Don’t let winter weather slow you down. To help you get around, the City has revamped its sidewalk snow removal ordinance in terms of fines and length of time allowed for removal.
Business owners still have 12 hours following a winter storm to remove snow and ice from sidewalks abutting their property. What’s new are the rules for residential owners, who now must clear snow and ice abutting their property within 18 hours following the end of a storm, or when the City finishes snow removal operations, whichever is later. Before, residential owners had 24 hours.
The change encourages swifter removal of snow from the pathways that pedestrians need to get out, get to work, visit local businesses, and have some fun this winter.
So, business owners who fail to remove snow and ice within regulations can be fined $250 for the first offense, $500 for the second offense within the same winter season, and $1,000 for any subsequent offense within the same winter season. Additionally, should the City have to remove the snow and ice or arrange for its removal, the property owner will be charged for the cost of removal plus a 10% charge for administration.
Residential owners can be fined $75 for the first offense, $125 for the second offense in the same winter season, and $250 for any subsequent offense in the same winter season. Again, should the city have to remove the snow and ice, the property owner will be charged for the cost of removal plus a 10% administrative charge.
Please note that a minimum of four feet is required to be clear of snow and treated for ice on all public sidewalks and sidewalk access ramps. Snow cannot be pushed or dumped from driveways and parking lots onto public access sidewalks and access ramps.
HELP YOUR NEIGHBORS
Help your neighbors who are physically unable (elderly and disabled) to clear their sidewalks.
Elderly and disabled residents who need help with removing snow from sidewalks should contact the City’s Elder Services Department at 207-541-6620.
Members of the community are encouraged to help the Portland Fire Department by keeping their neighborhood fire hydrants clear of snow and ice. Also, help by clearing catch basins and storm drains in front of your home. It is your street and driveway that will flood if snowmelt and water isn’t allowed to drain properly.
Finally, consider becoming a volunteer for the Adopt-A-Stop program, which uses volunteers to ensure that bus stops are kept clear. Visit adopt-a-stop.org.
