Property Owners Reminded to Keep Sidewalks Safe and Clear This Winter

Published on November 26, 2025

As winter weather returns, the City of Kalamazoo is reminding residents and property owners that keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice is essential for the safety and mobility of everyone in our community, including students, pedestrians, transit riders, older adults, and people with disabilities.

Under City ordinance, property owners are responsible for maintaining the public sidewalks adjacent to their properties. Snow and ice removal requirements include:

• Clearing snow and ice within 48 hours of accumulation to expose the sidewalk pavement.
• Removing snow and ice from the full width of the sidewalk.
• Applying sand, salt, or similar materials to reduce slippery conditions.
• Ensuring snow is not pushed, shoveled, or blown onto streets, alleys, sidewalks, or crosswalks, including from roofs and driveways.

Property owners who do not follow the ordinance may have their sidewalks cleared by the City and will be billed for the cost, including administrative fees. Depositing snow or ice onto public roadways or sidewalks may result in a $100 fine and additional penalties.

Residents can report uncleared sidewalks after the 48-hour period by calling 311, (269) 337-8000, or submitting a request online.

In 2024, City staff updated internal snow removal processes to improve efficiency and service. The City is responsible for maintaining approximately 19 miles of sidewalks along City-owned and publicly maintained properties. Additionally, the City will continue its pilot sidewalk maintenance program, covering an extra 14 miles of high-pedestrian corridors this winter, including W. Michigan Avenue, Douglas Avenue, Westnedge Avenue, and Park Street. This pilot focuses on areas with high foot traffic to help ensure safer, more connected winter mobility.

When the community works together to keep sidewalks clear, it helps neighbors of all ages and abilities stay connected and get where they need to go safely throughout the winter. Learn more about winter sidewalk maintenance at www.kalamazoocity.org/snow.