Los Angeles County, CA Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)
Key Facts
- General
- Not applicable for most areas
- Mountain Communities
- Occasional snowfall
- County Ordinance
- None for sidewalk clearing
- Road Clearing
- County public works in emergencies
Summary
Most unincorporated LA County areas do not receive snow. Mountain communities (e.g., Wrightwood, Mt. Baldy area) may experience snowfall but there is no county snow removal ordinance for sidewalks. Property owners in mountain areas handle snow removal voluntarily.
5610. The owners of lots or portions of lots fronting on any portion of a public street or place when that street or place is improved or if and when the area between the property line of the adjacent property and the street line is maintained as a park or parking strip, shall maintain any sidewalk in such condition that the sidewalk will not endanger persons or property and maintain it in a condition which will not interfere with the public convenience in the use of those works or areas save and except as to those conditions created or maintained in, upon, along, or in connection with such sidewalk by any person other than the owner ...
Full Breakdown
Most unincorporated LA County areas do not receive snow. Mountain communities (Wrightwood, Lake Hughes, Acton, portions of the Angeles National Forest fringe) may experience snow seasonally. There is no countywide snow removal ordinance. The LA County Department of Public Works clears main roads in mountain communities after storms. Property owners in mountain areas are responsible for their own driveways and walkways. Chains or snow tires may be required on mountain roads under Caltrans chain control orders.
Violations & Fines
No specific penalties for failing to clear snow from private property in unincorporated LA County. However, ice or snow creating a hazardous condition on a commercial property's sidewalk may trigger premises liability. Mountain road closures are enforced by CHP and Caltrans: driving without required chains carries a $156 fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does LA County have a snow removal ordinance?
Who plows roads in mountain communities?
Do I need chains on mountain roads?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles County to another location·View the California property maintenance overview
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