Jaywalking, Littering, and Other Laws You Break Every Day Without Realizing It in Minnesota

Published On:
Jaywalking, Littering, and Other Laws You Break Every Day Without Realizing It in Minnesota

No, jaywalking and littering in Minnesota aren’t hidden traps you’ll unknowingly break daily—they’re enforced petty misdemeanors with clear rules, though reform efforts aim to ease jaywalking citations.

Jaywalking Rules

Minnesota Statute §169.21 requires pedestrians to use crosswalks at intersections and yield outside them, treating violations as petty misdemeanors with fines up to $100 (higher for repeats). A 2025 Senate bill (effective Aug. 1 if passed) limits standalone tickets, allowing stops only during unrelated violations unless you pose a collision hazard. Safe habits like facing traffic on roadsides prevent issues.

Littering Penalties

Minn. Stat. §609.68 bans tossing waste from vehicles or onto public/private property, with misdemeanor fines from $300–$1,000 plus cleanup costs; highway littering adds up to 90 days jail. Daily infractions like stray wrappers count if traceable, but enforcement targets visible dumping, not accidents.

Other Everyday Laws

  • Sidewalk yielding: Pedestrians must yield to vehicles in crosswalks if uncontrolled.
  • Bike/pedestrian paths: No reckless endangerment; fines apply.
    Reforms prioritize safety over minor citations, aligning with common behavior.

SOURCE

Leave a Comment