St. Paul's Rent Stabilization Ordinance (Chapter 193A) was approved by voters in November 2021 and took effect on January 1, 2023. The ordinance limits residential rent increases to 3% per 12-month period, with exceptions available for landlords who can demonstrate a need for a reasonable return on investment.
St. Paul is the only city in Minnesota with a rent stabilization ordinance. The ordinance was authorized under Minn. Stat. § 471.9996 sub. 2, which allows cities to establish rent stabilization policies.
The standard rent increase limit is 3% per 12-month period. However, landlords can request exceptions to this limit through the Department of Safety and Inspections (DSI).
3% per 12-month period – No city approval needed. This is the default limit for all covered properties.
Landlords can request exceptions to the 3% cap through the following processes:
When a landlord requests an exception, tenants are notified by city staff. Both tenants and landlords have 45 days from the city's determination to file an appeal.
The ordinance applies to residential rental properties in St. Paul, with several important exemptions:
Properties with a first certificate of occupancy issued after December 31, 2004 are exempt from the rent stabilization ordinance. This includes:
The ordinance includes provisions for "just cause" vacancies, which allow landlords to increase rent by CPI + 8% after a tenant vacates for a valid reason. Just cause includes:
The ordinance is enforced by the Department of Safety and Inspections (DSI). Tenants can file complaints if they believe their landlord is not following the rent stabilization ordinance.
Both tenants and landlords have the right to appeal the city's determination on rent increase requests. Appeals must be filed with the legislative hearing officer within 45 days of the city's determination.
The standard rent increase cap is 3% per 12-month period. Landlords can request exceptions for higher increases based on reasonable return on investment.
Yes. Properties with a first certificate of occupancy issued after December 31, 2004 are exempt from the rent stabilization ordinance.
Tenants can file a complaint using the Rent Stabilization Ordinance complaint form available on the city's website. The form is available in English and Spanish.
Yes. Both tenants and landlords have 45 days from the city's determination to file an appeal with the legislative hearing officer.
No. St. Paul is the only city in Minnesota with a rent stabilization ordinance. Minnesota does not have statewide rent control.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about St. Paul's rent stabilization ordinance and is not legal advice. For specific questions about your situation, contact the Department of Safety and Inspections or consult with a qualified attorney.
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