Houston does not have a snow or ice sidewalk clearing ordinance. Snow and ice events are extremely rare in Houston's subtropical climate. The city has no standing snow removal program or requirements for property owners to clear sidewalks.
Houston's humid subtropical climate (USDA Zone 9a) makes snow and ice events extremely rare. The city does not have a municipal ordinance requiring property owners or residents to clear snow or ice from sidewalks. When rare winter weather events occur (such as the February 2021 winter storm), the city activates emergency operations but does not impose sidewalk clearing requirements on residents. Houston's general property maintenance provisions under Chapter 10 require maintaining property in safe condition, but this does not specifically address snow or ice removal. The Texas Department of Transportation handles state highway de-icing when needed.
No violations for failure to clear snow or ice. General negligence and premises liability laws apply if someone is injured on your property.
Houston, TX
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle snow & sidewalk clearing.
See how Houston's snow & sidewalk clearing rules stack up against other locations.
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