Property owners in Fall River, New Bedford, Taunton, and most Bristol County cities must clear sidewalks within 24 to 48 hours of snowfall. Papadopoulos (2010) established statewide premises-liability duty.
Bristol County municipalities require abutting property owners to clear snow and ice from adjacent public sidewalks within 24 to 48 hours of snowfall ending. Fall River requires clearing within 24 hours; New Bedford within 24 hours; Taunton within 24 hours. A clear path of at least 36 to 48 inches wide is typical. Ice that cannot be chipped must be treated with sand, salt, or de-icer. Corner lots must also clear curb ramps to maintain ADA-accessible street crossings. After Papadopoulos v. Target Corp. (2010), Massachusetts abandoned the natural-accumulation rule and imposed full premises liability for slip-and-fall injuries from unnatural snow/ice accumulation. Elderly and disabled residents may qualify for city assistance programs. The city plows streets; sidewalk clearing is the owner's duty.
Failure to clear: $25 to $250 per occurrence under local bylaw. City may clear and bill owner. Civil liability for injuries under Papadopoulos v. Target Corp. 457 Mass. 368 (2010).
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