Duluth, MN Rental Inspections: Inspection Programs (2026)

Duluth's rental inspection program starts before a unit is ever licensed: Section 29A-29(b) requires every rental unit that isn't newly constructed or freshly certified to be inspected and found compliant before the code official issues a license. Once licensed, Section 29A-33(a) keeps the program running, authorizing inspection at any reasonable time tied to licensing or a complaint. When that inspection turns up a violation, or the licensee won't produce requested records, Section 29A-33(b) requires written notice identifying every violation and a correction timeline; emergency conditions move faster under Article III's emergency-repair rules, while other repairs follow a 14-day scheduling requirement.

If the deadline passes without correction or vacation, the code official may grant an additional correction period, but the initial period and any extension together cannot exceed 180 days. Beyond that point, or if the code official decides the violations warrant it, Section 29A-33(b)(2) allows outright revocation and a vacate order, giving occupants no more than 30 days to leave. A revocation must be mailed to the licensee's address on file and posted at the property under Section 29A-33(c). An owner aggrieved by any code official action under the chapter, including a revocation, may appeal to the building appeal board under Section 29A-5, which routes the appeal through Section 10-5 of the Code.