West Hartford residents can be fined for failure to clear snow and ice from premises within a certain period of time, and violations can be reported to the police.

By Ronni Newton

West Hartford has experienced its first snowfall of the year, and town officials are reminding residents of their responsibility regarding snow removal.

According to Town Ordinance 115-24, “Removal of snow and ice from premises where there is an established sidewalk is required by owners or occupants within 12 hours after a storm ends or within 12 hours after sunrise, whichever is later. The whole walk must be cleared, including curb cuts, handicapped ramps, and bus stop pads, etc.”

Violators can be subject to a fine of $79 per day, plus the cost of clearing the sidewalk.

Clearing snow and ice from heavily used sidewalks near schools and public buildings, and the commercial areas, are particularly important.

“Snow throwing or pushing snow into the street from a private property or business is prohibited. This practice is dangerous and impedes the town’s snow removal efforts,” Town Manager Matt Hart stated in a news release.

In addition, Hart noted that when clearing sidewalks of snow and ice, property owners need to consider that people with disabilities or who use mobility devices need to be able to navigate sidewalks and other pedestrian routes. “Ensure sidewalks and curb ramps at intersections/street crossings provide enough clear width to traverse. Snow should also be entirely removed from accessible/handicap parking spaces and their adjacent access aisle. Snow must not be placed in accessible parking spaces or access aisles,” the release states.

Property owners and residents are also asked to assist the fire department and protect neighboring properties by shoveling the area around fire hydrants to keep them clear and accessible.

Snow clearing violations can be reported to the West Hartford Police Department at 860-523-5203.

Like what you see here? Click here to subscribe to We-Ha’s newsletter so you’ll always be in the know about what’s happening in West Hartford!