Encampments

MnDOT Policy #OE014
Revised: October 9, 2026

Please go to the MnDOT Org Chart to find specific contact information: Org Chart.

Responsible Senior Officer: Deputy Commissioner/Chief Engineer
Policy Owner: Assistant Commissioner - Operations Division
Policy Contact: Metro District Field Operations Manager

Policy statement

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) prioritizes the health and safety of all Minnesotans.

When responding to the complex and urgent needs of people experiencing homelessness, MnDOT will:

Ensure Minnesotans are not using MnDOT property in ways that put them in danger. MnDOT right-of-way and roadways are not safe places for people to live or stay. MnDOT will take necessary steps to prevent these spaces from being used in ways that are dangerous to people’s lives.
Coordinate with service providers. MnDOT recognizes that local service providers and state and county partners are best positioned to provide information, support and alternatives to people experiencing homelessness. MnDOT will work closely with these partners when closing spaces that are unsafe.

Reason for policy

The purpose of this policy is to:

Protect the health and safety of MnDOT staff, contractors, and all Minnesotans; and
Ensure that MnDOT property and infrastructure can be safely used for their intended purposes.

Applicability

All MnDOT employees must comply with this policy.

Definitions

Encampment

A site on MnDOT property where one or more persons use the property for an unauthorized, non-transportation purpose. Encampments include illegal use of rest area property.

MnDOT property or right of way

State of Minnesota-owned property or easements managed by MnDOT including roads and highways, roadsides, bridges, structures, airspace, buildings, and grounds (including rest area buildings and grounds).

Responsibilities

Commissioner

Serve on the Minnesota Interagency Council on Homelessness with assistance from MnDOT’s Chief of Staff

Operations Division

Oversee district unauthorized encampment response efforts.
Coordinate and collaborate with MnDOT partner counterparts, including local units of government and service providers.
Review the policy every two years, or sooner as necessary, to ensure the policy remains up to date.
Be aware of state, federal, enterprise, agency, or other requirements that apply to the policy or procedures.
Consult with the Office of Chief Counsel to ensure the policy and procedures remain compliant with all state, federal, enterprise, agency, or other requirements.
Work with the policy coordinator to revise the policy and/or confirm its accuracy.
Communicate policy revisions, reviews, and retirements to stakeholders.

Office of Communications and Public Engagement

Respond to media inquiries.
Coordinate and collaborate with MnDOT partner counterparts, including local units of government and service providers.

History and updates

Adopted

April 19, 2018

Revised

First Revision: October 9, 2026

Policy Review

This policy's next scheduled review is due October 2028.