Property owners must clear snow or ice from their sidewalks to keep them safe and accessible for everyone.
The City does not:
- Clear snow or ice from sidewalks in front of residential or commercial property
- Clear snow or ice from alleys
- Clear snow or ice blocking access to sidewalks, vehicles, or driveways, even if it was caused by plowing
Snow Clearing Rules
If you own a building or lot, you must clear your sidewalk thoroughly after it snows.
If you don’t follow these rules, you may receive a fine (up to $250) from the Department of Sanitation (DSNY):
- Clear a path at least 4 feet wide.
- Clear access to the crosswalk and pedestrian ramp (curb cut) if you own a corner property.
- Shovel bus stops and fire hydrants.
- Spread salt, sand, or other granular material if the ground is frozen.
- Do not shovel snow into the street.
If the snow stops falling between:
- 7 AM and 5 PM, clear the sidewalk within 4 hours
- 5 PM and 9 PM, clear the sidewalk within 14 hours
- 9 PM and 7 AM, clear the sidewalk by 11 AM