Unauthorized signs and objects not allowed on state highway right-of-way

The Minnesota Department of Transportation reminds citizens that state law prohibits the placement of unauthorized signs and other objects on state highway right-of-ways.

Highway right-of-ways include driving lanes, inside and outside shoulders, ditches, clear zone and intersection sight corners. In addition, signs and other items may not be placed on private property outside of the right-of-way limits without landowner consent.

"We are already seeing a significant increase in advertising signs and items for sale placed illegally in the highway right-of-way with the sole purpose of attracting attention from passing motorists," said Mark Renn, MnDOT road regulations supervisor in St. Cloud.

Encroachment of a highway right-of-way is a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum $1,000 fine and/or 90 days in jail.

"Illegally placed signs and objects on the roadway can restrict the visibility of drivers, especially at intersections, diverting attention away from their primary task of safely operating a motor vehicle," said Ken Larson, road regulations supervisor in the Baxter office.

MnDOT personnel will remove all signs within the right-of-way without notice. This is done regardless of whether they belong to private citizens or to political, business, or nonprofit organizations,

For information regarding roadway regulations, right-of-way boundaries, or where to find removed materials, please contact the MnDOT office in Baxter at 828-5777.