Alexandria Sidewalk Ordinance Enforcement Resumes Feb. 3

ALEXANDRIA, VA — After putting a hold on the ordinance requiring sidewalks to be cleared as residents and crews battled for over a week to remove ice and snow, the City of Alexandria says snow removal requirements will resume.

"The City of Alexandria continues to make progress clearing snow and ice following the recent winter storm, and we appreciate the patience and efforts of residents across the city," a news release said.

Beginning Tuesday, Feb. 3, the city will begin enforcement of the sidewalk snow removal ordinance, which can be found in City Code §5-2-21. Enforcement was paused to allow residents additional time to recover from the storm.

• Related: 2 Rounds Of Snow Forecast For VA This Week: See Details

Officials said the city has worked to clear most city-owned sidewalks and has been focusing on ensuring safe access to bus stops, schools, and residential streets. Crews need the community’s help to clear private sidewalks and help keep everyone safe.

Residents who fail to meet the deadline face a $50 fine.

What We Are Asking Residents To Do

• Clear snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to your property as soon as possible. 
• If you are able, move vehicles parked on residential streets that have not been fully plowed to allow the city to work to clear the street.  
• Help your neighbors who may be unable to clear the snow and ice on their own. 

Snow Removal Ordinance Reminder 

Sidewalks, driveways, and entrances are the responsibility of the adjacent property owner, occupant, community association, or business. Because this was a Level 3 snow emergency, snow and ice must be cleared from all paved sidewalks abutting your property within 72 hours of the end of the snowfall. This time was extended due to the severe nature of the weather event.

• Penalties for noncompliance can be found in City Code §5-2-21.

Owners and tenants who may be unavailable or unable to clear sidewalks themselves are responsible for making arrangements to have the work done for them in the event there is a storm.

To report a violation of the sidewalk ordinance, call 311 or 703.746.4311 or submit a service request on Alex311’s online system using the Snow and Ice Removal Sidewalk request form.

More information is available at alexandriava.gov/Snow.