Winter is just around the corner! And while we’re looking forward to snowball fights, sledding, and building snowmen in the backyard, we’re dreading the shoveling and salting that will inevitably come with the winter snow.
Depending on where you live in the Pittsburgh area, proactive shoveling and salting in front of your home is required. In fact, the City of Pittsburgh and other local governments have clearly spelled rules on what you need to do in case of snowfall.
Understanding the Pittsburgh City Code on Snow and Ice Removal
The actual Pittsburgh City Code 419.03, Removal of Snow and Ice reads:
Every tenant, occupant or owner having the care or charge of any land or building fronting on any street in the city, where there is a sidewalk paved with concrete, brick, stone or other material shall, within twenty-four (24) hours after the fall of any snow or sleet, or the accumulation of ice caused by freezing rainfall, cause the same to be removed from the sidewalk.
Basically, this means you’re allowed 24 hours to remove snow or ice from the sidewalk in front of your home after it has stopped snowing.
Failure to comply could result in a warning or fine, which amounts to $25 in some areas.
However, letting the ice and snow accumulate in front of your home could cost significantly more than $25. Since the ice and snow is your responsibility (depending on where you live in Allegheny County), anyone who slips and falls in front of your house could try to hold you responsible for pain and suffering from any of the injuries they receive!
Obviously, it’s better to keep a shovel and pet-friendly salt handy to ensure you have a clear and dry sidewalk all season long!
What If I Have a Landlord?
If you live in a multi-family apartment complex, you likely have a property manager who’s responsible for keeping up with snow and ice accumulation outside of your building.
But if you’re in a standalone apartment or single-family rental, you’ve likely agreed to keep track of it yourself.
Ultimately, though, the responsibility for snow and ice and likely written into your lease. Check there to confirm whether you’re the one responsible for snow and ice removal in front of your home.
Snow and Ice Removal Requirements in the Pittsburgh Area
The time frame for removing snow and ice varies from neighborhood to neighborhood, as does the definition of “removal.” So, while the Pittsburgh City Code simply reads, “cause the [snow and ice] to be removed from the sidewalk,” boroughs like Etna require at least a 24-inch-wide path on the sidewalk to be cleared in front of your property.
Check your local laws to ensure you’re in compliance. Here are the rules we were able to find for some of the local communities:
24 hours to remove ice and snow - City of Pittsburgh, Etna, McKeesport, Pleasant Hills
12 hours to remove ice and snow - Canonsburg, Castle Shannon, Upper St. Clair
6 hours to remove ice and snow - Munhall
4 hours to remove ice and snow - Brentwood
Please note: This is an incomplete list, and some of the townships and boroughs have additional snow removal rules and regulations, such as a requirement to have snow and ice cleared by 10:00 AM or to continue removing snow and ice until 10:00 PM.
What If I Can’t Shovel My Sidewalk In Pittsburgh?
If you’re unable to remain in compliance with local ordinances, either because you’ve moved from the property or because you have a physical health condition, Pittsburgh is home to a few local nonprofits and city-sponsored organizations who can help.
The City of Pittsburgh Snow Angels program, for example, seeks volunteers every year to help older residents and residents with disabilities keep their steps and sidewalks clear of snow and ice. If you’re interested in volunteering or requesting help, check out the Pittsburgh Snow Angels website!
More Real Estate Assistance for the Cold Winter Months
The winter months can certainly provide a unique set of challenges for homeowners. Between the shorter days and cold weather, it’s difficult to stay ahead of it all!
We have help. We’ve already outlined some of the best strategies for lowering your heating bill and how to safely use a wood-burning fireplace.
For more, contact us! Feel free to reach out via email at theblocks@blocksintheburgh.com.
Cheers,
Julie & Ted