“Ding dong ditch,” the act of ringing someone’s doorbell and running away before they answer, is not specifically named as a crime in Minnesota law, but that does not mean it is entirely legal. The legality of the prank depends on the context and whether it leads to other violations recognized by Minnesota statutes.
In Minnesota, this prank can cross into illegality when it disturbs, harasses, or scares residents, or if it is repeated enough to become a nuisance. If the homeowner feels harassed, or if the act is done repeatedly or at disruptive hours, you could be charged with disorderly conduct or disturbing the peace. Minnesota’s definition of disturbing the peace includes acts like excessive noise or conduct that obstructs another person’s right to peace and tranquility; “ding dong ditching” can fall under this umbrella if it is intentional and causes annoyance or distress. A first-time offender is often subject to a fine, while more serious or repeated instances can lead to harsher penalties such as community service or even jail time, especially if the prank escalates or is paired with other problematic behaviors.
Additionally, stepping onto someone’s property solely to play this prank can be considered trespassing, especially if the resident does not want you there or has posted warnings against entry. This applies even if there’s no physical damage to the property. If the activity is repeated, targeted, or accompanied by other acts (knocking late at night, shouting, or property damage), it could also be seen as harassment or a nuisance, all of which are actionable under the law.
If caught, the response from law enforcement often depends on the severity and recurrence of the behavior. Most minor or first-time pranks might result in a warning, but repeated incidents—especially if neighbors feel threatened—can result in fines, community service, or court referrals for juveniles. It’s extremely unlikely for “ding dong ditch” to be treated as a felony in Minnesota unless it’s accompanied by criminal intent, threats, or damage to property; most cases are handled as misdemeanors or petty misdemeanors.
Ultimately, while the prank might seem harmless to some, it can cause stress, fright, or annoyance to others, particularly if performed late at night or directed towards vulnerable individuals. Minnesota takes residents’ peace and property rights seriously, so continually engaging in “ding dong ditch”—or doing it in a way that seriously disturbs others—can indeed have legal consequences. The safest and most respectful course is to avoid this kind of prank altogether.
Sources
[1] https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/08/05/is-it-illegal-to-ding-dong-ditch-in-minnesota-heres-what-the-law-says/
[2] https://aacriminallaw.com/violent-crimes/disorderly-conduct/disturbing-the-peace-in-minnesota/
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/Minneapolis/comments/1e4e9en/minnesota_where_even_the_local_dingdongditchers/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4ksT6lvfGc
[5] https://www.avvo.com/legal-answers/is-it-allowed-to-ding-dong-ditch–5329846.html
