Please remember that it is everyone’s responsibility to make sure the sidewalks are clear of snow and ice. In particular, any business “having charge of any building or lot of ground abutting upon any public way or public space shall remove the snow and ice from the sidewalk.” Please do your part to make Lincoln Park a safer place for everyone to get around this winter.

How much snow do I need to clear to be in compliance?
The City of Chicago municipal code requires individuals to clear a 5 foot wide path along the sidewalk, where conditions allow. This width allows pedestrians in wheelchairs, people with children in strollers, students walking to school, and individuals with assistive devices optimum mobility and access.

What is the best way to remove snow from the sidewalk?
• Remove snow along ALL of the sidewalks adjacent to your property.
• Move snow to your yard or the parkway adjacent to your property.
• Do not push snow from the sidewalk into the street.
• Do not cover the crosswalks with snow.
• Do not block alley entrances with snow.

Who is responsible for clearing the snow and ice from the sidewalks?
According to the City of Chicago municipal code, “Every owner, lessee, tenant, occupant or other person having charge of any building or lot of ground abutting upon any public way or public space shall remove the snow and ice from the sidewalk…” It is everyone’s responsibility to make sure the sidewalks are clear of snow and ice. We are all pedestrians and benefit from having a safe, clear, and continuous path to travel.

How much time do I have to clear the sidewalks?
If the snow stops falling before 4 p.m. you have three hours to clear (except on Sunday). If the snow stops falling after 4 p.m. or on a Sunday, clear before 10 a.m. on the next day.

How can I report locations that do not clear their sidewalks?
Make a “Snow – Uncleared Sidewalk” request to the City of Chicago 311 Service Request line. Dial 311 or go to the website.

When making a “Snow – Uncleared Sidewalk” request:
• Make sure the problem occurs on the sidewalk. DO NOT use this category to report snow on streets, parking lots, or alleys.
• Provide a specific address where the issue occurs.
• Request a reference number from the operator, this will help you track the status and resolution of your request.

For more guidance and/or to view the City of Chicago Brochure visit here.

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