MnDOT Releases New Permit For State Highway Mowing

Mowing grass on state highway right of ways without a permit can result in a misdemeanor.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is asking those who want to mow and bale hay on the area next to state roadways to turn in permit applications early next year, according to a release from MnDOT.

Since MnDOT has adopted a new statewide standard for the process due to a state law requiring the department to manage the process. Citizens now have to fill out new permit forms in order to do so, according to the release.

“Having local landowners mow, and bale hay if they choose, in the right of way can be mutually beneficial. But we want to ensure that it is done at the right time of year to make sure we are protecting habitat for wildlife and pollinators,” stated Steve Lund, MnDOT’s state maintenance engineer, in the release.

The new permit will include when and where mowing and baling can occur and how long bales can sit in the right of way.

For more information about the new permit, go to MnDOT’s website.