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Minneapolis, MN Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)

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

Key Facts

Max size (residential lot)
15 cubic yards
Setback to neighbor's building
20 feet minimum
Setback from rear line
1 foot minimum
Yard placement
no required front/side yard
Banned materials
meat, dairy, oils, pet waste

Summary

Minneapolis caps backyard compost piles at 15 cubic yards, requires an enclosed, durable container, and sets placement limits: off the rear line, out of required yards, and 20 feet from neighboring homes.

(c) Size. The maximum size for a compost area on lots with a residential structure shall be fifteen (15) cubic yards... (d) Location on property. The compost container(s) shall not be located closer than one (1) foot from the rear property line and shall not be located in any required front or side yard as defined in the zoning code, nor closer than twenty (20) feet to any habitable building off of the subject property.

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

Under Housing Maintenance Code § 244.770, residential compost areas may not exceed 15 cubic yards (larger limits apply to vacant lots). Containers must be enclosed on all vertical sides, built of sound, durable material, and kept at least 1 foot from the rear property line, out of any required front or side yard, and at least 20 feet from any habitable building on another lot. Only approved organic materials under Minn. Rules 7035.0300 are allowed; meat, dairy, oils, pet or human waste, and pesticide-treated material are barred. Piles must be layered, aerated, and covered to control odor.

Violations & Fines

Noncompliant containers or materials are declared a public nuisance and subject to abatement under Chapter 227; the director may also require attendance at a master composter or similar education program.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big can my compost pile be in Minneapolis?
Up to 15 cubic yards on a lot with a residential structure; vacant lots get different, larger limits under § 244.770(c).
Can I put meat or dairy scraps in my compost bin?
No. Section 244.770(f) bars meat, fats, oils, grease, bones, eggs, dairy, and human or pet waste from backyard compost.
Where on my property can the bin sit?
At least 1 foot from the rear property line, outside any required front or side yard, and 20 feet from any neighboring habitable building.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Minneapolis

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsWater RestrictionsSome RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage TreesSome RestrictionsRainwater HarvestingSome RestrictionsNative PlantsFew RestrictionsTree TrimmingSome RestrictionsWeed OrdinancesHeavy 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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