Visitors to Minnesota and Detroit Lakes should be aware of these important laws - Here are the most common we are often asked about. You should also check the FAQ section for more info on other laws:

1. What are the laws on consuming or transporting alcohol?
It is illegal to have any open containers of alcohol or to consume alcohol in any motor vehicle or public street. The legal age for drinking is 21 and it may only be consumed in licensed establishments or private residence.

2. What are the laws on seatbelt use in vehicles?
In Minnesota - all occupants must be properly buckled up or in approved car seats if they are children. This is a primary offense effective 2009 so Law Enforcement can stop your vehicle if you or any of your passengers are in violation of these laws.  

Children under age 4 must be in a properly fitted and approved car seat. Children between 4-8 must be in a properly fitted and approved booster seat. It is also strongly recommended that children 12 and under sit in a backseat of a car equipped with front airbags.

For details on how to ensure your kids are in compliance with the law and in the safest positions for your vehicle, visit with a Trooper at Minnesota State Patrol HQ on Highway 10 and Morrow Avenue in Detroit Lakes. They are right across from the giant American Flag by Perkins.

The MSP phone number for the DL district is (218) 847-1550.

3. Are Fireworks legal in Minnesota?
Only certain types of Fireworks are permitted. Generally they are of the non-explosive and non-aerial type and Minnesota stores carry a variety     of approved fireworks.

Examples of permitted items are sparklers, color fountains, and smoke bombs. Some illegal items are firecrackers, exploding rockets, and the common sky fireworks seen in public displays.

Only authorized pyro-technicians with an appropriate permit are allowed to use these other styles of fireworks for special events.

4. Does the City of Detroit Lakes have a Curfew for children?
Yes - children 16 and under generally must be with a parent/guardian except in certain circumstances.    

5. Does the City of Detroit Lakes have a Noise Ordinance?
Yes - the ordinance is is generally enforced from 10pm-6am and includes a variety of noise such as car stereos, loud gatherings, barking dogs, and other disturbances of the peace. A copy of the ordinance can be found in the downloadable section of our website.

6. What are the rules regarding dogs?
Dogs are not allowed to run at large or on the city beach and must be leashed at all times in public. Tags are required for all dogs over 3 mo. and can be purchased from City Hall. A person may not own more than two dogs within city limits without a special kennel permit. 

7. What are the general parking restrictions in Detroit Lakes?
Generally - vehicles cannot be left parked in the same position on any city street or lot for more than 48 hours. Many downtown roads, beach areas, or parks also do not allow overnight parking.

In the winter time - when 2" or more of snow has fallen, vehicles must be moved off city streets to assist with snow removal. If your vehicle is in a emergency route zone, it may be impounded.

In the summer time - beach side parking is not allowed on weekends due to heavy traffic and the need to keep an emergency lane open. Be sure to check the signs in the area you plan to park.

8. Am I allowed to have a campfire or burn leaves within city limits?
You must have a fire permit from the Fire Chief for any burning other than a small Campfire.

Small Campfires are only allowed if they are: (1) No larger than a 3 feet diameter circle, (2) No higher flame than three feet tall, and (3) Must be on non-combustible material such as concrete cleared in each direction for at least 5 feet. A person must always be observing the fire while it is in use and campfires cannot be closer than 25 feet from any structure.   

9. Can I drive a Snowmobile or ATV on city streets?
Generally No - ATV's are not allowed on city streets and Snowmobiles are prohibited on any school grounds, city park, or private property without the permission of the owner.

Snowmobiles can be driven to or from a actual trail but generally are not allowed on city roads or highways. Snowmobiles cannot be driven at night without proper lighting or in any manner that would unreasonably disturbs the public.  

10. Is window tinting allowed in Minnesota?
No windows can have reflective or a mirrored appearance. The main front windshield cannot be tinted. Side or rear windows can reduce the amount of light transferred through the window by a rating of up to 50%.

Rear windows behind the driver-seat on a Truck or Van are exempt from this requirement.

Devices to measure the percentage amount of tinting are available at the Detroit Lakes Police Department. 

11. What is the Minnesota "Move Over" Law?
If you see a Emergency Vehicle parked on or near the road with any of  its warning lights flashing, you must slow down and be prepared to stop   if necessary or directed to.

If there is more than one lane traveling in the same direction, you must move into that lane farthest from the emergency vehicle as soon as possible and when it is safe to do so, while still reducing your speed.

This law helps protect those who protect us while performing their duties on Minnesota's highways.