What's the maximum rent increase in Saint Paul for 2026?
3%
Saint Paul limits rent increases to 3% in any 12-month period unless the landlord qualifies for an exception, such as self-certification for 3% to 8%.
- In effect
- Ongoing (fixed by ordinance, per 12 months)
- Next change
- No fixed date
- Set by
- Saint Paul Department of Safety and Inspections (DSI) · City ordinance
- Last checked
- October 17, 2026
A fixed limit of 3% in any 12-month period without City approval. Landlords can self-certify 3–8% or apply for more.
How the Saint Paul cap is calculated
Fixed 3% per 12 months (exceptions by application)
Fixed by ordinance at 3% per 12 months. Exceptions: self-certification for 3–8% (evaluated annually), CPI + 8% after a just-cause vacancy, and staff determination with no limit when justified by a reasonable return on investment.
Law: Rent Stabilization Ordinance, Legislative Code ch. 193A.
Who it covers, and who's exempt
Covered
- Residential rental units in Saint Paul, unless exempt
Main exemptions & conditions
- Newly constructed residential rental properties first issued a certificate of occupancy after December 31, 2004
- Former non-residential buildings converted to residential rentals after December 31, 2004
- Affordable housing whose rents are regulated by a government agreement
- Government-owned units, short-stay hotels and motels, and licensed care facilities
Notice, and when it changes next
Notice: See the Minnesota Attorney General's Landlords and Tenants handbook for notice requirements.
Next change: No scheduled change: 3% is set by ordinance. The self-certification range is evaluated annually.
Official sources
“Standard Allowable Increase without City approval: 3%”
“Newly constructed residential rental properties that were issued their first building certificate of occupancy after December 31, 2004.”
See something out of date? The methodology page explains how we check figures.
Frequently asked
What is the maximum rent increase in Saint Paul for 2026?
Saint Paul limits rent increases to 3% in any 12-month period unless the landlord qualifies for an exception, such as self-certification for 3% to 8%.
How is the Saint Paul rent cap calculated?
Fixed by ordinance at 3% per 12 months. Exceptions: self-certification for 3–8% (evaluated annually), CPI + 8% after a just-cause vacancy, and staff determination with no limit when justified by a reasonable return on investment.
Which rentals are exempt from the Saint Paul cap?
Newly constructed residential rental properties first issued a certificate of occupancy after December 31, 2004. Former non-residential buildings converted to residential rentals after December 31, 2004. Affordable housing whose rents are regulated by a government agreement.
When does the Saint Paul rent cap change next?
No scheduled change: 3% is set by ordinance. The self-certification range is evaluated annually.
Where does this Saint Paul figure come from?
From City of Saint Paul: “Rent Stabilization”, which we last checked on October 17, 2026. Always confirm with the agency before relying on it.