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Minneapolis, MN Trash & Recycling: Recycling Rules (2026)

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

Key Facts

Applies to
Buildings with 2+ dwelling units
Governing section
City Code § 225.780
Compliance window after notice
10 business days
First-offense fine
$100
Fourth-offense fine
$700

Summary

Owners of Minneapolis buildings with two or more dwelling units must provide recycling containers, separate recyclables from trash, and distribute program information to tenants at least annually.

Every owner of a building containing two (2) or more dwelling units, except owners providing for collection and recycling pursuant to section 225.600 of this Code, shall do the following to facilitate recycling activity in each such building:

(1)Provide, by contract with a licensed private collection vendor, adequate containers for all recyclable materials collected. Owners that provide their own collection and delivery of recyclable materials to a recycling facility may provide containers at their own cost. Containers shall be stored on the premises in a location that is convenient for the deposit and collection of recyclables.(2)Provide for the separation of all recyclable materials from the solid waste in their building.

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 § 225.780 requires every owner of a building with two or more dwelling units (unless using city collection under § 225.600) to contract with a licensed private hauler or self-haul for recyclable materials, provide adequate containers stored in a convenient on-site location, separate recyclables from solid waste, and give tenants written recycling program information at lease-signing and annually thereafter. Licensed haulers serving these buildings must also supply containers and distribute annual program information covering what materials are collected and how to prepare them.

Violations & Fines

Noncompliance draws a Director of Public Works notice with 10 business days to fix it, then escalating fines under § 225.810: $100 first offense, $200 second, $450 third, $700 for the fourth and each later offense within 12 months; each month of violation counts separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my Minneapolis apartment building have to recycle?
Yes, if it has 2 or more dwelling units: the owner must provide recycling containers and separate recyclables from trash under City Code § 225.780.
What happens if a Minneapolis building owner ignores recycling rules?
The Director of Public Works sends a notice giving 10 business days to comply, then fines escalate from $100 to $700 per repeat violation under § 225.810.

Sources & Official References

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