Denver requires property owners to clear snow and ice from adjacent sidewalks within 24 hours after snowfall ends for residential and 4 hours for commercial properties, under DRMC §49-551. A clear path at least 36 inches wide is required. City now uses the SnowPlowDenver program and 311 complaints for enforcement.
DRMC §49-551 (Sidewalk Snow Removal Ordinance) makes it the responsibility of every property owner and occupant to clear snow and ice from sidewalks abutting their property. Residential properties must clear within 24 hours after snowfall ends. Commercial properties (and multi-family buildings over a certain size) must clear within 4 hours after snowfall if the snow ends between 7 AM and 6 PM, and by 10 AM the next morning if it ends overnight. The cleared path must be at least 36 inches wide (48 inches recommended for ADA compliance). Ice that cannot be physically removed must be treated with sand, ice melt, or de-icer. Corner lots must also clear curb ramps at intersections. DDPHE and DOTI enforce via complaints (Denver 311 or PocketGov app); inspectors issue a warning first, then citation. The city contracts emergency clearing crews for non-compliant properties and bills the owner plus administrative fees. Elderly or disabled residents can apply for the Snow Angels volunteer assistance program through Denver Human Services.
First violation: written warning. Subsequent: DRMC §49-551 fine $150 per day for residential and up to $500/day for commercial. City abatement billed to owner plus administrative fee. Injury liability: civil negligence exposure.
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See how Denver County's snow & sidewalk clearing rules stack up against other locations.
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