Virginia Beach requires property owners to clear snow and ice from public sidewalks adjacent to their property within a reasonable time after snowfall. While significant snowfall is infrequent, the city does experience periodic winter storms and nor'easters.
Property owners and occupants must remove snow and ice from public sidewalks within 24 hours after snowfall ceases. If ice cannot be fully removed, sand or salt should be applied. Virginia Beach's mild coastal climate means significant snow is infrequent (average 5 inches annually), but periodic nor'easters can bring substantial accumulation. The city focuses snow removal efforts on major roads. Residential street plowing may take several days after significant events.
Failure to clear sidewalks may result in code enforcement notices. Liability for slip-and-fall injuries on uncleared sidewalks may fall on property owners under Virginia premises liability law.
Virginia Beach, VA
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See how Virginia Beach's snow & sidewalk clearing rules stack up against other locations.
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