What is Adverse Possession?
An individual who openly inhabits a property that he or she does not actually own and makes improvements over a certain period of time may be granted legal title under the legal doctrine of "adverse possession." Technically, the waiting period reflects the statute of limitations for a trespassing lawsuit. Most states have adverse possession laws (often referred to as "squatters' rights"), with slightly varying provisions, but generally require the person inhabiting the property to follow certain guidelines.
For instance, the possession must be done:
Overview of Minnesota Adverse Possession Law
In order to claim title under Minnesota's adverse possession law ("Recovery of Real Estate"), you must be in possession of the property for 15 years and pay taxes for at least five consecutive years. The statute excludes certain boundary line disputes (see FindLaw's Property Boundaries section to learn more).
| Code Section | 541.02, 15 |
| Time Period Required for Occupation | 15 yrs.and payment of taxes for 5 consecutive years |
| Time for Landowner to Challenge/Effect of Landowner's Disability | With disability: 5 yrs. (except for infancy); After disability lifted: 1 yr. |
| Improvements | - |
| Payment of Taxes | - |
| Title from Tax Assessor | - |
Note: State laws are constantly changing, typically through new legislation, appeals court decisions, or ballot initiatives. We regularly update our content, but you may also want to contact a Minnesota land use and zoning attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
A Brief History of Adverse Possession Laws
Adverse possession laws have been justified for a few reasons, mainly to settle land titles and disputes between neighbors, and to avoid stale claims (those barred under the statute of limitations). Also, these laws encourage landowners to maintain their property so it doesn't become underused or overgrown.
Research the Law
Minnesota Adverse Possession Laws: Related Resources
