Snow & Sidewalk Clearing: Des Plaines vs Skokie
How do snow & sidewalk clearing rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Skokie, IL?
Des Plaines and Skokie 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 →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Skokie requires property owners and occupants to clear snow and ice from public sidewalks adjoining their property within 24 hours after snowfall ends. The Village provides snow plowing on streets. Residents should not push snow into streets or block fire hydrants. The Village offers assistance programs for seniors and disabled residents.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| Clearance Time | 24 hours typical | - |
| Path Width | 36 inches min | - |
| Snow in Street | Prohibited | Prohibited |
| City Plows Sidewalks | No | - |
| Good Samaritan | 745 ILCS 75 | - |
| Clearing Deadline | - | 24 hours after snowfall |
| Responsible Party | - | Property owner/occupant |
| Full Width | - | Required |
| Hydrant Clearing | - | Owner responsibility |
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.
Skokie FAQ
How long do I have to shovel after snow in Skokie?
Within 24 hours after the end of the snowfall. Clear the full width of the public sidewalk adjoining your property. Fines begin at $75 for noncompliance.
Can I push driveway snow into the street?
No. This impedes plowing and creates hazards. Snow must be piled on your own property or parkway, not in the street. Fines begin at $100 for violations.
Is help available for seniors?
Yes. Skokie offers snow shoveling assistance programs through the Human Services Division for seniors and disabled residents. Contact Village Hall at (847) 673-0500 to inquire about current programs.
Compare other topics
See how Des Plaines and Skokie compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool