Minneapolis, Minn., Code of Ordinances § 12 § 244.990
Transom windows (Minneapolis Housing Code)
Operative Text
Openings such as transom windows shall not be permitted into public hallways. Existing transoms shall be permanently fixed in the closed position and all such openings shall be enclosed with materials having a fire-resistance rating of one hour or equal to that of the walls adjoining such transoms or openings. (Code 1960, As Amend., § 75.105; 78-Or-244, § 41, 11-22-78)
Minneapolis Code of Ordinances § 244.990 addresses transom windows and similar openings that connect dwelling or building spaces to public hallways. The rule prohibits new openings of this type from being created into public hallways, and requires that any existing transom windows be permanently sealed shut. Furthermore, those sealed openings must be enclosed using materials that meet a one-hour fire-resistance rating, or materials that match the fire-resistance level of the surrounding walls, whichever applies.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 244.990, compliant property operators in Minneapolis ensure that no transom windows or comparable openings are installed or left functional between tenant spaces and public hallways. For any existing transoms, operators typically document that the openings have been permanently fixed closed and that the enclosure materials meet the required one-hour fire-resistance rating or match the adjoining wall rating. Maintaining records of the materials used and any work performed helps demonstrate ongoing compliance during inspections.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section § 244.990 of the Minneapolis Code of Ordinances establishes a fire-safety standard that affects the physical condition of the building where you live, particularly the integrity of walls separating your unit or common areas from public hallways. If you observe transom windows that appear to be open or unsealed in your building's hallways, this may represent a condition worth noting and reporting to the Minneapolis Department of Inspections or a local tenant-rights organization. Tenants can also raise building code compliance issues as part of habitability concerns through available local complaint or inspection-request processes.
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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