Minneapolis, Minn., Code of Ordinances § 12 § 244.1685
Security for exterior garage doors (Minneapolis Housing Code)
Operative Text
All exterior doors on garages provided for the use of the nonowner occupants of one-, two-, three- or four-unit dwellings shall be equipped with such locks, bolts, security bars or other approved security devices which, when in a closed, secured position, will prevent the doors from being opened from the outside. (78-Or-221, § 2, 10-27-78)
Minneapolis Code of Ordinances § 244.1685 requires that all exterior garage doors serving non-owner occupants of one- to four-unit residential buildings be fitted with locks, bolts, security bars, or other approved security devices. The rule's core effect is that when such a device is engaged, the door cannot be opened from the outside. This standard applies to garages provided for tenant use, not to owner-occupied units where the owner also uses the garage.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 244.1685, operators of one- to four-unit rental properties that include garage access for tenants are generally expected to ensure every exterior garage door is equipped with an approved locking or security mechanism. Compliant property managers typically inspect these devices regularly to confirm they function as intended — preventing outside entry when engaged. Keeping records of installations, inspections, and any repairs or replacements of these security devices is a common practice among operators seeking to demonstrate ongoing compliance.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section § 244.1685 gives non-owner occupants of one- to four-unit dwellings a right to exterior garage doors that are secured against outside entry. If a garage door lacks an approved lock, bolt, security bar, or equivalent device, that condition may constitute a code violation that tenants can report to Minneapolis's housing inspection or code enforcement office. Tenant-rights organizations in Minneapolis can help renters understand how to document the issue and what general options — such as filing a complaint or raising the violation in a housing court proceeding — may be available.
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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