Letter to the Editor

Editor’s Note: Letters to the editor are opinions expressed by the author. They do not necessarily represent the views of this publication and have not been independently fact-checked.

To the Editor:

Dear Neighbors,

According to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), it is illegal to post political or other advertising signage in the road rights-of-way.

Illegally posted signs pose hazards for drivers and maintenance crews and are considered misdemeanors. They also clutter our roads and exploit taxpayer-funded property for personal benefit.

The Minnesota Statute pertaining to road right-of-way signage is MN Statute 160.2715. It applies to all state, county, city, and township roads.

MnDOT, as well as state, county, city, and township officials are required to administer the law.

As we approach the upcoming election, this is a reminder for candidates, their supporters and others to know the law and remove any signage that is within the road right-of-way.

You are welcome to get consent to place signage on private property or pay an adjacent landowner for this privilege.

Reference: MN Statute 160.2715 RIGHT-OF-WAY USE; MISDEMEANORS. (a) Except for the actions of the road authorities, their agents, employees, contractors, and utilities…it shall be unlawful to:... (9) place or maintain any advertisement within the limits of any highway, (b) Any violation of this section is a misdemeanor.

Taxpayers have a right to have this statute enforced. Let’s be responsible. Let’s keep our roads safe for us, other drivers, and our maintenance crews.

Sherry Kutter

Grey Eagle