Your Snow Removal Method Might Be Illegal in Colorado

You'd think these snow removal laws should be a no-brainer, but the Colorado Department of Transportation is reminding residents that they exist (because some people have ruined the crazy morning commute for us by breaking them).

According to a news release, CDOT says it is illegal to deposit snow onto or next to a public highway. By way of Statute 43-5-301, Colorado law "prohibits the plowing, blowing, shoveling or otherwise placing of snow onto public roadways and right-of-way areas along the roadside."

By breaking this law, one would be creating hazards like frozen ruts or bumps that can contribute to motor vehicle crashes. Drainage problems, drifting, sight obstruction, and hindered accessibility also become issues.

Violations of this law are considered misdemeanors, but CDOT says civil penalties also apply if hazards named above cause a motor vehicle crash or pedestrian injury, and both the property owner and person who placed snow in the roadway/ROW can be held liable.

CDOT has more information about snow removal here.