In Minnesota, the use of colored lights on vehicles is regulated by state statutes to ensure public safety and proper identification of authorized emergency and service vehicles. Below is an overview of the authorized light colors for various vehicle types:
1. Law Enforcement Vehicles:
- Red and Blue Lights: Authorized emergency vehicles, such as police vehicles, may display flashing red lights to the front and flashing blue lights to the rear as warning signals. Additionally, they may have a flashing blue light mounted on the passenger side to the front.
2. Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Vehicles:
- Red Lights: Fire department and EMS vehicles are permitted to display flashing red lights as warning signals.
3. Volunteer Ambulance Drivers:
- Red Lights: Certificated volunteer ambulance drivers may equip their privately owned vehicles with a lamp emitting a red light to the front. This requires a permit issued by the commissioner of public safety, and the light should be used only when responding to an emergency call.
4. Road Maintenance and Snow Removal Equipment:
- Blue Lights: Road maintenance and snow removal equipment operated by or under contract to the state or a political subdivision may display blue lights.
5. Construction and Utility Vehicles:
- Amber Lights: Vehicles engaged in construction operations may use amber lights to enhance visibility and safety.
6. Delivery Vehicles:
- Red Lights on Lighted Signs: Vehicles engaged in deliveries to residences may display a lighting device mounted on the vehicle, which may project a red light to the front if the sign projects one or more additional colors to the front.
General Restrictions:
- Flashing Lights: Flashing lights are generally prohibited on vehicles except as authorized by law.
- Blue Lights: Use of blue lights is restricted to specific vehicles such as authorized emergency vehicles and certain road maintenance equipment.
- White Lights: Projecting white light to the rear of a vehicle is unlawful while traveling on any street or highway, with specific exceptions such as when the vehicle is moving in reverse.
Important Considerations:
- Move Over Law: Minnesota law requires drivers to move over when approaching an authorized emergency vehicle that is parked or otherwise stopped on or next to a street or highway.
- Compliance: Unauthorized use of colored lights by non-designated vehicles is illegal and subject to penalties.
Note: This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal guidance, consult the Minnesota Department of Public Safety or a legal professional. If something is incorrect and you would like to suggest an edit, please contact us.
