Minnesota Disability Renter Parking Rights: Accessible Parking Explained

Securing accessible and adequate parking can be a crucial issue for tenants with disabilities in Minnesota. This article explains your rights to parking accommodations, how to request changes, and the landlord's responsibilities under state and federal law.

Your Rights to Accessible Parking as a Minnesota Renter

In Minnesota, both state and federal laws require landlords to provide or reasonably accommodate requests for accessible parking if you have a qualifying disability. These laws help ensure equal access to housing and associated facilities, such as parking lots.

• Reasonable Accommodation: Landlords are required to make "reasonable accommodations" for tenants with disabilities. This may mean assigning an accessible parking space, re-striping a spot, or posting signage if needed for your disability.
• Federal protections exist under the Fair Housing Act, which applies to most rental properties.
• Minnesota law also affirms these rights under the Minnesota Human Rights Act (Chapter 363A.10) and Minnesota Statutes - Landlord and Tenant (504B.161).

Communicating clearly and using the appropriate forms will help protect your rights and start the accommodation process.

How to Request a Parking Accommodation

Tenants with disabilities have the right to ask for parking accommodations. Landlords can require reasonable documentation of your need, but cannot ask about your diagnosis or specifics beyond what’s necessary to support the request.

• Submit a written request specifying the required accommodation (e.g., accessible spot, closer location, signage).
• Provide documentation from a medical provider if requested (but only to the extent needed for the accommodation).

Recommended Form: Reasonable Accommodation Request

• Form Name: Reasonable Accommodation Request (no standard state form; typically a written letter or email)
• When to Use: As soon as you need a modification, submit this to your landlord. For example, "I have a mobility disability and am requesting a reserved accessible parking spot. My healthcare provider can confirm this need if required."
• How to Use: There is no official Minnesota government form, but you can use sample templates from reputable sources such as the Minnesota Department of Human Rights. Ensure your request is dated, signed, and clearly states your needs.

What Landlords Can and Cannot Do

After your request, landlords must reply promptly, discuss possible accommodations, and may not charge extra rent or fees. However, they can deny a request if it creates an "undue hardship" or if it is not directly related to the disability.

• Landlords do not have to create entirely new parking if none exists, but must accommodate within what is available.
• They cannot refuse based on insurance or general inconvenience.
• Retaliation or harassment for making a request is prohibited under Minnesota law.

If your request is denied, you have the right to appeal or file a complaint.

How to File a Formal Complaint

If a landlord fails to provide a reasonable parking accommodation, you can file a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

• Form Name: Minnesota Human Rights Housing Discrimination Intake Form
  When to Use: If your written accommodation request is denied or ignored, fill out this form to begin the investigation process.
  How to Use: Complete the form on the MDHR Intake Portal and follow the provided instructions. Attach supporting documents such as your request letter and any landlord response.
• Official Tribunal: The Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) investigates discrimination and enforces renters' rights concerning accommodations.

FAQ: Minnesota Parking Accommodations for Renters with Disabilities

1. Can my landlord refuse to provide me with an accessible parking space?
   No. If you have a disability and valid need, landlords must provide a reasonable accommodation unless it causes undue hardship or is impossible based on the property set-up.
2. What type of documentation will I need to provide?
   You may need a brief note from a healthcare provider verifying your need for the parking accommodation. Landlords cannot ask for detailed medical records.
3. Is there a Minnesota government form for requesting disability parking accommodations?
   No standardized form exists. It’s best to send a clear, dated written request (by email or letter) and keep a copy for your records.
4. Does the law require new parking spots to be built?
   No, landlords must only provide reasonable accommodations with the spaces/structure already present, not create new parking areas.
5. Where can I get help if my landlord does not respond to my request?
   You can contact the Minnesota Department of Human Rights or the HUD Fair Housing hotline for guidance and complaint processes.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters in Minnesota

• You have a right to reasonable parking accommodations if you have a disability.
• Request in writing, keep all records, and provide only the medical proof required.
• Appeal through Minnesota's Department of Human Rights if your request is ignored or denied.

Understanding these steps can help you secure the accessible parking you need as a Minnesota renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Department of Human Rights: Housing Rights
• File a Discrimination Complaint (MDHR)
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process
• Legal Help for Minnesotans with Disabilities (LawHelpMN)

---

1. Minnesota Human Rights Act (Chapter 363A.10)
2. Minnesota Statutes 504B.161 Residential Tenant Rights
3. HUD: Reasonable Accommodations for Parking

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations