New Yorkers Could Be Fined Big Money For Not Clearing Snow

If you're a property owner in New York and you're putting off removing the snow in front of your home it could cost you a big fine.

Living in the Northeast we are going to get snow in the winter. The big question the last few years is how much? Whether it is a lot or a little you have to clear that snow in order to continue on with your daily routines, as well as keeping your home and family safe.

Property owner around the Capital Region and Upstate New York have all different types of homes. Many live on large plots of land while others live in the cities and suburbs. Those living in the cities and suburbs have to follow some rules a bit more closely or you could end up with a ticket or fine from the city.

Removing Snow On Sidewalks

Each municipality has their own set of rules, but to cut to the chase, the property owner is responsible for the snow removal in front of their home. That would include the sidewalks. It's not just shoveling that comes into play, but also making sure that surface is safe to walk on. If it's icy you also have to apply salt or ice melt to the surface.

In Albany residents have 24 hours to remove snow and ice from the sidewalks in front of and around their property since the last snowfall. Failure to do so will result in a fine from the Department of General Service. If they have to remove the snow for you they will also send you a bill for that service.

These rules go for more than just homeowners. Business owners in Upstate New York are also responsible for the safe removal of snow as well.

Schenectady has similar rules as Albany. The snow has to be removed in a 24 hour period after the last snowfall. In Troy things are a little bit different. Residents must have the snow removed by 10am the following day after the last snow flake falls.

While each city and town around New York has their own rules and guidelines for snow removal on sidewalks and property one thing remains the same - you will be fined. The cost of that fines ranges around the state from $150 for a first offense and can reach up to $850. Those can really add up, and you can get a pretty decent shovel for $10. I think that would be money well spent.

Make sure to check with your city or town to be sure to know the rules or it will cost you.