The City of Ferndale has a Winter Maintenance Guide in place to keep City streets clean during inclement weather. The Guide prioritizes which city streets will be cleaned first during a snow emergency. Streets are divided into five priorities and are cleaned per the Winter Maintenance Guide.

For information about snow parking and snow emergencies, see the City’s snow emergency page.

Property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their property.

Clear sidewalks are important for pedestrians, students, seniors, people with disabilities, and anyone who relies on the sidewalk network during winter weather.

Snow Removal Timeline: 

Per City ordinance:

• Snow that accumulates overnight must be removed by 12:00 p.m. noon
• Snow that falls or drifts during the day must be removed before noon the following day

Property owners should clear the full width of the sidewalk whenever possible.

Ice Removal:

• Ice must be removed when practicable.
• If immediate removal is not possible, the sidewalk must be treated with sand, salt, or another approved material to prevent slippery or dangerous conditions.
• The sidewalk should be cleared as soon as conditions allow.

Where to Put Snow:

• Snow should be placed on the property, lawn extension, or greenbelt area.
• Snow may not be shoveled, pushed, or blown into the street or alley.
• Corner property owners are responsible for clearing curb ramps at crosswalks down to the street gutter.

If the City receives a complaint or discovers that a sidewalk has not been properly cleared, Code Enforcement may inspect the property.

The City may notify the property owner or occupant of the violation. If the snow or ice is not cleared after notice, the City may arrange for the sidewalk to be cleared.

The property owner may be billed for the actual cost of sidewalk clearance, plus applicable administrative charges or penalties.

• Clear snow as soon as possible after it falls
• Remove snow down to the pavement when possible
• Treat icy areas before they become dangerous
• Make arrangements for someone else to clear sidewalks if you are away
• Avoid piling snow where it blocks curb ramps or pedestrian access