Sidewalk Snow Clearing: Understanding Your Liability as a Property Owner

Failing to clear sidewalks after snowfall can expose property owners to significant liability. Know your obligations under Ontario law.

Snow Removal Services

Ontario municipalities require property owners to clear adjacent sidewalks within a specified timeframe after snowfall ends — often 24 hours. Failing to comply can result in fines and personal liability.

The Occupiers' Liability Act establishes that property occupiers must take reasonable steps to keep visitors reasonably safe. In winter, this includes snow and ice removal.

Winter Preparedness Tips

Reasonable care means more than one-time clearing. If temperatures fluctuate and new ice forms, you have a duty to treat again. Documenting each treatment strengthens your defence if a claim arises.

Commercial properties with consistent pedestrian traffic face higher scrutiny. Courts evaluate frequency of maintenance, adequacy of de-icing, and response to changing conditions.

D&D Snow Services Coverage

Hiring a professional snow removal company transfers much of the operational responsibility, but property owners should still maintain records of service, including confirmation of clearing times.

Contracts with snow removal companies should specify response times, service triggers (snowfall depth thresholds), and communication procedures. Vague contracts create gaps in liability coverage.

Ultimately, consistent, documented sidewalk clearing is your best protection — legally and reputationally. Tenants, customers, and insurers all benefit when walkways are reliably clear.

Devon Moore, Operations Lead Co-Founder & Operations Lead — D&D Snow Services

Devon Moore is the co-founder and Operations Lead at D&D Snow Services, providing reliable residential and commercial snow removal across Waterloo Region.