• Snow removal from sidewalks - who has to do it? Recipes and practical advice

• Snow removal from the sidewalk : Owners' responsibilities, regulations and tools

• Do you have to shovel snow from the sidewalk in the ? Check regulations and responsibilities

• Snow removal from sidewalks - who has the obligation? A practical guide

Who must shovel snow from the sidewalk ? Regulations, responsibilities and effective tools

In winter, when snow and ice cover the streets, clearing snow from sidewalks becomes not only a matter of pedestrian safety, but also a legal obligation of property owners. Current regulations clearly indicate, who is responsible for clearing snow from the sidewalk and what the consequences are for failing to do so.

In this article, we explain:

• who is obliged to clear snow from the sidewalk ,

• what are the exceptions to this obligation,

• what is the penalty for an un-snowed sidewalk,

• how often the snow should be cleared,

• what to sprinkle on the sidewalk to make it safe,

• what tools to use to make winter cleaning easier.

Do you have to clear the snow from the sidewalk in front of your property? [Current Regulations 2025/2026.]

In accordance with Act on maintaining cleanliness and order in municipalities (OJ.U. 2024, pos. 399, t.j. as of 09.01.2025), this obligation is incumbent on property owners.

Legal provision:

"Property owners shall ensure the maintenance of cleanliness and order by cleaning up mud, snow, ice and other debris from pedestrian paths located along the property (...)".

What this means in practice?

If the sidewalk is directly adjacent to your property, you have an obligation:

• remove snow and ice,

• sprinkle the sidewalk with anti-slip materials,

• maintain cleanliness and permeability throughout the winter season.

When you don't have to shovel snow from the sidewalk?

There are situations in which the obligation to clear snow from the sidewalk does not apply to the property owner. This applies when:

• between the property and the sidewalk there is a green belt or other physical obstacle (such as a drainage ditch),

• on the sidewalk municipality allowed paid parking - then the snow removal duty passes to the municipality.

What are the penalties for not clearing snow from the sidewalk?

Neglecting the obligation to remove snow can result in:

• with a fine of up to PLN 1,500 - in accordance with Article. 117 of the Code of Offenses,

• liability - if an accident occurs on an un-snowed sidewalk (for example, a pedestrian breaks a leg), the owner can be sued for damages.

How often do you need to shovel snow from the sidewalk? A practical approach

Although the law does not indicate a specific frequency, it has become accepted that snow removal should be regular and adapted to the weather conditions.

When is the best time to clear snow from the sidewalk?

• In the evening before the frost - to prevent ice formation.

• In the morning before pedestrian traffic - especially during rush hour.

• During heavy rainfall - to avoid snow compaction and slipperiness.

• After each rainfall with snow - so that the mud doesn't freeze.

Obligation to sprinkle sidewalks - with what and how?

In accordance with Art. 5(5). 1 item 4 of the Act, the owner must not only clear the sidewalk of snow, but also take measures to reduce its slipperiness.

What to sprinkle on the sidewalk in winter?

Tip: Avoid excessive salt - it can harm plants and spoil the aesthetics of the pavement.

What tools for clearing snow from the sidewalk are worth having?

Modern tools make winter work significantly easier. In the offer of our store EWIMAX you will find practical devices that will save you time and effort.

Recommended snow removal tools:

• Spades and snow shovels - lightweight, damage-resistant, convenient to use.

• Electric and diesel snowblowers - ideal for larger areas.

• Sand and salt spreaders - quick and even sprinkling of sidewalks.

With the right equipment, you'll minimize the risk of slips and avoid fines for an un-snowed sidewalk.

Summary

Removing snow from the sidewalk is the responsibility of every property owner, as long as the sidewalk is directly adjacent to their property. Regular removal of snow and ice and the use of anti-slip materials is not only a legal requirement, but also an expression of concern for the safety of others.

Check out the store ewimax.en our proven snow removal tools and get ready for winter ahead of time!

• clearing snow from the sidewalk

• who clears snow from the sidewalk

• snow removal regulations

• snow removal obligation

• what to sprinkle on the sidewalk

• snow removal tools

• penalties for an un-snowed sidewalk