Sunnyvale, CA Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)
Key Facts
- Snow removal
- Not applicable - no snow
- State law
- Streets and Highways Code 5610
- Sidewalk clearance
- 8 feet vertical
- Street clearance
- 14 feet vertical
- Repair liability
- Adjacent property owner
Summary
Sunnyvale does not receive measurable snow, but property owners are responsible for keeping adjacent sidewalks clean, clear of obstructions, and in good repair.
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 in, upon, along, or in connection with such sidewalk by any person other than the owner, under and by virtue of any permit or right granted to him by law or by the city authorities in charge thereof, and such persons shall be under a like duty in relation thereto. (Added by Stats. 1941, Ch. 79.)
Full Breakdown
Sunnyvale is located in the Santa Clara Valley of California and does not receive measurable snowfall, so there are no snow or ice clearing requirements for residential property owners. However, under California Streets and Highways Code Section 5610 and Sunnyvale Municipal Code Chapter 12.24, the owner of property adjacent to a public sidewalk is responsible for keeping that sidewalk clean and free of debris, vegetation overgrowth, and obstructions. Property owners must also repair sidewalk cracks, lifts, or tripping hazards caused by tree roots or settlement. The city operates a sidewalk repair program that may cost-share repairs caused by city-owned street trees. Overhanging vegetation must be trimmed to maintain at least 8 feet of vertical clearance over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets. Failure to maintain can result in liability for injury claims and code enforcement action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Sunnyvale require snow removal?
Who is responsible for sidewalk repairs?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sunnyvale
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Snow & Sidewalk Clearing in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Santa Clara County handle snow & sidewalk clearing.