Minnesota Rent Control Laws: What Renters Need to Know

Rent control and rent stabilization have become major topics in Minnesota as rents rise in many cities. Minnesota renters wondering about new protections, proposed legislation, or how to deal with major rent increases can benefit from understanding the current landscape and what's on the horizon. This article breaks down Minnesota’s rent control situation, including recent votes, existing tenant protections, government forms, and resources for support.

Current Landscape and Recent Changes in Minnesota

Minnesota does not have statewide rent control. However, local governments can put rent stabilization policies in place if voters approve. In recent years, some cities have considered, passed, or amended rent control measures.

• St. Paul: In November 2021, voters approved a rent stabilization ordinance capping rent increases at 3% annually for most units. Adjustments and amendments have since followed. See St. Paul's Rent Stabilization Program.
• Minneapolis: In 2023, the city authorized a framework to bring rent stabilization to a future ballot. No citywide rent cap is yet in effect.

Outside these cities, Minnesota property owners can generally set rent as they wish, as long as they follow state law for notice of increases and fair housing rules. Read the Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 504B: Landlord and Tenant Law.

What Future Legislation Could Mean for Renters

Several bills have been proposed in the Minnesota Legislature to allow more cities to pursue rent control or to create additional renter protections. While not yet law, developments at the state and city level could:

• Expand rent caps or rent stabilization measures in more communities
• Adjust how and when landlords can increase rent
• Increase tenant rights around notice for rent increases

To get the latest updates on legislative progress, visit the Minnesota House Housing Committee.

How Rent Increases Work in Minnesota

If you're renting outside a city with local rent control, landlords generally may raise rent after a lease ends, but must provide proper written notice. Minnesota law mandates:

• Month-to-month leases: At least 1 full rental period written notice before increasing rent
• Fixed-term leases: Rent cannot be increased until the lease term ends, unless the contract says otherwise

If you believe a rent increase is unlawful or discriminatory, you may file a complaint with your local city housing department or the state’s tribunal handling rental disputes.

Key Minnesota Housing Forms for Renters

• Notice of Rent Increase (No official state form; see your city's housing department): Landlords must issue this written notice in compliance with state law. For city-specific forms and resources, visit the St. Paul Rent Stabilization page or contact your municipality.
• Complaint Form: Housing Discrimination (MDHR Discrimination Inquiry Form): Use this to report discrimination, such as if a rent increase is based on protected characteristics. Access the MDHR Discrimination Inquiry Form. Example: If a tenant believes their rent was raised because of their race, they can complete and submit this to the Minnesota Department of Human Rights.

How Residential Tenancies and Disputes Are Handled

The main body managing housing disputes in Minnesota is the Minnesota Judicial Branch – Housing Court, which resolves eviction actions, rent escrow disputes, and related tenant complaints.

Tip: If you're unsure whether your city has special rent stabilization rules, check with your local city hall or housing department for up-to-date details.

Staying Informed and Taking Action

The landscape for rent control in Minnesota is changing. Keeping informed about city measures and state bills is essential. Always read your lease and city notices carefully, and consult your city’s housing department for recent ordinances or required forms.

Frequently Asked Questions: Minnesota Rent Control

1. Does Minnesota have statewide rent control? No. Minnesota does not have a state-level rent control law, but cities like St. Paul have passed local rent stabilization measures.
2. How much notice does my landlord need to give before a rent increase? Landlords must provide at least one full rental period’s written notice for rent increases in month-to-month leases unless your city has stricter rules.
3. What should I do if I think a rent increase violates city rules? Contact your city’s housing office or file a complaint in housing court if you believe your landlord hasn’t followed local rent stabilization ordinances.
4. Where can I file a discrimination complaint about a rent increase? Submit a complaint to the Minnesota Department of Human Rights using the official online form.
5. Is there a government office I can turn to for rental dispute help? Yes, the Housing Court of the Minnesota Judicial Branch assists with most tenant-landlord disputes, including evictions and rent issues.

Key Takeaways for Minnesota Renters

• Rent control is only in effect in cities that pass local laws, like St. Paul
• All renters should receive at least a full rental period’s notice before rent increases unless local laws differ
• Use official city or state forms if you need to report discrimination or file a housing complaint

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• LawHelpMN – Renters' Rights: Plain-English guides and help for renters across Minnesota
• Minnesota Housing Court (Judicial Branch): File complaints, find forms, or get answers for rental disputes
• St. Paul Rent Stabilization Program: Updates, forms, and rules for St. Paul renters
• Minnesota Department of Human Rights: File a discrimination complaint online

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1. Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant Law
2. Official City of St. Paul Rent Stabilization Ordinance
3. Minnesota Housing Court (Judicial Branch)
4. MDHR Discrimination Inquiry Form

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