Newton Residents Must Shovel Sidewalks This Winter

NEWTON, MA — Ahead of this year’s winter weather, the City of Newton has reminded residents and business owners that they are required to shovel all paved and concrete sidewalks surrounding their properties within 24 hours of snow ending.

All city sidewalks must be cleared to create a 36-inch path to meet accessibility requirements. Sidewalks that are less than 36 inches wide must be completely cleared.

Residents who do not comply with this requirement will receive a written warning for a first offense and a $50 fine for each subsequent offense. Owners of commercial, institutional, or residential properties with more than four dwelling units will receive a $100 fine for a first offense, a $200 fine for a second offense, and a $300 fine for a third offense.

Annual exemptions from the sidewalk clearing requirement are available for community members who demonstrate hardship due to a combination of health and financial duress or religious circumstances. For more information on exemptions, contact the Department of Senior Services at 617-796-1660.

To view the city’s 2021-22 winter weather information brochure, click here.