Cambridge, Minn., City Code ch. 97 (2026) § 97.11
Basement Unit Requirements
Operative Text
§ 97.11 BASEMENT UNIT REQUIREMENTS (A) No basement space shall be used as a dwelling unit or rooming units unless it shall comply with the requirements set forth in this section. (B) The floor and walls shall be impervious to leakage of underground and surface runoff water and are free from dampness. (C) The light, heat and ventilation in each room shall meet the requirements of § 97.08.
Section 97.11 of the Cambridge, MN City Code establishes minimum conditions that must be met before any basement space may be used as a dwelling or rooming unit. Specifically, the floors and walls must be waterproof and free from dampness, preventing both underground seepage and surface water from entering. Additionally, every room in such a unit must meet the lighting, heating, and ventilation standards set out in § 97.08 of the same code.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 97.11, property owners who rent or intend to rent basement spaces as dwelling or rooming units are generally expected to ensure that floors and walls are constructed or treated to resist water intrusion and remain dry. Compliant operators also verify that each room in a basement unit satisfies the light, heat, and ventilation requirements cross-referenced in § 97.08 before occupancy begins. Routine inspections and maintenance of waterproofing materials and ventilation systems are common practices among operators seeking to stay in compliance with this provision.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 97.11 gives tenants in basement dwelling or rooming units the right to habitable conditions, specifically floors and walls that are impervious to water and rooms that meet the lighting, heating, and ventilation standards of § 97.08. If a basement unit shows signs of dampness, leakage, or inadequate light, heat, or ventilation, tenants may have grounds to raise these conditions as a housing code violation with the relevant Cambridge city authority. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with Cambridge, MN housing regulations can help explain the range of options available, such as filing a complaint or raising a violation as a defense in a housing proceeding.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 13, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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