Here are some of the most common laws we receive questions about:

LOCAL ORDINANCES & STATE LAWS

1. Open containers of alcohol are illegal anywhere in a motor vehicle or in public places such as the beach, parks, and streets.

2. The City of DL has a Noise Ordinance that is enforced after 10pm at night. Loud car stereos, Parties, Shouting, Snowmobiles, Barking Dogs,  or any other excessive noise is not allowed after this time. A copy of this ordinance can be found on the downloadable section of our website.

3. City Curfew is enforced for anyone under 16 after 10pm at night. Generally, all juveniles must be in the company of their parents or guardians after this time.

4. Parking restrictions vary by location, day of the week, and time. Always make sure to check for signs and pay attention that some restrictions are only in effect for certain days or at different times of the year. The best parking advice (even if you have parked there before) is to always READ THE SIGNS!

Sometimes there are dual signs posted such as the West Lake Drive beach area.

5. Detroit Lakes City Parks close at 10pm. People and vehicles are generally not allowed to be on park property after this time.

6. Dogs are not allowed at large anywhere in town or the beach. Owners are expected to be in control of their pet at all times and prevent them from becoming a nuisance.

7. Motor vehicle equipment and accessories must comply with all state and local equipment laws. Having colored lights, reflective material on windshields, or tinting on certain windows is illegal and will be enforced.

For loud vehicles, the law requires a muffler exhaust system that blends in the overall noise of the vehicle and keeps it from being excessive or unusual.

8. Seatbelts are required for all vehicle occupants at all times while the vehicle is in motion. Passengers are also generally not allowed to ride in the back of pickup beds.    

9. Open Burning Fires are generally prohibited within the City limits. This includes the burning of leaves, twigs, or other such similar material unless you have obtained a permit from the Fire Chief. Contact City Hall or the Detroit Lakes Fire Department for more information.

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.

10. Fireworks - many common Fireworks are illegal. The only legal fireworks allowed in Minnesota are of the non-explosive and non-aerial type. Basically, if it goes up in the air or it goes BOOM then it's illegal. Violators will have their fireworks seized by law enforcement and may face legal charges as well.

Safer fireworks such as smoke bombs, sparklers, color fountains, burning snakes, and similar such devices are fine.

11. Snowmobiles and ATV's must be operated either with a valid drivers license or a safety registration certificate (if under 14) during the winter or summer months. They can only be driven and parked in designated areas and are not allowed on private property, any school grounds, or city parks unless such area is approved and marked for use. Generally, they are not allowed on city streets and must comply with all other aspects of State Law.

Snowmobiles also cannot be driven at night without proper lighting or in any manner that would unreasonably disturbs the public.  

12. Winter Parking. After significant snowfall (usually 2 inches or more) all vehicles parked on City Streets should be moved to assist with snow removal. Snow Emergencies are also declared as needed and no parking is allowed on any snow routes during this time. Such emergencies will be announced via public radio and special posted signs.