Ulster County, NY Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)

Sidewalk snow removal is a municipal responsibility delegated to abutting property owners in cities and villages. City of Kingston City Code Chapter 303 (Streets and Sidewalks) requires adjacent property owners to clear snow and ice from sidewalks within 24 hours after cessation of snowfall; Kingston DPW may clear and charge the owner for non-compliance. Village of New Paltz, Village of Saugerties, Village of Ellenville, and other incorporated villages have similar 24-hour clearing rules. Typical width required: full sidewalk width or minimum 36-42 inches. Ice must also be removed or treated with sand/salt. Unincorporated towns (Hurley, Olive, Shandaken, Marbletown, etc.) generally have few public sidewalks, so no requirement applies in most rural areas. NY General Municipal Law §205-a addresses liability. NY case law (Hausser v. Giunta) limits homeowner liability for natural snow/ice absent statute, but municipal ordinances create enforceable duties. Commercial and multi-family properties held to stricter standards under insurance and ADA accessibility for entrances.