SNOW

Frequently asked questions regarding the City of Rochester
Snow Ordinance.
To view the complete version of this code section, click here.

1) Who is responsible for removing snow off of the sidewalk in front of my residence?

According to §104-11C, the person occupying the ground floor and/or the owner of the property is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk.

§ 104-11. Responsibility for maintaining sidewalks free of obstructions and snow and ice.
C. The person occupying the ground floor of a building and the owner of a building or lot must keep the sidewalks adjoining such building or lot free and clear from snow and ice and must not suffer or permit snow or ice to collect or remain on such sidewalk later than 9:00 a.m. if such snow shall have fallen or collected after 8:00 p.m. of the previous evening; or later than 8:00 p.m. if such snow shall have fallen and collected after 9:00 a.m. When the snow is removed from sidewalks by City contractors or City employees using plows, it shall be the duty of the occupant and owner to remove the snow and ice remaining after such plows have gone through. The portion of the sidewalk required to be kept free from snow and ice is the portion thereof which is paved, if any, and if no portion is paved, a space at least four feet in width shall be kept free and clear as stated above.

2) Is it illegal to deposit snow in the street or against a fire hydrant?

Yes, section §104-11(D) prohibits both of these actions.

§ 104-11. Responsibility for maintaining sidewalks free of obstructions and snow and ice.
D. No person shall remove snow or ice from private property or structures and deposit it on the sidewalk or roadway of any street or against a fire hydrant or on the loading or unloading areas of a public transportation system, nor shall any person authorize or permit such removal and depositing. No person shall remove snow or ice from the sidewalks and deposit it on the roadway of any street, nor shall any person authorize or permit such removal and depositing. These prohibitions shall apply to any means for removing and depositing snow or ice.