Takoma Park, MD Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)

Takoma Park Code Chapter 13.04 (Streets and Sidewalks) requires property owners and occupants to remove snow and ice from public sidewalks abutting their property within 24 hours after the cessation of snowfall. The cleared path must be at least 36 inches wide to ensure accessibility for pedestrians, wheelchair users, and persons with strollers. When ice cannot be fully removed, property owners must apply sand, salt, or other traction material to provide safe passage. Snow may not be shoveled or plowed from private property onto public streets or sidewalks. Snow removed from sidewalks should not block fire hydrants, storm drains, or accessible curb ramps. If a property owner fails to clear the sidewalk within the required timeframe, the city may have the sidewalk cleared and assess the cost to the property owner as a lien. Takoma Park operates a volunteer snow angel program that connects elderly and disabled residents with volunteers who clear their sidewalks. Residents needing assistance or wishing to volunteer can contact the city at 301-891-7100. Commercial properties and multi-family buildings have the same 24-hour requirement. Repeated failure to clear sidewalks may result in escalating fines.