For The Herald

The Minnesota Department of Transportation reminds the public that it is unlawful to deposit 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 on to public roads. 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.

Improperly placing snow on or near a public road creates hazards including drainage problems,

drifting, sight obstruction and unsafe access. Special attention should be made to keep crosswalks, intersections, entrances and exits clean and unobstructed.

Mn/DOT maintenance crews utilize more than 100 plow truck to maintain about 1,400 miles of roadway in southeastern Minnesota.