UPDATE: Fargo officials are issuing an urgent reminder to homeowners as heavy snow is expected soon: do not dump snow illegally onto city streets or rights-of-way. Violators could face fines of up to $500 in Fargo, creating serious hazards for drivers and emergency responders.
With winter just beginning, state and county officials are emphasizing the dangers of moving snow into roadways. Barry Kinnischtzke, the North Dakota Department of Transportation operations section team leader, warned that illegal dumping can lead to collisions and obstruct visibility at intersections.
“If it’s not clear, that’s going to lead to those issues,”
Kinnischtzke stated, highlighting the risks posed by large snow piles on rural roads. He noted that these obstructions can prevent timely snow removal, especially during prolonged winter conditions, which could exacerbate road safety issues for all travelers.
Officials from Walsh County are also alerting landowners that they could be held financially responsible for any accidents caused by improperly placed snow. Emergency services may face delays if snow is dumped near ditches, further complicating access during critical situations.
As the forecast predicts more snow by the end of this week, Fargo’s Public Works Director Ben Dow is urging residents to refrain from piling snow at the end of their driveways. “We’re just trying to do what’s best for the traveling public and keep our roadways safe,” he said.
The city is asking everyone to cooperate and keep snow off the right-of-way to prevent dangerous conditions. Kinnischtzke added, “Ditches are designed to store snow, but excessive piles can lead to drifting, which is what we’re hoping to prevent.”
With winter storms looming, residents are reminded to stay informed and act responsibly to enhance the safety of their community. Share this critical update to help spread the word about these important regulations and avoid costly fines!
