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How to be a good neighbor throughout winter

Posted at 12:40 PM, Dec 08, 2017
and last updated 2017-12-08 12:40:50-05

With snow expected this weekend, Mid-Michigan communities are reminding residents to clear their sidewalks of ice and snow. Hefty fines await homeowners who fail to do so.

Lansing: Snow and ice must be removed within 24 hours after snowfall has ended. A violation notice may be left if the sidewalk is not clear, allowing a one day grace period. If still not cleared, the city may clear the walk at the owner's expense, a minimum of $149.

East Lansing: Snow that accumulates before noon must be cleared by midnight the same day. Snow that falls after noon must be cleared by midnight the following day. If snow falls on more than one consecutive day, it must be shoveled within those time frames, or within 48 hours after the first snowfall started- whichever is sooner. Each day a homeowner fails to follow these rules constitutes a separate offense. That could results in $90 in fines and costs.

Jackson: Sidewalks must be cleared within 24 hours after snowfall. An accumulation of more than 4 inches, and any accumulation of ice, is considered a threat to public safety. Sidewalks must be cleared to a minimum width of 36 inches. If a sidewalk is not cleared, the city may clear the sidewalk at the owner's expense.

These are just some of the communities enforcing a sidewalk ordinance. Check with your city or township's website to learn their rules.