(Washington, DC) The Department of Public Works (DPW) urges District residents and businesses to clear their sidewalks, sidewalk entrances, nearby catch basin openings, and the area surrounding hydrants of snow, sleet and ice to prevent injury to pedestrians. DPW also asks businesses to make sure the handicap ramps located at intersections are clear of snow and ice. Salt and non-clumping kitty litter can be used on steps and other areas to help melt ice and snow and to gain traction.

“After a snowfall, we get many complaints from pedestrians who are having difficulty traveling because so many residents and business owners don’t clear their sidewalks,” said DPW Director William O. Howland Jr. “I want to remind residents that DC law requires all property owners to clear snow, sleet or ice from the walkways surrounding their property within the first eight hours of daylight after a snow storm ends.”

While DPW does not have the authority to issue tickets to residents for failure to remove snow from sidewalks, the agency can and will enforce this law with commercial property owners. The main goal however, says Howland, is to educate both residents and business owners about their responsibilities during a snow event and to encourage them to be good neighbors.

“When I was a kid, we made a little extra money shoveling snow and helped our elderly, ailing, and frail neighbors,” Howland said. “It’s important to establish and maintain a sense of community in our neighborhoods.

“Many communities have developed lists of those willing to shovel snow for neighbors who are unable to shovel on their own,” Howland continued. “I encourage all communities to identify those in your neighborhood who are willing to provide this service so that our sidewalks are safe and passable for all.”

Learn more information about how the District handles snow events.