Density Bonus Law: Bloomington vs Minneapolis
How do density bonus law rules compare between Bloomington, MN and Minneapolis, MN?
Bloomington and Minneapolis have similar restriction levels.
Bloomington, MN
Hennepin County
Hennepin County cities use density bonuses, reduced parking, and tax-increment financing to encourage affordable housing aligned with Met Council allocations and county housing goals.
View full Bloomington rules →Minneapolis, MN
Hennepin County
Minneapolis 2040 Plan and Title 20 zoning allow density bonuses for affordable housing, reduced parking, and transit-proximate sites. Combined with the 2018 abolition of single-family-only zoning, projects may add height and units when affordability is provided.
View full Minneapolis rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bloomington | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical affordability | 10 to 20 percent | - |
| AMI bands | 50 to 80 percent | - |
| County tool | Hennepin HRA gap financing | - |
| State authority | Minn. Stat. 473.859 | - |
| 2018 reform | - | Triplex citywide allowed |
| IZP threshold | - | 20 or more units |
| Bonus | - | Height, FAR, parking |
| Authority | - | CPED + Title 20 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bloomington FAQ
Is the density bonus statewide?
No; Minnesota does not mandate density bonuses, but most Hennepin cities adopt them voluntarily to meet Met Council allocations.
How long do affordability covenants last?
Covenants typically run 20 to 30 years, though TIF or HOME funds can extend affordability for up to 40 years.
Minneapolis FAQ
Can I build a triplex on any residential lot?
Most former R1 lots now allow up to three units by right under the 2040 Plan, subject to setback, height, and lot-coverage standards. Check Title 20 zoning maps for your address.
What is the Inclusionary Zoning Policy?
IZP requires projects of 20+ units to provide on-site affordability or pay an alternative fee, with bonuses for deeper affordability levels and longer covenant terms.
Compare other topics
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