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

Sidewalk snow removal obligations are set by each municipality under Illinois home-rule authority. Waukegan Code Title 7 requires property owners/occupants to remove snow and ice from adjacent sidewalks within 24 hours after snowfall ends, with a minimum 36-inch clear path. Highland Park Code Ch. 86 requires clearance within 24 hours to a 48-inch width for ADA accessibility. Lake Forest Code Ch. 103 requires clearance within 24 hours. Libertyville Title 6 gives 24 hours with a 36-inch clear width. Gurnee Municipal Code requires 24-hour clearance. Ice that cannot be physically removed must be treated with sand, salt, or approved de-icer. Corner properties must clear ADA curb ramps and accessible crossings. Unincorporated Lake County has no county-wide clearance ordinance; state law does not require it. Illinois Snow and Ice Removal Act (745 ILCS 75) grants limited liability protection for residential snow-removal efforts made in good faith. Failure to clear creates slip-and-fall exposure despite the Act. Senior/disabled resident assistance programs operate in Waukegan, Highland Park, and Lake Forest.