Following a record-setting snow event over the last couple weekends, the City of Dubuque is reminding residents and property owners that sidewalks must be cleared of snow and ice within 48 hours after a snow event ends.

A Dubuque city ordinance states property owners are responsible for snow removal on sidewalks on their property. If snow and ice have not been cleared within 48 hours and a complaint is submitted, the City will notify the property owner in writing. If necessary, a City contractor may be called to remove the snow, with the cost assessed to the property owner.

Snow and ice must be removed the full width of the sidewalk from edge to edge to provide a safe and accessible pathway for all pedestrians. Owners of corner lots are also required to clear snow from access ramps to allow unimpeded passage for pedestrian traffic. Residents are encouraged to remove snow from around fire hydrants near their property to assist firefighters who may need access to respond to a fire in their neighborhood.

Blowing or shoveling snow into the street is a violation of a City ordinance. Violators are subject to a civil penalty of up to $750 and court costs and are also liable for any road hazards they create.

Any snow removal fees assessed to a property owner will be included in a bill sent to the owner. If the bill has not been paid at the end of the winter season, the cost will be assessed to the property and passed to the Dubuque County Treasurer for collection along with the property’s taxes. Further violations may result in civil citations and fines of up to $750 plus court costs.

Residents can alert the City to a sidewalk that has not been cleared of snow or ice in a timely manner by using Report2DBQ, the City’s service request platform. Report2DBQ is available online at cityofdubuque.org/report2DBQ or by downloading the Report2DBQ app.

Additional information about these policies, including a printable flyer, can be found at cityofdubuque.org/Snow