Snow & Sidewalk Clearing: Des Plaines vs Evanston
How do snow & sidewalk clearing rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Evanston, IL?
Des Plaines and Evanston have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines requires property owners to clear snow and ice from public sidewalks adjacent to their property within a reasonable time after a snowfall ends, typically 24 hours. Snow may not be shoveled or blown into the public street. Salt or other ice melt is encouraged for slip prevention.
View full Des Plaines rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Unincorporated Cook County does not have a specific county-level sidewalk snow removal ordinance for individual property owners. Snow emergency declarations may affect parking. Local townships may have additional requirements.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Clearance Time | 24 hours typical | - |
| Path Width | 36 inches min | - |
| Snow in Street | Prohibited | - |
| City Plows Sidewalks | No | - |
| Good Samaritan | 745 ILCS 75 | - |
| County Requirement | - | No specific ordinance |
| Roads | - | County Highway Dept. clears |
| Liability | - | IL premises liability applies |
| Emergency | - | Parking restrictions possible |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I have to shovel my Des Plaines sidewalk?
Yes. Property owners must clear snow and ice from public sidewalks adjacent to their property, typically within 24 hours after a snowfall ends, under the City's property maintenance code.
Can I push snow into the street?
No. Pushing or blowing snow into the public street is prohibited because it interferes with City plows and creates traffic hazards. Pile snow on your property side of the sidewalk.
Am I liable if someone slips on my sidewalk?
Illinois's Snow and Ice Removal Act provides limited 'Good Samaritan' protection for residential owners who voluntarily clear snow. However, negligent maintenance can still create liability.
Evanston FAQ
Do I have to shovel my sidewalk in unincorporated Cook County?
There is no specific county ordinance requiring it, but Illinois premises liability law may create a duty to address hazardous ice and snow on your property.
Who plows county roads?
The Cook County Highway Department handles snow removal on county roads. Contact the Highway Department for service issues.
Compare other topics
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