ADU rules in Minneapolis, MN — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Minneapolis is a national leader in ADU policy. The 2040 Comprehensive Plan and Chapter 537 allow accessory dwelling units in all residential districts as a permitted use, including detached, attached, and internal ADUs. The 2040 plan reinstated in 2023 after court litigation further supports ADU production.
Minneapolis legalized ADUs citywide in 2014 under Chapter 537 of the zoning code and expanded flexibility through the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Detached ADUs, attached additions, interior conversions (including basement and attic units), and garage conversions are all permitted in R1 through R6 districts. ADUs must have a minimum floor area of 300 square feet and maximum of 1000 square feet or 10 percent of lot area (whichever is greater, up to 1300 sq ft). Detached ADUs are limited to a 20-foot wall height and 25-foot roof height. The property owner is no longer required to live on site. One off-street parking space is required per ADU, with exemptions within a quarter mile of high-frequency transit. Building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits apply. The Minneapolis 2040 Plan (reinstated by the Minnesota Supreme Court in 2023 after the 2022 EIS litigation) also eliminated single-family zoning citywide and allows triplexes on lots that previously permitted only one dwelling, making ADUs even more attractive for infill.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Minneapolis code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Hennepin County.
See how other cities in Hennepin County handle adu rules.
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