Pennsylvania Sidewalk Snow Removal Laws (Delaware County & Montgomery County)

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Last updated: January 22, 2016

Sidewalk Snow Removal Laws in Delco and Montco

snow on sidewalk slip hazardProperty owners and those who occupy properties (i.e., single family home tenant) have the duty to shovel sidewalks within a specified time frame after a storm has ended. Failing to do so may result in a fine. If a pedestrian slips and falls as a result of the failure to shovel, the property owner/tenant may be liable under Pennsylvania fall accident law.

Below are many of the sidewalk snow removal requirements for towns in Delaware County and Montgomery County. For the City of Philadelphia and Bucks County, click here.

Please note the following information is provided for general information only.  Ordinance sections have been provided, if available on the specific township’s website. If your township is not listed below, please click here to search.

Delaware County Sidewalk Snow Removal Ordinances

  • Lansdowne: Within 24 hours after the snow has stopped; the path must be least 2 feet wide.
  • Media (Ord. No. 996): Within 24 hours after the snow has stopped; the path must be at least 3 feet wide.
  • Springfield (Section 120.6; 120.9): Within 24 hours after the snow has stopped; the path must be at least 3 feet wide.
  • Upper Darby:  Within 24 hours after the snow has stopped; the path must be at least 30 inches wide.

Montgomery County Sidewalk Snow Removal Ordinances

  • Abington (Section 137-2): Within 24 hours after the snow has stopped; the path must be at least 3 feet wide.
  • Cheltenham: Within 24 hours after the snow has stopped.
  • Lower Merion (Section 133-4): Within 24 hours after the snow has stopped; the path must be at least 3 feet wide.
  • Norristown (Chapter 270): Within 24 hours after the snow has stopped; the path must be at least 30 inches wide.
  • Plymouth Township: Within 36 hours after the snow has stopped; the path must be at least 30 inches wide.

Related: Tip for Business Owners to Avoid Liability for Snow/Ice Accidents

Do Not Pile Snow Around Fire Hydrants

When shoveling snow from sidewalks, many property owners do not realize the danger of piling snow around fire hydrants. This puts lives at risk, because fire departments must then dig out hydrants during emergencies. Please do not pile snow around fire hydrants.

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