ALERT for property owners: Fines have increased for those who fail to clear snow & ice in Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Property owners in the city of Milwaukee are advised that a city ordinance amendment concerning sidewalk snow and ice removal took effect on January 20th, 2015.

What is the city ordinance concerning clearing sidewalks during the winter? City of Milwaukee private property, residential or commercial property owners and occupants are required to clear the sidewalks abutting their property of snow or ice within 24 hours after a snow fall. This includes the corner crosswalk area for property owners with corner lots, and those whose property abuts a midblock crosswalk.

What has changed? If a property owner is found to be in violation of this ordinance, a special charge of $50 (up from $25) will be assessed. Property owners who fail to clear all sidewalk snow and ice within 24 hours after receiving notice of the violation will be assessed additional special charges of $75 (up from $45) for the first violation and $100 (up from $90) for a second violation and any violations thereafter, plus the cost of snow and ice removal if cleared by the city.

The Department of Public Works staff is responsible for monitoring properties for snow and ice removal compliance and provides clean-up services when necessary.

Residents can also alert DPW to problem properties by calling (414) 286-CITY.