Willmar, Minn., Code of Ordinances ch. 6.5, art. II § 6.5-49
Minimum thermal standards
Operative Text
No person shall occupy or let to another for occupancy any rental unit, for the purpose of living therein, which does not comply with the following requirements: (1) Every dwelling shall have heating equipment and appurtenances which are properly installed, are maintained in safe and good working condition, and are capable of safely and adequately heating all habitable rooms, bathrooms and water closet compartments in every dwelling unit located therein to a temperature of at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit at a distance of 36 inches above floor level under ordinary winter conditions. (2) No owner or occupant shall install, operate or use a heating device, including hot water heating units, which employs the combustion or carbonaceous fuel, which is not vented to the outside of the structure in an approved manner, and which is not supplied with sufficient air to continuously support the combustion of the fuel. All heating devices shall be constructed, installed and operation in such a manner as to minimize accidental burns.
Willmar Code of Ordinances ch. 6.5, art. II § 6.5-49 establishes minimum thermal standards for rental units in Willmar. Under this provision, every rental dwelling must have heating equipment that is properly installed, safely maintained, and capable of warming all habitable rooms, bathrooms, and water closet compartments to at least 68°F measured 36 inches above the floor during ordinary winter conditions. Additionally, any heating device that burns fuel must be properly vented to the outside and supplied with enough air to sustain combustion, and all such devices must be constructed and operated in a way that minimizes the risk of accidental burns.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers subject to Willmar Code of Ordinances ch. 6.5, art. II § 6.5-49 generally ensure that all heating systems in their rental units are professionally installed, routinely inspected, and kept in safe working order throughout the heating season. Compliant operators verify that every habitable room, bathroom, and water closet compartment can reach the 68°F threshold at the 36-inch measurement height under typical winter conditions. Those using fuel-burning heating equipment also confirm that all such devices are properly vented to the exterior and receive adequate combustion air, and that equipment is configured to reduce burn hazards for occupants.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Tenants living in Willmar rental units are entitled to heating that meets the standards set out in ch. 6.5, art. II § 6.5-49, including the ability to maintain at least 68°F in all habitable rooms and bathrooms during winter. If a unit's heating system is inadequate, improperly vented, or poses a safety risk, tenants may consider documenting the conditions in writing and notifying the landlord of the deficiency. General enforcement paths can include filing a complaint with the City of Willmar's code enforcement or housing inspection office, or reaching out to a local tenant-rights organization for guidance on available options.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 13, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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