MKLaw

Business and Property Rights

How can you split your Minneapolis property?

MKLaw · February 7, 2025

Many Minneapolis property owners want to turn one big piece of land into smaller lots. This choice can add value to your property and create new building spots. Here’s what you need to know about splitting your land in Minneapolis.

What is property splitting?

A property split turns one piece of land into two or more lots. Minneapolis allows two kinds of splits: minor splits make two or three lots, while major splits create four or more. The City Planning Commission runs this program.

Checking your zone

You’ll start by looking up your property’s zone type at the city office. The zone tells you if you can split your land and sets the size rules for new lots. The city’s growth plan will show if your area works for splitting land.

Getting your land mapped

You’ll need a land surveyor to make exact maps of your property. They’ll mark where buildings sit and where water and power lines run. These maps will go with your city application.

Sending in your request

After you have your maps, you’ll fill out city forms and pay fees. Your request needs site plans that show how you’ll split the land. The city looks at how your plans affect the area around you.

Moving through city hall

You’ll go to meetings where your neighbors can speak about your plans. The city might want you to make changes. Once you fix any issues, you’ll get a first approval. The City Council makes the final choice.

Making it official

Last, you’ll put your new lots in the county records. Each lot gets its own ID number and tax bill. You’ll mark the edges of each new piece of land.

The whole process often takes three to six months from start to finish. Property splits must follow many city rules and laws. A real estate lawyer can help you avoid mistakes and speed up the process. They know the local regulations and can make sure your property split goes smoothly.

This article is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Appellate reversals described here are procedural rulings that returned cases to the district court. Results depend on the facts and law of each matter.

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