Zoning lots nonconforming as to maximum lot area.
Minneapolis Code of Ordinances § 540.740
in effect540.740. - Zoning lots nonconforming as to maximum lot area.
(a) In general. Existing zoning lots nonconforming as to the maximum lot area shall have all of the rights of a conforming lot, except as otherwise provided in this section.
(b) Single-, two-, and three-family dwellings. Where allowed as a permitted or conditional use, single-, two-, and three-family dwellings shall be allowed on existing lots nonconforming as to the maximum lot area.
(c) Residential uses with four (4) or more units. New development that includes four (4) or more residential units on a zoning lot that exceeds the maximum permitted lot area may only be developed as a cluster development, common lot development or planned unit development. The maximum permitted lot area in a cluster development or planned unit development shall be determined by conditional use permit. The maximum permitted lot area in a common lot development shall not exceed the district maximum by more than thirty (30) percent. Reuse of a residential structure existing on the effective date of the ordinance, for a permitted or conditional use with four (4) or more residential units, and additions to such structures, shall be allowed on an existing zoning lot that exceeds the maximum permitted lot area and shall not require an application for a cluster development or planned unit development.
(d) Authorized variance of maximum lot area. Any person having a legal or equitable interest in a property may file an application for a variance to increase the maximum lot area by up to thirty (30) percent, as provided in Chapter 525, Administration and Procedures. Existing lots that exceed the maximum permitted lot area may only be increased by variance up to thirty (30) percent above the district maximum. Existing lots that exceed the maximum lot area by more than thirty (30) percent shall not be eligible to further expand the lot by variance.
Source: City of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances, City Charter and Park and Recreation Board Code of Ordinances (Municode Library, library.municode.com)URL: https://library.municode.com/mn/minneapolis/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=MICOOR_TIT20ZOCO_CH540BUFOOVDI_ARTVIIILODI_540.740ZOLONOMALOARFetched: 11/2/2026