Public Health Nuisances

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What is a public health nuisance?

A public health nuisance is defined by Minnesota law as any activity or failure to act that adversely affects public health. Ramsey County has adopted a public health nuisance ordinance (PDF).

Conditions of a public health nuisance

  • Improperly stored solid waste, such as rotting garbage or dead animals.
  • Insect or rodent infestations.
  • Evidence of a meth lab or other clandestine drug manufacturing.
  • Unsafe living situations (lack of sewage disposal or garbage house) that affect children or vlunerable adults.

Public health vs. public nuisance

A public health nuisance is generally related to conditions that may affect one's health or cause a disease, whereas public nuisances tend to be non-health related conditions.

Examples

  • Excessive noise.
  • Open wells.
  • Animal control issues.
  • Long grass.
  • Leaking roof in a rental property, etc.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding a public nuisance, call the city or township in which you live.