Albany County, NY Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)

Snow removal is a serious obligation in Albany County given lake-effect snow, nor'easter events, and average annual snowfall of 60 to 70 inches. City of Albany Code Chapter 323 (Streets and Sidewalks) §323-65 requires owners and occupants to remove snow and ice from abutting sidewalks within 24 hours after precipitation ends. A passable path of minimum 36 inches is required. Where ice cannot be removed, sand, salt, or non-chloride de-icer must be applied. Corner property owners must clear ADA curb ramps. Town of Colonie Code §131-6 (Snow and Ice) imposes 24-hour compliance. Town of Bethlehem Code §85-18 requires removal within reasonable time after storm. Village of Menands, Green Island, and Cohoes have similar rules. The City of Albany may clear and bill at approximately $75 to $200 per lineal-foot-hour with an administrative surcharge. Failure creates civil liability under NY General Obligations Law §9-103 and common-law premises-liability doctrine; City of Albany shifts liability to abutting owner under Albany City Code §323-69 (Hausler rule). Elderly/disabled residents may apply for the Albany Snow Angels volunteer program.