Minneapolis City Council Moves Forward with Dress Code Ordinance to Combat Discrimination

The Minneapolis City Council is advancing a new dress code ordinance aimed at preventing discrimination by businesses. On Tuesday, the Business, Housing & Zoning Committee unanimously passed the proposal, which now moves to the full City Council.

The ordinance mandates that any business licensed to sell liquor or beer must post their required dress codes at the entrance. These requirements do not replace state health and safety regulations like the ‘no shirts, no shoes, no service’ policy.

If adopted by the City Council, the ordinance will take effect on January 1, 2027. The matter is scheduled for discussion on August 27.

The initiative is in response to concerns about ‘velvet rope discrimination,’ where individuals are denied entry based on race, gender, or orientation.

Councilmember Jason Chavez highlighted a past incident involving racial discrimination at a downtown bar where different standards applied to two individuals wearing the same team shirt. Chavez also recounted his experience of being excluded from a bar because of carrying a rainbow pouch, while another person with a black pouch was admitted.

‘Racism exists and our focus is on ensuring transparency in dress code policies to prevent such discrimination,’ Chavez stated.

Councilmembers Pearll Warren and Jamal Osman echoed their support for the measure. ‘We should not tolerate discrimination based on looks or attire,’ Osman said.

Warren added, ‘Businesses should clearly post their dress code policies to avoid wrongful exclusion.’ Council Member Michael Rainville expressed optimism about the ordinance’s prospects, citing the committee’s support. He emphasized that posting dress code rules could help address community concerns about ongoing racism in bars and restaurants.

Efforts to contact the Business, Housing & Zoning Committee for further comments were not immediately successful.