Sidewalk Snow Removal

Big Lake is a walkable community with many residents who rely on the sidewalk system to safely navigate their neighborhoods and access community resources. It only takes one snowy or icy sidewalk section to force pedestrians into the road where their safety is compromised. This is why it is important to ensure that all sidewalks are being cleared in accordance with the City’s Snow Removal Ordinance. 

The City’s Sidewalk Ordinance states:

  • The owner or occupant of any premises in city limits has 24 hours from of the end of any snowfall to clear their sidewalk entirely of snow and loose ice.
  • The owner or occupant must also maintain clearance of the sidewalk in front of and/or beside the premises thereafter.
  • After 24 hours, the City or its authorized contractor will clear the snow, serve a notice, and bill the property owner for the cost of the snow removal.
  • The fee schedule sets the fee for each violation at:
    • $50 – First offense + the contractor’s hourly rate for time spent at the property
    • $100 – Second offense + the contractor’s hourly rate for time spent at the property
    • $150 – Third offense + the contractor’s hourly rate for time spent at the property
  • If the fee is not paid, it will be added to the property taxes as an assessment.

When a sidewalk sweep will take place:

  • Any time a single or multiple snowfalls accumulate snow on the sidewalk. 
  • When snow drifting due to wind or other elements causes snow to accumulate on the sidewalk. 
  • Any time the City receives complaints regarding non-compliance with the ordinance. 

The day before a sidewalk sweep is performed, the City will make a post on its Facebook page. You can also sign up to receive a text or email alert the day before a scheduled sweep by clicking here.