Chicago, IL Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)

Under MCC 10-8-180, every owner, lessee, tenant, or occupant in charge of a building or lot abutting a public way must remove snow and ice from the abutting sidewalk and any sidewalk ramps, creating a clear path at least 5 feet wide. Snow falling between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. must be cleared by 10 p.m. the same day; snow falling overnight between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. must be cleared by 10 a.m. If the snow is frozen too hard to remove without damaging the pavement, the responsible person must instead spread sand or another anti-slip abrasive within the same deadline, then fully clean the sidewalk once weather allows. Multiple-dwelling and townhouse owners with surface parking lots may not shovel or plow lot snow onto the public way and must store it without blocking the sidewalk or street, arranging private removal if on-site storage isn't possible.