Walking in a Winter Wonderland: Snow and Ice Removal Adjacent to Properties

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The City of Calgary is committed to keeping our public spaces safe and accessible, but residents also play a vital role. The City maintains roughly 10 percent of Calgary’s 5,000 kilometers of sidewalks, leaving the majority for property owners/occupants to clear.

In recent years, amendments to Calgary’s Streets Bylaw (20M88) have strengthened compliance measures, including an escalating fine structure for property owners who fail to clear their sidewalks within 24 hours of snowfall ending:

  • If a sidewalk or pathway adjacent to private property is not cleared, a complaint can be filed through 3-1-1 to Calgary Community Standards.
  • A peace officer will inspect, provide education, and leave a 24-hour warning if the snow and ice aren’t cleared.
  • If the issue persists, the officer will assign a contractor for removal, and the property owner will be fined and charged for the service.
  • The fine for not clearing snow/ice is $250, with escalating fines for subsequent violations within 12 months.
  • First offence: $250
  • Second offence in a 12-month period: $500
  • Third subsequent offence(s) in a 12-month period: $750, automatic court summons

Key guideline: Snow can be shoveled from sidewalks onto the street but not from private property, like driveways, into public spaces. Snow must not block designated wheeling lanes, like downtown cycle tracks.

Become a Snow Angel

Clearing snow and ice from sidewalks can be challenging – even dangerous – for older adults and people with limited mobility. Snow Angels help keep those Calgarians safe. Consider becoming a Snow Angel today!