Woodlawn Heights Taxpayers and Community Association, Inc.

Snow Removal Information from the NYC Dept. of Sanitation:

Who is responsible for cleaning snow and ice from the sidewalk? According to the NYC Administrative Code, every owner, lessee, tenant, occupant or other person having charge of any lot or building must clean snow and ice from the sidewalks adjacent to their properties.

How can locations that do not clear their sidewalks be reported? Call 311 go to their website. It is very helpful to provide a specific address.

Who clears fire hydrants and catch basins? As with sidewalk removal, the person having charge of the adjoining property is responsible for keeping the fire hydrant clear of snow, ice and any other debris or materials to ensure it is accessible during a fire emergency.

While there is no specific requirement to clear snow around catch basins, they provide drainage when snow and ice
begin to melt. Clearing the catch basins, and creating a channel towards the catch basin, will help prevent flooding when snow and ice begin to melt.

What is the best way to clear snow and ice from the sidewalk? When removing snow along the sidewalk adjacent to your property, please do not push snow into the street or onto crosswalks. Clear the snow from around the fire hydrant if there is one in front of your property.

Where possible, try to clear a path at least four feet wide along the sidewalk. Corner property owners should clear a
path to the crosswalk, including any pedestrian ramps. Where the snow has melted and created a puddle, disperse the water away from the crosswalk. This will help people in wheelchairs, people with children in strollers, students going to school, and individuals with mobility-assistance devices.

What happens if a property owner doesn't clear the sidewalk? Homeowners, property managers, businesses, or others who do not comply can face fines of:

•First Offense: $100-$150

•Second Offense: $150-$350

•Third Offense and Subsequent: $250-350

Report snow complaints here