Minnesota Tenant Rights: Familial Status Discrimination Explained

Every renter in Minnesota deserves a safe home—regardless of their family setup. If you believe you've faced discrimination as a parent, guardian, or simply because of who lives with you, understanding your rights is empowering. This guide covers Minnesota’s legal protections for renters facing familial status discrimination, what it means, and the steps you can take to protect yourself under state and federal laws.

Understanding Familial Status Discrimination in Minnesota

Familial status discrimination happens when landlords treat renters unfairly because they have children under 18, are pregnant, or are securing custody of a child. Both federal law (the Fair Housing Act) and Minnesota state law strictly prohibit this kind of discrimination.

What Is Protected as ‘Familial Status’?

• Renters who are parents or legal guardians of children under 18
• Pregnant individuals and those in the process of adopting or gaining custody
• Any household with a child (including stepchildren, foster children, or grandchildren)

This means a landlord cannot refuse to rent, raise rent, or set unfair rules because of a renter’s family situation.

How Discrimination May Appear

Familial status discrimination can take various forms, including:

• Denying rental applications from families with children
• Setting different terms or conditions (like higher deposits) for families
• Restricting access to common areas for children
• Enforcing occupancy limits that are stricter for families than for other adults

If you notice any of these signs, it may be a violation of Minnesota law or the Fair Housing Act.

Your Rights and Protections Under Minnesota Law

The Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA) and the federal Fair Housing Act protect renters from familial status discrimination statewide.
The Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) enforces fair housing laws and investigates complaints.

Relevant Legislation and Official Tribunal

• Minnesota Statutes Chapter 363A – Human Rights Act
• Federal Fair Housing Act
• The primary tribunal is the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR)

Filing an Official Discrimination Complaint

If you suspect familial status discrimination, you have the right to file a complaint. In Minnesota, this process is handled by the MDHR.

• Form: Minnesota Human Rights Intake Form
  Use when you believe your rights under the MHRA have been violated (including familial status discrimination).
  Official online intake form
• When and How to Use: Example: If a landlord refuses your application because you have a child, complete the Intake Form as soon as possible. You can submit it online, by mail, or request assistance by calling MDHR directly.

Action Steps: What To Do If You Experience Discrimination

If you believe you have been treated unfairly because of your familial status, follow these practical steps:

• Document the incident: Save emails, texts, or notices indicating discrimination.
• Complete the Minnesota Human Rights Intake Form as soon as possible, ideally within one year of the incident.
• You may also file a federal complaint with HUD’s Fair Housing office.
• Consider contacting free legal aid for renters in Minnesota for additional support.

FAQ: Familial Status Discrimination for Minnesota Renters

1. What is familial status discrimination under Minnesota law?
   It occurs when a landlord treats you differently or denies you housing because you have children, are pregnant, or are gaining custody of a child.
2. Who enforces renter protections against discrimination in Minnesota?
   The Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) investigates, mediates, and enforces fair housing rules.
3. What is the deadline to file a complaint?
   You should file a discrimination complaint within one year of the incident to preserve your rights.
4. Can landlords set different rules for families with children?
   No, landlords cannot impose unique or extra restrictions on families that do not apply equally to all renters.
5. Where can I find official forms to start a discrimination complaint?
   Use the Minnesota Human Rights Intake Form available on the MDHR website.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Familial status discrimination is illegal under both state and federal law in Minnesota.
• Renters are protected regardless of family size or structure.
• Documentation and timely reporting to the Minnesota Department of Human Rights can help resolve issues fairly.

Understanding your legal protections puts you in control and helps maintain fair access to housing for yourself and your family.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) – Submit an Intake Form or Call 1-833-454-0148
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – File a federal housing complaint
• LawHelpMN – Free legal information for Minnesota tenants

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1. Minnesota Human Rights Act – Statutes Chapter 363A
2. Federal Fair Housing Act Overview (HUD)
3. Minnesota Department of Human Rights – File a Complaint

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