Snow & Sidewalk Clearing: Cambridge vs Somerville
How do snow & sidewalk clearing rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Somerville, MA?
Cambridge and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Under Cambridge ordinance and MGL c.85 s.5, property owners must clear snow and ice from abutting sidewalks within specified hours after a storm ends. Fines escalate with repeat violations.
View full Cambridge rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville requires abutters to clear sidewalks within 6 hours of daytime snowfall ending or by 10 am if the storm ended overnight. Fines escalate and the city can clear and bill the owner.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Clearing deadline | 12 daylight hours after snow ends | - |
| Ice treatment | Within 6 hours | - |
| Path width | 42 inches minimum | - |
| Initial fine | $50 residential, $100 commercial | - |
| State law | MGL c.85 s.5 prohibits pushing snow into streets | MGL c.85 s.5 |
| Daytime deadline | - | 6 hours after snow ends |
| Overnight deadline | - | 10 am |
| Minimum width | - | 36 inches |
| City clearing | - | Billed to owner |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
How long do I have to shovel?
12 daylight hours after the end of a snowstorm to clear snow, and ice must be treated within 6 hours.
Can I push snow into the street?
No. State law and city ordinance prohibit depositing snow in streets, bike lanes, or crosswalks.
Somerville FAQ
Does the 6-hour rule apply on weekends and holidays?
Yes. Somerville applies the same deadlines every day. Absent owners should arrange clearing in advance.
Can I be sued if someone slips?
Yes. Since the Papadopoulos decision in 2010, Massachusetts property owners are liable for negligent snow and ice maintenance on premises and abutting walks.
Compare other topics
See how Cambridge and Somerville compare on other ordinance categories.
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