Minneapolis, Minn., Code of Ordinances § 12 § 244.1560
Construction, maintenance of nondwelling structures (Minneapolis Housing Code)
Operative Text
Every foundation, exterior wall, roof, window, exterior door, basement hatchway, and every other entranceway of every nondwelling structure shall be so constructed and maintained as to prevent the structure from becoming a harborage for rats. Each entranceway for persons or vehicles in any such structure on residential property shall have exterior doors. All such structures and exterior doors shall be kept in good workmanlike state of maintenance and repair. All exterior surfaces of nondwelling structures shall be of a material manufactured or processed specifically for use in such a weather-exposed location. Nondwelling structures shall not be used for the storage of garbage or rubbish unless such garbage or rubbish is placed in an approved container or stored in a manner so as not to constitute a health or safety hazard. (Code 1960, As Amend., § 81.020; Ord. of 5-25-73, § 1; Ord. of 11-21-73, § 1) Cross reference-- Garbage and refuse generally, Ch. 225 ; container requirements for rubbish, § 225.580 ; storing rubbish, § 225.590 .
Minneapolis Code § 244.1560 sets construction and upkeep standards for nondwelling structures—such as garages, sheds, and storage buildings—located on residential property. Every structural element, from the foundation and roof to exterior walls, windows, and doors, must be built and maintained in a way that prevents rats from nesting or sheltering inside. Exterior surfaces must use materials specifically designed for weather exposure, and any garbage or rubbish stored in these structures must be kept in approved containers or in a manner that does not create a health or safety hazard.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers subject to Minneapolis Code § 244.1560 generally keep all nondwelling structures on residential lots—garages, sheds, and similar outbuildings—in good workmanlike repair, with properly fitted exterior doors on every person or vehicle entranceway. Compliant operators use weather-rated materials on all exterior surfaces and routinely inspect foundations, roofs, and openings for gaps or deterioration that could allow rodent harborage. When garbage or rubbish must be stored in such a structure, operators ensure it is placed in containers that meet city approval standards and does not create a health or safety hazard, consistent with the cross-referenced requirements in Chapter 225.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under Minneapolis Code § 244.1560, tenants living on residential property have an interest in nondwelling structures—such as garages or storage sheds—being maintained to prevent rat harborage, kept in good repair, and free from improperly stored garbage or rubbish. If a garage, shed, or similar outbuilding on the property appears to fall short of these standards, tenants can document the conditions and report concerns to the City of Minneapolis's housing inspection or code enforcement office. Tenant-rights organizations in Minneapolis can also help residents understand what remedies or complaint processes may be available under this provision.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated September 15, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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