Minnesota Eviction Notice Overview
Minnesota is a true 14-day state for non-payment of rent under Minn. Stat. §504B.291. Landlords must serve a 14-day notice before filing an eviction action (called "unlawful detainer" in Minnesota). For lease violations other than non-payment, the period depends on the lease terms. Minnesota has strong tenant protections and dedicated housing courts in Hennepin County (Minneapolis) and Ramsey County (St. Paul).
Minnesota’s landlord-tenant law is found in Minn. Stat. Chapter 504B. The state provides substantial tenant protections including the right to expungement of eviction records, anti-retaliation provisions, and mandatory notice requirements. Minneapolis and St. Paul have enacted additional local protections including rent stabilization (St. Paul) and tenant screening limitations. The state’s 2023 tenant protection reforms added new requirements for eviction notices.
14 Days
Cure period
$285–$365
District Court filing
Written
Notice required
5–8 Wks
Total process
Minnesota’s 14-Day Notice for Non-Payment
Under Minn. Stat. §504B.291, subd. 1(a), before filing an unlawful detainer action for non-payment of rent, the landlord must serve a written 14-day notice demanding payment. The tenant can cure by paying the full amount within 14 days. For lease violations, the landlord must provide "reasonable" notice, which is typically 14–30 days depending on the violation severity.
Minnesota Notice Periods
14-day notice: Non-payment of rent (Minn. Stat. §504B.291)
Reasonable notice: Lease violations (depends on severity and lease terms)
Immediate termination: Drug-related criminal activity (§504B.171, subd. 1)
One rental period: Month-to-month termination without cause
Expungement rights: Tenants may petition to seal eviction records (§484.014)
Common Violations Addressed by This Notice in Minnesota
- Non-payment of rent (primary use of 14-day notice)
- Unauthorized pets or occupants
- Excessive noise or disturbances
- Property damage
- Lease violations as specified in the rental agreement
- Criminal activity on the premises
Minnesota Legal Requirements
Minnesota courts require strict compliance with notice requirements. A deficient notice will result in dismissal of the eviction case, wasting time and filing fees. Here are the mandatory elements:
- Written Format: Minnesota requires all eviction notices in writing
- 14-Day Demand: For non-payment, state the exact amount owed and demand payment within 14 days
- Specific Violation: For lease violations, describe the breach with specificity
- Tenant Names: List all tenants on the lease
- Landlord Information: Include landlord name, address, and phone
Serving the Notice in Minnesota
Proper service is critical in Minnesota. The method of delivery determines when the notice period starts running and must be documented for court proceedings.
Personal Service
Hand the notice to the tenant. The 14-day period starts the next day.
Post and Mail
Post on door and mail a copy. Minnesota courts accept this combination.
Certified Mail
Send via certified mail for additional documentation.
Minnesota Eviction Timeline
The complete eviction process in Minnesota, from notice to physical removal, follows this general timeline for uncontested cases:
Minnesota Eviction Fees & Costs
Below are the typical costs associated with the eviction process in Minnesota. Fees may vary by county or court location.
| Cost Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| District Court Filing Fee | $285 – $365 |
| Sheriff Service | $50 – $80 |
| Writ of Restitution | $50 – $75 |
| Sheriff Execution | $75 – $150 |
| Attorney Fees | $1,000 – $3,000 |
Sample Minnesota Eviction Notice
Below is a preview of a Minnesota-compliant eviction notice. The generated document includes all elements required under MN law.
14-DAY DEMAND FOR PAYMENT OF RENT
STATE OF MINNESOTA
Pursuant to Minn. Stat. §504B.291
TO (TENANT):
Name: [Tenant Full Legal Name]
Address: [Minnesota Property Address]
VIOLATION / GROUNDS:
[Detailed description of violation with dates]
DEMAND
You owe rent in the amount of $____ for the above premises. You must pay this amount within fourteen (14) days of service of this notice. If you fail to pay within 14 days, an eviction action will be commenced in District Court.