New York State Snow Removal: Are You Required to Clear Your Sidewalks?

Get ready Albany, if the weather forecasts are accurate we will see more snow dumped on the region this week. According to the National Weather Service the Capital Region could see between 5 to 10 inches of snow by Tuesday night.

What does this mean for you? Stay home if you can, keep a flashlight in your vehicle and get ready to shovel. The first 2 are suggestions. As for shoveling, depending where you live, you might be required to remove snow immediately after the storm.

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The first thing you need to know is that, according to Section 1219 of the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law, it is against the law in New York to throw snow into the road. “No person shall throw or deposit upon any highway, snow or other substances likely to injure any person, animal or vehicle”.

Are you required to remove snow and ice from your Capital Region sidewalk? If so, how soon are you required to do so? It depends where you live.

ALBANY - The City ordinance puts the responsibility of clearing sidewalks on property owners within 24 hours of the completion of the storm. If not you could receive a fine.

SCHENECTADY - In the case of snow and ice, sidewalks, fire hydrants and gutters shall be cleared of snow, sleet or freezing rain within 24 hours of cessation of precipitation.

TROY -  The owner or occupant of any lot adjoining any public street is required to clear the sidewalk before 10am the day following the storm. If you don't you could face a $75 fine for each violation. For each 72 hours following the initial violation you could receive an additional penalty of $75.

SARATOGA SPRINGS - Residents are required to clean sidewalks within 12 hours of the storms end. If the storm ends after 7pm the town will consider the storms end to be 7am the next morning.

SAND LAKE - There are no specific requirements for residents.

AMSTERDAM and RAVENA - Residents have 24 hours following the completion of the storm to clear sidewalks.