Spokane property owners must clear sidewalks abutting their property within 24 hours after snow stops falling, per SMC 12.02.0806. Failure to clear results in city abatement billed to the owner.
With average winter snowfall of 44 inches, Spokane takes sidewalk clearing seriously. SMC 12.02.0806 requires the owner or occupant of any property abutting a public sidewalk to remove snow and ice within 24 hours after snowfall ends. The sidewalk must be cleared the full width or at least 36 inches to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers. Ice that cannot be removed must be treated with sand, salt, or ice melt. Commercial properties and those on transit routes may have shorter deadlines during declared snow emergencies. The city maintains a Snow Watch program and responds to complaints; enforcement tends to focus on ADA-compliant access near schools, bus stops, and senior facilities. Compacted windrows from plowing must not be piled on sidewalks, fire hydrants, or crosswalks. Able-bodied neighbors of elderly or disabled residents are encouraged to assist through the Spokane COPS volunteer program.
Warning first; $53 infraction per section of sidewalk unclear; abatement by city at $100+ per address.
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