Chapter 49 requires clearing snow/ice from sidewalks within 24 hours after snow stops. Fines start at $50/day. Path must be at least 36 inches wide.
Montgomery County Code Chapter 49 (Streets and Roads), Section 49-10, requires every owner or occupant of property abutting a public sidewalk to remove snow and ice from the sidewalk within 24 hours after the snow has stopped falling. The cleared path must be at least 36 inches wide to comply with ADA accessibility standards. If ice cannot be fully removed, the owner must apply sand, salt, or another traction material. Commercial property owners face shorter deadlines and must clear sidewalks within 4 hours during business hours. The county Department of Transportation (MCDOT) monitors compliance and responds to complaints through MC311. If the property owner fails to clear the sidewalk after notice, the county may clear it and bill the owner for the cost of removal plus an administrative surcharge. Elderly and disabled residents may request assistance through the county Snow Buddies volunteer program.
First offense: $50 fine per day the sidewalk remains uncleared. Subsequent offenses: $100 per day. County abatement costs billed to property owner. Commercial properties face higher penalties.
Montgomery County, MD
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