Lakewood, NJ Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)

Snow and ice clearance in Ocean County is governed by local property maintenance codes authorized by N.J.S.A. 40:65-12 which permits municipalities to require abutting property owners to clear sidewalks. Toms River §327-9 requires clearance within 24 hours after snowfall ends with a path at least 36 inches wide. Brick §176 requires 48 hours. Jackson §188 requires 24 hours. Lakewood §53 requires 24 hours with religious-observance accommodation. LBI municipalities (Long Beach, Beach Haven) require clearance within 48 hours and emphasize barrier-free access to ocean/bay access points. Ice that cannot be removed must be treated with sand, calcium chloride, or approved de-icers — note that rock salt damages Barnegat Bay watershed. Corner lots must also clear curb ramps and crosswalk access (ADA/Title II compliance). Elderly (65+) and disabled residents may apply for municipal snow removal assistance in most Ocean County towns. The municipality handles street plowing (roads, not sidewalks). Municipal boardwalks in Seaside Heights, Point Pleasant Beach, and LBI boroughs are cleared by borough DPW. Private property owners face slip-and-fall civil liability under NJ premises liability law (Stewart v. 104 Wallace Street 1981).