The Prince George’s County Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement (DPIE) reminds residents, tenants, and property managers that they are responsible for the snow and ice removal from paved sidewalks adjacent to their properties following winter weather events. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in fines.
Why Sidewalk Snow and Ice Removal Matters
Clearing sidewalks of snow and ice is essential for the safety and accessibility of:
- Children and students walking to school
- Senior citizens and individuals with mobility challenges
- All pedestrians navigating public spaces during winter
Prince George’s County Code Section 23-150 mandates that responsible parties remove snow and ice from sidewalks within 48 hours after snowfall or ice accumulation of two or more inches.
Enforcement Process and Penalties
DPIE will enforce these rules through a structured process:
- Initial 24 Hours: Responsible parties must clear sidewalks within the first 24 hours after a snow event ends.
- Reminder Notice: If sidewalks remain uncleared, DPIE will issue a reminder notice.
- Second Inspection: After an additional 24 hours, DPIE will conduct a second inspection. If the snow and ice have not been cleared, DPIE may issue a citation with a fine of $100 per day.
- Ongoing Violations: Fines will accumulate for each successive 24-hour period until the issue is resolved.
If the snow and ice remain uncleared, the County may hire a contractor to remove it and charge the property owner for the cleanup costs in addition to fines.
Areas of Focus
DPIE prioritizes inspections in areas critical to public safety, including sidewalks:
- Adjacent to commercial properties and apartment/condominium complexes
- Along roadways within 1.5 miles of schools
- Along state-designated highways and County primary roads
- Near public gathering places, such as churches and assembly halls
- Reported via public complaints through PGC311
How to Stay Compliant
To avoid fines:
- Clear sidewalks promptly within the designated timeframe.
- Use safe and environmentally friendly de-icing materials.
- Seek assistance if physically unable to remove snow and ice.
For more details, visit the Sidewalk Snow and Ice Removal Inspection Program page.
By adhering to these guidelines, residents and businesses play a vital role in ensuring a safe and accessible community for all.
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