As snow piles up in St. Lawrence County, the state Department of Transportation is warning the public that tall piles of snow are illegal and potentially hazardous for pedestrians and motorists.

DOT officials are reminding residents not to pile snow and ice in or around roads when clearing it from their homes and driveways.

“We understand the difficulties property owners face when removing snow from their driveways and sidewalks,” said DOT Regional Director Steven G. Kokkoris. “Our first priority is safety and we must work together with the public to ensure that when snow and ice is removed from the roads, they continue to be clear and safe.”

When plowing or shoveling driveways and sidewalks, officials say it is important not to push snow and ice into the roadway.

Snow and ice left on or along the highway creates unsafe driving conditions and other safety concerns, including; limited sight distance for motorists and pedestrians, the risk of collisions, and drainage concerns.

Winter snow storage along pedestrian routes poses particular safety issues, the release says.

Piling snow along sidewalks, “bump-outs” or other streetside objects results in poor visibility and increases the risk of pedestrians emerging from behind snow banks and being hit by vehicles.

New York State Law prohibits property owners from placing snow in the roads. Additionally, failure to remove snow and ice pushed or dumped into the road from private property could result in accidents the property owner may be liable for.