After completing the declaration of outside employment form, who must grant permission for employees to earn income from outside employment?

The Chief is the appropriate authority responsible for granting permission for employees to earn income from outside employment. This aligns with the administrative structure and protocols of the Minneapolis Fire Department, which typically places the ultimate oversight of employee activities, including outside work, in the hands of the Chief. The Chief is tasked with ensuring that outside employment does not interfere with an employee's obligations and responsibilities to the department, maintaining operational readiness and ethics. This authority also ensures that any potential conflicts of interest are managed appropriately, safeguarding the integrity of the department and its personnel.

While other options like the City Manager, Human Resources Department, or Union Representative play vital roles in personnel matters or employee relations, the specific responsibility for approving outside employment ultimately resides with the Chief, making them the correct answer in this context.