Throwing rocks is not proper railfanning!
Do Not Trespass
Not everywhere is posted with signs, nor is all private property fenced. Typically, right-of-ways (15 feet from the ballast, service roads, parking lots) are RR property.
A rule of thumb I use is: If I think I am on private property, I probably am. Trusting your gut is a common thread you will read in my list of rail fanning rules.
Don't Get Too Close
There are numerous places close enough to railroad tracks that are not on RR property. Yet the best way to get close to the action is with a zoom lens or binoculars!
Many railroaders already don't care for rail fans. Not much you can do about that, but there is no need to scare the employees into thinking you darted infront of their train, or tried to sabotage it.
Several years ago I was photographing Amtrak's Empire Builder. I was standing on a grassy boulevard awaiting its arrival. As the train neared, I squatted for a different angle. While I hadn't moved, I could see the engineer jump up and run to the conductor's side to look out the window.
The crew's viewable area begins several feet in front of the nose of the locomotive. But then this goes back to rule #1.
As well, if you are at a crossing, don't step on the other side of the crossing arm to get that picture. Gates can lower, rise or activate without warning. Be aware of the counterweight or smaller arms which protect sidewalks.
Standing too close to tracks while trains pass not only puts you at risk of flying debris or falling objects (i.e. pieces of coal), but metal bands drag or flap from bundles of wood or from box car doors.
Be Friendly
This applies to employees and other rail fans.
Think of how you would like random folks coming to watch you work - especially to take photos! Again, if a conductor or gandy dancer doesn't like rail fans to start with, there is not much you can do to change their minds. But, being polite and/or friendly may soften up the encounter and possibly help future visits trackside.
If you are met by a Resource Protection Agent (RR cop), treat them as you would any city police officer during a traffic stop. Also, this may be a great time for you to find out where you can safely be to watch trains. [While this may not work - such as meeting a disagreeable agent - or be feasible at that particular time, it goes to show that you respect RR operations and property and pose no risk. Such encounters also go better if you were not on RR property initially. Serious consequences occur when trespassing.]
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
I am referring to fellow human beings. Some very unsavory characters frequent tracks, overpasses, and camps near rail lines. There are several spots in the Metro I wouldn't hang out for extended periods of time. Trust your gut instinct, that is what it is there for!
I was going to advise taking a page from the hiker's playbook, tell others where you are going. That may not work. On any given outing I could go from Northtown to South St. Paul to Prescott, WI to Shakopee to Elk River.
Listen in Legally
Scanners are an important tool to the avid rail fan. Knowing where and what the next train is is beyond valuable.
In Minnesota there are laws regarding the use of scanners. In short, either having an Amateur Radio License or Mobile Monitor Permits allows anyone to lawfully carry and use a scanner in one's personal vehicle. For more information or obtain an application, go to Minnesota's BUREAU OF CRIMINAL APPREHENSION site.
Railroads Understand Railfan Importance
The BNSF has stepped forward, one of the first railroads, to welcome those whom enjoy watching trains.
Learn moreabout the Citizen's for Rail Security (CRS). Become an active participant in protecting a vital part of the county's infrastructure!
No, being a "member" doesn' give railfans free range of railyards or other railroad property. But railfans regularly lament the chasm between Class I railroads and us. Let this be a step towards coming together.