Minnesota Dog Poop Laws by County: What Dog Owners Must Know
Minnesota is one of the most dog-friendly states in the country, with its wide open spaces, urban parks, and miles of walking trails. But whether you’re in Minneapolis, Duluth, or a small town, cleaning up after your dog is not just expected—it’s often legally required. While the state doesn’t have a universal dog poop law, many counties and cities enforce local ordinances to manage pet waste responsibly.
This guide breaks down Minnesota dog poop laws by county to help you avoid fines, respect your neighbors, and keep your community clean and healthy.
Is There a Statewide Dog Poop Law in Minnesota?
No, Minnesota does not have a specific statewide law regarding dog waste cleanup. However, nearly all local governments have ordinances in place. These laws typically classify pet waste as a public health concern or nuisance, especially in populated or recreational areas.
Failing to clean up after your dog can result in a fine, especially in urban counties and cities with animal control or sanitation enforcement.
Dog Poop Laws by Major Minnesota Counties
Hennepin County (Minneapolis, Bloomington, Edina)
Minneapolis has strict dog waste laws. City Ordinance Chapter 64 states that all pet owners must pick up and properly dispose of their dog’s feces on public or private property not owned by them. The law also requires dog owners to carry disposal bags on walks. Fines start at $100 and may increase with multiple violations.
- Applies to parks, sidewalks, alleys, and trails
- Parks like Minnehaha and Theodore Wirth have waste stations
- HOAs and apartments often enforce additional cleanup rules
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Ramsey County (St. Paul, Maplewood, Roseville)
St. Paul’s ordinance requires pet waste cleanup under Chapter 200 of the City Code. Dog owners must clean up feces immediately and dispose of it in a sanitary manner. Fines can start at $50 and increase to $150 for repeat offenders.
The city encourages responsible ownership through public education and by providing dog waste bags in many parks like Harriet Island and Battle Creek.
Dakota County (Eagan, Burnsville, Apple Valley)
Most cities in Dakota County enforce pet waste rules through local ordinances. In Eagan and Burnsville, dog owners are required to remove pet waste from public spaces and someone else’s property. Fines range from $50 to $100 depending on the number of offenses.
Pet-friendly parks, including Lebanon Hills Regional Park, have signage and disposal stations to encourage compliance.
Anoka County (Blaine, Coon Rapids, Andover)
Local laws in Anoka County cities require dog owners to clean up waste in public and shared spaces. Blaine and Coon Rapids include pet waste in nuisance and sanitation codes. First-time offenders are typically fined $50, and the penalty increases for repeated violations.
Neighborhood associations often enforce stricter policies, especially in shared lawn or park areas.
Olmsted County (Rochester)
Rochester mandates pet waste cleanup through its animal control ordinance. Leaving feces in parks, sidewalks, or trails is a violation that can lead to a $50 fine. Dog owners must carry bags when walking their pets and dispose of waste in public trash cans or at home.
Public spaces such as Silver Lake Park are regularly monitored by city staff, especially in high-traffic areas.
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County-by-County Summary Table
| County | Cleanup Required? | Typical Fine | Enforcement Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hennepin (Minneapolis) | Yes | $100–$200 | Minneapolis Animal Control |
| Ramsey (St. Paul) | Yes | $50–$150 | St. Paul Code Enforcement |
| Dakota | Yes | $50–$100 | City Animal Services |
| Anoka | Yes | $50+ | Municipal Ordinance Officers |
| Olmsted (Rochester) | Yes | $50+ | Rochester Animal Control |
Do Rural Minnesota Counties Enforce Dog Poop Laws?
Yes, but enforcement may be less formal. Rural counties may rely on general nuisance or sanitation laws rather than specific pet waste codes. Local townships and HOAs often manage enforcement within their jurisdiction, especially in community parks or lakeside areas.
Even without posted signs, you’re expected to clean up dog poop in:
- State parks and trails
- Community fields and fairgrounds
- Shared residential or rural neighborhoods
How Are These Laws Enforced?
Dog poop laws are enforced by a mix of local authorities:
- Animal control officers
- City and county code enforcement
- Parks and recreation staff
- HOAs and neighborhood associations
Many cities offer online or phone-based reporting tools for residents to report repeat offenders. In some cases, evidence such as photos or witness reports may be required for enforcement.
How to Stay Compliant and Avoid Fines
- Always carry poop bags on walks and hikes
- Dispose of waste in a public trash bin or take it home
- Use provided disposal stations in parks and trails
- Train family members and dog walkers to follow cleanup laws
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Are There Any Legal Exceptions?
Very few. Individuals with verified disabilities who rely on service dogs may be exempt from cleanup under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), especially if physical limitations prevent it. However, many service dog handlers still voluntarily comply or arrange help when possible.
For all other situations, dog owners are legally expected to pick up their pet’s waste, regardless of the dog’s size or age.
Conclusion
Dog poop laws in Minnesota are clear and enforced across counties, especially in urban and suburban areas. Picking up after your pet is more than a courtesy—it’s the law. From Minneapolis to Rochester and everywhere in between, responsible dog ownership includes cleaning up and disposing of pet waste properly.
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