Minnesota Eviction Law at a Glance
State Statute
Minn. Stat. §504B.285 — Minnesota Residential Tenant Protections
Notice Periods
- Nonpayment: 14-Day Pay or Quit
- Lease violation: 14-Day Notice to Quit
- Unconditional: 14-Day Notice to Quit
- End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Vacate (Month-to-Month)
Available Defenses
- Habitability (Minn. Stat. §504B.161)
- Retaliation (Minn. Stat. §504B.441)
- Procedural defects
- Discrimination (Fair Housing Act)
Right to Cure
YES — Tenant has 14 days to pay past-due rent before landlord can file eviction
Self-Help Eviction
PROHIBITED — Landlord must use court process (Minn. Stat. §504B.225)
Court & Filing
District Court (Housing Calendar)
Landlord must file eviction action in district court
Complaints: Minnesota Attorney General Consumer Protection Division
Additional Protections
- Self-help eviction prohibited
- 14-day notice period provides reasonable time to respond
- Expungement of eviction records available in some circumstances
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Minnesota Eviction Response FAQ
How many days do I have to respond to an eviction notice in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, the response deadline depends on the type of eviction notice: Nonpayment: 14-Day Pay or Quit; Lease violation: 14-Day Notice to Quit; Unconditional: 14-Day Notice to Quit; End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Vacate (Month-to-Month). Missing your deadline can result in a default judgment and forced move-out.
What defenses can I raise against eviction in Minnesota?
Available defenses in Minnesota include: Habitability (Minn. Stat. §504B.161), Retaliation (Minn. Stat. §504B.441), Procedural defects, Discrimination (Fair Housing Act). The availability depends on your specific circumstances.
Does Minnesota require landlords to give tenants a right to cure?
Yes. Tenant has 14 days to pay past-due rent before landlord can file eviction
Can my landlord evict me without going to court in Minnesota?
No. Under Minn. Stat. §504B.225, self-help eviction is prohibited in Minnesota. Your landlord must file in District Court (Housing Calendar) and obtain a judgment.
What should I include in an eviction response letter in Minnesota?
Your letter should: (1) identify the notice by date and type, (2) cite Minn. Stat. §504B.285, (3) assert applicable defenses, (4) demand proper legal procedure, (5) state your intent to defend in court, and (6) be sent via certified mail.
Where can I file a complaint against my landlord in Minnesota?
File complaints with the Minnesota Attorney General Consumer Protection Division and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). For illegal self-help eviction, contact local law enforcement.
Eviction Response Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific protections.