A Tenant’s Right to Call for Help

State law says you can’t be punished for making calls for help – no matter how many you make. You can’t be evicted or fined even if there is a local city law that says a landlord has to evict or fine a tenant after a certain number of 9-1-1 calls. 

If the city and state law do not agree, follow the state law. Tell your landlord to check Minnesota Statute §504B.205.  

If you are facing any punishment based on your calls to 9-1-1, like a lease violation notice, a notice to vacate, or a termination of your lease, that is against the law. 

Use the attached form to tell your landlord about your legal right to call for police or emergency help because of domestic abuse, sexual assault, or any other conduct. The letter asks the landlord to withdraw the punishment or negative action.

Note: If something you or your guest does violates your lease, your landlord might use that against you, but they can’t use calling the police or emergency services as the reason to evict or penalize you.