Sidewalk Clearing

Snow Removal From Sidewalks
Property owners are reminded that it is their responsibility to keep sidewalks adjacent to their property clear of snow and ice- thank you for making our sidewalks safe for all pedestrians!

Snow and ice make walking difficult for all pedestrians, especially the elderly, the handicapped and school children. All of us have a shared responsibility for keeping Fitchburg safe and accessible during the winter months.

What the City Does
The City is responsible for the control and removal of ice and snow accumulations from sidewalks and stairs at city property ONLY. Sidewalks on school property are cleared by the School Department, and custodians clear sidewalks at various other public buildings. To promote public safety, DPW clears heavily used sidewalks along main streets, principle school pedestrian routes and bridges.

City Code
In compliance with Massachusetts General Laws, Ordinance No. 157-33 of the City Code requires private property owners or tenants to clear snow from public sidewalks abutting their property as follows:

§ 157-33 Snow and ice on sidewalks: no owner, tenant or agent of any real estate abutting on any sidewalk shall suffer or permit such sidewalk to remain covered wholly or partly with snow for more than four hours between rise and sunset; and should ice form on such sidewalk, the same shall be removed so far as practicable, and any remaining ice shall be made level and shall be covered with sand or other suitable substance to prevent slipping
What can happen if you don't clear your sidewalk?
If someone gets hurt, the courts can hold you liable due to Supreme Judicial Court ruling in 2010.

You can be fined $100 for the first offense and up to $200 for subsequent offenses.