News Release

Mankato, Minn. - Now that southern Minnesota has received its first significant snowfall of the season, the Minnesota Department of Transportation reminds all snow removal operators that it is unlawful to deposit snow on or next to a public highway or street.

Minnesota state law and many local ordinances prohibit the plowing, blowing, shoveling or otherwise placing of snow onto public roadways. This provision can also include the ditch and right of way area.

Violations are considered a misdemeanor, but civil penalties can 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.

Other hazards created by improper placement of snow on or near a public roadway include drainage problems, drifting, sight obstruction and safe accessibility. Special attention should be made to keep sidewalks, crosswalks, intersections, entrances and exits clean and unobstructed.

Traveler information, including incident reports, is available by calling 511 or logging on to www.511mn.org. Know the Road. Dialup or log on.

Work Zones. Pay Attention or Pay the Price.