Minneapolis, Minn., Code of Ordinances § 12 § 244.720
Use of storm windows and operation of mechanical system controls (Minneapolis Housing Code)
Operative Text
Every occupant of a dwelling supplied with storm windows and doors shall use the storm windows and doors provided in a reasonable and energy-saving manner. This shall include the proper utilization of combination storms supplied by the owner during the periods of time when it is necessary to heat the dwelling unit. Every occupant shall also operate all mechanical system controls intended to be operated by the occupant in a reasonable and energy efficient manner. The definition of "reasonable and energy efficient" shall recognize the unique needs of the building occupants and the level of comfort in the dwelling unit. The occupant shall not adjust mechanical system controls not intended to be operated by the occupant, nor take any actions which impair the operation of the mechanical systems. (Code 1960, As Amend., § 74.060; 78-Or-244, § 30, 11-22-78; 82-Or-106, § 26 , 6-11-82; 85-Or-056, § 4, 3-8-85)
Minneapolis Code of Ordinances § 244.720 establishes that occupants of dwellings equipped with storm windows and doors must use those features in a reasonable, energy-saving way, particularly during heating periods. Occupants are also required to operate any mechanical system controls assigned to them—such as thermostats—in a reasonable and energy-efficient manner, with that standard accounting for the occupants' comfort needs. Conversely, occupants are prohibited from adjusting mechanical controls not meant for their use or taking any action that interferes with the building's mechanical systems.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Minneapolis Code § 244.720, compliant property operators generally document which mechanical system controls are designated for occupant use and which are reserved for building management, making that distinction clear to residents at move-in. Providing written guidance on the proper seasonal use of combination storm windows and doors—especially during heating season—reflects the kind of reasonable practice this provision contemplates. Operators also typically maintain records showing that mechanical systems were in proper working order, which can help establish the baseline condition if a dispute about impairment arises.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Minneapolis Code § 244.720 gives occupants both responsibilities and a degree of flexibility: the 'reasonable and energy efficient' standard explicitly accounts for the unique comfort needs of the people living in the unit, so it is not a one-size-fits-all requirement. Tenants are expected to use storm windows and doors during heating periods and to operate only the controls designated for their use, while being protected from any obligation to touch systems outside their designated control. If questions arise about what controls are intended for occupant use or about conditions in the dwelling, tenants can consult the City of Minneapolis's housing inspection services or a local tenant-rights organization for general guidance.
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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