Rochester, Minn., Code of Ordinances § 7 § 7-4-41
Windows (Rochester Housing Code)
Operative Text
Operable windows located in whole or in part within six feet (1828 mm) above ground level or a walking surface below that provide access to a dwelling unit, rooming unit or housekeeping unit that is rented, leased or let shall be equipped with a window sash locking device. If the original is equipped with a locking mechanism, it must remain intact.
Rochester, Minn., Code of Ordinances § 7-4-41 establishes that any operable window positioned fully or partially within six feet of the ground or a walkable surface below — and providing access to a rented dwelling, rooming, or housekeeping unit — must have a functioning sash locking device. If the window originally came with a locking mechanism, that mechanism must be kept in working order rather than removed or disabled. The rule applies to windows that could serve as a point of entry into a rental unit, reflecting a baseline security standard for renters.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Rochester, Minn., Code of Ordinances § 7-4-41, compliant rental property operators generally ensure that every operable window within six feet of the ground or an accessible walking surface is fitted with a sash locking device before a unit is occupied. Where a window was manufactured with a built-in locking mechanism, operators maintain that original hardware in intact, functional condition rather than replacing it with nothing or allowing it to fall into disrepair. Routine property inspections typically include checking ground-accessible windows to confirm locking devices are present and operational.
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 § 7-4-41 gives renters a baseline expectation that operable windows within six feet of the ground or a walkable surface will be equipped with a working sash lock, and that any original locking mechanism will be preserved. If a window covered by this provision is missing a lock or has a broken original mechanism, a tenant may document the condition in writing and notify the landlord, since the ordinance places the obligation on the rental property. Tenants who believe this requirement is not being met can explore options such as contacting Rochester's local code enforcement office, raising the violation as a defense in relevant proceedings, or reaching out to a 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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