Bylaws related to snow and ice

Snow and ice removal is regulated under the Streets Bylaw 20M88 in section 67. This is an overview of these regulations. Please refer to the actual bylaw for more detailed information. Original copies of the bylaw are available from the City Clerk's office.

Overview of snow and ice removal regulations

• Owners/occupants are responsible for the complete removal of snow and ice from all City pathways and sidewalks, adjacent to the front or side of their property, within 24 hours after the snow stops falling.
• Snow and ice must be removed from a City pathway or sidewalk that runs parallel to and directly adjacent to a street, even if it is separated by a boulevard.
• All snow and ice must be removed down to the bare surface of the sidewalk or pathway. 
• If you own a rental property you are ultimately responsible for ensuring the sidewalks and pathways are cleared.
•  For the purpose of this bylaw, a sidewalk is that part of a street set aside specifically for pedestrian use, whereas a pathway is a multi-purpose thoroughfare for use by pedestrians, cyclists and persons using wheeled conveyances.
• The owner or occupant of land adjacent to a sidewalk must remove all snow and ice, whereas those adjacent to a pathway must remove snow and ice for a minimum width of 1.5 meters from the side of the pathway closest to their property.
• Snow or ice from private property cannot be placed on a road or boulevard.
• If you receive a Warning Notice for failure to remove snow and ice from a sidewalk or pathway and do not remove it within 24 hours. The City of Calgary work force will be instructed to carry out the work and the cost will be invoiced to the property owner. Failure to pay this will result in the cost being added to the property taxes.

 Helpful hints

• If the ice cannot be removed, a free sand/salt mixture is available for pick up at most fire halls and Roads depots. Please bring your own container.

Filing a complaint

How to file a complaint and what happens to it.