MnDOT: It’s illegal to push snow onto public roadways
January 23, 2020 3:01AM CST
(Mankato, MN) – The Minnesota Department of Transportation is reminding the public that it’s illegal to push snow onto public roadways.
MnDOT says Minnesota law prohibits plowing, blowing, shoveling, or otherwise placing snow on or next to a public highway or street. Growing snow piles become difficult to manage with each snowstorm in winter, according to MnDOT.
Violations are misdemeanors, but civil penalties can also apply if the snow placement creates a hazard that leads to a vehicle or pedestrian crash. Civil penalties can apply to the property owner and the person who moved the snow.
Improper placement of snow near public roadways can also lead to drainage problems, drifting, and sight obstruction, according to MnDOT.