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Minneapolis, MN Building Setbacks & Zoning: Lot Coverage Limits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Lot coverage range
45% to 100% by district
Impervious coverage range
60% to 100% by district
Small-lot impervious cap
65% for lots under 6,000 sq ft
Governing code
Chapter 540, Built Form Overlay Districts

Summary

Minneapolis caps lot coverage at 45% to 100% and impervious surface at 60% to 100%, both set by Built Form Overlay District under the zoning code.

540.910. - Maximum lot coverage. Maximum lot coverage requirements shall be as set forth in Table 540-23, Maximum Lot Coverage by District. ... 540.920. - Maximum impervious surface coverage. (a) In general. Maximum impervious surface coverage requirements shall be as set forth in Table 540-24, Maximum Impervious Surface Coverage by District.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 72).

Full Breakdown

Minneapolis Code of Ordinances § 540.910 sets maximum lot coverage by Built Form Overlay District, ranging from 45% in Parks and Interior 1/2 districts up to 100% in Core 50 and Production districts. Section 540.920 separately caps impervious surface coverage, from 60% up to 100% by the same district system, with a tighter 65% impervious cap for small lots under 6,000 square feet lacking alley or second-street access in certain districts. Both standards exist to curb urban heat island effect and stormwater runoff.

Violations & Fines

Exceeding the district's maximum lot coverage or impervious surface percentage is a zoning code violation, enforced through the standard permit review and zoning compliance process administered by the zoning administrator.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum lot coverage in Minneapolis?
It depends on the Built Form Overlay District, ranging from 45% in Parks and Interior 1/2 districts to 100% in Core 50 and Production districts per § 540.910.
Is impervious surface coverage capped separately from lot coverage?
Yes. Section 540.920 sets its own table, from 60% to 100% by district, plus a 65% cap for small lots without alley access in certain districts.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Minneapolis

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsSetback RulesSome RestrictionsStructure Height LimitsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Bird ProtectionHeavy RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Veterinary Clinic ZoningSome Restrictions

All Minneapolis rules

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