.

15. How much is the monthly fee?: SLWA is charging Edina residents $5.75 per month for the water service line warranty, up to $7.75 per month for the sewer line warranty and $6.99 a month for the in-home plumbing warranty. These are separate warranties, so people can chose which, if any, they want to purchase.

16. If I sign up, will the cost be added to my utility bill?: No. All payments go to SLWA. Where to send the payments is included in the information from SLWA.

17. Does the City get any of the warranty fees?: Yes. The City receives 50 cents a month per policy. That money will be used to increase the level of service that a homeowner receives from the City of Edina when encountering a sewer backup.

18. Can you tell me about what’s covered and what’s excluded? What are the coverage caps?: Specific coverage questions should be directed to SLWA. You can call the company at 1-866-922-9006 or check the website, slwofa.com. Some coverage details also were included in the mailings.

19. Do I have to sign up by the deadline listed on the letters?: No. The company put a deadline on the letters, but people are able to sign up later. Of note, in most cases coverage does not begin until 30 days after signing up.

20. What if I have more questions about the warranty program?

SLWA has a list of frequently asked questions about its warranty programs. Or call SLWA at 1-866-922-9006.

What if I have more questions about the City’s water and sewer lines?

Please contact the Public Works Department at 952-826-0376.

21. How did the warranty company get my address?: As part of the City’s endorsement agreement, the City gave SLWA the addresses. Those are a matter of public record and could be obtained by anyone at any time.

22. Will the company be selling my address to other insurance companies or third parties?: No. SLWA states it does not sell its customer lists.

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Skate School

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1. What class should I register my child for?

New skaters, starting at age 3, should register for Snowplow Sam 1. After passing this introductory class, skaters advance through four progressive levels where kids enjoy fun and games while building their confidence in skating. Skaters then transition to Basic Skills levels 1-6 where they start building a strong foundation of fundamentals including agility, balance, coordination and speed.

Instructors evaluate skaters near the end of the session and give you a report card that indicates which level to register for the next session. Mastery skills for each class level can be found at learntoskateusa.com.

Click here for our skate class progression flow chart

Children in 1st Grade and older with or without skate experience should start in Basic 1 and progress through all six levels.

2. What if the class I want to register for indicates a wait list?: Complete the registration and your name will be added to the wait list. This process can be completed for multiple classes. We do our best to accommodate as many skaters as possible.

3. What is the cancellation/refund policy?: Full refunds are given only when a class is cancelled by Braemar Arena or if requested five business days prior to the start of a class. Refund requests will be assessed a $5 administration fee. Partial credit will be considered if a cancellation is due to injury or serious illnesses.

4. What should I do if I receive an error message that states "child does not meet age requirements"?: First, check that your child's birthday is correct in your account profile and that he/she is the right age for the class. If you are still unable to register, call 952-833-9506 and register over the phone.

5. Are skates available for rent?

Yes, $5 per rental

They are available for $5 per rental. We have figure skates in youth sizes 8 through adult size 11. Hockey skates are available in youth sizes 3 through adult size 14. Skates are for use on the premises only.

6. If I miss a class, can I make it up later?: To maintain established ratios, make-up lessons are not available.

7. What should my skater wear to class?

Your skater should wear comfortably fitting snow pants, a jacket, gloves and a helmet.

8. Will the fee be prorated if I register late or miss a class?: We do not prorate late registrations or complete refunds for missed classes.

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Southwest Television - Producers, Software, Etc.

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1. How do I submit program on Southwest Television?

Forms for program submission can be accessed online as can the SWSCC Policies and Procedures page. Reading through the policies will likely answer most, if not all, of your questions. The majority of questions asked are answered on pages 4–6 and have to do with Drop-Off Procedures and Scheduling of Programming. If you choose to submit programs electronically, it’s a one-step process under the Forms section of this website.

Each program submitted in DVD form for playback on SWTV’s Public Access Channel must be accompanied by a Public Cablecast Request Form. An Educational Cablecast Request Form should accompany SWTV’s Education programming.

The Edina Playback Facility partners with the City of Bloomington to provide producers with resources such as a studio and video production equipment. Those interested should contact Bloomington Community Access Television (BCAT) at 952-563-4980.

2. I see bulletins running in between programming. May I submit an informational graphic for broadcast?: Please do! Utilizing our video bulletin board is a great way for a Public Access Producer to promote a television show, or for a resident of the Southwest Suburbs to promote a community event or bring awareness to an organization. Graphics can be in .png or .jpg format and should be 800 pixels wide by 600 pixels high. Please avoid using decorative fonts and overly saturated colors. The Edina Playback Facility reserves the right to request changes. No commercial advertising allowed.

3. Will Edina Playback Facility (EPF) create a video bulletin graphic for me?: Unfortunately, the Edina Playback Facility does not have the staff available to assist residents and program producers in the creation or modification of bulletin slides. We will notify the public online should that policy change.

4. You recommend MPEG Streamclip to convert my DVD to a file that can be uploaded. Is this the only program I can use?

The process by which you convert a DVD to a file is called ripping a DVD, and there are many programs you can use to do it. A quick search for download software rip DVD program should yield you a number of options.

The reason that Public Access Producers are encouraged to use MPEG Streamclip is because it's cheap, (and often free), to install and set up, it has the ability to export files that conform to our required file specifications, and it's the program that is used at the Edina Playback Facility. This consistency allows us to better assist you in the process of converting, or ripping, your DVD should you need guidance.

5. I use a Mac. MPEG Streamclip tells me I need the MPEG2 Playback Component. What now?: In the same way that PCs require the installation of Quicktime Alternative 1.81 for MPEG Streamclip to work, Macs typically require the installation of the MPEG2 Playback Component to work. You will need to purchase it and install it. Please contact the Community TV Administrator for installation instructions as they are contingent upon your OS (952-826-0359 is our department number).

6. I just export my program file directly from my editing software. Is this ok?: Absolutely, this is ok. Make sure your export settings match the file specifications required by our cablecast servers here at the Edina Playback Facility.

7. It takes a very long time to upload my program file. Is this normal?: The speed of your internet connection will largely determine the speed of your file upload. Using an online speed test can show you your download and upload speeds. (Be sure to choose the location nearest you when running the test.) A typical high speed residential connection may yield upload speeds of 5 Mbps or more. At a rate similar to this, a 1 GB file could be uploaded within a half an hour.

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Sustainability

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1. What is Sustainability?

Sustainability in Edina is encompassed in the City Council’s Values Statement: “As the Edina City Council, we are dedicated to building a sustainable environment where current and future generations benefit from clean air and water, climate and community resiliency, and access to nature.

We recognize that the City’s natural environment, and the health and quality of life of its residents are just as, or even more, important, than the financial factors. We will ensure that our policies, decisions and future plans have a positive impact on people and the planet, in addition to profit.”

2. How does sustainability fit in with existing City plans?

Edina’s Comprehensive Plan is updated every 10 years and represents the full list of City priorities and commitments. Read the Environment chapter of City of Edina’s 2018 Comprehensive Plan to learn about Edina’s history of sustainable commitments, existing conditions and challenges, and recommendations for the future.

Goals are arranged under the categories: Transportation & Land Use, Water & Wastewater, Buildings & Energy, Local Food & Agriculture, Green Space & Trees, Climate Health & Safety and Climate Economy.

Click here to read the plan!

3. What else has Edina done in terms of sustainability?

The City has existing plans and programs that incorporate sustainability principles:

4. Does Edina have a Community Solar Garden?: Yes! The City of Edina opened a Community Solar Garden on the roof of its Public Works Building in 2018. The Garden is fully subscribed and supports around 70 Edina homes. Learn more by visiting https://solsmart.org/communities/edina/ or by reading the Case Study: Edina Community Solar Garden.

5. How can I make my yard and outdoor community greener?: Visit the Forestry Division’s website here to learn more about invasive species and resources on lawn management. Watch this page for opportunities for natural area cleanups and tree giveaways. The Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources also offers resources for supporting pollinators and adding biodiversity to your yard. Hennepin County offers examples and additional tips for pollinator protection.

6. How does Edina support local renewable energy use?

Edina has been a SolSmart Gold Community since 2018. This means that the City has completed a review of its processes, codes, regulations so that residents and businesses have a streamlined process for going solar.

Edina also has a Community Solar Garden, on the roof of the Public Works building, with a total of 70 households subscribed to the array. This was possible in collaboration with Cooperative Energy Futures (an energy co-op) to manage the solar array and subscriptions. Visit the SolSmart site to read the case study and learn more!

7. Where do I sign up for renewable energy subscriptions or install a solar array on my property?: Visit the ‘For Residents’ section in the Buildings and Energy tab to see your options for renewable energy and how to be more energy efficient.

8. Does Edina have any electric vehicle chargers?: Edina has a growing network of electric vehicle charging stations. View the Plugshare map to see stations near you! The City additionally has a Green Fleet Policy that sets goals and metrics for city fleet replacements. This includes plans to increase municipal electric vehicles and corresponding charging infrastructure.

9. Does Edina have any Organics Collection?: Edina implemented an organics recycling program in 2020. If you are interested in getting a bin and joining the program or want to learn more about recycling, click here!

10. How is Edina managing water resources?: The Public Works Department works with water, sewer, and stormwater to effectively coordinate water systems. Visit this link to learn more! Additionally, the Engineering Department manages flood protection, runoff management, and clean water services, visit their page here to learn more and see what water resources are available.

11. How can I get involved?

Visit VolunteerEdina to see what volunteer opportunities are open!

Consider hosting a community meeting to introduce Edina's CAP and agree on actions your community can take.

Click here to check out the Resource box on the right-hand side of the site, called “Host a CAP-in-a-box at your next community meeting!”

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Tree Protection Ordinance

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1. Why does the City have a tree protection ordinance?: The goal of the ordinance is to protect well-established and healthy trees and preserve the nature, character and beauty provided by Edina’s tree canopy for generations to come. The ordinance also accounts for and mitigates the loss of trees and wildlife habitat on sites of development and redevelopment.

2. How does this ordinance help meet the goals of the City’s Climate Action Plan?: Protecting and improving Edina’s trees helps reduce heat island effects, stormwater runoff, air pollution and contributes to a reduction in energy use by buildings adjacent to them.

3. Who must comply with the tree protection ordinance?: Homeowners, other property owners and developers must comply with the updated tree protection ordinance.

4. When is a tree protection plan and Residential Tree Protection Permit required?

A tree protection plan and Residential Tree Protection Permit is required for:

Demolition permits
Grading permits
Subdivision applications
Building permit applications for principal and accessory structures, including a garage, deck or pool
Additions

5. What must be included in a tree protection plan?: The plan must indicate where all trees are located and their species, caliper and health. If a critical root zone must be disturbed for construction or related activity, a plan to mitigate it must be submitted and approved by the City Forester.

6. Where do I find a Residential Tree Protection Permit?: The Residential Tree Protection Permit is in our ePermits system.

7. What is a “protected tree"?

A protected tree is any tree that is structurally sound and healthy and is either:

a deciduous tree that is at least 5 inches diameter at breast height, except box elders, poplar, willow, silver maple, black locust, fruit tree, ash or mulberry; or
a coniferous tree that is at least 15 feet in height.

8. What is a “heritage tree"?: A heritage tree is a protected one above 30 inches diameter at breast height (deciduous) or taller than 30 feet (coniferous).

9. What is a “critical root zone"?

The critical root zone is the minimum area around a tree that is to be left undisturbed. It is calculated by measuring the tree’s diameter at breast height (dbh). For every 1 inch of a tree’s diameter, 1.5 feet of root zone radius must be protected.

For example, if a tree’s dbh is 10 inches, then its critical root zone is 15 feet.

10. Can a protected tree be removed?

In some cases, yes. If it is approved for removal, it must be replaced with trees equal to at least 75 percent of the diameter in inches at breast height (dbh) for deciduous or of the height in feet (coniferous).

Replacement trees must be of species of a similar type and at least 3.5 inches in caliper dbh (deciduous) or 8 feet tall (coniferous).

Failure to replace protected trees on a site results in a cost of $300 per inch below 75% of the dbh removed for deciduous trees or $300 per foot below 75% of the foot height removed for coniferous trees.

11. Can a heritage tree be removed?

In some cases, yes. If it is approved for removal, it must be replaced with trees equal to at least 100 percent of the diameter at breast height (dbh) for deciduous or of the height in feet (coniferous) and subject to conditions.

Replacement trees must be of species of a similar type and at least 4.5 inches dbh for deciduous trees or 10 feet tall for coniferous trees.

Failure to replace heritage trees on a site results in a cost of $500 per inch below 100% of the dbh removed for deciduous trees or $500 per foot below 100% of the foot height removed for coniferous trees.

12. What happens if protected or heritage trees were removed before an application is submitted?: If protected or heritage trees were removed within one year prior to the date of development, subdivision application, demolition, grading or building permit applications were submitted, the rules for replacement still apply.

13. What is the financial guarantee?: A cash escrow or letter of credit in the amount of 110 percent of the value of the tree replacement identified in the tree protection plan is required.

14. When do I get the financial guarantee money refunded?

The financial security will be released on this schedule:

After the certificate of occupancy has been issued and the City Forester has approved that the Tree Protection Plan has been met, the Forester will inspect the site and calculate the fee owed based on how much trees are preserved or replaced. Half of the original escrow or line of credit, minus this fee, will be released.
36 months after the certificate of occupancy has been issued, the applicant must submit a landscape review by a certified arborist indicating planted and preserved trees are still healthy. If any trees are unhealthy, the certified arborist can replace them onsite and the second half of the financial guarantee (minus the fees above) will be released. If the applicant doesn't replace the trees onsite, the City will keep this half of the financial security.

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Utilities

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1. What is the quality of Edina’s water?

The City of Edina produces a Consumer Confidence Report annually to inform its customers of the quality of the City's drinking water. The goal of the City’s Consumer Confidence Report is to provide information to customers about Edina’s drinking water without confusion or alarm. The City’s intent is to advance consumers’ understanding of drinking water, heighten awareness of the need to protect water resources and enhance the image of the professionals operating the City’s water system.

The City of Edina produces and mails its annual report in June of each year as part of the Public Works Pipeline newsletter.

For more information, contact Public Works Coordinator Dave Goergen by calling 952-826-0312, or Utilities Supervisor Nate Kaderlik at 952-826-0316

2. What is the hardness of Edina water and what is the recommended setting for my water softener?: Edina water has approximately 17-20 grains of hardness. The Utility Division of the Public Works Department recommends setting your softener to obtain 3 to 4 grains of hardness. For a very small percentage of our community, the Morningside water comes from the City of Minneapolis and does not need to be softened.

3. Sometimes my water smells like bleach. Why? Is that harmful? What can I do to rid the water of that smell?: The City uses recommended amounts of chlorine to remove microorganisms from the water. Edina maintains its chlorine level between .05 and .08 parts per million. We test the water every day to make sure the levels are within national regulation guidelines. This level of chlorine is not harmful, but may smell offensive to individuals. An easy solution is to keep a container of water stored in your refrigerator. The chlorine gas dissipates very quickly, leaving no odor.

4. My family from out of state says my water tastes different. Can that be true?: Yes. Whenever you go to other areas of the state or country, water can taste different because of different treatment processes or minerals that might be contained in the water.

5. I want my water tested. Where do I take it?: The City of Edina and the Minnesota Department of Health conduct all the water testing required by the Safe Drinking Water Act to maintain safe drinking water in our community. Results are printed annually in the summer edition of Public Works Pipeline. If you desire further testing, please call a private testing laboratory. Search for “water analysis” or “laboratories-analytical”. In order to test water, you need to know for what you want it tested. For more information call 952-826-0375.

6. I have orange spots on my white laundry. Are the clothes ruined?: There can be iron particles in your water that pass through the City’s filtration system and even your water softener. If you get orange spots or if the laundry is slightly discolored, it can be fixed, as long as you don’t dry the clothes first. There is a product that the City distributes at no charge called “Rover”. Rover is a powder form of rust remover. You can pick it up at City Hall located at 4801 West 50th Street or at the Public Works building located at 7450 Metro Boulevard.

7. Is “biodegradable” material “flushable” material?: There are only 3 things that should be flushed down a toilet. These are toilet paper, urine and feces. When grease, paper towels, wipes, rags, diapers or other “sanitary” items are flushed into the sanitary system they create clogs, which in turn cause sewer back-ups.

8. When does the City flush the fire hydrants?

To purge rust and stagnant water from the water distribution system and identify hydrants in need of maintenance, the Utilities Division of the City of Edina's Public Works Department will flush hydrants for two weeks in May. Random hydrants are also flushed throughout the year as weather and water demand allows.

Hydrant-flushing will take place 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. In an attempt to minimize the impact on residents, hydrants will be flushed on the east side of Minnesota Highway 100 the first week and on the west side of the Highway the second week.

Due to the hydrant flushing, it is inevitable that some residents will receive rust-colored water that could stain laundry, but it is safe to drink. You should check for signs of discoloration prior to washing clothes. If the water is discolored when you turn on your tap, simply run the water until it is clear. Because the water system is a “single-pressure zone,” it is possible that red water problems will occur in any area of the City while flushing is occurring.

9. How long does it take after flushing hydrants for my water to run clear?: Generally, after flushing, it takes two to six hours for the iron particles, which are heavier than water, to settle out of the water. It may help to turn your cold water on medium pressure in your laundry tub until the water clears up. Since the Utilities Department flushes from 7 a.m. until about 2:30 or 3 p.m., it is a good idea to wait until early evening to do laundry. Always run a little water in your laundry tub first to make sure the water is running clear.

10. Why do you flush all the hydrants on my street? Wouldn’t one or two suffice?

We try to operate every hydrant in the City once a year to see if there are any maintenance related issues that may need attention.

For more information regarding hydrant flushing, call the Utilities Division at 952-826-0375.

11. I had water shooting up out of my lower-level toilets and a sewer gas smell. What happened? Who's going to clean it up?

The City's Utilities Department cleans sewer main lines using a high-pressure water sprayer. While conducting this activity, our machine can create positive and negative pressures in the sewer line.

These pressures are normally released through the manholes and the roof vents on the house’s sewer line. If the house’s vent line is obstructed, the pressures will take the path of least resistance. This path can be through your floor drain or toilet. Air is the only thing that gets released. However, it will move any standing water in its path and release sewer gas into your home.

This is not a common occurrence, but does occasionally happen. Putting water in all of the drains in your house (especially lower-level floor drains) will stop the further release of sewer odor into your home. Clean-up is typically minor and is left to the home owner. Keeping your sewer and vent line clean will help prevent this from happening and minimize the chances of a backup caused from a blockage. After cleaning your sewer line, please call the City's Utilities Department so staff can make sure the debris from your line won't block the main sewer line.

12. What should I do if there is water bubbling out of the street or from my yard?: Call the City Utility Department at 952-826-0375 or the Edina Police Department’s non-emergency number at 952-826-1610. Maintenance staff will come to the site of the leak and determine if it is a water main or service line leak and who is responsible for the repair (the City or the homeowner).

13. What is the difference between a water main and a service line?: A water main brings water in a large diameter pipe from the water filtration plants and wells to the street in front of your home or business. Your service line is connected to the City main in the street. The valve is seven feet underground and can only be accessed (and turned on or off) with a special wrench used by the Utility Department. We turn your water off at this “curb stop” when you request your water be shut off for a plumber to make repairs and also to determine if a water leak is on the City (main) side or the homeowner’s (service) line.

14. Does the City of Edina have watering restrictions?: Yes. Please view the Watering Restrictions page for more details.

15. What happens when a sewer backs-up?: Please view the Sanitary Sewer Program page for more details.

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Utilities - TCE

Show All Answers

1. What is TCE?: According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE) and trichloroethane (TCA) are the most frequently detected volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) in ground water in the United States. Due to its unique properties and solvent effects, TCE has been widely used as an ingredient in industrial cleaning solutions and as a “universal” degreasing agent.

2. What are the health concerns of TCE in drinking water?: In 2013, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) conducted a toxicological review of TCE in drinking water. MDH concluded that the main health concerns from exposure to TCE at the lowest exposures are immune system effects such as immunosuppression or autoimmune disease, including hypersensitivity; an increased chance of cancer from long-term exposure; and heart defects in the developing fetus if the pregnant mother is exposed in the first trimester. Other health effects related to TCE are observed only at higher exposures.

3. What amount of TCE in drinking water is safe?

4. Does Edina have dangerous levels of TCE in its drinking water?

No!

There is currently no TCE above the MDH Health-Based Value in Edina’s water after it has been treated at the City’s water treatment plants.

TCE has sometimes been detected at the “raw water line” and mitigated before entering the public distribution system.

5. Where is the TCE coming from?: The MPCA and EPA have been working since the early 2000s on groundwater contamination in St. Louis Park. A plume of contamination has extended into Edina.

In October 2003, Edina Well No. 7, a seasonal well, was shut down and not turned on again until Water Treatment Plant No. 6 was constructed.

6. Should I be concerned about the Washington D.C.-based Environmental Working Group’s report showing TCE in Edina’s drinking water?

No!

All of the City’s drinking water for distribution has been at or below the federal limit for TCE. Water pumped out of the ground might have TCE in it, but it is treated and safe before distribution.

Further, the Environmental Working Group’s website acknowledges that the City has conducted work on TCE remediation in tap water and Edina is in compliance with legally mandated federal standards. View its website at https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/system.php?pws=MN1270011#.W1jDdNVKhhF.

7. Does the City do anything to reduce the level of TCE in its water?

Yes!

In 2012, the City opened Water Treatment Plant No. 6 at 5116 Brookside Ave. The plant, which treats 4 of the City’s 18 wells, is equipped with an aeration system designed to filter out vinyl chloride and other VOCs like TCE. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency paid for the design of the plant. The City also worked with the Minnesota Department of Health on the project.

8. The Environmental Working Group's report references results of tests in 2011-2015. Can I view more recent tests?: Yes, you can view testing data from March 2010-June 2018 (PDF).

9. Where can I get more information?

For more information on drinking water in Edina, read the recent issue of Public Works Pipeline (PDF), which includes the City’s annual drinking water report.

For more information on TCE in drinking water, visit the state's Department of Health's Trichloroethylene (TCE) and Your Health page.

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Utility Billing

Show All Answers

1. Why is my water usage increasing?: Why is my water usage increasing (PDF)

2. I just bought a house in Edina and have received an outstanding water bill. Do I have to pay this bill if I didn’t use the water?

A water bill is considered a lien against the property. Your real estate agent and/or title company should inform you of any outstanding water bills during the purchasing process, or you can contact Utility Billing for that information.

When buying or selling a home in Edina, residents are required fill out a Start or Stop Request form located under Utility Billing department. When selling your home, we request the date of closing, a forwarding address, and new owners name (if information is known). A final read is performed on the service address and a closing bill is mailed to the seller. Contact your real estate agent who can work with the previous owner’s agent to take care of the outstanding bill.

If these remedies do not work, the bill must be paid by current homeowner.

3. How often am I billed?: Edina water customers are billed quarterly for amounts used and recorded by their water meters. Quarterly water bills also include charges for sanitary sewer services and storm drainage.

4. Is water billed by the quantity used?

Utility charges are based on a flat minimum charge. That minimum charge guarantees the water service and provides a minimum amount of water depending on the land use.

See the City of Edina utility rates.

5. Is financial assistance available to help pay my utility bill?: Yes. The Energy Assistance Program provides help for Hennepin County residents. Learn more and apply online or call 952-930-3541 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

6. How do I get in touch with another utility company?

Other utilities not provided by the City include:

Cable Television: Comcast/Xfinity is currently the only company that provides cable services in Edina. To arrange for service or report a problem, call Comcast at 612-522-2000.
Electricity: Contact Xcel Energy at 800-895-4999.
Gas: Call CenterPoint Energy at 612-372-4727.
Telephone: CenturyLink provides basic telephone services in Edina. To arrange for residential service, call 866-963-6665. To report a problem with your home telephone service, call 877-837-5738.

7. What if I have further questions?

For more information, call the City's Utility Billing Division at 952-826-0373.

For emergency water or sewer service, call 952-826-0375 from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

For emergency water or sewer service after hours, call 952-826-1600.

8. My building is required to comply with Edina’s Efficient Buildings Ordinance. How do I get my building’s prior year water use from the City so I can enter it into Energy Star Portfolio Manager?

The City of Edina amended its Efficient Building Ordinance in Fall, 2021. Beginning in 2022, compliant buildings must report water use through Energy Star Portfolio Manager in addition to energy. This is an annual requirement and meter readings must be manually added each year.

Ways to retrieve water readings from the prior calendar year:

Register for e-billing, and check your usage there. Visit https://www.edinamn.gov/354/Utility-Billing to register or log in. Water bills and reports show usage in thousand gallons (75=75 thousand gallons).
Without registering, visit https://www.invoicecloud.com/portal/(S(rbqhbm4vd5z1iqqzouoriscx))/2/Site2.aspx?G=421fc6d7-96fe-4993-8b68-850afd582bee
1. Click “Pay Now” (no need to register)
2. Enter Customer # and Account # to see billing history
Contact the Utility Billing Department to request a report of your prior year’s water readings by emailing [email protected] or calling 1-844-476-3107.
1. Make the request using the property address required to comply with the Efficient Buildings Ordinance. This ensures you receive water usage for all meters associated with that address, including indoor and outdoor water use.
2. Make the request for the four quarterly water readings that occurred in the calendar compliance year (i.e. quarterly read dates in 2021).
  - You will receive an excel report with all meter readings for your property address related to the calendar year. You may have a water and an irrigation meter, both sets of readings should be submitted to Energy Star Portfolio Manager.
  - You will submit the amounts in the “Billed Usage” column. Remember, the unit is thousand gallons (a “billed usage” value of 75 equals 75 thousand gallons).
3. FYI: Some water meters include two water readings for one quarter, one for “high compound flow” and one for “low compound flow” – these readings should be added together for submission to Energy Star Portfolio Manager (ex: one meter high comp reading = 75, low reading = 25 for February, 2021. The input into Energy Star Portfolio Manager would be 100 for this quarter).

Have other questions or need assistance to enter your water usage into Energy Star Portfolio Manager? Contact the Efficient Buildings Help Desk Monday through Friday from 9am to 6pm CT via email [email protected], phone (866) 614-7542, or appointment https://energyreporting.as.me/.

9. Can I receive a bill adjustment for filling a hockey rink?: Previously, the winter quarter average water consumption set the sewer charge for residents for the year. This led to customer complaints, particularly when winter quarter water consumption exceeded consumption in the other billing cycles. Now in 2023, the City bills all sewer on the lesser of winter quarter average or actual consumption, but not less than the minimum of 8,000 gallons. Therefore, the City will no longer offer sewer adjustments for customers that choose to consume water to fill hockey rinks on their property during the winter quarter.

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Utility Billing Changes for 2023

Show All Answers

1. At a glance, how will my bill change?

The City of Edina has new fees and rates for water, sewer, stormwater, meters and connections effective Jan. 1, 2023. Notably, the tiered rate structure for water use has changed for many property types (how the price per 1,000 gallons is calculated), except for Morningside and Multifamily customers who will be charged a flat rate per unit of 1,000 gallons. Depending on your property type, your quarterly bills may decrease if you are a low-volume consumer of water or increase if you are a medium- or high-volume consumer.

Later in 2023, the City plans to begin using new billing software, resulting in changes to how your bill looks.

2. Will this change how I pay my bill?: No, this will not change or affect how you pay your bill. No action is required by customers, and all methods of payment have stayed the same.

3. Why did utility fees and rates change?

The fee and rate changes result from a utility rate study (PDF) initiated by the City and conducted by the City’s financial advisor, Ehlers & Associates, to meet the following goals:

Recover the costs of operating and maintaining the utility system
Pay for reinvestments in the aging utility system and expand system capacity
Incentivize water conservation in support of the Climate Action Plan (PDF)
Make water and sewer more affordable for lower-volume customers

4. What are the water and sewer changes?

Water Tiered Rate Structure

Adjustments to the tiered water rate structure for many properties where low-volume residential customers will pay less and medium and high-volume customers will pay a higher fee for each unit of 1,000 gallons of water

Sewer

Rate Increase
The rate for sewer increased from $6.30 to $6.86 per unit of 1,000 gallons.
Residential Customers
The sewer charge for residential customers is now based on the metered water use in the winter billing quarter or actual, whichever is lesser, but not less than the new minimum of 8,000 gallons.
Multifamily, Commercial/Industrial and Sewer-Only Customers
The sewer charge for multifamily, commercial/industrial and sewer-only customers is now based on actual metered water usage or a minimum of 8,000 gallons.

5. What are the changes to connection fees?

Connection Fees

Stormwater, meter and water connection fees increased 3-8% over 2022 rates.
The Sewer Access Connection (SAC) fee imposed by the City and paid by developers for new connections to the sewer system associated with new developments increased by 28% over the 2022 rate.

6. Why did commercial/industrial water rates decrease?: The commercial/industrial rates were changed for two reasons. The first is the overall revenue generated by commercial customers to be proportionate to the demands they place on the system as measured by the proportion of water used by commercial/industrial customers. The second reason is that most commercial customers have irrigation meters. For residential customers, the City wanted to send price signals to conserve water primarily by using less water for irrigation. Since residential customers don’t have separate irrigation meters, that price signal needed to be incorporated into the overall residential rate structure by tightening the tiers. Since commercial customers have separate irrigation meters, the price signal gets incorporated into the irrigation rate structure.

7. Did Morningside water rates change?: The Morningside area will continue to be charged a flat rate per unit of 1,000 gallons. The 2023 rate is $4.58 per 1,000 gallons, billed quarterly.

8. What will the new bill look like?: The City will begin using new billing software in early 2023, which will result in a new bill layout. Your bill will look different than in the past. All customers will be mailed a “Know Your Bill” document before the new system launches. It will be a helpful guide for understanding your new utility bill.

9. How do I switch to paperless billing?

After logging into your account, from the homepage, click "Paperless." Next, click the "Yes" radio button and read and check the box agreeing to Invoice Cloud's terms and conditions. Finally, click "Save my changes." Paperless billing will now be enabled.

Once you are signed up for paperless billing, all communications are through email. This includes notices of when a credit card needs to be updated. Please check your junk mail for emails from Invoice Cloud and add them to your contacts.

10. Who should I contact with questions?: If you have questions regarding utility fees and rates, please contact Utility Billing at 952-826-0373 or [email protected].

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