Illegal Rental Advertisement Language in Minnesota: What Renters Should Know

Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Minnesota published: June 21, 2025 Flag of Minnesota

When searching for a rental, it’s crucial that every potential tenant in Minnesota is treated fairly. Rental ads must comply with state and federal fair housing laws. This review explains which types of language are illegal in Minnesota rental advertisements, what protections you have, and what steps to take if you notice discriminatory language in a listing.

What Does Discriminatory Language in Rental Ads Mean?

In Minnesota, both state and federal fair housing laws make it illegal for landlords or property managers to use advertisements that show preference, limitation, or discrimination based on protected characteristics. These laws are designed to ensure equal housing opportunity for everyone.

Protected Groups Under Minnesota Law

Advertisements may not indicate, directly or indirectly, any preference or limitation based on the following:

  • Race, color, or national origin
  • Religion
  • Sex, including gender identity and sexual orientation
  • Familial status (such as families with children or pregnant women)
  • Disability (including physical or mental impairments)
  • Marital status
  • Public assistance status
  • Creed

The Minnesota Human Rights Act also adds protections for sexual orientation, marital status, and status with regard to public assistance, expanding on federal protections.[1]

Examples: What Language Is Illegal in Minnesota Rental Advertising?

Some words or phrases are always illegal. Others may be illegal depending on context. Here are examples to help renters spot problematic ads:

  • "No children" or “adults only” (likely familial status discrimination)
  • "Ideal for single professionals" (may imply discrimination against families)
  • “Christian home” or “near synagogue preferred” (could be religious discrimination)
  • “Not Section 8” (illegal to refuse based on public assistance status in Minnesota)
  • “English speakers only” (national origin/language discrimination)
  • "No wheelchairs" or "Not handicap accessible" (disability discrimination)

General descriptions of the property (“no stairs,” “quiet building”) are allowed, as long as they are not used to discourage renters in protected groups.

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What Laws Apply to Rental Advertising in Minnesota?

Two major laws protect renters in Minnesota:

It’s illegal for anyone involved in the rental process (owners, agents, advertisers) to violate these laws.[2]

What Should Renters Do If They See Illegal Language?

If you believe a rental ad contains illegal, discriminatory language, you have the right to file a complaint. Minnesota provides official channels you can use, and strict timelines apply.

Filing a Fair Housing Complaint in Minnesota

  • Contact: Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR), which investigates housing discrimination cases.
  • Complaints must be filed within one year of the last discriminatory act.
  • You may choose to file at the federal level, but state processes often resolve complaints faster for Minnesota renters.

Relevant Official Forms

  • Housing Discrimination Intake Form
    Use: This form is used to start a complaint if you experience or observe discrimination (such as illegal language in a rental ad).
    How to File: Fill out the intake form online, by mail, or request paper forms.
    Access the Housing Discrimination Intake Form here.

After submitting, MDHR staff will contact you, discuss your experience, and outline next steps.

If you are in doubt about specific ad language, consult directly with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights. Their consultation is confidential and free.

What Happens Next?

The Department of Human Rights will:

  • Review your form for evidence of a possible violation
  • Investigate by contacting the advertiser or landlord
  • Work towards a resolution, which may include changes to advertising, education, or further penalties

Most renters are not required to hire a lawyer; MDHR will assist regardless of your legal experience or financial situation.

Understanding Tenancy Rights

In addition to anti-discrimination protections, Minnesota renters are covered under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B (Landlord and Tenant). This law regulates other rights and responsibilities—including notices, entry, evictions, and basic living standards.[3]

Official Body Handling Housing Complaints

Minnesota Department of Human Rights (Tribunal/Board) is the main state agency handling residential tenancy discrimination and fair housing investigations.

FAQs: Rental Ad Discrimination in Minnesota

  1. What words are always illegal in Minnesota rental listings?
    Phrases that state preferences or exclusions based on race, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or families with children are always illegal. Examples include “no kids,” “Christian tenants only,” or “must speak English.”
  2. Can landlords mention ‘no Section 8’ in ads?
    No. In Minnesota, it is illegal to refuse rental or make advertising decisions based on a tenant’s source of income, including Section 8 or other public assistance.
  3. What if the ad is vague, like ‘quiet building preferred’?
    Descriptive language about the property, such as “quiet building” or “second floor unit,” is allowed, provided it isn’t coded to exclude protected groups. Context matters—report unclear or suspicious ads for guidance.
  4. How do I report illegal rental ad language?
    File a complaint using the MDHR Housing Discrimination Intake Form. The state will review and follow up with you.
  5. Does the law apply to roommate ads?
    Generally, yes. However, exceptions exist for shared living situations where the owner-occupant is also residing on the property. Contact MDHR for specifics.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Minnesota Renters

  • If an ad directly or indirectly discriminates based on protected status, it is illegal in Minnesota.
  • The Minnesota Department of Human Rights investigates and resolves these complaints quickly and confidentially.
  • Knowing your rights can help you find safe, fair housing—and assist others in your community.

Stay aware of the law and use official resources to address unfair rental practices.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. See Minnesota Human Rights Act (Statute 363A).
  2. See Federal Fair Housing Act overview from HUD.
  3. See Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 504B: Landlord and Tenant for general tenant rights.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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