Look for markers to mark area of right-of-way

Do you have personal property close to the highway right-of-way? Otter Tail County Highway Department reminds you to move property, signs, and items for sale back from the roadway. Public safety for all drivers including snowplow drivers is critical. Prevent damage to personal property by storing it away from the roadways. Please keep the right-of-way clear.

The Otter Tail County Highway Department has noticed several docks, lifts, and other property stored too close to the highway. Understandably, sometimes space is limited, and these areas are often convenient for storing property or selling items. However, Otter Tail County asks for voluntary compliance with State Statute 160.27 which makes it illegal for “the unauthorized use of public highway right of way.” Public safety is the priority.

“Any items on the right-of-way must be crash tested and approved. The highway signs have been crash-tested and have breakaway points. We ask people to remove their property from the county-owned right-of-way for public safety,” said Cristi Field, Otter Tail County Highway Maintenance Supervisor.

How do you know if the land is a right-of-way? Look for the black and white or orange triangular markers in ditches and near roadways. A highway right-of-way is designed as a “clear zone” to lessen the possibility of harm to motorists in an accident. Otter Tail County owns the roadway and has jurisdiction over the adjacent right-of-way.

Moving property in the fall before it freezes to the ground is recommended. Property that is too close to the roadway interferes in plowing snow from county roads and is a potential hazard if a vehicle leaves the roadway. Items in the right-of-way are in violation and at risk of being damaged by snow. The priority is to clear the roads, so they are safe for those driving on the highways.

For questions please visit: www.ottertailcountymn.us/highway/