Can Minnesota restaurants still add a service charge?
Quick answer
Only inside the price. Since January 1, 2025, Minnesota businesses must show prices that include every mandatory fee or surcharge (Minn. Stat. 325D.44, subd. 1a). Government taxes can be added at checkout. The Attorney General can ask a court for a civil penalty of up to $25,000 per violation (Minn. Stat. 8.31).
Key facts and official sources
| Item | What the law says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Law | Minn. Stat. 325D.44, subd. 1a (Laws 2024, ch. 111) | Official source |
| Effective | January 1, 2025 (June 1, 2025 for prices regulated by the Metropolitan Airports Commission) | Official source |
| Rule | Advertised, displayed or offered prices include all mandatory fees or surcharges; government taxes excluded | Official source |
| Penalty | Civil penalty up to $25,000, set by the court (Minn. Stat. 8.31, subd. 3) | Official source |
| AG guidance | Attorney General price transparency FAQ | Official source |
| Last verified | October 15, 2026 | Astor Ventures |
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FAQ
What counts as a mandatory fee in Minnesota?
A fee that must be paid to buy the item, is not reasonably avoidable, or that a reasonable person would expect to be included in the price (Minn. Stat. 325D.44, subd. 1a(b)).
When did the Minnesota price transparency law take effect?
January 1, 2025; June 1, 2025 for industries whose prices are regulated by the Metropolitan Airports Commission.
What is the penalty?
The Attorney General can seek a civil penalty set by the court of up to $25,000 (Minn. Stat. 8.31, subd. 3).
Is this legal advice?
No. General information only.
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