Rockville, MD Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)
Key Facts
- 3 inches or less
- Clear within 24 hours
- More than 3 inches
- Clear within 48 hours
- More than 10 inches
- Clear within 72 hours
- Path width
- Minimum 36 inches clear
- City abatement
- City can clear and bill owner
Summary
Rockville property owners must clear sidewalk snow and ice within 24, 48 or 72 hours depending on how much fell, or the City will do it and bill them.
The owner of the premises shall remove or cause to be removed snow and ice from the areas identified in Section 302.3 within 24 hours after the end of a snowfall resulting in three inches (3") or less accumulation, and within forty-eight (48) hours after the end of a snowfall resulting in more than three inches (3") accumulation, and seventy-two (72) hours after the end of a snowfall resulting in more than ten (10") inches accumulation.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 17 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 5-287 adds IPMC § 302.3.1, setting graduated deadlines for clearing the sidewalks, driveways and paved areas covered by § 302.3: 24 hours after a snowfall of 3 inches or less, 48 hours for more than 3 inches, and 72 hours for accumulations over 10 inches. Clearing must leave a passable path at least 36 inches wide. Snowfall totals are averaged from National Weather Service readings at Reagan National, Dulles and BWI airports, and ice must be treated to a non-slick surface within 24 hours after icy precipitation ends.
Violations & Fines
Missing the 24/48/72-hour clearance windows violates § 5-287 (IPMC § 302.3.1); the City may clear or treat the walk itself and bill the owner, with the cost becoming a tax lien on the property under § 302.3.1.2.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to clear snow from my Rockville sidewalk?
What if I don't clear the snow myself?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rockville
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Snow & Sidewalk Clearing in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Montgomery County handle snow & sidewalk clearing.