reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.01 — Purposes; Powers; County Organization.

343.01 PURPOSES; POWERS; COUNTY ORGANIZATION.
Subdivision 1.
Formation authorized.
A state federation of county and district societies for the prevention of cruelty to animals may be created as a corporation under chapter 317A for the purpose provided in section 343.06. The federation may appoint representatives in any county where no active county or district society exists for the purpose of receiving and accounting for funds from any source, and may also appoint agents at large to carry out the work of the federation throughout the state. The federation and all county and district societies may appoint agents for the purpose of investigating or otherwise assisting lawfully empowered officials in the prosecution of persons charged with cruelty to animals. Appointed agents must have training and experience in activities relating to prevention of cruelty to animals or enforcement of laws relating to cruelty to animals. The federation may make bylaws as are necessary to implement its authority under this chapter and under chapter 317A.
Subd. 1a.
Minnesota Humane Society; continuation confirmed.
The Minnesota Humane Society, also known as the Minnesota Society for the Prevention of Cruelty, is confirmed and continued as a nonprofit organization under chapter 317A.
Subd. 1b.
Independent organizations; powers of the federated humane societies.
(a) The Minnesota Humane Society, also known as the Minnesota Society for the Prevention of Cruelty, and the Minnesota federated humane societies are not affiliated with each other or with the state of Minnesota.
(b) The Minnesota federated humane societies have the powers given to it under this chapter.
Subd. 2.
Unauthorized use of names prohibited.
It is unlawful for any organization, association, firm or corporation not named in this chapter to refer to itself as or in any way to use the names Minnesota federated humane societies, Minnesota Society for the Prevention of Cruelty, the Minnesota Humane Society, or any combination of words or phrases using the above names which would imply that it represents, acts in behalf or is a branch of the society or the federation.
Subd. 3.
Powers and duties.
The federation and the society must each be governed by a board of directors designated in accordance with chapter 317A. The powers, duties, and organization of the federation and the society and other matters for the conduct of the business of the federation and the society are as provided in chapter 317A and in the articles of incorporation and bylaws of each organization.
History:
(7927) RL s 3125; 1971 c 85 s 1; 1975 c 369 s 1; 1977 c 264 s 1; 1983 c 293 s 97; 1985 c 285 s 47; 1986 c 444; 1987 c 394 s 3; 1989 c 304 s 137; 1994 c 634 art 1 s 18-21
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.06 — Purpose Of Federation.

343.06 PURPOSE OF FEDERATION.
It shall be the purpose of the state federation of county and district humane societies to assist in the enforcement of the laws for the prevention of wrongs to animals; to assist in the organization of district and county societies and give them representation in the state federation; to aid such societies and agents in the enforcement of the laws for the prevention of wrongs to animals which may now or hereafter exist, and to promote the growth of education and sentiment favorable to the protection of animals.
History:
(7930) 1905 c 274 s 3; 1975 c 369 s 4; 1977 c 264 s 2; 1987 c 394 s 4
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.10 — County And District Societies.

343.10 COUNTY AND DISTRICT SOCIETIES.
A county society for the prevention of cruelty to animals may be formed in any county and a district society for the prevention of cruelty to animals may be formed in any group of two or more contiguous or noncontiguous counties or parts of counties by not less than seven incorporators. County and district societies shall be created as corporations under chapter 317A and as provided in the bylaws of the state federation. No county or district society may conduct investigations outside the boundaries of the county or counties included in the county or district society.
History:
(7934) RL s 3126; 1975 c 369 s 7; 1987 c 394 s 5; 1989 c 304 s 137; 2007 c 45 art 1 s 60
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.11 — Acquisition Of Property, Appropriations.

343.11 ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY, APPROPRIATIONS.
Every county and district society for the prevention of cruelty to animals may acquire, by purchase, gift, grant, or devise, and hold, use, or convey, real estate and personal property, and lease, mortgage, sell, or use the same in any manner conducive to its interest, to the same extent as natural persons. The county board of any county, or the council of any city, in which such societies exist, may, in its discretion, appropriate for the maintenance and support of such societies in the transaction of the work for which they are organized, any sums of money not otherwise appropriated; provided, that no part of the appropriation shall be expended for the payment of the salary of any officer of the society.
History:
RL s 3127; 1913 c 31 s 1; 1955 c 366 s 1; 1973 c 123 art 5 s 7; 1973 c 187 s 1; 1975 c 369 s 8; 1985 c 69 s 1; 1987 c 394 s 6; 2005 c 152 art 1 s 5; 2009 c 94 art 1 s 93
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.12 — Duties Of Peace Officers.

343.12 DUTIES OF PEACE OFFICERS.
Upon application of any agent appointed by the federation or a county or district society, it shall be the duty of, any sheriff or the agent's deputy or any police officer to investigate any alleged violation of the law relative to cruelty to animals, and to arrest any person found violating those laws. It shall also be the duty of those officers to take possession of any animals in their respective jurisdictions which have been cruelly treated, and deliver the same to the proper officers of the county or district for custody and care.
History:
(7936) RL s 3128; 1975 c 369 s 9; 1977 c 332 s 15; 1986 c 444; 1987 c 394 s 7
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.20 — Definitions.

343.20 DEFINITIONS.
Subdivision 1.
Application.
Except as otherwise indicated by the context, for purposes of sections 343.20 to 343.36, the terms defined in this section have the meanings given them.
Subd. 2.
Animal.
"Animal" means every living creature except members of the human race.
Subd. 3.
Torture; cruelty.
"Torture" or "cruelty" means every act, omission, or neglect which causes or permits unnecessary or unjustifiable pain, suffering, or death.
Subd. 4.
Impure and unwholesome milk.
"Impure and unwholesome milk" means all milk obtained from diseased or unhealthy animals, or from animals fed on any substance which is putrefied or fermented.
Subd. 5.
Animal control officer.
"Animal control officer" means an officer employed by or under contract with an agency of the state, county, municipality, or other governmental subdivision of the state which is responsible for animal control operations in its jurisdiction.
Subd. 6.
Pet or companion animal.
"Pet or companion animal" includes any animal owned, possessed by, cared for, or controlled by a person for the present or future enjoyment of that person or another as a pet or companion, or any stray pet or stray companion animal.
Subd. 7.
Service animal.
"Service animal" means an animal trained to assist a person with a disability.
Subd. 8.
Substantial bodily harm.
"Substantial bodily harm" means bodily injury which involves a temporary but substantial disfigurement, or which causes a temporary but substantial loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ, or which causes a fracture of any bodily member to a service animal or a pet or companion animal.
Subd. 9.
Great bodily harm.
"Great bodily harm" means bodily injury which creates a high probability of death, or which causes serious permanent disfigurement, or which causes a permanent or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ, or other serious bodily harm to a service animal or a pet or companion animal.
History:
(10442) RL s 5151; 1981 c 53 s 1; 1989 c 37 s 1; 1Sp2001 c 8 art 8 s 5-8
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.215 — Veterinarian Immunity.

343.215 VETERINARIAN IMMUNITY.
A licensed veterinarian acting in good faith and in the normal course of business is immune from civil and criminal liability in any action arising in connection with the report of a suspected incident of animal cruelty.
History:
2020 c 89 art 4 s 33
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.22 — Investigation Of Cruelty Complaints.

343.22 INVESTIGATION OF CRUELTY COMPLAINTS.
Subdivision 1.
Reporting.
Any person who has reason to believe that a violation of this chapter has taken place or is taking place may apply to any court having jurisdiction over actions alleging violation of that section for a warrant and for investigation. The court shall examine under oath the person so applying and any witnesses the applicant produces and the court shall take their affidavits in writing. The affidavits must set forth facts tending to establish the grounds for believing a violation of this chapter has occurred or is occurring, or probable cause to believe that a violation exists. If the court is satisfied of the existence of the grounds of the application, or that there is probable cause to believe a violation exists, it shall issue a signed search warrant and order for investigation to a peace officer in the county. The order shall command the officer to proceed promptly to the location of the alleged violation. The order may command that a doctor of veterinary medicine accompany the officer.
Subd. 2.
Police investigation.
The peace officer shall search the place designated in the warrant and, together with the veterinary doctor, shall conduct an investigation of the facts surrounding the alleged violation. The peace officer may retain in custody, subject to the order of the court, any property or things which are specified in the warrant, including any animal if the warrant so specifies. The warrant shall contain the names of the persons presenting affidavits in support of the application and the grounds for its issuance. Service shall be made in accordance with the provisions of sections 626.13, 626.14, and 626.16. The warrant must be executed and returned to the court which issued the warrant within ten days after its date; after the expiration of that time the warrant, unless executed, is void. The officer executing the warrant shall promptly return the warrant to the court, and deliver to it a written inventory of the property or things taken, verified by the certificate of the officer. The warrant and order for investigation issued pursuant to this section and section 343.23 shall have the same force as a warrant issued pursuant to chapter 626.
Subd. 3.
Disposal of animals.
Upon a proper determination by a licensed doctor of veterinary medicine, any animal taken into custody pursuant to this section may be immediately disposed of when the animal is suffering and is beyond cure through reasonable care and treatment. All other animals shall be disposed of as provided in section 343.235. The authority taking custody of the animals may recover all costs incurred under this section.
History:
1971 c 647 s 1; 1974 c 299 s 1; 1981 c 53 s 3; 1986 c 444; 1987 c 394 s 8; 1991 c 122 s 1,2
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.23 — Expenses Of Investigation.

343.23 EXPENSES OF INVESTIGATION.
The expenses of the investigation authorized by section 343.22, including the fee of the doctor of veterinary medicine, the expenses of keeping or disposing of any animal taken into custody pursuant to an investigation, and all other expenses reasonably incident to the investigation shall be paid by the county treasurer from the general fund of the county. If the person alleged to have violated section 343.21 is found guilty of the violation, the county shall have judgment against the guilty person for the amount of the expenses.
History:
1971 c 647 s 2; 1977 c 332 s 16; 1981 c 53 s 4
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.24 — Cruelty In Transportation.

343.24 CRUELTY IN TRANSPORTATION.
Subdivision 1.
Penalty.
Any person who does any of the following is guilty of a misdemeanor:
(a) carries or causes to be carried, any live animals upon any vehicle or otherwise, without providing suitable racks, cars, crates, or cages in which the animals can both stand and lie down during transportation and while awaiting slaughter;
(b) except as provided in subdivision 2, paragraph (a), carries or causes to be carried, upon a vehicle or otherwise, any live animal having feet or legs tied together, or in any other cruel or inhumane manner;
(c) transports or detains livestock in cars or compartments for more than 28 consecutive hours without unloading the livestock in a humane manner into properly equipped pens for rest, water, and feeding for a period of at least five consecutive hours, unless requested to do so as provided in subdivision 2, paragraph (b), or unless prevented by storm or unavoidable causes which cannot be anticipated or avoided by the exercise of due diligence and foresight; or
(d) permits livestock to be crowded together without sufficient space to stand, or so as to overlie, crush, wound, or kill each other.
Subd. 2.
Exceptions.
(a) A person may carry or cause to be carried, upon a vehicle or otherwise, a cloven-hoofed animal having legs tied together, if:
(1) the person transporting the animal is the animal's owner or an employee or agent of the owner;
(2) the animal weighs 250 pounds or less;
(3) the tying is done in a humane manner and is necessary for the animal's safe transport; and
(4) the animal's legs are tied for no longer than one-half hour.
(b) A person or corporation engaged in transporting livestock may confine livestock for 36 consecutive hours if the owner or person with custody of that particular shipment of livestock requests in writing that an extension be allowed. That written request shall be separate from any printed bill of lading or other railroad form.
History:
(10444) RL s 5153; 1921 c 186 s 1; 1981 c 53 s 5; 1998 c 402 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.25 — Docking Horses; Penalty.

343.25 DOCKING HORSES; PENALTY.
A person who cuts the bony part of a horse's tail for the purpose of docking it, or who causes or knowingly permits the same to be done upon premises of which the person is owner, lessee, or user, or who assists in the cutting is guilty of a misdemeanor. When a horse is found so cut, upon the premises or in the custody of any person, and the wound resulting is unhealed, that fact shall constitute prima facie evidence that the offense was committed by the person. All fines resulting from complaint made by an officer or agent of any society of this state for the prevention of cruelty to animals for any offense specified in this section shall be paid to the society whose officer or agent made the complaint.
History:
(10445) RL s 5154; 1981 c 53 s 6; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.27 — Poisoning Animals.

343.27 POISONING ANIMALS.
Any person who unjustifiably administers any poisonous, or noxious drug or substance to any animal, or procures or permits it to be done, or unjustifiably exposes that drug or substance with intent that the drug be taken by any animal, whether the animal is the property of the person or another, is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
History:
(10448) RL s 5157; 1979 c 102 s 13; 1981 c 53 s 8; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.28 — Animal With Infectious Disease.

343.28 ANIMAL WITH INFECTIOUS DISEASE.
An owner or person having charge of any animal who knows the animal has any infectious or contagious disease, or knows the animal has recently been exposed to an infectious or contagious disease, who sells or barters the animal, or knowingly permits the animal to run at large or come into contact with any other animal, or with another person without that person's knowledge and permission shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
History:
(10450) RL s 5159; 1980 c 467 s 36; 1981 c 53 s 9
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.29 — Exposure Of Animals; Duty Of Officers.

343.29 EXPOSURE OF ANIMALS; DUTY OF OFFICERS.
Subdivision 1.
Delivery to shelter.
Any peace officer, animal control officer, or agent of the federation or county or district societies for the prevention of cruelty, may remove, shelter, and care for any animal which is not properly sheltered from cold, hot, or inclement weather or any animal not properly fed and watered, or provided with suitable food and drink in circumstances that threaten the life of the animal. When necessary, a peace officer, animal control officer, or agent may deliver the animal to another person to be sheltered and cared for, and furnished with suitable food and drink. In all cases, the owner, if known, shall be immediately notified as provided in section 343.235, subdivision 3, and the person having possession of the animal, shall have a lien thereon for its actual costs of care and keeping and the expenses of the notice. If the owner or custodian is unknown and cannot by reasonable effort be ascertained, or does not, within ten days after notice, redeem the animal by paying the expenses authorized by this subdivision, the animal may be disposed of as provided in section 343.235.
Subd. 2.
Disposal of animals.
Upon a proper determination by a licensed doctor of veterinary medicine, any animal taken into custody pursuant to subdivision 1 may be immediately disposed of when the animal is suffering and is beyond cure through reasonable care and treatment. The expenses of disposal shall be subject to the provisions of section 343.23.
History:
(10451) RL s 5160; 1907 c 398 s 1; 1973 c 123 art 5 s 7; 1974 c 299 s 2; 1981 c 53 s 10; 1987 c 394 s 9; 1989 c 37 s 2; 1991 c 122 s 3; 1995 c 244 s 8
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.30 — Injury To Birds.

343.30 INJURY TO BIRDS.
A person who in any manner maliciously maims, kills, or destroys any bird designated as unprotected by section 97A.015, subdivision 52, or who maliciously destroys the nests or eggs of any such bird shall be guilty of a petty misdemeanor.
History:
(10447) RL s 5156; 1981 c 53 s 11; 1986 c 386 art 4 s 25
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.315 — Live Lure Greyhound Training Or Racing.

343.315 LIVE LURE GREYHOUND TRAINING OR RACING.
No person may train a greyhound for racing using a live lure or live bait or conduct a greyhound race using a live lure or live bait.
History:
1991 c 74 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.32 — Artificially Colored Animals; Sale.

343.32 ARTIFICIALLY COLORED ANIMALS; SALE.
No chick, duckling, gosling, or rabbit that has been dyed or otherwise colored artificially may be sold or offered for sale; raffled; offered or given as a prize, premium, or advertising device; or displayed in any store, shop, carnival, or other public place.
History:
1965 c 620 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.33 — Use As Advertising Devices.

343.33 USE AS ADVERTISING DEVICES.
Chicks, ducklings, and goslings younger than four weeks of age shall not be sold or offered for sale; raffled; or offered or given as a prize, premium, or advertising device, in quantity of fewer than 12 birds to an individual person unless sold by a person, firm, partnership or corporation engaged in the business of selling chicks, ducklings, and goslings for agricultural or wildlife purposes.
History:
1965 c 620 s 2; 1981 c 53 s 12
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.34 — Care Of Animals Used As Advertising Devices.

343.34 CARE OF ANIMALS USED AS ADVERTISING DEVICES.
Stores, shops, vendors, and others offering chicks, ducklings, or goslings for sale; raffle; or as a prize, premium, or advertising device; or displaying chicks, ducklings, or goslings to the public; shall provide and operate brooders or other heating devices that may be necessary to maintain the chicks, ducklings, or goslings in good health, and shall keep adequate food and water available to the birds at all times.
History:
1965 c 620 s 3; 1981 c 53 s 13
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.35 — Violations.

343.35 VIOLATIONS.
A violation of sections 343.32 to 343.34 is a petty misdemeanor; provided that, after any violation has been called to the attention of the violator by any law enforcement officer, each day on which the violation continues or is repeated constitutes a separate offense.
History:
1965 c 620 s 4; 1981 c 53 s 14
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.36 — Greased Pig Contests And Turkey Scrambles.

343.36 GREASED PIG CONTESTS AND TURKEY SCRAMBLES.
No person shall operate, run or participate in a contest, game, or other like activity, in which a pig, greased, oiled or otherwise, is released and wherein the object is the capture of the pig, or in which a chicken or turkey is released or thrown into the air and wherein the object is the capture of the chicken or turkey. Any violation of this section is a misdemeanor.
History:
1971 c 649 s 1; 1981 c 53 s 15
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.37 — Decompression Chambers Prohibited.

343.37 DECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS PROHIBITED.
A person may not use a decompression chamber to destroy an animal. A violation of this section is a misdemeanor.
History:
1985 c 270 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 343 — Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals › Section 343.40 — Dog Houses.

343.40 DOG HOUSES.
Subdivision 1.
In general.
A person in charge or control of any dog which is kept outdoors or in an unheated enclosure shall provide the dog with shelter and bedding as prescribed in this section as a minimum.
Subd. 2.
Building specifications.
The shelter shall include a moistureproof and windproof structure of suitable size to accommodate the dog and allow retention of body heat. It shall be made of durable material with a solid, moistureproof floor or a floor raised at least two inches from the ground. Between November 1 and March 31 the structure must have a windbreak at the entrance. The structure shall be provided with a sufficient quantity of suitable bedding material consisting of hay, straw, cedar shavings, blankets, or the equivalent, to provide insulation and protection against cold and dampness and promote retention of body heat.
Subd. 3.
Shade.
Shade from the direct rays of the sun, during the months of May to October shall be provided.
Subd. 4.
Farm dogs.
In lieu of the requirements of subdivisions 2 and 3, a dog kept on a farm may be provided with access to a barn with a sufficient quantity of loose hay or bedding to protect against cold and dampness.
Subd. 5.
Zoning.
All shelters required by this section shall be subject to all building or zoning regulations of any city, township, county, or state.
Subd. 6.
Penalty.
Whoever violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a petty misdemeanor.
History:
1959 c 571 s 2; 1965 c 764 s 1; 1973 c 123 art 5 s 7; 1981 c 53 s 16; 1998 c 402 s 2; 2005 c 10 art 1 s 69
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.01 — Fence Viewers.

344.01 FENCE VIEWERS.
Supervisors in their respective towns, city council members in their respective wards, commissioners of public works in cities having a commission form of government, and city trustees in statutory cities are fence viewers.
History:
(7248) RL s 2748; 1921 c 25 s 1; 1973 c 123 art 5 s 7; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.011 — Exemption.

344.011 EXEMPTION.
A home rule charter or statutory city council or town board may, by resolution, exempt adjoining owners or occupants from this chapter when their land considered together is less than 20 acres.
History:
1982 c 616 s 1; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1; 2016 c 102 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.02 — Kinds Of Partition Fences.

344.02 KINDS OF PARTITION FENCES.
Subdivision 1.
Legal and sufficient fences.
The following are legal and sufficient fences:
(a) fences consisting of at least 32-inch woven wire and two barbed wires firmly fastened to well-set posts not more than one rod apart, the first barbed wire being above and not more than four inches from the woven wire and the second barbed wire being above and not more than eight inches from the first wire;
(b) fences consisting of at least 40-inch woven wire and one barbed wire firmly fastened to well-set posts not more than one rod apart, the barbed wire being above and not more than four inches from the woven wire;
(c) fences consisting of woven wire at least 48 inches in height, and one barbed wire not more than four inches above the woven wire firmly fastened to well-set posts not more than one rod apart;
(d) fences consisting of at least four barbed wires with at least 40 barbs to the rod, the wires firmly fastened to posts not more than one rod apart, the top wire not more than 48 inches high and the bottom wire 12 to 16 inches from the ground; and
(e) fences consisting of rails, timbers, wires, boards, stone walls, or any combination of those materials, or streams, lakes, ditches, or hedges, which are considered by the fence viewers as equivalent to any of the fences listed in this subdivision.
Subd. 2.
Determination of kind of fence.
If adjoining land owners disagree as to the kind of fence to be built on any division line, the matter must be referred to the fence viewers, who shall determine what kind of fence should be built on the line and order it built.
Subd. 3.
Special case.
If the lands of two persons adjoin and the land of one is enclosed by a woven wire fence on all sides except the side forming a division line between the lands, each person shall erect and maintain a fence along one-half the total length of the division line. The fences must be similar in character and quality.
History:
(7249) RL s 2749; 1915 c 282; 1917 c 408 s 1; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.03 — Expense; Equal Shares.

344.03 EXPENSE; EQUAL SHARES.
Subdivision 1.
Adjoining owners.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), if two adjoining lands are both used in whole or in part to produce or maintain livestock for agricultural or commercial purposes and one or both of the owners of the land desires the land to be partly or totally fenced, the land owners or occupants shall build and maintain a partition fence between their lands in equal shares.
(b) The requirement in this section and the procedures in this chapter apply to the Department of Natural Resources when it owns land adjoining privately owned land subject to this section and chapter and the landowner desires the land permanently fenced for the purpose of restraining livestock.
(c) For purposes of this section, "livestock" means beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, poultry, goats, donkeys, hinnies, mules, farmed Cervidae, Ratitae, bison, sheep, horses, alpacas, and llamas.
Subd. 2.
[Repealed, 1989 c 335 art 4 s 109; 1Sp1989 c 2 s 8]
History:
RL s 2750; 1913 c 525 s 1; 1915 c 173; 1965 c 717 s 1; 1969 c 1129 art 3 s 1; 1971 c 24 s 38; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1; 1989 c 335 art 4 s 109; 1Sp1989 c 2 s 8; 1994 c 623 art 1 s 40; 2017 c 88 art 2 s 77
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.04 — Failure To Build Or Repair; Rights Of Complainant.

344.04 FAILURE TO BUILD OR REPAIR; RIGHTS OF COMPLAINANT.
If a person fails to build, repair, or rebuild a partition fence which the person is required to build or maintain, the affected party may complain to the fence viewers. The fence viewers shall give notice to the parties and examine the fence or look into the need for a proposed fence. If they determine that an existing fence is insufficient or a new fence is necessary, they shall notify the delinquent owner or occupant in writing to that effect and order the owner or occupant to build, repair, or rebuild the fence within a reasonable time. If the delinquent fails to comply with the order, the complainant may build, repair, or rebuild the fence and obtain reimbursement pursuant to section 344.05.
History:
(7251) RL s 2751; 1915 c 173; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.05 — Repair Costs Recoverable.

344.05 REPAIR COSTS RECOVERABLE.
If a complainant builds, repairs, or rebuilds a fence according to section 344.04 and the fence viewers consider it sufficient, they shall give the occupants reasonable notice and an opportunity to be heard, determine the cost of the fence or repair, and give to the complainant who built, repaired, or rebuilt the fence a signed certificate of their decision and of the cost of the fence or repair and the viewers' fees. The complainant may demand, either of the owner or the occupant of the adjoining land where the fence was wanting or deficient, the viewers' fees and double the amount of the ascertained expense. If the owner or occupant does not pay that amount within one month after demand, the complainant may recover the amount, with interest, in a civil action.
History:
(7252) RL s 2752; 1915 c 173; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.06 — Controversy; Decision By Fence Viewers.

344.06 CONTROVERSY; DECISION BY FENCE VIEWERS.
If a controversy arises concerning the rights in partition fences of the respective occupants or their obligation to maintain the fences, either party may apply to the fence viewers, who, after due notice to the parties, may assign to each a share in the fence and direct the time within which the fence must be erected or repaired. The assignment may be recorded with the county recorder after which it is binding upon the parties and upon all succeeding occupants of the lands.
History:
(7253) RL s 2753; 1976 c 181 s 2; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1; 2005 c 4 s 64
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.07 — Failure To Erect Or Maintain.

344.07 FAILURE TO ERECT OR MAINTAIN.
If a party fails to erect or maintain the part of a fence assigned under section 344.06, the aggrieved party may erect and maintain the fence, and be entitled to double the cost of the construction and maintenance as ascertained and recovered in section 344.05 in the case of repairs.
History:
(7254) RL s 2754; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.08 — Recorded Division; Binding On Heirs And Assigns.

344.08 RECORDED DIVISION; BINDING ON HEIRS AND ASSIGNS.
All divisions of fences which are made by fence viewers under this chapter, or which are made by owners of adjoining lands, in writing, witnessed by two witnesses, signed and acknowledged by the parties, and recorded with the county recorder, are valid against the parties to the divisions and their heirs and assigns.
History:
(7255) RL s 2755; 1976 c 181 s 2; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1; 2005 c 4 s 65
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.09 — Party Erecting More Than Share.

344.09 PARTY ERECTING MORE THAN SHARE.
If there is a controversy between occupants of adjoining lands as to their respective rights in any partition fence and the fence viewers decide that either occupant has voluntarily erected or otherwise become the proprietor of more than that occupant's just share of the fence before a complaint was made, the other occupant shall pay for the share of the fence assigned to the other to repair and maintain. The value of the fence must be ascertained and recovered pursuant to section 344.05.
History:
(7256) RL s 2756; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.10 — Lands Bounded By Stream.

344.10 LANDS BOUNDED BY STREAM.
If lands of different persons must be fenced and are bounded upon or divided by a stream or pond which, in the judgment of the fence viewers, is not in itself a sufficient fence, and if the viewers determine that it is impracticable, without unreasonable expense, for a partition fence to be made on the waters at the true boundary line, and if the occupant on either side fails to join with the occupant on the other side in making a partition fence on one side or the other, then the fence viewers, on application of either party, shall view the stream or pond, and, after giving due notice to the parties, determine, in writing, on which side of the stream or pond the fence must be erected and maintained, or whether partly on one side and partly on the other. If either party fails to build or maintain the assigned part of the fence according to the viewers' determination, the other party may build and maintain the fence, and the delinquent party must pay the charges and costs provided for in other cases in this chapter.
History:
(7257) RL s 2757; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.11 — Lands Occupied In Common.

344.11 LANDS OCCUPIED IN COMMON.
If one of the occupants of enclosed lands belonging to different persons in severalty, which have been occupied by them in common without a partition fence, desires that the part occupied by that person be occupied in severalty, and the other party fails to divide the land or to build a fence on part of the land when it has been divided, the party desiring it may have the land divided and assigned by the fence viewers in the manner provided in this chapter.
History:
(7258) RL s 2758; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.12 — Viewers To Fix Time For Building.

344.12 VIEWERS TO FIX TIME FOR BUILDING.
If fence viewers have divided land and assigned fence responsibilities, they may set in writing a reasonable time for building the fence, having regard to the season of the year. If either party fails to build part of the fence within the time assigned, the other party may, after completing part of the fence, build the other part, and recover the viewers' fees and double the cost of building the other part, as determined pursuant to this chapter.
History:
(7259) RL s 2759; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.13 — Lands First Enclosed.

344.13 LANDS FIRST ENCLOSED.
When unenclosed lands are afterwards enclosed, the owner or occupant of the lands shall pay one-half of the value of each partition fence extending upon the line between that person's land and the enclosure of any other owner or occupant. If the parties do not agree, the value must be ascertained by the fence viewers and stated in writing. If an owner or occupant fails to pay within 60 days after the value is ascertained and a demand made, the owner of the fence may recover the value and the cost of ascertaining it in a civil action.
History:
(7260) RL s 2762; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.14 — Viewers When Fence On Town Line.

344.14 VIEWERS WHEN FENCE ON TOWN LINE.
If a partition fence is to be built on a line between towns, or partly in one town and partly in another, two supervisors, one from each town, shall be the fence viewers.
History:
(7261) RL s 2763; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.16 — Division Or Recorded Agreement Runs With The Land.

344.16 DIVISION OR RECORDED AGREEMENT RUNS WITH THE LAND.
If the line upon which a partition fence is to be built between unimproved lands has been divided by the fence viewers or by the recorded agreement of the parties, the several landowners, and their heirs and assigns forever, shall erect and maintain fences in accordance with the divisions.
History:
(7263) RL s 2765; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.17 — Failure Of Viewer To Perform Duty; Penalty.

344.17 FAILURE OF VIEWER TO PERFORM DUTY; PENALTY.
A fence viewer who unreasonably fails to perform a duty required by this chapter shall forfeit $5 to the town or city and be liable to the injured party for all resulting damages.
History:
(7264) RL s 2766; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.18 — Compensation Of Viewers.

344.18 COMPENSATION OF VIEWERS.
Fence viewers must be paid for their services by the person employing them. The town board may by resolution require the person employing the fence viewers to post a bond or other security acceptable to the board for the total estimated costs before the viewing takes place. The total estimated costs may include the cost of professional and other services, hearing costs, administrative costs, recording costs, and other costs and expenses which the town may incur in connection with the viewing.
History:
(7265) RL s 2767; 1949 c 719 s 1; 1979 c 89 s 1; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1; 2009 c 152 s 6
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.19 — Viewers In Counties Not Organized Into Towns.

344.19 VIEWERS IN COUNTIES NOT ORGANIZED INTO TOWNS.
In counties not organized into towns, the county commissioners are fence viewers and are governed by this chapter, except that county commissioners shall not receive the per diem provided in section 344.18 but may be paid a per diem pursuant to section 375.055, subdivision 1, and their necessary expenses, including mileage in accordance with section 471.665.
History:
(7266) RL s 2768; 1975 c 301 s 6; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 344 — Partition Fences › Section 344.20 — City Or Town Option.

344.20 CITY OR TOWN OPTION.
(a) If eight or more landowners in a home rule charter or statutory city or town petition the governing body for a vote on a partition fence policy, the governing body may adopt its own policy and procedures for dealing with partition fences, including enforcement procedures. When a town board adopts a partition fence policy, the policy must be approved by the electors of the town at an annual or special town meeting, in which case this chapter does not apply in that town.
(b) This chapter applies to any partition fence lying on the boundary between a political subdivision that has adopted its own partition fence policy and any other political subdivision unless the other political subdivision has adopted a similar policy.
History:
1982 c 616 s 2; 1985 c 265 art 6 s 1; 2004 c 228 art 2 s 9; 2016 c 102 s 2
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 345 — Unclaimed Property › Section 345.01 — Duty Of Consignee Or Bailee.

345.01 DUTY OF CONSIGNEE OR BAILEE.
When any personal property shall be consigned to or deposited with any forwarding merchant, wharfinger, warehouse operator, innkeeper, or storage or express company, such consignee or bailee shall immediately cause to be entered in a proper book kept by the consignee or bailee a description of such property, with the date of its reception; and, if not consigned or deposited for the purpose of being forwarded according to directions received by such consignee or bailee at or before the reception thereof, the consignee or bailee shall immediately notify the owner by mail, if the owner's name and residence be known or can be reasonably ascertained.
History:
(7298) RL s 2797; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 345 — Unclaimed Property › Section 345.02 — Unclaimed Property May Be Sold Upon Notice; Summary Sale.

345.02 UNCLAIMED PROPERTY MAY BE SOLD UPON NOTICE; SUMMARY SALE.
If any property is not claimed or taken away within one year after its reception, it may be sold upon 60 days' notice. If it is perishable or subject to decay by keeping, it may be sold, if not taken away within 30 days, upon ten days' notice. If it is in a state of decay, or manifestly liable to decay, it may be summarily sold by order of any judge of the district court after inspection and without notice. When not sold summarily, notice shall be given to the owner personally or by mail. If the name of the owner is not known, and cannot be ascertained with reasonable diligence, published notice for the prescribed periods shall be given.
History:
(7299) RL s 2798; 1983 c 359 s 28; 1998 c 254 art 2 s 30
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 345 — Unclaimed Property › Section 345.03 — Proceedings If Property Not Claimed.

345.03 PROCEEDINGS IF PROPERTY NOT CLAIMED.
If the owner or person entitled to the property does not take it away and pay the charges on it after notice has been given, the person having possession of it or the possessor's agent shall make and deliver to the judge of any district court, an affidavit setting forth a description of the property, the date of its reception, the giving of the notice, and whether the owner is known or unknown.
History:
(7300) RL s 2799; 1983 c 359 s 29; 1986 c 444; 1998 c 254 art 2 s 31
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 345 — Unclaimed Property › Section 345.04 — Inventory; Order Of Sale.

345.04 INVENTORY; ORDER OF SALE.
Upon the delivery of the affidavit, the judge shall cause the property to be opened and examined in the judge's presence and a true inventory made of it. The judge shall annex to the inventory an order that the property described be sold at public auction by any peace officer of the municipality or town where it is located.
History:
(7301) RL s 2800; 1983 c 359 s 30; 1986 c 444; 2005 c 10 art 2 s 4
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 345 — Unclaimed Property › Section 345.05 — Notice And Return Of Sale.

345.05 NOTICE AND RETURN OF SALE.
The police officer receiving the inventory and order shall sell the property at public auction to the highest bidder, in the manner provided by law for sales under execution, upon ten days' posted notice. When the sale is completed, the police officer shall endorse upon the order a return of proceedings on it, and return it to the court administrator, together with the inventory and the proceeds of the sale, less fees.
History:
(7302) RL s 2801; 1983 c 359 s 31; 1986 c 444; 1Sp1986 c 3 art 1 s 82; 2005 c 10 art 2 s 4
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 345 — Unclaimed Property › Section 345.06 — Disposition Of Proceeds.

345.06 DISPOSITION OF PROCEEDS.
From the proceeds of the sale the court administrator shall pay all legal charges incurred in relation to the property or, if the proceeds are not sufficient to pay all the charges, a ratable proportion of each. The balance, if any, shall be paid to the treasurer of the county where the sale took place. The court administrator shall provide the treasurer with a statement containing a description of the property sold, the gross amount of the sale, and the amount of costs, charges, and expenses paid to each person. The treasurer shall file the statement in the treasurer's office, and make an entry of the amount received and the time when received.
History:
(7303) RL s 2802; 1983 c 359 s 32; 1986 c 444; 1Sp1986 c 3 art 1 s 82
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 345 — Unclaimed Property › Section 345.07 — Money Deposited, How Disposed Of.

345.07 MONEY DEPOSITED, HOW DISPOSED OF.
If the owner of the property sold, or the owner's legal representatives, at any time within five years after such money is deposited in the county treasury, shall furnish satisfactory evidence to the treasurer of the ownership thereof, the treasurer shall pay to the owner or representative the amount so deposited. If not so claimed within the time aforesaid, the money shall belong to the county, and be credited to its general revenue fund.
History:
(7304) RL s 2803; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 345 — Unclaimed Property › Section 345.09 — Unclaimed Baggage; Delivery To Warehouse Operator.

345.09 UNCLAIMED BAGGAGE; DELIVERY TO WAREHOUSE OPERATOR.
Personal baggage remaining in the possession of any carrier of passengers for 30 days after having been carried to the station of such carrier in performance of the contract in relation thereto, and any other property remaining in the possession of any common carrier, at the office or station of such carrier to which consigned, for 60 days after notice given by mail to the consignee thereof, may be delivered by such carrier, upon payment of reasonable charges for the transportation and storage thereof, to any licensed storage company doing business in this state.
History:
(7307) RL s 2805; 1986 c 444
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 345 — Unclaimed Property › Section 345.10 — Storage Liens.

345.10 STORAGE LIENS.
Any storage company receiving such property shall provide suitable storage therefor, and shall have a lien thereon for all charges paid the carrier, and for its reasonable charges for handling, storing, insuring, and safely keeping such property, with interest.
History:
(7308) RL s 2806
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 343 - 348 — Animals And Property › Chapter 345 — Unclaimed Property › Section 345.11 — Sale; Notice.

345.11 SALE; NOTICE.
If such property is not claimed by the owner or the owner's agent within 12 months after its receipt by such storage company, it may be sold by such company at public auction. Before making sale three weeks' published and posted notice thereof, describing the property and specifying the time and place of sale, shall be given. The publication of such notice shall also be made in a newspaper published at the county seat of the county where the sale is to be made, and a copy thereof shall be mailed to the owner, if the owner's address is known, or, with reasonable diligence, can be ascertained.
History:
(7309) RL s 2807; 1986 c 444