Garage conversion rules in Minneapolis, MN — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Garage conversions to habitable space in Minneapolis are regulated as ADUs under Chapter 537 when creating a separate dwelling, or as additions to the principal dwelling when merging with the house. Both require full building permits and compliance with the Minnesota Residential Code including egress and insulation.
Converting a Minneapolis garage to living space is a permitted pathway under the 2040 plan and Chapter 537 (for ADUs) or Chapter 535 (for accessory structures). When converted to a separate dwelling unit, the project is treated as a detached ADU: minimum 300 sq ft, independent kitchen and bath, compliant egress windows, R-20 wall and R-49 ceiling insulation, 6-foot 8-inch minimum ceiling heights, and a dedicated electrical panel or sub-panel. Building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits are all required. Foundations and slabs must be evaluated for frost depth (42 inches in Minneapolis) and load capacity. Off-street parking of one space is required for the ADU, which may require providing replacement parking if the garage was the only on-site parking. Conversions that eliminate required parking may need a zoning variance unless the property is within a quarter mile of high-frequency transit.
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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