(650) 332-8623Minnesota Break Laws: Meals, Rests, and More (2025)
Learn about Minnesota break laws, including meal and rest period requirements and employer obligations in this 2025 guide.
Understanding Minnesota Break Laws
Meal Breaks
Laws in Minnesota Governing Meal Breaks
Under Minnesota Statute 177.254, employers must provide employees who work eight or more consecutive hours with sufficient time to eat a meal.
Moreover, under Minnesota Administrative Rule 5200.0120:
“Bona fide meal periods are not hours worked. Bona fide meal periods do not include rest periods such as coffee breaks or time for snacks. The employee must be completely relieved from duty for the purpose of eating regular meals. Thirty minutes or more is ordinarily long enough for a bona fide meal period. A shorter period may be adequate under special conditions. The employee is not completely relieved from duty if required to perform any duties, whether active or inactive, while eating. It is not necessary that an employee be permitted to leave the premises, if the employee is otherwise completely freed from duties during the meal period. If the meal period is frequently interrupted by calls to duty, the employee is not relieved of all duties and the meal periods must be considered as hours worked.”
Rest Breaks
Laws in Minnesota Governing Rest Breaks
Under Minnesota Statute 177.253 , employees are entitled to an adequate rest period within each four consecutive hours of work to use the nearest convenient restroom.
These shorter breaks (usually less than 20 minutes) must be paid.
What's the Difference?
Meal Breaks vs. Rest Breaks in Minnesota
In Minnesota, employees who work eight or more consecutive hours must be given adequate time for a meal break. This break can be unpaid as long as it lasts at least 20 minutes and employees are completely relieved of all work duties. However, if they are required to perform any job-related tasks during their break, the time must be paid.
For rest breaks, Minnesota law requires employers to provide paid breaks for employees working four or more consecutive hours. These breaks must be long enough for employees to use the restroom, though the exact length is not strictly defined. Unlike meal breaks, rest breaks must always be paid, as they are considered part of the employee’s working hours.
In short, meal breaks allow employees time to eat and may be unpaid if uninterrupted, while rest breaks are shorter, always paid, and ensure employees can use the restroom or briefly recharge.
Exemptions
What Type of Workers are Exempt from Minnesota's Break Laws?
In Minnesota, certain categories of workers are exempt from state-mandated break laws, meaning employers are not legally required to provide breaks to these individuals.
- Outside salespersons: Employees primarily engaged in sales activities outside the employer’s place of business are typically exempt.
- Nonprofit volunteers: Individuals volunteering for nonprofit organizations without compensation are generally exempt.
It’s important to note that while these exemptions exist under Minnesota law, employers must also consider federal regulations, which may have different criteria for exemptions. Employers should carefully assess each employee’s role and responsibilities to determine the appropriate classification concerning break laws.
Differences Between Minnesota and Federal Break Laws
Federal law does not require employers to provide rest breaks, but it does set guidelines for meal breaks. According to federal regulations, a “bona fide” meal break—typically at least 30 minutes—does not need to be paid as long as the employee is fully relieved of all work duties during that time. However, if the employee is required to perform any work-related tasks, the meal break must be compensated.
The U.S. Department of Labor enforces two key regulations regarding breaks:
- Rest Breaks: 29 CFR 785.18
- Meal Breaks: 29 CFR 785.19
While federal law provides minimum guidelines, Minnesota’s break laws often require stricter compliance and imposing harsher penalties for violations. Understanding state-specific regulations is essential for ensuring legal compliance and avoiding fines or disputes.ws.
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Other Types of Breaks for Workers in Minnesota
In Minnesota, minors under the age of 16 are entitled to the same break provisions as adult employees, including:
Meal Breaks: Employers must provide sufficient time for a meal to employees who work eight or more consecutive hours. This break can be unpaid if it lasts at least 20 minutes and the employee is completely relieved of duties during this time.
Rest Breaks: Employers are required to provide adequate time within each four consecutive hours of work to utilize the nearest restroom. These rest breaks are considered paid time.
Employers with at least 15 employees are required to give reasonable unpaid break time for workers who need to express breast milk for their infant child. This accommodation is mandated for up to 12 months following the birth of the child.
Employers must make reasonable efforts to provide a private, non-bathroom space that is shielded from view and free from intrusion for this purpose. Importantly, employers are prohibited from reducing an employee’s pay for time used to express milk.
Recordkeeping Requirements for Breaks in Minnesota
In Minnesota, while there are no specific recordkeeping requirements solely for employee meal and rest breaks, employers must maintain comprehensive records encompassing various aspects of employment.
These records must be readily available for inspection by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry upon demand and include employee information, wage details, hours worked, and payroll records.
These records must be kept for a minimum of three years and stored either at the place of employment or in a manner that allows compliance within 72 hours upon request.
While not explicitly required, maintaining detailed records of meal and rest breaks can help employers demonstrate compliance with state labor laws, especially since breaks of less than 20 minutes must be counted as hours worked.
MN Penalties for Meal and Break Violations
Up to $10,000BREAK VIOLATIONS
The Department of Labor may levy fines per violation, commonly up to $1,000 each and up to $10,000 each for willful or repeat violations.
Child labor-related break issues can draw extra $500 to $1,000 fines under youth employment laws.
Back Wages/DamagesUNPAID BREAK TIME
Employers must pay employees for any break time that should have been paid (for example, short rest breaks or working through lunch).
They may also owe equal liquidated damages as a penalty, plus interest.
In nursing mother cases, employers can owe compensatory damages to affected employees (for lost income or other harm).
Misconceptions About Meals and Breaks in MN
Minnesota does not require employers to provide meal and rest breaks to employees.
Under Minn. Stat. § 177.253 and § 177.254, employees who work eight or more consecutive hours must be given sufficient time to eat a meal.
Employees should also receive paid rest breaks that are long enough to use the restroom at least once every four hours.
Employers who fail to provide these breaks violate state labor laws and may face misdemeanor charges or fines.
All breaks in Minnesota are required to be paid.
Under Minnesota law, meal breaks can be unpaid if they last at least 20 minutes and employees are completely relieved of all their work duties.
However, rest breaks (such as restroom breaks) must always be paid and count as work time.
Minnesota has separate or additional break requirements for minors.
Employees under 18 years old must follow the same break laws as adult workers. However, employers should still ensure compliance with child labor laws regarding work hours and prohibited job duties.
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Employees: Know Your Rights to Meals and Breaks in Minnesota
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Employees working eight or more consecutive hours must receive sufficient time to eat a meal.
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Employees must be given paid rest breaks that are long enough to use the restroom at least once every four hours.
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Any breaks under 20 minutes (such as coffee or rest breaks) must be paid under state and federal law. Employers cannot require employees to clock out for short breaks.
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For nursing mothers, nursing breaks must be paid if they overlap with an already provided paid break
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Employees can file a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry if they are denied breaks or face retaliation.
Employer Obligations for Meals and Breaks in MN
Minnesota law requires employers to provide and enforce meal and rest break policies to ensure employees receive adequate time for meals and personal needs.
Employers must comply with Minn. Stat. §§ 177.253 and 177.254, as well as federal labor laws.
Minnesota employers should provide meal and rest breaks to ensure employee well-being and legal compliance. Employees working eight or more consecutive hours must receive sufficient time for a meal break.
Employers cannot automatically deduct break time from wages unless the break is actually taken, and they must allow uninterrupted breaks. While employers can schedule meal breaks, they cannot unreasonably delay or deny them.
For rest breaks, Minnesota law mandates paid short breaks to allow employees time to use the restroom or briefly recharge, typically 10–15 minutes every 4 hours. These breaks must be compensated and cannot be restricted or denied.
Employers must also accommodate nursing mothers by providing break time and a private, non-bathroom space to express milk, ensuring compliance with state law.
Additionally, supervisors must be educated on break policies, employees know their rights, and employers should maintain accurate records to avoid potential fines or legal disputes.
Benefits to Employees
When businesses follow Minnesota’s break laws, they do more than just meet legal requirements. They create a work environment where employees thrive.
Giving workers the time they need to step away, recharge, and refocus leads to better health, happiness, and job performance.
Energy That Lasts the Workday
Breaks prevent the midday slump and keep employees mentally sharp and physically refreshed. Whether it’s a quick reset or a proper meal break, stepping away improves focus, decision-making, and efficiency.
Less Stress, More Satisfaction
A workplace that prioritizes breaks shows employees they are valued, not just as workers, but as people. Employees who feel supported are more engaged, experience less burnout, and enjoy coming to work.
Stronger Performance and Career Growth
When employees are well-rested and alert, they produce higher-quality work with fewer errors. This not only benefits the business but also enhances employee confidence and career prospects.
Work-Life Balance That Works
Breaks give employees time to step away from the job, handle personal needs, and return with a fresh mindset. A balanced schedule leads to less frustration, better overall well-being, and reduced turnover.
A Workplace That Retains Its Best People
Employees stay where they feel respected and supported. Providing proper break time reduces burnout and turnover, helping businesses keep top talent while creating a positive work culture.
Benefits to Employers
Providing proper meal and rest breaks isn’t just about following Minnesota’s labor laws. Employers who prioritize break compliance see higher productivity, reduced turnover, and a healthier bottom line.
More Productivity, Less Burnout
Employees who take regular breaks stay focused and efficient, meaning fewer mistakes, higher-quality output, and better customer service. Overworked employees are prone to fatigue and errors, costing businesses time and money in corrections, rework, and lost productivity.
Lower Turnover, Higher Retention
High employee turnover is expensive. Businesses that provide fair and structured break policies see greater employee satisfaction and retention. When workers feel valued and respected, they’re more likely to stay, reducing costly hiring and training expenses.
Stronger Compliance, Fewer Legal Risks
Failing to provide legally required breaks can lead to fines, lawsuits, and wage disputes. Compliance protects businesses from costly legal battles and reputational damage, keeping operations smooth and risk-free.
Better Employee Engagement = Higher Profits
A well-rested, engaged workforce is more creative, more motivated, and more productive. Employees who get the time they need to recharge are more invested in their work, leading to higher efficiency, better teamwork, and ultimately, greater profitability.
A Positive Work Culture Attracts Top Talent
Companies known for treating employees well attract skilled, motivated workers. Offering fair break policies creates a workplace where people want to work, stay, and contribute their best efforts.
The Bottom Line on Minnesota Meal and Break Laws
Following Minnesota break laws means fewer legal risks, better employee retention, and a more efficient workforce. Ignoring these break laws can lead to costly fines, lawsuits, and a damaged reputation, all of which can impact your business’s long-term success.
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In Minnesota, 15-minute breaks are not specifically required by law. However, Minnesota law does require that employees be given sufficient time to eat a meal and use the restroom.
Additionally, for every four hours worked, employees are entitled to at least one uninterrupted, work-free 10-minute paid break. If an employer provides breaks of less than 20 minutes, these must be paid as they are considered part of the workday.
In Minnesota, you are not legally required to take a lunch break. But your employer must provide you with sufficient time to eat a meal if you work eight consecutive hours or more.
This meal break can be unpaid if it is at least 20 minutes long and you are fully relieved of duties during that time. However, you can waive an employer-offered meal break in most cases.
Additionally, if you work for four consecutive hours, you must be given a break to use the restroom, which is typically paid if it is less than 20 minutes.
In Minnesota, employers have the discretion to decide the timing of meal breaks. While state law requires that employees working eight consecutive hours must be given sufficient time to eat a meal, it does not specify exactly when this break must occur.
Employers can determine when meal breaks are taken, as long as they provide adequate time for employees to eat during their shifts. Additionally, employers can choose the length of breaks, but any break under 20 minutes must be paid.
In Minnesota, break laws for employees working less than eight hours are less specific than for those working eight hours or more.
Employees must receive adequate time to use the restroom every four consecutive hours of work. This break is typically paid if under 20 minutes.
For employees working less than eight hours, there is no legal requirement for a meal break. However, employers may choose to provide breaks at their discretion.
Any breaks under 20 minutes must be paid and are considered part of the workday.
Employers have flexibility in determining the timing and length of breaks for employees working less than eight hours.
While there are no strict requirements for meal breaks for those working less than eight hours, employers may still choose to offer breaks as part of their company policies.
