What should I do if my agricultural worker housing in Missouri lacks basic facilities?

You should report this immediately using the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Farm Labor Complaint Form. All worker housing must meet state standards for safety and sanitation.

Can my employer remove me from farm worker housing without notice?

Missouri law generally requires notice before eviction from farm labor housing. In emergencies, things may differ, but you are entitled to notice in most cases.

What government agency do I contact about unsafe worker housing in Missouri?

File complaints with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Farm Labor Program, which handles inspections and enforcement.

Am I protected against retaliation if I file a housing complaint?

Yes. Both Missouri and federal laws prohibit retaliation against agricultural workers who make good faith complaints about unsafe housing conditions.

Where can I find the official rules for agricultural worker housing in Missouri?

Official rules are in the Missouri Code of State Regulations 19 CSR 25-26 and the Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 441.

Missouri Rules for Agricultural Worker Housing

Special Housing Types & Situations Missouri published June 21, 2025

In Missouri, agricultural workers — including farm laborers and seasonal migrants — are often provided housing by employers. Understanding the state's rules about this unique type of rental housing is important for ensuring your rights, your safety, and respectful treatment. This guide covers key Missouri regulations, how to address housing concerns, and where to find help as a renter in agricultural worker housing.

What Is Agricultural Worker Housing?

Agricultural worker housing refers to accommodations provided to those employed in farming, often for seasonal or migrant work. In Missouri, these dwellings are sometimes called "farm labor camps" or "migrant worker housing." These housing types have special regulations for health, safety, and tenant protection.

Key Missouri Regulations and Standards

Agricultural worker housing in Missouri is subject to both federal and state laws. The main oversight at the state level is through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) Farm Labor Program.

Main Health and Safety Rules

Housing providers must obtain a Permit to Operate a Farm Labor Camp before housing workers. Annual inspections are required to ensure compliance.
Facilities must meet sanitation, ventilation, water, space, laundry, and waste disposal standards under Missouri Code of State Regulations Title 19, Division 25, Chapter 26.
Units should not overcrowd tenants, must have safe drinking water, functional toilets/bathrooms, and protection from weather.

Missouri law protects agricultural workers from unsafe or unsanitary living conditions, though the law does not cover every rental situation equally. Federal rules may also apply, such as the U.S. Department of Labor regulations on Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act.

Your Rights as a Renter

Right to a safe and healthy home meeting minimum state standards
Right to prompt repairs and maintenance for listed deficiencies
You cannot be retaliated against for filing a complaint about unsafe conditions

If your housing is unsafe, you have the right to report it. You can remain anonymous if you wish.

What to Do if There Are Problems or Unsafe Conditions

If you notice unsafe or unsanitary conditions in your agricultural worker housing, you can take action to protect your health and rights. The Missouri DHSS handles inspections, permits, and complaints related to farm labor housing.

Talk to your housing provider and request repairs in writing if possible. Keep a copy of your request.
If the problem is not fixed, file a complaint with the DHSS using their Farm Labor Complaint Form.
You may contact the U.S. Department of Labor for issues involving migrant and seasonal worker protections.

Key Official Forms

Missouri Farm Labor Complaint Form
Use this form to report housing violations or unsafe conditions to the state DHSS Farm Labor Program. For instance, if your shared kitchen lacks hot water or rooms are overcrowded, submit this form.
Missouri Farm Labor Complaint Form (PDF)
Permit to Operate a Farm Labor Camp (Application)
This form is mostly used by housing providers to apply for or renew the permit required to operate agricultural worker housing. If you are offered housing and have concerns, you can ask to see their valid permit.
Permit Application & Details

Completed complaint forms can be mailed or faxed to the address on the form. For phone complaints, you can call the DHSS Farm Labor Program at 573-751-6095.

Where to Seek Help

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Farm Labor Program - for complaints, permits, and inspections
Missouri Department of Labor - for broader worker rights and wage issues
U.S. Department of Labor - Migrant and Seasonal Protection - for federal protections

Relevant Legislation and Tribunal

Missouri's residential tenancy law: Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 441: Landlord-Tenant Law
Agricultural worker housing specifics: Missouri Code of State Regulations 19 CSR 25-26
Complaints and inspections handled by: Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Farm Labor Program

FAQ: Missouri Agricultural Worker Housing Rights

Can my employer evict me from farm labor housing without notice?
In most cases, employers must provide reasonable notice as set out under Missouri law. Emergencies involving safety may permit faster action, but you usually have rights to written notice. Always ask to see the official policy and seek help if uncertain.
What should I do if my housing lacks basic facilities like toilets?
You should report this immediately using the DHSS complaint form. All agricultural worker housing must provide working facilities to meet state health standards.
Can I lose my job if I complain about unsafe housing conditions?
No. Both Missouri law and federal law prohibit retaliation against workers who make good-faith complaints about housing health and safety conditions.
How do I know if my housing has a valid permit?
Ask your housing provider (employer) to show you their Farm Labor Camp Permit, which must be renewed yearly. You may also check with the DHSS Farm Labor Program for verification.
Where can I get help with rental disputes outside of farm housing?
For general tenant rights and standard rental properties, contact the Missouri Judiciary's Landlord-Tenant Information or legal aid.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Missouri Farm Worker Renters

Agricultural worker housing in Missouri must meet specific health and safety rules. You have the right to safe living conditions.
Report problems to the Missouri DHSS using the official complaint form. You are protected from retaliation.
Know your rights — permits and annual inspections are mandatory for housing operators.

Most issues can be handled by knowing the rules and taking action when necessary. Your safety and well-being are the priority.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Missouri DHSS Farm Labor Program – For complaints, permits, law, and inspections
Missouri Department of Labor – For wage/hour issues and general worker protection
U.S. Department of Labor – Migrant Worker Housing
Missouri Courts - Landlord-Tenant Law Information