Minnesota Renters: Your Guide to Airbnb and Short-Term Sublets

Renters in Minnesota are increasingly curious about short-term subletting, especially through platforms like Airbnb. While hosting might seem like a good way to offset rent, Minnesota law sets important rules and responsibilities. Here’s what you need to know as a tenant considering—or facing—Airbnb and short-term sublets in your rental home.

Can You Sublet or List Your Rental on Airbnb in Minnesota?

Subletting your apartment, including using Airbnb or similar short-term platforms, depends on your lease terms and Minnesota state law. Minnesota law does not give tenants an automatic right to sublet; your lease agreement and landlord's permission are crucial.

• Most leases prohibit subletting or require written landlord consent.
• Listing your unit on Airbnb or other platforms without your landlord’s consent—if required—can lead to eviction or legal disputes.
• Even with permission, you may need to comply with Minnesota’s housing, zoning, or city-specific short-term rental rules.

Key Minnesota Laws on Subletting and Short-Term Rentals

• Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant governs residential leases, eviction, and subletting.
• Many cities (including Minneapolis and St. Paul) require short-term rental registration or licensing; renters should check local ordinances.
• Operating illegal rentals can violate lease terms and state or local laws.

Landlord Approval: Written Consent Is Typically Required

Unless your lease says otherwise, you need written approval from your landlord to sublet or operate an Airbnb. To formally request permission, you should:

• Send a written request to your landlord explaining your intent (short-term or regular sublet).
• Wait for written approval before listing on any platform or accepting guests.

Risks of Unapproved Airbnb or Short-Term Subletting

Listing your rental on Airbnb or similar platforms without landlord consent may be considered a lease violation. Potential consequences include:

• Eviction for breach of lease (Unlawful Detainer actions)
• Liability for property damage caused by guests
• Fines or legal penalties for breaking local short-term rental rules
• Loss of your security deposit

How Local Laws May Affect Airbnb Sublets

Many Minnesota cities—like Minneapolis and St. Paul—have specific licensing, permit, and occupancy rules renters must follow before hosting on Airbnb. Check with your city’s housing or zoning office before moving forward.

Essential Forms for Minnesota Renters

• Request for Landlord Consent to Sublet (Sample Letter)
  Renter writes a letter (no official form number) to request written approval for a sublet or Airbnb. For example, "I would like to sublet my apartment for [dates]. Would you be willing to give written approval?" Template sample and best practices can be found via the Minnesota Attorney General’s Landlord and Tenant Guide.
• Notice to Vacate (Form required for ending tenancy)
  If you intend to move out and sublet, proper notice must be given as required in Minnesota Statutes 504B.135 – Notice to Vacate. The form is simply written notice, either provided by the landlord or sent by the renter, stating move-out date; see the Attorney General’s guidance for details.
• Eviction Summons & Complaint (if facing eviction for Airbnb/subletting)
  If a violation leads to eviction proceedings: Minnesota District Courts use the Eviction Summons and Complaint. Learn more or download details from the Minnesota Judicial Branch Eviction Forms page.

Always use official forms and keep documentation for your records.

How Minnesota Handles Rental Disputes

Residential tenancy disputes (like unauthorized sublets or eviction proceedings) are handled by the Minnesota District Courts. Tenants can represent themselves or seek assistance from legal aid services if facing a hearing.

Tennancy Legislation and Your Rights

• Current rights, responsibilities, and landlord-tenant rules are found in Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant.
• The Minnesota Attorney General’s Guide summarizes statewide tenant rights and rules on subletting and unauthorized occupancy.

For any sublet or Airbnb activity, make sure you’re familiar with this legislation and local city laws.

1. Do I need my landlord’s permission for Airbnb or subletting my apartment in Minnesota?
   Yes, in almost all cases your lease agreement requires written landlord permission for any sublet or short-term rental, including Airbnb. Otherwise, you risk eviction or lease penalties.
2. What can happen if I sublet or use Airbnb without landlord approval?
   Your landlord can start eviction for breach of lease. You may also face fines from your city if local regulations are violated.
3. Are there official forms for Minnesota renters to request sublet approval?
   There isn’t a government-issued form—most tenants write a formal letter. Sample templates are available in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Guide.
4. Which board or court handles sublet disputes in Minnesota?
   Rental disputes (including those from Airbnb or subletting) are handled by the Minnesota District Courts.
5. Do cities like Minneapolis or St. Paul have their own Airbnb permitting rules?
   Yes, both have strict registration and licensing requirements for short-term rentals. Failing to comply can result in city fines or penalties.

Need Help? Resources for Minnesota Renters

• Minnesota Attorney General’s Landlord and Tenant Rights Guide
• Minnesota Judicial Branch - Find Your District Court
• Law Help MN – Tenant Rights Library
• HousingLink – Minnesota Affordable Rental Resources

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1. Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant
2. Minnesota Attorney General’s Landlord and Tenant Guide
3. Minnesota District Courts – Residential Tenancies
4. Minneapolis Short-Term Rentals and Licensing
5. St. Paul Short-Term Rental Rules

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