Question: I was wondering if I needed to cover my spotlight/light bar on top of my pickup before I hit the highway. Let me know what the rules are regarding a cover or no cover. The research I did before purchasing was only KC style or round lights needed a cover in the state of Minnesota. I have included a photograph.
Answer: If a vehicle with auxiliary lamps is driven on a public highway, the lamps do not need to be covered if they are within the height requirements of not less than 16 inches or more than 42 inches above the road. Only four auxiliary lamps can be on at one time. Those outside of the height requirements (including yours) must be completely covered with an opaque material (not allowing light to pass through.)
The light bar you are talking about is designed for off-road use only. Having these type of auxiliary lights on while driving can make it very unsafe for approaching drivers.
Portions of state statutes were used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Sgt. Neil Dickenson, Minnesota State Patrol, 1131 Mesaba Ave., Duluth, MN, 55811; on Twitter @MSPPIO_NE; or by email at neil.dickenson@state.mn.us .
