Types of businesses

These businesses must have a security camera running inside the store during business hours.

• Gas stations with groceries
• Tobacco dealers
• Grocery stores
• Off-sale liquor establishments
• Confectioneries – candy stores

Digital surveillance systems

• Your digital system must save at least 30 days of video recordings.
• You must be able to access the recordings and share them in a viewable format with Business Licenses staff or the Minneapolis Police if they ask.

Rules for for use

Rules for stores with surveillance cameras:

• A sign notifying the public that a surveillance camera is operating on the premises.
• One camera must be aimed at the entrance door.
• Police or Business Licenses must be able to get recording material within 8 hours of their request.
• Minneapolis Police or Business Licenses can inspect the camera to ensure it operates properly.
• Surveillance cameras must record in color.
• Recorded materials must be clear in all lighting conditions and easily viewed. A camera must be fixed to record the entrance door; a panning camera is not allowed.
• Date and time stamps must be printed on the recorded materials.
• Surveillance cameras must record during all hours of operation of the business.
• Gasoline filling station must have cameras that record at the pumps.

We will take action if your business breaks the rules.

• In some cases, you may get a fine the first time you violate the ordinance.
• You may get a letter, phone call, or visit from a License Inspector explaining the complaint or issue.
• Take this seriously. Call your Inspector if you have questions or need help fixing the problem.
• If you don’t follow the rules, you could face:
  • Fines
  • More citations
  • A suspended license
  • Loss of your license to operate