Minnesota Rent Control Laws: 2025 Update for Renters

Renters in Minnesota often wonder if there are legal limits on how much their landlord can increase the rent. As of 2025, understanding where rent control exists—and where it doesn't—can make a real difference when facing rising housing costs or lease changes.

Where Does Rent Control Apply in Minnesota?

Minnesota does not have statewide rent control. However, some cities have passed local rent stabilization ordinances. Here's what renters should know:

• No Minnesota state law limits how much rent a landlord can charge or increase between leases.
• Cities are allowed to pass rent control, but only after voter approval. This became possible with changes to Minnesota Statutes § 471.9996.

As of 2025, St. Paul and Minneapolis are the main cities with ongoing rent stabilization discussions or policies, but these rules are specific to those locations and are subject to change. If you rent outside these cities, standard state law applies.

City-Level Rent Stabilization: St. Paul and Minneapolis

• St. Paul: Passed a rent stabilization ordinance, but it has been updated several times. In 2024, the city adopted a more flexible system, allowing annual rent increases up to 8% under some conditions. Learn more at the St. Paul Rent Stabilization Program.
• Minneapolis: The city continues to explore rent control policy following voter approval in 2021, but as of 2025, no firm ordinance is in effect. Check the Minneapolis Rent Control page for updates.

If you are unsure whether your building is covered, check your city’s website or contact your local housing department.

Can Landlords Raise Rent in Minnesota?

Most Minnesota landlords can raise rent without limit at the end of a lease, unless a local ordinance applies. However, there are important notice requirements:

• For a month-to-month lease, landlords must give written notice at least one full rental period before changing rent (typically 30 days).
• During a fixed-term lease, rent cannot be changed until renewal unless otherwise stated in your lease.

There is no official state form for rent increase notices—written notice is required, and local rules may be stricter. Always review the terms in your lease agreement and check if your city has any additional protections.

What About Eviction or Lease Termination?

If you refuse a legal rent increase and do not pay the new amount, your landlord may begin the eviction process. In Minnesota, evictions must follow Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant rules.

• Landlords must provide proper notice before filing for eviction.
• Renters can respond using the "Eviction Action Answer Form" (Eviction Action Answer Form). This form allows you to state your side of the story in housing court.

Example: If you get an eviction notice after a disputed rent increase, complete and submit the Eviction Action Answer Form before your court date.

Who Handles Rental Disputes?

In Minnesota, the Minnesota District Courts handle housing disputes and eviction cases. Many cities have additional local housing offices to assist renters with complaints or questions about rent stabilization.

Relevant Forms for Renters

• Eviction Action Answer Form (No. HOU102): Used by tenants to tell the court their defenses or explanations when facing eviction. Download and instructions here.
• St. Paul Rent Stabilization Complaint Form: For reporting violations of the city's rent stabilization law. View St. Paul complaint process.

Always use official city or court websites to access and file these forms. Some cities may have additional required documents for challenging unacceptable rent increases.

FAQ: Minnesota Rent Control and Rent Increases

1. Does Minnesota have rent control statewide in 2025?
   No, there is no statewide rent control, but certain cities like St. Paul have local rent stabilization rules.
2. How much notice must a landlord give before raising rent?
   For most month-to-month leases, at least one full rental period of written notice is required (often 30 days).
3. Where do I file a complaint if my landlord violates rent stabilization in St. Paul?
   You can use the official St. Paul Rent Stabilization Complaint Form through the city's website.
4. Can my landlord evict me if I dispute a rent increase?
   If you refuse to pay the new amount set in a valid notice, the landlord may begin eviction, but you can respond using the Eviction Action Answer Form.
5. Which laws cover tenant rights and rent changes in Minnesota?
   The main law is the Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B.

Key Takeaways for Minnesota Renters

• Minnesota has no statewide rent control, but some cities (like St. Paul) have local rent stabilization rules.
• Landlords must give proper notice of rent changes, and you have rights if facing an eviction.
• City-level rules may provide additional protections, so always check local ordinances.

Stay informed by checking city updates and Minnesota tenant laws for any changes affecting your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Attorney General's Landlord–Tenant Guide: Tenant rights, answers, and complaint info
• Minnesota Judicial Branch – Housing Court Forms
• St. Paul Rent Stabilization Program
• Minnesota Housing – Resources for Renters
• LawHelpMN: Tenants’ Rights Self-Help

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1. Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant
2. Minnesota Statutes § 471.9996 – Local Regulation of Rent Control
3. St. Paul Rent Stabilization Program
4. Minneapolis Rent Control Initiative Updates
5. Eviction Action Answer Form (Minnesota Judicial Branch)

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