MnDOT reminds to not pile, push snow on roads

By Paul Vold kkin@rjbroadcasting.com (2/25/22)

(Minnesota) — After the latest snowfall blanketed the northern half of the State, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds the public that it is illegal to push or pile snow on or next to a public highway or street.

Minnesota law and many local ordinances prohibit the plowing, blowing, shoveling or otherwise placing of snow onto public roads. This also 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 that can contribute 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. Each route takes between two to four more hours to clear, depending on route length and weather conditions.