Hey neighbors,

I wanted to share an important update regarding a proposed Minneapolis City Council ordinance change that could directly impact how many of us use our video doorbells and outdoor security cameras (like Ring, Nest, Arlo, etc.).

What’s happening?

The City Council has introduced an amendment to the Minneapolis Noise Ordinance (File #2026-XXXXXXXXXX, Section 389.100) regarding motion-sensor audio devices.

Under the proposed language, motion-sensor audio on private property would only be permitted if it cannot be heard at all from an adjacent residential property line.

Why this matters for Minneapolis homeowners:

In many of our dense Minneapolis neighborhoods—where homes and front doors are often just 5 to 10 feet apart—a strict "zero audibility at the property boundary" rule is virtually impossible to meet. Everyday human sounds like a porch conversation carry across property lines that close. Requiring camera chimes or automated audio warnings to remain completely silent across a property line less than 10 feet away essentially forces residents to disable audio deterrence features entirely.

Video doorbells and motion audio have operated safely across the city for over a decade. If you rely on audio alerts on your video doorbells or cameras, this update could affect your ability to use those standard features legally.

How to make your voice heard:

The City Council Committee has set a public hearing expected for August 19 (between 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM), and they are accepting online comments from residents right now.

If you’d like to share your thoughts, ask the city to rely on balanced decibel limits rather than blanket property-line bans, or request that they look into historical data before changing code, you can submit an online comment here:

 Link to Submit Comment: Minneapolis Public Comment Portal

 

File Number: ⁠2026-XXXXXXXXXX⁠

Feel free to pass this along to other Minneapolis homeowners who use security cameras!