When Can You Legally Operate Your Snow Blower in Michigan?

It's that time of year.

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There's a nip in the air and frost on the ground. We've already had some light snow through most parts of Michigan, even before winter has officially arrived.

Even though we've gotten snow, you probably haven't had to break out your snow blower just yet. If you have, thoughts are with you my friend because dang, that's a lot of snow. But what happens when Michigan does get that first big snow of the season?

When is it okay to use your snow blower in Michigan? Is there any time when it's illegal to use your snow blower?

Michigan Laws Involving Snow Blowers

When it comes to snow removal, there are laws regarding what property you're responsible for shoveling (including the sidewalk), when you need to have it clear by (within 24 hours), and what you're responsible for if someone is injured on your property.

Read Related: Avoid a Ticket, Here are Michigan's Snow Removal Law

However, I could not find any specific law involving snow blowers, and when you can and cannot operate them.

Michigan Noise Ordinance

Here's what you should pay attention to when you operate your snow blower; how loud is it and when are you operating it?

I know that you probably need to get out there early to clear your driveway and sidewalks before work. And that means you have to start early, but how early is too early?

You should check out the local ordinances from your city or township to find out how early is too early. Here's Lansing's, for example:

Section54-1. - Unlawful Noises

It shall be unlawful for any person to make, continue, or cause to be made or continued any loud, unnecessary or unusual noise or any noise which either annoys, disturbs, injures or endangers the comfort, repose, health, peace or safety of others, within the limits of the township.

Typical quiet hours run from 11 pm to 7 am, so keep that in mind.

Do I necessarily think you're going to get ticketed or fined for snow-blowing your driveway at 6:45 am? No. However, we should all be respectful of our neighbors, and maybe grab a shovel instead.