Minnesota Laws on Surveillance Cameras in Common Areas

If you rent an apartment or condo in Minnesota, you may notice surveillance cameras in common areas like lobbies, hallways, or laundry rooms. Understanding your privacy rights and what’s legally allowed can help you feel secure at home. This article explains Minnesota laws on surveillance cameras in shared spaces and guides you on action to take if you have concerns—as set out in Minnesota tenant legislation and privacy laws.

Understanding Surveillance in Common Areas

Landlords in Minnesota often use surveillance cameras for safety and property protection. Cameras in common areas (spaces shared by all residents) are generally permitted, but they must comply with important state privacy protections and rental laws.

• Common areas include hallways, lobby, mailrooms, laundry areas, parking lots, gyms, and shared entryways.
• Private areas such as inside your apartment, bathrooms, and changing areas are strictly off-limits for filming under state law.

Monitoring by video in private spaces—like inside your unit or a bathroom—is illegal.^[1] Cameras should never record private activities where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Minnesota Tenant Privacy and Surveillance Laws

Minnesota law does not have a specific statewide statute solely regulating cameras in rental common areas. However, two main legal frameworks offer renters protection:

• General tenant privacy and safety provisions under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant Law.
• Minnesota Privacy Law (Minn. Stat. § 609.746) prohibits any recording in places where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Landlords are legally allowed to install cameras in shared areas, as long as:

• The cameras do not record inside individual apartments or private spaces.
• They use the footage only for legitimate purposes (security, preventing vandalism, etc.).
• They comply with other applicable privacy or notice requirements under state or federal law.

Notice and Communication

Although Minnesota law does not require landlords to notify tenants before installing cameras in common areas, best practice is to disclose camera use in your lease agreement or building rules. If you are concerned about undisclosed cameras, open a conversation with your landlord.

What to Do If You Have Concerns About Surveillance

If you suspect hidden cameras in private areas or feel your privacy is being violated:

• Document your concerns (dates, locations, photos).
• Contact your landlord respectfully to ask about policies and camera placement.
• If the issue involves potential illegal surveillance, you may report it to local police or file a complaint with the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office.

How to File a Tenant Complaint in Minnesota

For issues related to surveillance, privacy, or landlord-tenant matters in Minnesota, you can:

• Speak directly with your landlord or property management.
• File a Tenant Remedy Action (Form HOU302) in Housing Court if your landlord refuses to address privacy or safety concerns.
  Download Tenant Remedy Action Form HOU302
• Submit supporting evidence like photos or written communication.

Example: If a camera is found in a bathroom or inside your unit, you may use Form HOU302 to ask the court for orders requiring the landlord to remove it and stop invading your privacy.

The Tribunal for Landlord-Tenant Disputes

All housing disputes in Minnesota are resolved by Minnesota Housing Court. They have the authority to order your landlord to stop illegal camera usage, remove equipment, or provide other relief.

Your Rights and Best Practices

State law is intended to balance safety with privacy for all renters:

• Landlords cannot use surveillance to monitor you inside your home or private areas.
• Cameras should enhance security—not invade personal privacy.
• If you see undisclosed or hidden cameras in common areas, reach out to your landlord for clarification and resolution.

Whenever you have concerns, keep records and know you have options to stand up for your rights in Minnesota.

FAQ: Surveillance Cameras and Your Rights in Minnesota

1. Can my landlord legally install cameras in hallways or laundry rooms?
   Yes, Minnesota landlords can install surveillance cameras in shared spaces such as hallways and laundry facilities, as long as they do not record inside private apartments or sensitive areas.
2. Does my landlord have to notify me about cameras in common areas?
   No state law specifically requires notice for common area cameras, but many landlords disclose this in the lease or building rules. Ask your landlord directly if cameras are installed.
3. What should I do if I find a hidden camera in my bathroom or bedroom?
   Remove yourself from the area, document your findings, and contact local law enforcement. Also, you may file a formal tenant complaint using Minnesota court forms.
4. How do I file an official complaint if my privacy is violated?
   You can file a Tenant Remedy Action (Form HOU302) with the Minnesota Housing Court and provide evidence of any privacy violations.
5. Are there penalties for landlords who break surveillance laws?
   Yes. Landlords who place cameras in private spaces could face civil penalties, court orders, or even criminal charges under Minnesota law.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Minnesota Renters

• Landlords may use surveillance cameras in common areas, not private areas.
• If you feel your privacy is violated, you can address it directly or through Housing Court using official forms.
• Minnesota balances tenant privacy and property security—know your rights and take action if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Attorney General’s Office – Tenant Complaints
• Minnesota Courts – Housing Court Forms & Information
• Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant Law
• Minnesota Housing Court (residential tenancy disputes)

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1. See: Minnesota Statutes Section 609.746 – Interference with Privacy
2. General landlord-tenant rules: Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B
3. Tenant Remedy Action form: Minnesota Courts Official Forms
4. Tribunal information: Minnesota Housing Court

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