Minnesota § 169.541 - LIGHTING EXEMPTION FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT; STANDARDS
Full text of Minnesota Minnesota Statutes § 169.541 — LIGHTING EXEMPTION FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT; STANDARDS, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 169.541. LIGHTING EXEMPTION FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT; STANDARDS
Subdivision 1.Exemption.
Sections 84.87, 84.928, 86B.511, and 169.48 to 169.65, relating to lighting of vehicles and watercraft, do not apply to a licensed peace officer, as defined in section 626.84, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), while operating a motor vehicle or watercraft owned, leased, or otherwise the property of the state or a political subdivision, in the performance of the officer's law enforcement duties if the officer's conduct is reasonable and is consistent with the standards adopted under subdivision 2, and if the officer reasonably believes that operating the vehicle without lights is necessary under the circumstances to investigate a criminal violation or suspected criminal violation of state laws, rules, or orders or local laws, ordinances, or regulations.
Subd. 2.POST Board standards.
The Peace Officer Standards and Training Board shall adopt standards governing situations in which licensed peace officers as defined in section 626.84, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), may operate a vehicle or watercraft without lights as provided in subdivision 1.
History:
1990 c 391 art 10 s 3; 1990 c 555 s 9; 2022 c 55 art 1 s 67
Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes
Source: official Minnesota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota § 169.541
What does Minnesota Statutes § 169.541 cover?
Section 169.541 ("LIGHTING EXEMPTION FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT; STANDARDS") is part of the Minnesota Statutes, the codified statutory law of Minnesota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Minnesota § 169.541?
A common citation format is "Minnesota Statutes § 169.541" (Minnesota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Minnesota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Minnesota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Minnesota attorney.
How does Minnesota § 169.541 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Minnesota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Minnesota.