The Minnesota Department of Transportation reminds farmers to use safe farming practices and that planting crops within rights of way is illegal because of the danger it can cause to motorists.

State law also prohibits plowing and tilling in rights of way including driving lanes, shoulders, ditches and sight corners at intersections.

“Our roadway regulation inspectors are knowledgeable and willing to help landowners adopt practices that enhance safety and the environment,” said Steve Lund, MnDOT’s state maintenance engineer. “The goal of these restrictions is to ensure safety and to protect roadside environments.”

The department also advises that mowing and haying on rights of way may require a permit and the restriction for August mowing only.

“Roadside conditions and right-of-way status varies,” Lund said. “This requires us to consider farmers’ mowing and haying rights on a case-by-case basis.”

A deposit on a permit may be required and will be returned when all work has been completed in accordance with the provisions of the permit.

For more information about roadway regulations, or assistance in identifying right-of-way boundaries on a state or interstate highway, contact MnDOT Permits Offices at 507-286-7592 in Rochester or 507-446-5505 in Owatonna.