Grand Rapids, MI Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)

Grand Rapids City Code § 4.89 requires the occupant or owner of every property to clear any accumulation of ice or snow from the public sidewalk adjoining that property within twenty-four hours of the snow or ice falling or being placed there. If it isn't cleared within forty-eight hours after the City gives notice of the violation, by phone, mail, in person, or written notice left at the property, the City may remove it itself. The cost of that City-performed removal, plus an administrative fee set by City Commission resolution, becomes a personal debt of the owner or occupant and can be assessed as a lien against the property until paid.