Sidewalk Snow Removal
The City of Rochester is a walkable community. The City needs the help of all property owners to ensure that residents' mobility is safe during the winter season. When it snows, please help to keep public right-of-ways clear of snow and ice. Follow the rules and guidelines on sidewalk snow removal, on-street parking and cold weather safety included in this snow page. Thank you for contributing your time and patience to provide clear sidewalks, ease winter parking limitations, and provide access for essential public services.
During the winter, it is up to each property owner to clear public sidewalks of snow and ice. Rochester Code of Ordinances Section 9-6-2 requires property owners with a public sidewalk to remove snow and ice within 24-hours after a snowfall. This is necessary to ensure the safety of people using the sidewalks during the winter.
DO:
- Remove snow and ice from sidewalks and intersection handicap ramps abutting your property within 24-hours of snowfall ending.
- Clear the snow the width of the sidewalk. Remember that sidewalks are used by strollers and wheelchairs in the winter.
- Remove ice to bare pavement or make as level as possible and treat with sand, sawdust or similar material.
- Clear any snow that may be blocking a pedestrian ramp, fire hydrant or catch basin.
DON'T:
- Shovel or plow snow into the street. Violators caught shoveling snow from private property into the street will be fined.
- Overexert yourself while shoveling. Excessive strain from the cold and hard labor may cause heart attacks.
Complaints about uncleared sidewalks and pedestrian ramps can be lodged by contacting 311.