Snow & Sidewalk Clearing: Cambridge vs Waltham
How do snow & sidewalk clearing rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Waltham, MA?
Cambridge and Waltham 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 →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham property owners must clear snow and ice from abutting sidewalks within a set time after snowfall ends. The rule follows MGL c.85 s.5 authority and applies to residential and commercial abutters.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Who Must Clear | - | Abutting property owner |
| Min Width | - | Approximately 36 inches |
| Ice Treatment | - | Sand, salt, or ice melt |
| Prohibited | - | Pushing snow into street |
| Authority | - | MGL c.85 s.5 |
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.
Waltham FAQ
Must I shovel my Waltham sidewalk?
Yes. Property owners must clear snow and ice from sidewalks abutting their property within the time set by city rules after a storm ends.
Can I push snow into the street?
No. Pushing snow into streets, onto hydrants, or onto bus stops is prohibited and can result in fines.
Compare other topics
See how Cambridge and Waltham compare on other ordinance categories.
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