Minneapolis, Minn., Code of Ordinances § 12 § 244.910
Vacant dwellings (Minneapolis Housing Code)
Operative Text
The owner of any dwelling in the city, whenever the same becomes vacant or unoccupied shall remove therefrom all papers or other combustible waste materials accumulated therein, and shall securely close and keep closed all doors, windows or other openings into such building while the same remains unoccupied. (Code 1960, As Amend., § 75.030) Cross reference-- Building code, Title 5 .
Minneapolis Code of Ordinances § 244.910 establishes that when a dwelling unit becomes vacant, the owner bears responsibility for clearing out accumulated combustible waste materials—such as papers and similar debris—and for securely closing all doors, windows, and other openings for the duration of the vacancy. The rule is aimed at reducing fire hazards and preventing unauthorized entry into unoccupied structures. It applies to any dwelling within city limits, regardless of the reason for the vacancy.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Minneapolis Code § 244.910, compliant property owners typically conduct a thorough walkthrough of a unit as soon as it becomes vacant, removing any accumulated papers or combustible waste left behind. They also ensure that all doors, windows, and other openings are securely closed and remain that way throughout the vacancy period. Operators often establish a routine inspection schedule for vacant units to confirm that the secured condition is maintained over time.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Minneapolis Code § 244.910 is primarily directed at property owners rather than tenants, but tenants in neighboring units or prospective renters may have an interest in knowing that vacant dwellings in their building are supposed to be kept clear of combustible debris and securely closed. If a vacant unit in a building appears to be left unsecured or filled with hazardous waste materials, residents can report the condition to the City of Minneapolis's regulatory or code enforcement office. Tenant-rights organizations in Minneapolis can also help residents understand what options are generally available when a property owner appears to be out of compliance with 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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