Safety officials are reminding people to not dump snow on the right-of-way as South Dakotans continue to clean up from a massive blizzard.
Some areas in western and central South Dakota received several feet of snow during last week's days-long winter weather system.
Department of Transportation Director of Operations Craig Smith said leaving excess snow on roadways, shoulders, and ditches is illegal.
“Piling snow in the state highway right-of-way can be very dangerous,” said Smith in a press release. “Snow piles can restrict sight distance, as well as present an extreme hazard if a vehicle leaves the roadway. Snow piles that remain adjacent to the road may cause additional drifting and visibility problems posing more safety hazards to travelers, as well as additional expenses for manpower and equipment to remove the illegally dumped snow.”
Smith said it also makes it harder for plow crews to clear roads when more snow falls.
Violating this rule is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and $2,000 fine, according to state law.
The DOT also issued a reminder that property owners are responsible for removing snow from the ends of driveways and around their own mailboxes.
The National Weather Service forecasts many parts of the state could be in for another round of snow Wednesday.