Calgary's Winter Responsibility: Keeping Sidewalks Safe and Accessible
As winter blankets Calgary with snow, residents and city officials share the important task of maintaining clear sidewalks and walkways. The City of Calgary emphasizes that clearing snow and ice is critical for public safety and accessibility, helping prevent slips, falls and injuries that commonly occur on icy surfaces.
"Timely clearing ensures safe routes for pedestrians, transit users, and emergency responders," stated city officials, noting that this is particularly important for seniors and people with mobility challenges.
Snow Clearing Rules and Timelines for Calgary Property Owners
Calgary homeowners and property managers must clear snow and ice from around their properties within 24 hours after a snowfall ends. This responsibility includes any sidewalks bordering private property as well as public walkways.
The city requires that sidewalks be cleared to a minimum width of 1.5 metres to ensure adequate space for pedestrians of all abilities. This standard helps maintain accessibility throughout Calgary's neighbourhoods during the winter months.
Where to Place Snow and Noise Bylaw Exemptions
Understanding where to pile snow is crucial for proper winter maintenance. Snow removed from private property, such as driveways, must be placed on private property. However, snow cleared from public property like bordering sidewalks can be piled on public property including roads or grass boulevards.
The city recommends avoiding several locations when piling snow: neighbors' yards, storm drains, crosswalks, and bike lanes should remain clear as a courtesy and for safety reasons.
For those using mechanical assistance, Calgary provides a noise bylaw exemption for snow blowers during snowfall events. This exemption begins when snowfall starts and continues for 48 hours after the snowfall ends, ensuring timely clearing of all pathways. Outside this window, standard nighttime noise restrictions apply.
Community Support Through Snow Angels Program
While the city doesn't offer general snow shoveling services (except through the Home Services for Seniors program), it actively encourages community support through the Snow Angels initiative. This program recognizes residents who help neighbors needing assistance during winter months.
"Being a good neighbour—clearing your sidewalk and assisting others—helps keep Calgary safe and accessible throughout winter," the city affirmed, highlighting the importance of community cooperation during challenging weather conditions.
The Snow Angels program provides a framework for acknowledging those who go above and beyond to help others, fostering a spirit of community care that benefits all Calgarians during the long winter season.
