How do I request the MPD use-of-force policy?

Submit a public records request to the City Clerk or MPD records division specifying the policy name; see MPD policy page and Minneapolis Code for guidance.

Are there fees to get the policy?

Fees and processing times vary; the cited pages do not list a fixed fee for copying the use-of-force policy and direct fee details are not specified on those pages.

Who enforces policy violations?

MPD internal affairs and civilian oversight enforce policy and may recommend discipline; criminal prosecution is handled by prosecutors when warranted.

Request Police Use-of-Force Policy - Minneapolis

Public Safety Minnesota 3 Minutes Read · published February 09, 2026

Minneapolis, Minnesota residents have a right to access the Minneapolis Police Department's use-of-force policy and related records. This guide explains how to request the written policy, which offices enforce it, and the practical steps to obtain policy documents or submit complaints. For policy text and department rules see the Minneapolis Police Department policies page MPD policies^[1] and the City of Minneapolis Code of Ordinances Minneapolis Code^[2]. Follow the steps below to request records, escalate concerns, or appeal administrative decisions.

Penalties & Enforcement

The use and enforcement of police use-of-force rules are handled primarily through departmental policy, internal discipline processes, and civil or criminal proceedings when applicable. Specific monetary fines tied to violation of MPD use-of-force policy are not specified on the cited pages; enforcement focuses on administrative discipline, investigations, and potential criminal charges when justified. Remedies may include administrative warnings, suspension, termination, and criminal prosecution where law applies.

Enforcer: Minneapolis Police Department internal affairs and supervisory command; civilian oversight by the Office of Police Conduct Review or equivalent civilian oversight body.
Investigation pathway: internal administrative investigation and, if criminal conduct is alleged, referral to prosecuting authority.
Appeals: administrative appeal or grievance processes within MPD and any negotiated employee agreements; judicial review for civil claims in court.
Fines/penalties: not specified on the cited pages for policy violations; see the linked department policy and city code for discipline frameworks.

Administrative discipline and civilian review are the primary enforcement tools for policy violations.

Applications & Forms

Requests for the written use-of-force policy and related records are typically submitted as a public records request to the City Clerk or through MPD's records division. Complaint forms for civilian review or internal affairs intake are published by the city or the civilian oversight office.

Public records request form: check the City Clerk or Records pages for an online submission form or instructions; fees and processing times are not specified on the cited MPD or municipal code pages.
Internal affairs / civilian complaint intake: use the civilian oversight office or MPD complaint intake procedures; specific form names and numbers may be published on the city's oversight pages.

If a specific form or fee is required, the City Clerk's public records page will show how to submit it.

Action Steps

Identify the records you need: name the MPD use-of-force policy and relevant incident numbers if applicable.
Submit a public records request to the City Clerk or MPD records division (online, mail, or in person) citing the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act where needed.
If the issue involves misconduct, file a complaint with MPD internal affairs and the city civilian oversight office.
If administrative remedies are exhausted, consider civil or criminal avenues; consult an attorney for legal claims and deadlines.

FAQ

How do I request the MPD use-of-force policy?: Submit a public records request to the City Clerk or MPD records division specifying the policy name; see MPD policy page and Minneapolis Code for guidance.^[1]^[2]
Are there fees to get the policy?: Fees and processing times vary; the cited pages do not list a fixed fee for copying the use-of-force policy and direct fee details are not specified on those pages.
Who enforces policy violations?: MPD internal affairs and civilian oversight enforce policy and may recommend discipline; criminal prosecution is handled by prosecutors when warranted.

How-To

Draft a clear public records request naming the MPD use-of-force policy and any dates or incident numbers.
Submit the request via the City Clerk public records portal or MPD records division contact methods.
If you seek accountability, file a complaint with MPD internal affairs and the civilian oversight office, following their intake instructions.
If dissatisfied with administrative results, consult legal counsel about appeals, mandamus, or civil claims and note statutory deadlines.

Key Takeaways

Minneapolis residents can request the MPD use-of-force policy through public records procedures.
Enforcement is primarily administrative and civilian oversight-driven; fines specific to policy breaches are not listed on the cited pages.