Accessory Structures in Bloomington, MN: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Bloomington or are thinking about moving there, accessory structures are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Bloomington has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of accessory structures, and some of them might surprise you.

ADU Rules

Bloomington allows attached and internal ADUs in single-family zones under City Code §21.302.03. ADUs must have independent cooking, sanitary, and sleeping facilities. The city is currently developing amendments that may expand detached ADU options. Owner-occupancy and rental licensing requirements apply.

Key details: Attached/Internal ADUs: Allowed in single-family zones. Detached ADUs: Under review for expansion. Rental License: Required. City Code: §21.302.03.

Unpermitted ADU: standard building code enforcement. May require demolition or legalization. Occupying unpermitted dwelling: code violation.

Shed Rules

Sheds and accessory buildings regulated under City Code §21.301.19. Buildings under 200 sq ft are exempt from building permits. Max height 12 ft for non-garage accessory buildings. Minimum 5-ft side yard setback. Total accessory building area limited to the ground floor living area of the house plus 120 sq ft.

Key details: Permit Threshold: 200 sq ft (exempt if under). Max Height: 12 ft (non-garage). Side Setback: 5 ft minimum. City Code: §21.301.19.

Unpermitted structure: retroactive permit with penalty. Non-compliant setback: modification or removal.

Garage Conversions

Garage conversions to ADUs may be possible under Bloomington's evolving ADU ordinance (§21.302.03). Currently, attached/internal ADUs are allowed. All garages must accommodate a code-complying driveway even if one is not proposed at time of permit. Garage-related regulations are in §21.301.19.

Key details: Attached Garage to ADU: Possible under §21.302.03. Detached Garage: Under code review. Building Permit: Required. Contact: Planning Division 952-563-8920.

Unpermitted conversion: building code enforcement. Must bring to code or restore. Safety violations: immediate correction.

The Bottom Line

Bloomington's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Bloomington is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Bloomington's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.