Your responsibility in removing snow and ice from the sidewalks

Many people rely on walking and transit as their primary way to get around, and without a wide, clear path through snow and ice, it is especially difficult for people with disabilities, seniors, and children to walk safely.  According to the Municipal Code of Chicago (4-4-310 & 10-8-180), property owners and occupants are responsible for keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice.

Download:

Sidewalk Snow Removal Guidance for Residents and Businesses (color)

Sidewalk Snow Removal Guidance for Residents and Businesses (black and white) 

Increase awareness of sidewalk snow removal laws

 Sidewalk Snow Removal Door Hangers

The door hangers are intended as a reminder to shovel the sidewalk and offer assistance to anyone physically unable to clear their own sidewalks.  The door hangers emphasize the importance of sidewalk snow removal and safe winter travel.

The door hangers are mailed to aldermanic offices and dozens of businesses and community groups throughout the city for distribution throughout the neighborhoods.

Download Sidewalk Snow Removal Door Hanger (pdf, 1.3mb)

Report locations that DO NOT clear sidewalks to 311

Report locations that DO NOT clear their sidewalks by making a "Snow - Uncleared Sidewalk or Bike Lane" request with
the City of Chicago 311 Service Request line.

DIAL 311 or Online Snow - Uncleared Sidewalk or Bike Lane Request
If calling from outside Chicago, call 312.744.5000

When you make a "Snow - Uncleared Sidewalk or Bike Lane" request, please note the following:

• Make sure the problem occurs on the sidewalk.-
• DO NOT use this category to report snow on streets, parking lots, or alleys.
• Provide a specific address where the problem occurs.
• Request a reference number from the operator, this will help you track the status and resolution of your request.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sidewalk Snow Removal

Why is sidewalk snow removal important?

Chicagoans of all ages and abilities need to use the sidewalks to get where they're going every day of the year. Many children, older adults, and people with disabilities face serious mobility challenges in winter time. Clear sidewalks are a shared community responsibility, and this new ordinance clarifies the requirements for snow and ice removal.

Do the new regulations for sidewalk snow removal in Chicago apply to home, business, and property owners?

Yes, the new sidewalk snow regulations affect all home, business, and property owners in Chicago. Business owners that rent space adjacent to sidewalks are responsible for shoveling snow under the ordinance. Some landlords for residential and commercial property hold tenants responsible for snow clearance as a part of their lease agreements, other don't. Renters who aren't certain of their shoveling responsibilities should check their rental agreements or ask their landlords for clarification.

When do the new regulations take effect?

The new regulations took effect November 28, 2015.

When do I have to shovel my snow?

You must shovel snow as soon as possible after it falls. Snow that falls between the hours of 7:00 am and 7:00 pm must be removed no later than 10:00 pm. Snow that falls between the hours of 7:00 pm and 7:00 am must be removed by 10:00 am.

Do I have to shovel on weekends?

Yes. You must shovel 7 days a week in the City of Chicago.

In what way should I shovel my sidewalks to be in compliance?

You must clear a path at least 5 feet wide on all of the sidewalks adjacent to your property, including any crosswalk ramps. Do not shovel the snow into the right-of-way, which includes: transit stops and bus pads, parking spaces, bike lanes, bike racks, Divvy stations, and any other space where snow impedes traffic of any kind.

Are there special rules for corner lots?

Yes. If you are responsible for a corner lot, you must remove snow and ice from sidewalks on all sides of your building and from corner sidewalk ramps. This applies to residential property and business owners.

Can I be penalized for failing to shovel?

Yes, you can receive a citation for failure to shovel.  In 2014, 226 citations were issued. The fines range from $50 to $500. The amount of the fine is on a per-case basis, and determined by an Administrative Hearings judge.

How do I report a property owner who fails to shovel their sidewalk?

Report property owners who DO NOT clear their sidewalks by making a "Snow - Uncleared Sidewalk or Bike Lane" request with the City of Chicago 311 Service Request line

Dial 311 or submit a service request online.

If calling from outside Chicago, dial 312-744-5000

When you make a "Snow - Uncleared Sidewalk or Bike Lane" request, please note the following:

- Make sure the problem occurs on the sidewalk

- DO NOT use this category to report snow on streets, parking lots, or alleys.

- Provide a specific address where the problem occurs.

- Request a reference number from the operator. This will help you track the status and resolution of your request.