ST. CLOUD -- Minnesota is known for its 22,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, second behind only Wisconsin. But, what if you want to drive your sled in your neighborhood, or around the city you live in? Well, most cities have ordinances regulating the operation of the machines within their borders.

The city of St. Cloud passed a restrictive use ordinance years ago, all but banning the use of snowmobiles within its city limits. There a few exceptions, however. You can ride your machine in the ditches of county highways and roads, on your private property, other private property with permission, and at two designated snowmobile trail access areas...in Pineview Park and the area near the Pilot Truck Stop by I-94.

Other area cities like Sartell, Waite Park, and St. Joseph allow snowmobiles in the ditch bottoms and on the most right-hand side of streets and roads, but not sidewalks, parks, school property, or other city property.

Sauk Rapids allows you to ride on the right-hand side of a road or street, but only to access a trail or direct route home.

There are some restrictions in these cities for hours of operation near homes. Most are from about 10:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m., but you'll want to check with your city to be sure.

The penalty for breaking these rules is either a misdemeanor or petty misdemeanor usually a fine of a few hundred dollars.

For a complete list of the rules and regulations, click on your city's link below for more information.

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