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San Francisco, CA Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Snow
Not applicable - no snowfall in SF
Sidewalk Duty
Property owners must maintain adjacent sidewalk
Ordinance
2017 Sidewalk Maintenance Ordinance
Liability
Owners liable for sidewalk injuries

Summary

San Francisco does not experience snowfall and has no snow removal ordinance. However, property owners are responsible for maintaining adjacent sidewalks in a clean and safe condition under Public Works Code Article 1, including removal of debris and hazards.

5610. The owners of lots or portions of lots fronting on any portion of a public street or place when that street or place is improved or if and when the area between the property line of the adjacent property and the street line is maintained as a park or parking strip, shall maintain any sidewalk in such condition that the sidewalk will not endanger persons or property and maintain it in a condition which will not interfere with the public convenience in the use of those works or areas, save and except as to those conditions created or maintained by any person other than the owner under any permit or right granted by law or city authorities.

Source: SF Public Works Code - Sidewalk MaintenanceView official code

Full Breakdown

While snow is not applicable, SF property owners have a legal duty to maintain the sidewalk fronting their property per the 2017 Sidewalk Maintenance Ordinance. This includes repairing cracks, removing trip hazards, and keeping sidewalks clear of debris. The city transferred sidewalk maintenance responsibility to property owners for most residential and commercial properties. Property owners may be liable for injuries caused by sidewalk defects.

Violations & Fines

DPW may issue notices requiring sidewalk repair. Property owners who fail to maintain sidewalks may face fines and liability for injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does San Francisco have a snow removal ordinance?
No, San Francisco does not experience snowfall and has no snow removal requirements. However, property owners are responsible for maintaining clean and safe sidewalks under the Sidewalk Maintenance Ordinance.
Am I responsible for the sidewalk in front of my property?
Yes, under the 2017 Sidewalk Maintenance Ordinance, property owners are responsible for maintaining and repairing the sidewalk adjacent to their property.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in San Francisco

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsVacant Lot MaintenanceSignificant RestrictionsProperty BlightSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSome Restrictions

All San Francisco rules

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