Blocked crossing laws
How long can a train block a crossing in Missouri?
Missouri law limits a train to 5 minutes blocking a road crossing, under RSMo § 300.360 (Model Traffic Ordinance); see also RSMo § 71.013. We found no Missouri court ruling on this limit. Courts elsewhere have held similar limits preempted by federal law, so it may not be enforceable against railroads. Checked 16 October 2026.
The rule
Missouri's Model Traffic Ordinance, a set of state traffic rules that cities and counties adopt as local law, says a train may not block a street for more than five minutes. It does not apply to a moving train or to one stopped for an emergency or for needed repairs. A separate state law says train crew members following orders are not personally liable under these rules.
Exceptions and local rules
The rule does not apply to a moving train or to a train stopped because of an emergency or for repairs needed before it can go on. It applies where a city or county has adopted the Model Traffic Ordinance.
It shall be unlawful for the directing officer or the operator of any railroad train to direct the operation of or to operate the same in such a manner as to prevent the use of any street for purposes of travel for a period of time longer than five minutes; provided that this section shall not apply to a moving train or to one stopped because of an emergency or for repairs necessary before it can proceed safely.
Read the statute: RSMo § 300.360 (Model Traffic Ordinance); see also RSMo § 71.013
Does federal law override it?
No federal law sets a time limit for a train blocking a crossing. Federal law does control how railroads run trains, and courts have used it to set aside state time limits.
When a court holds a state limit preempted, the state cannot enforce it against the railroad. A limit no court has ruled on is still on the books, but railroads may challenge it the same way.
Where to report a blocked crossing
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) takes blocked crossing reports from the public for every state.
Report to the FRA blocked crossing reporter
We found no Missouri state page for blocked crossing reports, so the FRA reporter is the place to report.
If a train is blocking the crossing right now, call the railroad on the number shown on the blue sign at the crossing.
Crossings in Missouri
Missouri has 3,281 public crossings in the FRA crossing inventory.