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Vancouver, WA Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 4 weeks ago|Source: VMC § 11.30.030 Sidewalk and Street Frontage Maintenance Standards →

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Key Facts

Governing code: VMC § 11.30.030, Ch. 11.30
Responsible party: Abutting property owner/lessee
Prohibited condition: Slippery, obstructed, dangerous
Enforcement: Civil notice of violation; civil penalties
Enforced by

Summary

Vancouver property owners and occupants must keep public sidewalks abutting their property free of snow, ice, and other obstructions under VMC § 11.30.030. Failure to clear a slippery or obstructed sidewalk is a code violation enforceable by the city.

Full Breakdown

VMC § 11.30.030 (Chapter 11.30 – Sidewalk and Street Frontage Maintenance) makes it a violation for any owner or lessee of property abutting a public right-of-way to allow any sidewalk to remain defective, dangerous, dirty, slippery, or obstructed. This encompasses snow and ice accumulation. Enforcement is complaint-driven through the City's Code Compliance division. If obstructions persist after a city notice, a civil notice of violation is issued. The city's public works website explicitly advises that during winter weather, sidewalks must be kept free of ice and snow. No specific hourly clearing deadline is codified.

Violations & Fines

VMC § 11.30.030 violations: city issues civil notice of violation after 21 days of non-compliance; monetary civil penalties may follow if corrective action is not taken. Contact Code Compliance at 360-487-7810.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly must I clear snow from the sidewalk in front of my home?

Vancouver's code does not specify a precise hour deadline but requires sidewalks not remain in a slippery or dangerous condition. The city expects prompt clearing during and after winter weather events.

What if I am a renter — is the tenant or the landlord responsible?

VMC § 11.30.030 holds both owner and lessee (tenant) responsible for sidewalk conditions abutting the property. Either party may be cited if the sidewalk is not cleared.

Can I put the snow I shovel into the street?

Property owners should not deposit snow into the street or block storm drains. Snow should be piled on the adjacent grass or other private area, not in travel lanes or across accessible curb ramps.

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Vancouver, WA Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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