Minneapolis, MN Privacy & Surveillance: Facial Recognition Ban (2026)
Key Facts
- Governs
- All city departments, including police
- Enacted
- Ord. No. 2021-006, Feb. 12, 2021
- Evidence rule
- Violating data barred from proceedings
- Device exception
- Single-user phone/tablet unlock allowed
- New exceptions
- Require public council hearing
Summary
Minneapolis city departments, including police, are banned from acquiring or using facial recognition technology under a 2021 ordinance, with only narrow carve-outs like phone unlocking.
Unless expressly permitted by this article, it shall be unlawful for the city to: (1) Acquire, obtain, or retain facial recognition technology; (2) Enter into a contract with a third party for the purpose of acquiring, obtaining, or retaining city access to facial recognition technology; or (3) Enter into a contract with a third party that assists the third party in developing, improving, or expanding the capabilities of facial recognition technology.
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
City Code Chapter 41, Article II makes it unlawful for any Minneapolis city department, board, commission, officer, or employee to acquire, obtain, retain, or contract for facial recognition technology, or to knowingly use information derived from it. Narrow exceptions cover single-user device authentication (like unlocking a phone), redaction software, evidentiary custody of seized devices, and workplace access control with an opt-out. Additional exceptions require a public council hearing.
Violations & Fines
Violating data cannot be used as evidence in any city proceeding and must be deleted; employees who intentionally violate the ban face discipline under applicable personnel rules and collective bargaining agreements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Minneapolis police use facial recognition software?
Are there any exceptions to Minneapolis's ban?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Minneapolis
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