An important element in providing safe passage for pedestrians during snow events is in the hands of Baltimore city residents themselves, namely, the removal of snow and ice from public sidewalks. The City depends on its citizens to be helpful, responsible, and aware of the need to remove all snow and ice from public sidewalks and ramps leading to crosswalks during inclement weather.

The Baltimore City Department of Housing & Community Development reminds all property owners that all snow and ice should be removed from public sidewalks creating at least a 2-foot-wide passage in both residential and business areas.  Clearing snow and ice from sidewalks demonstrates courtesy toward all those who need to use the public walkways.

There is an ordinance regarding snow removal that identifies residents’ responsibilities in removing snow from sidewalks, resulting in fines of $50 for residential properties and $100 for commercial properties.

The City reminds all property owners or occupants of property that:

• All snow and ice, which has accumulated on the adjacent public sidewalk, must be removed within 3 hours after the end of a snow or ice event unless the snowfall stops between 3 pm and 6 am, in which case snow must be removed by 11 am.
• Please exercise caution and care when shoveling, especially during extreme cold.
• DO NOT dump snow in the bike lanes.

If any property owner has concerns regarding sidewalk snow removal within 24 - 48 hours after the end of an accumulation, they should call 311. Residents may also call 311 to report locations that may be in violation of the City snow removal ordinance.