BEMIDJI, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation
reminds the public that it is unlawful to deposit snow on or next to a public highway
or street.
“Improperly placing snow on or near a public road creates
hazards including drainage problems, drifting, sight obstruction and unsafe
access,” said Curt Larson, maintenance superintendent. “Keep crosswalks,
intersections, entrances and exits clean and unobstructed.”
Minnesota law and many local ordinances prohibit the
plowing, blowing, shoveling or otherwise placing of snow on to public roads.
This includes the ditch and right of way area along the roads.
Violations are considered misdemeanors, but civil penalties
also apply if the placement of snow creates a hazard, such as a slippery area,
frozen rut or bump, that contributes to a motor vehicle or pedestrian crash.
The civil liability can extend to both the property owner and the person who
placed the snow.
MnDOT maintenance crews plow and maintain about 12,000 miles
of state highways and interstates in Minnesota. District 2 crews are
responsible for about 3,900 lane miles.
