MN SF4278

Adds new definition of "parallel" or "paralleling" for utility facilities running alongside railroad lines for no more than one mile (or another agreed distance) before crossing, terminating, or exiting the right-of-way

Adds definition of "public right-of-way" by reference to Minnesota Statutes section 237.162, subdivision 3

Requires railroads to update their websites within 30 days when changes occur to contact information, application procedures, or submission addresses for utility crossing applications

Limits railroads' authority to require flagging services for utility crossings to situations where flagging is "demonstrably necessary" for safety during construction or maintenance, requiring written justification identifying specific safety risks

Mandates that flagging fees be reasonable, reflect actual expenses paid to flagging employees, and prohibits using flagging requirements to delay or obstruct utility access