Excelsior, Minn., Code of Ordinances ch. 8, art. IV § 8-157
Inspection access
Operative Text
If any owner, occupant, or other person in charge of a rental dwelling or rental dwelling unit refuses to permit free access and entry to the structure or premises under that person's control for inspection pursuant to this article, the building official or designee may seek a court order authorizing such inspections.
Under Excelsior Code of Ordinances ch. 8, art. IV § 8-157, when an owner, occupant, or other responsible party refuses to allow inspectors free access to a rental dwelling or its premises, the building official — or a designated representative — has the authority to pursue a court order to compel that access. The provision establishes a legal pathway for the municipality to overcome a refusal, rather than simply abandoning the inspection. It applies to any person who exercises control over the property, regardless of whether they are the owner or a tenant.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 8-157, compliant rental property operators generally ensure that the building official or a designee can access their rental dwellings and premises for inspections conducted pursuant to Article IV without obstruction. Operators who refuse or impede such access expose themselves to the possibility of a court-ordered inspection, which can escalate the regulatory process and draw additional scrutiny. Maintaining clear communication with inspection staff and honoring properly authorized inspection requests is the practice associated with compliance under this provision.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 8-157 makes clear that the inspection-access requirement extends to occupants, not just property owners — meaning a tenant who controls a unit is also covered by this rule. If access is refused by anyone in charge of the premises, the building official may seek a court order to proceed with the inspection. Tenants who have questions about their rights during an inspection process — including what constitutes a valid inspection under Article IV — may wish to consult a local tenant-rights organization or legal aid office for general guidance.
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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