Cedar Rapids, IA Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)
Key Facts
- Deadline
- 24 hours after snowfall
- Fine
- $35 per day violating
- Enforcer
- Public Works Nuisance Abatement Officer
- Appeal window
- 10 days from citation
Summary
Cedar Rapids property owners must clear sidewalk snow and ice within 24 hours of a snowfall or ice formation, or face a $35 civil fine for each day the walk stays uncleared.
The abutting property owner shall remove snow and ice from the public sidewalk within a reasonable time, but in no case later than 24 hours, after snow has fallen or ice has formed... If a property is found to be in violation of this section, the owner may be subject to a civil citation and fine of $35.00 each day the property is not in compliance.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 24).
Full Breakdown
Cedar Rapids Municipal Code § 9.11 makes the abutting property owner responsible for keeping the public sidewalk clear of snow and ice, requiring removal within a reasonable time but no later than 24 hours after snow falls or ice forms, and requiring traction material when full removal isn't possible. If the owner doesn't comply, a Public Works Nuisance Abatement Officer can issue a civil citation carrying a $35 fine for each day the violation continues, and the City may clear the walk itself and assess the cost to the owner. Citations can be appealed within 10 days.
Violations & Fines
Noncompliant owners face a $35 civil fine per day until cleared, plus possible City abatement costs and a municipal infraction filed under Code § 1.12 / Iowa Code § 364.22 for unpaid citations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to clear snow from my Cedar Rapids sidewalk?
What happens if I don't clear the sidewalk in time?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Cedar Rapids
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