How quickly do people need to clear ice and snow from sidewalks?
By City Ordinance, ice must be cleared within 6 hours after it forms. Snow should be removed within 12 hours after it stops falling during the day, or before 1pm if it snowed overnight.
If you own a corner property, you’re also required to shovel and clear the ramps at the corners near your place to help make crossing safer for everyone.
Keep in mind that pushing or plowing snow into streets or bike lanes is not allowed.
If you don’t follow the City’s sidewalk clearing rules, there’s a $50 fine per day until it’s done. Even if you’re not around, it’s still your responsibility to make sure someone clears the sidewalks and ramps next to your property.
We all share the job of keeping our community safe and accessible during snowy weather. Think about yourself, your neighbors, folks with strollers or wheelchairs, and all those who walk in Cambridge-please do your part. The City has salt barrels placed around town for residents; please only take what you really need.
Do I have to clear my sidewalk if I’m elderly or have a disability?
If you own your home, are on a low income, and are elderly or disabled, you might qualify for the City’s Snow Exemption Program where they’ll shovel your sidewalk for you. To check if you’re eligible, call the Cambridge Council on Aging at 617-349-6220 (voice).
If you don’t qualify for that exemption, the Council on Aging can give you contacts for local professional snow removal services as well as students looking to earn some money by shoveling-you contact them directly and agree on a price.
What does a properly “cleared” sidewalk look like?
Not in Compliance
In Compliance
Make sure you’re following the City’s Snow and Ice Removal rules:
Shovel all sidewalks around your property down to bare pavement.
Make sure there’s enough room-at least 3 feet wide-for someone using a wheelchair, walker or stroller.
Clear snow all the way up to the curb so trash collectors can reach bins without having to dig through snow banks.
Don’t forget ramps at corners and crosswalks – property owners have responsibility there too.
Stock up on ice melt before storms hit. Use calcium chloride (Ca Cl2) based products because they work well and are better for plants. Potassium chloride (KCl) is okay too. Avoid rock salt (Na Cl), since it harms trees and plants.
Skip sand-it doesn’t actually help people walking; plus it makes icy spots slipperier and clogs street drains which cost more later.
Keep street drains free of snow so water doesn’t pool or freeze near ramps.
If neighbors struggle with clearing their walks, consider lending a hand-it’s neighborly *and* required by law.
Should I clear around fire hydrants close by?
If you’re able-bodied, please shovel out any nearby fire hydrant. This helps firefighters get quick access when needed & keeps everyone safer. You can also join our “Adopt a Hydrant” winter program! But don’t worry-fire crews will still come around clearing hydrants citywide.
Will my direct vent heating system melt snow near its exhaust?
If you’ve got a direct vent heating system, keep wall air intakes and exhaust ports free of snow and ice buildup. Blocked vents could mess up how your heater works or even cause carbon monoxide issues.
