Why is important to keep the right-of-way clear

Question: Do you have any resources to help our Highway Department explain to residents why it is important to keep the right-of-way clear of grass clippings, basketball hoops & snow? 

 

Answer: 

Grass Clippings 

It is a violation of New York State Vehicle and Traffic Safety Law, Section 1220 to mow grass clippings and/or rake leaves into the road. 

Grass clippings in the roadway can create a slippery surface, especially when wet, increasing the risk of losing control and crashing. Clippings can also wash into storm drains, causing blockages that lead to localized flooding.

When grass clippings from the road enter the drainage system and discharge into ponds and lakes, their decay causes a substantial decrease in the available oxygen in the water body for aquatic life causing a depletion of aquatic life.

Snow

It is a violation of New York State Vehicle and Traffic Safety Law, Section 1219 to place obstructions in the roadway. This includes pushing snow removed from driveways back into the road. Snow pushed into the road can cause hazards not only for the public but for snowplows. Fines and penalties are applicable, and the offenders can be charged back for removing the obstructions. 

Basketball Nets

Free-standing basketball nets pose safety risks, including traffic hazards, instability (especially in high winds), and potential injury from tipping over. 

They can obstruct snow removal and maintenance, create liability concerns, and encourage unsafe play near roads. 

Anything put within the ROW can be considered an obstruction, this would include basketball hoops. Due to the liability to the municipality created by items placed within their ROW, NYS Highway Law Section 319

 

Resources:

Snow

Obstructions:

Basketball hoops: