Snow, Ice Removal Near Fire Hydrants Ordinance Approved In Bridgewater

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Bridgewater adopted an ordinance requiring snow and ice removal around fire hydrants on Thursday night.

Council members said the measure is intended to improve public safety while residents urged the township to consider how difficult the task can be after storms.

The ordinance amends Chapter 182 of the township code on snow and ice removal to require snow clearance near fire hydrants.

During the public hearing, resident Robert Albano said he supported the ordinance but described the physical challenge of clearing a hydrant after plows pass.

"I am totally in favor of this, and I just wish that there were a good way to do it," Albano said.

He also said, "But it needs to be done. Absolutely needs to be done."

Albano said he has been clearing the hydrant across from his home for decades, but snow packed in by plows can make the work much harder.

Cathy Franco said she was not against the ordinance but asked whether fire departments could help residents who are older or disabled.

She said she no longer clears a hydrant near the road after breaking her hip on ice.

Her concern, she said, was "how do we help those individuals, especially if they're handicapped or disabled?"

Council members said they shared concerns about intersections, bus stop areas and snow piles left after plowing.

"While I support and continue to support the underlying purpose of this, I do share your concern that we need to give our residents a fighting chance to be able to be compliant and to stay safe in the neighborhood. That's why we're doing this, is so that the hydrants are available if or when they're needed by the fire service," said Councilman Michael Kirsh.

Councilman Timothy Ring said clearing the fire hydrant "could be the difference between life and death."

He referenced the need for fire departments to be able to quickly access the hydrant in the event of a fire.

Mayor Matthew Moench noted the ordinance could be amended at a later time to add clarifying language for residents unable to clear the hydrants.

Moench added that the Township is not going to be hounding people in terms of issuing tickets for not clearing the hydrants.

"I think that you want to encourage people to make sure they know they have a responsibility if it's on your property," said Moench.

Council members also discussed notifying residents through the township newsletter and revisiting the rule after feedback or a winter season under the new requirement.

Ring added that the ordinance is intended to try and encourage residents to clear the hydrants of snow.

"I don't think this is meant as a we're going to penalize you," said Ring.

The ordinance was unanimously approved for final reading at the Thursday Council meeting.

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