FAQs

Q: Will the City issue a warning before they issue a ticket for failure to remove snow?

A: No, since snow is considered a safety issue, warnings are not issued. On occasion, the City has delayed enforcement after large snow events. It is still in your best interest to remove the snow as soon as possible. Delaying removal only makes it more difficult.

Q: How much of my sidewalk do I have to clear?

A: The property owner is required to clear the entire width of the sidewalk, from edge to edge.

Q: Can I place the snow from my sidewalk into the street?

A: No, pile snow into your yard and terrace. It is against law to put snow into the street.

Q: If I own a corner lot, do I have to clear the curb ramp, the portion of the sidewalk leading to the street?

A: Yes, the Ordinance requires the removal of snow and ice from the curb ramp regardless where the snow and ice came from.

Q: I removed the snow but my sidewalk is covered with ice. What should I do?

A: Sand can be purchased at local hardware stores in the city. Generously apply sand to the ice-covered sidewalk to eliminate the hazard. Applying salt to the sidewalk may accelerate the removal of the ice. Keep the sidewalk sanded until the ice is gone.

Q: When are bus stops and city owned sidewalks cleared?

A: Snow removal from bus stops and City owned sidewalks is done after each event. City crews will clear City sidewalks and bus stops with concrete pads as part of general plowing operations.

Q: What can I do about snow plows that block my driveway with snow?

A: This is an unfortunate side effect of plowing all streets in the City. All snow must be plowed to the curb and as a result, driveways get blocked with the wet, heavy snow from the plow. It is the property owner's responsibility to clear the snow from the bottom of the driveway.

Q: What do I do if I'm not going to be home for an extended period of time and there is a snowfall?

A: If the homeowner is not at home or otherwise unable to clear snow, he/she must get someone to shovel their sidewalk.

Q: What does the City of Beloit do about snow & ice during the winter?

A: Here are the City of Beloit’s Procedures for Snow & Ice Control. 

Q: What are the City of Beloit’s snow plowing priorities?

A: Arterials (mains), hills, bridges, school routes, and then residential areas.