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Manitou Springs, CO Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Snow deadline
24 hours after snowfall ends
Debris deadline
24 hours after it appears
If missed
City removes it and bills owner
Unpaid bill
Certified to county treasurer, +10% penalty
Hearing
Before City Council, 10-20 days after notice

Summary

Manitou Springs property owners, occupants or agents have 24 hours after snow stops falling to clear their abutting sidewalk, and 24 hours from when debris, rubbish or dirt appears, under Municipal Code § 12.16.010. The city can remove it and bill the property if the deadline is missed.

It is unlawful for the owner, occupant or agent of any lot, parcel or tract of land to permit snow, debris, rubbish or dirt to remain on the sidewalk on the street upon which such lot, parcel or tract of land abuts for a period exceeding twenty-four hours after the termination of the falling of the snow, or in the case of debris, rubbish or dirt, for a period exceeding twenty-four hours from the time said debris, rubbish or dirt appeared on said sidewalk.

Full Breakdown

010 makes it unlawful for the owner, occupant or agent of any lot, parcel or tract of land to permit snow, debris, rubbish or dirt to remain on the abutting sidewalk for more than 24 hours: the clock starts when the snowfall ends, or, for debris, rubbish or dirt, from the moment it appears. 020 lets the city supervisor have it removed. 030. 060. 070.

Violations & Fines

Missing the 24-hour deadline exposes an owner to two consequences: the city can clear the sidewalk itself under § 12.16.020 and bill the full cost, plus inspection expenses, against the property under § 12.16.030, and an unpaid bill is certified to the county treasurer and collected like a property tax with an added 10 percent penalty under § 12.16.070.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon do I have to shovel my sidewalk in Manitou Springs?
Within 24 hours after the snow stops falling, under § 12.16.010, which makes it unlawful for the owner, occupant or agent to let snow sit longer than that. A separate 24-hour clock applies to debris, rubbish or dirt, running from whenever it first appears on the sidewalk.
What happens if I never shovel my sidewalk?
The city supervisor can have it cleared for you under § 12.16.020, then bill the full cost, including inspection expenses, against your property under § 12.16.030. If you do not pay after a City Council hearing, the bill goes to the county treasurer and is collected like a property tax.
Does the city warn me before charging me for snow removal?
Yes. The city clerk posts a notice on the city's website listing the assessment, and City Council holds a hearing between 10 and 20 days later where you can show cause why the charge should not be made, under §§ 12.16.050 and 12.16.060.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Manitou Springs

All Manitou Springs rules

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Some Restrictions