Snow & Sidewalk Clearing: Colorado Springs vs Fountain
How do snow & sidewalk clearing rules compare between Colorado Springs, CO and Fountain, CO?
Fountain has fewer restrictions than Colorado Springs.
Colorado Springs, CO
El Paso County
Colorado Springs City Code Part 2 (Snow Removal), Section 3.4.202 requires property owners and occupants to remove snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their property within 24 hours after the end of snowfall. This applies to all public sidewalks abutting the property. If ice cannot be fully removed, an abrasive material such as sand or gravel must be applied to provide safe passage. Failure to clear sidewalks can result in a code violation and fines. The city does not clear residential sidewalks — that responsibility falls entirely on the property owner or occupant.
View full Colorado Springs rules →Fountain, CO
El Paso County
Colorado Springs CSCC §3.2.103 requires property owners to clear snow from adjacent sidewalks within 24 hours of snowfall end. El Paso County unincorporated has no sidewalk clearing mandate (few sidewalks exist). Pikes Peak region averages 40+ inches annual snow; blizzards are common December-April.
View full Fountain rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Colorado Springs | Fountain |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | City Code §3.4.202 Snow Removal Required | - |
| Deadline | Within 24 hours after snowfall ends | 24 hours after snow ends |
| Ice Treatment | Apply sand or abrasive if ice cannot be fully removed | - |
| Responsibility | Property owner or occupant | - |
| City Clearing | City does NOT clear residential sidewalks | - |
| Width | - | 36 inches (48 downtown) |
| Corner Lots | - | Clear curb ramps (ADA) |
| Annual Snow | - | 40-50 inches avg |
| County | - | No general mandate |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Colorado Springs FAQ
How long do I have to shovel my sidewalk in Colorado Springs?
You must remove snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to your property within 24 hours after the end of snowfall, per City Code §3.4.202. If ice cannot be fully removed, you must apply sand or other abrasive material.
Can I be fined for not shoveling my sidewalk?
Yes. Failure to clear sidewalks within the 24-hour deadline is a code violation that can result in fines through the municipal court system.
Fountain FAQ
What de-icer can I use on sidewalks?
Sand, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, or potassium chloride are all permitted. Avoid rock salt (sodium chloride) on concrete — it damages surfaces. Colorado Springs Utilities recommends magnesium chloride for effectiveness at low temperatures common on the Palmer Divide.
Is the rule enforced in a big blizzard?
Enforcement is typically deferred 24-48 hours after major events (e.g., March 2003 blizzard). Colorado Springs issues Mayor's Declarations during emergencies that may suspend 24-hour clearance deadlines. Normal snowfall still triggers standard timing.
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