Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule is in effect again, running from Oct. 1 through April 30. The state law is meant to help households that are behind on heating bills keep their electric or natural gas service during the winter. Here is how it works for homeowners and renters in Stearns and Benton counties, from St. Cloud and Sauk Rapids to Sartell, Waite Park and the surrounding towns.
What the rule does
During the cold weather period, a utility generally cannot shut off, and must reconnect, residential heating service for a customer who sets up a payment plan with the utility and keeps making the payments. The protection covers natural gas and electric service.
The key point: the protection is not automatic. If you are having trouble paying, you need to contact your utility and ask for a Cold Weather Rule payment plan. You can set one up at any point during the season.
Payment limits for lower-income households
For households with income at or below 50% of the state median income, a utility cannot require payments of more than 10% of household income toward current and past-due heating bills, unless the customer agrees to pay more. Households above that income level can still ask their utility for a payment plan.
Notice before a shut-off
Before disconnecting heating service between Oct. 1 and April 30, a utility must send a notice that includes the scheduled disconnection date, the amount due and a summary of the customer’s rights and responsibilities. Utilities also connect customers with energy assistance and weatherization programs, which have their own income guidelines.
The rule also applies to municipal utilities and electric cooperatives, under a separate section of state law with similar protections.
Propane, fuel oil and wood
The Cold Weather Rule does not cover delivered fuels such as propane, fuel oil or wood. State law does require propane distributors to offer budget payment plans, so customers who heat with delivered fuels are encouraged to contact their supplier early.
Why it matters if you are buying or renting
- Buying this winter? Ask the seller or your utility about the home’s heat source (natural gas, electric or propane) and typical winter bills, so you can budget before you close.
- Renting? Check whose name the utility account is in and what heats your unit, then ask your utility or the Public Utilities Commission whether the protections apply to you.
- Selling? Having recent utility bills on hand can answer one of the first questions buyers ask in the winter.
Where to get help
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission’s shut-off protection page explains the rule and how to appeal if you and your utility cannot agree on a plan. The full law is Minnesota Statutes section 216B.096.
Sources: Minnesota Public Utilities Commission; Minnesota Statutes 216B.096 and 216B.097 (Office of the Revisor of Statutes).
This is general information, not legal or financial advice. Program rules can change. Please confirm details yourself with your utility, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission or a licensed professional before making decisions.
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