ADU Rules in Bloomington, Minnesota

Bloomington is a Hennepin County city of about 89,000 immediately south of Minneapolis. Home to Mall of America (the largest shopping mall in the US) and Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), Bloomington is primarily known as a commercial and hospitality hub. The city also has significant residential neighborhoods. Minnesota enacted statewide ADU legislation in 2024.

Minnesota Statewide ADU Law (2024)

Minnesota's 2024 Housing Solutions Act requires cities to allow ADUs by right. Verify how Bloomington has implemented state requirements.

Bloomington Zoning Ordinance

The City of Bloomington Zoning Ordinance governs all land use in Bloomington city limits.

Permitted ADU Types

Per Bloomington Zoning Ordinance and state law (verify current standards):

• Detached ADUs: In eligible residential zones
• Attached ADUs: With separate entrance
• Interior conversions: Basement and other conversions

Size Limits

Per Bloomington Zoning Ordinance:

• Maximum floor area per zone
• Lot coverage restrictions

Setbacks

Per Bloomington residential zone:

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback

MSP Airport Noise Zones

Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is in Bloomington/Minneapolis border area. Properties in MSP noise zones (especially south Bloomington) may have noise mitigation requirements. Verify if your property is in an airport noise zone.

Minnesota River Flood Zones

Parts of Bloomington near the Minnesota River (southern edge of the city) and the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge are in FEMA flood zones. Verify flood map status.

Minnesota Shoreland Management Act

Properties near the Minnesota River, Black Dog Lake, or other classified water bodies may be subject to Minnesota's Shoreland Management Act.

Permit Process

1. Verify zoning and state ADU law: Bloomington Community Development Division
2. Check MSP airport noise zone: If near the airport
3. Check flood zone: If near the Minnesota River
4. Shoreland review: If near public waters
5. Submit plans: Bloomington Building Division
6. Building permit and inspections
7. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of Bloomington Community Development Division 2215 W. Old Shakopee Road, Bloomington, MN 55431 Phone: (952) 563-8920 Website: bloomingtonmn.gov/planning

Disclaimer: Minnesota enacted statewide ADU legislation in 2024. MSP airport noise zones and Minnesota River flood zones affect some Bloomington properties. Verify current standards before starting any project.