DC law requires property owners and occupants to clear snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their property within 8 hours after snowfall ends, or by 8 hours after sunrise if snow falls overnight. This applies to both residential and commercial properties under DC Code Section 9-601 et seq.
Under DC Code Section 9-601 et seq. and DDOT regulations, property owners, tenants, or occupants must remove snow, sleet, and ice from the paved sidewalk adjacent to their property within 8 hours after precipitation ends during daylight hours, or within 8 hours after sunrise if snow falls overnight. A path at least 36 inches wide must be cleared. If ice cannot be removed, the property owner must apply sand, salt, or other material to make the sidewalk safe. Commercial properties must clear the full width of the sidewalk. Failure to clear creates liability for slip-and-fall injuries. DPW enforces through inspections and complaints filed via 311.
First offense fines are $25 per violation. Subsequent offenses can result in fines up to $150. The District may clear the sidewalk and bill the property owner. Property owners may also face civil liability for injuries caused by uncleared sidewalks.
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See how Washington's snow & sidewalk clearing rules stack up against other locations.
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