Window cleaner

Get a license for window cleaning over 24 feet high.

New in 2025

We will accept license applications for window cleaners starting January 1, 2025.

Definition

You need a license to clean inside and outside windows that are more than 24 feet above the ground on: 

  • Buildings
  • Structures
  • Skyways

This includes:

  • Workers using a mobile platform or hanging in the air, or
  • When cleaning from a flat roof or similar surface

A license is not needed if:

  • The window cleaning is done from the ground, 
  • The window cleaning is done from a ladder resting on the ground, or
  • The owners or residents are cleaning their own windows
people cleaning windows using ropes to hang on the side of the building

Training checklist

Each employee must complete at least 100 total hours in the following subjects and be certified in them:

  •  Ladder use and safety 
  •  Water-fed pole use and safety 
  •  Ropes, rigging and swing stage (including swing stage type T/F) use and safety 
  •  First aid (including mental health first aid) 
  •  Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) use
  • Competent person training 
  • Injury prevention 
  •  Communication and conflict management 
  •  Aerial lift use and safety 
  •  Heat stress and HAZCOM training 
  •  Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 30 hours training 

More information

Complaints

Report concerns about a business

Disclaimer 

The information on this page should serve as a guideline only.

Request accessible format

If you need help with this information, please email 311, or call 311 or 612-673-3000.

Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Contact us

Business Licenses & Consumer Services

Community Planning & Economic Development

Phone

612-673-2080

Fax

612-673-3399

Address

Public Service Building 
505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 220
Minneapolis, MN 55415

 

Minneapolis 311

 
 

Office hours

7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Monday – Friday