WASHINGTON — After snow piles up, it can be hard to avoid. Snowy and ice-covered sidewalks can lead to people walking in the street in order to avoid slipping or tripping but being in the roadway can also be dangerous. So, who is responsible for clearing sidewalks and pathways? And is there a deadline for when it has to be done?
According to the DC Department of Public Works, the Winter Sidewalk Safety Act says property owners need to clear snow and ice from their sidewalks within the first eight hours of daylight after the last snowflake falls. For example, that means if it stops snowing at 2 p.m., property owners would have until around early afternoon the following day to shovel and de-ice the walkway. Though the law says fines don't technically kick in until 24 hours after the snowstorm ends.
If you don't happen to shovel your sidewalk in time, D.C. officials could charge a $25 fee for residents and $150 to commercial properties.
However, the Department of Public Works has opened registration for the Sidewalk Shoveling Exemption Program for November 1, 2023 - March 31, 2025. Enrollment in the program gives qualified residents who are disabled and/or 65 or older an exemption from winter sidewalk safety enforcement. The exemption is valid for two consecutive snow seasons and once approved, residents must apply every other year to continue receiving the exemption.
Click here to learn more about the Sidewalk Shoveling Exemption Program.
Do you have a news tip on this story or any other story? We want to hear from you. Tell us about it by emailing newstips@wusa9.com.
MORE WAYS TO GET WUSA9
DOWNLOAD THE WUSA9 APP
Apple App Store: WUSA9 News on Apple
Google Play Store: WUSA9 News on Android
HOW TO ADD THE FREE WUSA9+ APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE
ROKU: add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for WUSA9.
For both Apple TV and Fire TV, search for "WUSA9" to find the free app to add to your account. Another option for Fire TV is to have the app delivered directly to your Fire TV through Amazon.
SIGN UP TO RECEIVE WUSA9 NEWSLETTER
Subscribe to our daily WUSA9 Newsletter for top stories from WUSA9 curated daily just for you. Get content and information right now for can’t-miss stories, Commanders content, weather, and more delivered right to your inbox.