• What does it cover?
• Where does it apply?
• Who enforces it?
• Who can help me with a question?
• Where can I get a copy?
• Where can I learn more about it?
• What if I don't agree with an interpretation by my code official?

Effective date for this code:  July 10, 2007

What does it cover?

This chapter of the state building code contains detailed accessibility requirements for persons with disabilities in new buildings, additions to buildings, and buildings undergoing alterations. It does not apply to residential dwellings having three or fewer dwelling units in a building. Examples of subjects regulated include, site access to buildings, accessible restroom features, accessibility between different floor levels, features for sight and hearing impaired persons, etc.

Where does it apply?

This chapter applies to all municipalities throughout the state of Minnesota. This includes those jurisdictions that administer the State Building Code and those counties, cities, and townships that do not.

Who enforces it?

Local building officials and their inspectors enforce this chapter of the code in those jurisdictions that administer the State Building Code. In other locations, the jurisdiction must employ or contract with a Certified Building Official, Certified Building Official Limited, or Certified Building Official Accessibility Specialist.

Who can help me with a question?

You can contact your local building official, one of their inspectors, or the Building Codes and Standards at the Department of Labor and Industry.

Where can I get a copy?

You can directly access chapter 1341 of the State Building Code by clicking on Chapter 1341 in parts or Entire Chapter 1341 . You can review this chapter of the code at the office of your local building official, Building Codes and Standards at the  Department of Labor and Industry, and many local libraries. You can purchase chapter 1341 as part of the State Building Code from Minnesota's Bookstore.

Where can I learn more about it?

Information about and training in the Minnesota Accessibility Code may be offered by various agencies and organizations. For information about the code or notice of any current training opportunities, contact the American Institute of Architects (AIA Minnesota) or Building Codes and Standards at the Department of Labor and Industry.

What if I don't agree with my code official?

You should first make sure you understand what the code says about the subject and how your local building official or their inspector is interpreting the applicable code section(s). To assist you with this, you may want to research the background of the provision(s) through your building official or staff from Building Codes and Standards at the Department of Labor and Industry. If you still disagree, you may be able to appeal the local building official's final decision to that municipality's board of appeals. This is a group of individuals that will meet, discuss, and vote on the matter. If that municipality does not have a board of appeals, you can submit a request to be heard by the State Appeals Board.