Norfolk, VA Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)

Unlike many Northern cities, Norfolk has no general municipal code requirement obligating residential property owners to shovel or treat sidewalks after snow or ice events. Given Norfolks coastal climate, meaningful snow events are infrequent, typically 5 to 8 inches total per winter, and are often handled by natural melt within 24 to 48 hours. The city does request voluntary cooperation from homeowners and businesses to clear walkways fronting their property in the interest of neighborhood safety and ADA accessibility. In commercial zones such as Downtown, Ghent, Waterside, and the NEON Arts District, business improvement districts and business license obligations often include maintenance of storefront walkways, and failure to do so can create tort liability if a pedestrian is injured. Norfolk Public Works plows arterial roads and bridges using a pre-set priority schedule; residential streets receive treatment only in the most severe events. Fire hydrants and storm drains should be kept clear by adjacent property owners to aid emergency response and drainage.