Maine Prairie Township would like to remind all snow removal operators and property owners that per Minn. Stat. §160.2715 it is unlawful to deposit snow on or next to trunk highways, county state-aid highways, municipal state-aid streets, county highways and town roads. Snow removal operators and property owners are prohibited from plowing, blowing, shoveling or otherwise placing of snow onto said roadways. This includes the ditch and right of way area along the roadside.
This would also include pushing the snow from your driveway across the street onto the right-of-way of a vacant lot. The snow from your property needs to remain on your property.
According to state law, 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.
We appreciate your cooperation in this matter.
Lori Hunt
Maine Prairie Clerk
Published in the Tri-County News, Thursday, Oct. 4 and
Oct. 11, 2018.