Newton requires property owners to clear snow and ice from public sidewalks abutting their property within 12 hours of daylight after snow stops falling. Fines apply for non-compliance.
Newton Revised Ordinances require every owner, tenant, or occupant of any property abutting a public sidewalk to remove snow and ice from the sidewalk within 12 daylight hours after snow has ceased falling. This is enabled by MGL c.85 s.5, which allows municipalities to require abutting owners to clear sidewalks. The cleared path must be at least the full width of the sidewalk or 42 inches minimum, free of snow down to pavement where possible. Ice that cannot be removed must be treated with sand, salt, or other ice-melt material. Corner properties must also clear curb cuts and crosswalk access ramps. Violations carry fines starting at 50 dollars for the first offense, 100 dollars for second, and 200 dollars for subsequent offenses within the same season. Repeat violators may have the city contract the work at owner expense. Elderly and disabled residents can request assistance through the Newton Senior Services Snow Angels program.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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