Operative Text
The code official shall have the authority to authorize disconnection of utility service to the building, structure or system regulated by this Code and the referenced codes and standards set forth in section 7-1-1-6.in case of emergency where necessary to eliminate an immediate hazard to life or property or where such utility connection has been made without approval. The code official shall notify the serving utility and, whenever possible, the owner or owner's authorized agent and occupant of the building, structure or service system of the decision to disconnect prior to taking such action. If not notified prior to disconnection the owner, owner's authorized agent or occupant of the building structure or service system shall be notified in writing as soon as practical thereafter.
Rochester, Minn., Code of Ordinances § 7-3-39 grants the local code official the power to order utility service cut off to a building or structure under two circumstances: when an emergency creates an immediate threat to life or property, or when a utility connection was made without proper approval. Before disconnecting, the code official is generally required to notify the utility provider and, when feasible, the property owner or occupant. If advance notice is not possible, written notification must follow as soon as practicable after the disconnection occurs.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Rochester, Minn., Code of Ordinances § 7-3-39, compliant property operators ensure that all utility connections are made with proper approvals, since unauthorized connections are one of the two grounds that can trigger a code-official-ordered disconnection. Operators who maintain up-to-date permits and address hazardous conditions proactively reduce the circumstances under which emergency disconnection authority would apply to their properties. When a disconnection does occur, the code official is obligated to provide notice to the owner or authorized agent, so keeping current contact information on file with the city helps ensure that communication reaches the right person promptly.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Rochester, Minn., Code of Ordinances § 7-3-39 establishes that occupants of a building are among those entitled to receive notice before a utility disconnection takes place, or in writing as soon as practicable afterward if prior notice was not possible. If a utility is disconnected and you believe proper notice was not provided, or that the disconnection was not justified by an emergency or an unauthorized connection, tenant-rights organizations in Rochester or the city's code enforcement office can be consulted to understand available options. Raising a potential violation of the notice requirements under § 7-3-39 may be relevant in discussions with the code official or in any subsequent administrative process.
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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