MnDOT: clear snow away from roads, sidewalks

The Minnesota Department of Transportation sent out a reminder to the public this week to say it is illegal to deposit snow on or next to a public highway or street. Snow on or near public roads can create hazards such as drainage, drifting and sight obstruction, MnDOT said in a news release.

Minnesota law and many local ordinances prohibit the plowing, blowing, shoveling or otherwise placing of snow onto public roads or sidewalks. 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.

District 1 MnDOT maintenance crews plow and maintain more than 3,700 miles of state highways in northeast Minnesota. Crews are out around the clock during snow events to keep roads safe, so please give them plenty of space to work. Also remember, it takes time to clean up the roadways during and after a snowstorm.