The Washington City Paper took to a little public shaming yesterday to help remind residents and businesses about the need to shovel those sidewalks. The Washington Post wrote a short piece on sidewalk etiquette (or the lack thereof).

As anyone has witnessed over the last few days, there are some great examples of neighbors pitching in to make sure sidewalks are passable. And then there are some examples of sidewalks in such bad shape, neighbors are forced into the road – creating a dangerous situation that mixes cars and pedestrians on slick roads.

Pedestrian safety and accessibility is a serious issue during these snow storms.

As a reminder, current DC law requires residents and businesses to clear their sidewalks within 8 hours of the end of the storm. As we’ve seen though, not everyone lives up to their responsibility. However, the city's only remedy if someone doesn't clear the sidewalk is to detail staff to the location, clean it themselves, and then sue the homeowner or business to recover the costs. That renders it pretty useless and it’s rarely, if ever, used.

To improve the law, Tommy joined forces with Councilmember Mary Cheh in December to introduce legislation that would replace the requirement to sue, with straight forward citation and fine – much more likely to be enforced and used.

In the meantime, please remember to shovel those sidewalks – paying special attention to lend a hand to our seniors or neighbors out of town, to make sure we have clear and accessible sidewalks.

Below is a brief guide to the DC requirements:

Who is responsible for clearing sidewalks?
District law requires property owners to clear snow and ice from sidewalks, handicap ramps and steps abutting their property within the first 8 daylight hours after snow, sleet or ice stop falling. (DC Code, 2001 Ed, § 9-601.) This applies to all property owners – residential, commercial, federal, and municipal. If ice cannot be cleared without damaging the sidewalk, then property owners may spread sand or salt to make the sidewalks safe. (DC Code, 2001 Ed, § 9-604.) Property owners must also clear snow from the ADA-curb cuts. These are part of the sidewalk. Property owners are also asked to clear snow from catch basins and storm drains to prevent flooding during snow melt. If you rent a single-family home or your lease explicitly states that you are responsible for clearing the snow, not your landlord, then you can be cited as well. Be sure to call your landlord or review your lease terms if you are not sure.

Is there a fine for not clearing the sidewalk?
According to the municipal Code, if property owners fail to comply, the District is required to clear their sidewalks (DC Code, 2001 Ed., § 9-605) and sue the property owners for the cost of clearing the snow or ice plus a $25 fine (DC Code, 2001 Ed., § 9-606). If sidewalks in public space are uncleared, DDOT and DPW are responsible for the matter and you should call 311 to report the problem.