Chesapeake does not have an ordinance requiring property owners to clear snow or ice from sidewalks adjacent to their property. Significant snowfall is rare in coastal Virginia, and the city relies on voluntary clearing and VDOT snow response on primary routes.
Unlike many Northern Virginia jurisdictions that impose mandatory snow removal, Chesapeake has not adopted a sidewalk clearing ordinance. Residents are encouraged to clear sidewalks in front of their homes for the safety of pedestrians, mail carriers, and neighbors, but there is no civil penalty for failing to do so. The Chesapeake Public Works Department plows and treats primary roads, bridges, and arterials during winter storms; neighborhood streets are lower priority. Property owners remain liable under general premises liability principles if they create a hazardous condition (for example, by partial, negligent clearing that creates ice) but not for natural accumulations. Commercial property owners should consult their own leases and insurance; many require tenant snow removal.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Chesapeake, VA
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See how Chesapeake's snow & sidewalk clearing rules stack up against other locations.
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