What is the security deposit limit in Minnesota?

Minnesota has no statutory cap on security deposits. Market norms are 1–2 months rent.

Does Minnesota have rent control?

St. Paul enacted a rent stabilization ordinance in 2021 limiting annual rent increases to 3% for covered units. Minneapolis has not enacted rent control. St. Paul's ordinance has many exemptions and has faced legal challenges.

How much notice must a Minnesota landlord give before entering?

Minnesota requires 24 hours advance notice before entry except in emergencies.

How long does a Minnesota landlord have to return a security deposit?

21 days from move-out, with itemized deductions. If there is a dispute about the deposit, the landlord can hold it for 21 days while investigating.

What is the notice requirement to end an annual lease in Minnesota?

For tenancies over 1 year, Minnesota requires 3 months notice — one of the longest in the country. For month-to-month tenancies, 1 month notice is required.

Minnesota Tenant Rights & Lease Laws

Security Deposit Rules

Maximum Deposit Varies

Return Deadline 21 days after move-out

Interest Required No

Notice Requirements

Landlord Entry Notice 24 hours

Lease Termination Notice (Month-to-Month) 30 days

Rent Increase Notice 30 days

St. Paul leases where rent stabilization applies — the ordinance was modified in 2023 and specific terms matter. Commercial leases in downtown Minneapolis where landlords are offering aggressive concessions that come with strings attached.

Rent Control

Rent Control: Yes (some jurisdictions)

Habitability & Repair Requirements

Minnesota landlords are required to maintain rental units in habitable condition. Minnesota is moderately to strongly tenant-protective. Minneapolis has strong local ordinances supplementing state law. St. Paul has attempted rent stabilization. The overall framework is significantly more protective than neighboring Midwest states.

Eviction Process

Minneapolis-St. Paul is the dominant market. Downtown Minneapolis commercial markets have seen significant office vacancy post-pandemic, but Northeast Minneapolis and the North Loop have recovered. Residential markets in Uptown, Edina, and St. Louis Park are competitive. Duluth is a smaller, more tenant-favorable market.

Tenant Protections & Notable Laws

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the security deposit limit in Minnesota?: Minnesota has no statutory cap on security deposits. Market norms are 1–2 months rent.
Does Minnesota have rent control?: St. Paul enacted a rent stabilization ordinance in 2021 limiting annual rent increases to 3% for covered units. Minneapolis has not enacted rent control. St. Paul's ordinance has many exemptions and has faced legal challenges.
How much notice must a Minnesota landlord give before entering?: Minnesota requires 24 hours advance notice before entry except in emergencies.
How long does a Minnesota landlord have to return a security deposit?: 21 days from move-out, with itemized deductions. If there is a dispute about the deposit, the landlord can hold it for 21 days while investigating.
What is the notice requirement to end an annual lease in Minnesota?: For tenancies over 1 year, Minnesota requires 3 months notice — one of the longest in the country. For month-to-month tenancies, 1 month notice is required.

Cities in Minnesota

Find city-specific lease guides for major markets in Minnesota: