Set aside any discussion of climate change or COVID for a moment. It’s winter. It’s Chicago. It snows. As a homeowner, you owe it to your friends, family, neighbors and delivery people to keep the sidewalks free of snow and ice.
In truth, it’s not just neighborly to shovel—it’s the law. Municipal Code of Chicago (4-4-310 and 10-8-180), to be exact. So, before you claim dibs on your parking spot, make sure you’re doing your share of snow removal on the side walk.
Here’s the lowdown on snow removal in Chicago:
You must shovel as soon as possible after snow falls—seven days a week. There is no “weekend” exceptionSnow that falls between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm must be cleared by 10:00 pm Snow that falls between 7:00 pm and 7:00 am must be cleared by 10:00 amYou must clear at least a five-foot wide path on all sidewalks adjacent to your property, including any crosswalk rampsDon’t pile your snow into the right-of-way, bus stop, parking spaces, bike lanes or Divvy stationsWhat if you don’t shovel?
Failure to abide is punishable by fines, ranging from $50 to $500 per day on a case-by-case basis, as determined by City Administrative Hearings judges. Business fines can go up to $1,000/day.
Here’s why you really should shovel
Law aside, we’re a walking city—clearing the walkway is the nice thing to do. When you shovel, you make a path for kids getting to school, pet owners walking pets, people with disabilities, seniors and those with mobility challenges. And don’t forget about your USPS, UPS, Fed-Ex and Amazon deliverers—be sure to clear the path to your front door and mail box.
On the Other Hand....