Somerville Debuting Snow Removal Pilot During Upcoming Storm

SOMERVILLE, MA — The city will debut its sidewalk snow clearing pilot on Broadway and School Street during this weekend's snowstorm.

The pilot includes increased enforcement of existing snow removal rules and potential fines, more snow clearing from bus stops, ramps and other pedestrian areas, and the clearing of sidewalks not shoveled by property owners on time.

To avoid fines, property owners must clear snow from all sidewalks and ramps adjacent to their property within six daylight hours of the end of snowfall. A path at least three feet wide and down to the pavement must be cleared. Do not shovel snow into bike lanes.

For more information, please visit somervillema.gov/snow.

What are the fines for not clearing snow from sidewalks?

• Single-, two-, or three-family homes:
• 1st offense: $100
• 2nd offense: $200
• 3rd and subsequent offense: $300
• Four or more dwelling units or commercial establishments:
• 1st offense: $150
• 2nd, 3rd, and subsequent offenses: $300

The pilot will test the feasibility of the city increasing snow removal on sidewalks, with the goal of improving pedestrian safety after snowfall.

The aim of the pilot is to improve pedestrian safety after snowfall.

Broadway and School Street were chosen for the pilot because they cross the city, connect to multiple transit routes, run through diverse neighborhoods and offer a range of shoveling environments, according to a statement from the city.

Residents who do not live on those roads are still subject to all snow removal ordinances, and enforcement will continue citywide.

When will ticketing and snow clearing by the city begin? Ticketing can begin as early as six daylight hours after snow stops falling. City clearing of sidewalks that are not shoveled on time are subject to crew availability after clearing priority areas such as hospitals and assisted care facilities, schools and known daycares, and city buildings.

For more information on the pilot please visit somervillema.gov/SidewalkClearing.

To review shoveling guidelines, shoveling safety tips, and shoveling fines, please visit somervillema.gov/snow or contact 311 (617-666-3311).

For information on the City’s Snow Teen Shoveling Program for seniors and persons with disabilities, visit somervillema.gov/snow. Please note that you must sign up for shoveling assistance well in advance of a storm.