Somerville snow and ice rules for property owners: sidewalks, fines and parking
Somerville snow rules for property owners: the six-daylight-hour sidewalk deadline, fines, snow emergency parking, hydrants, roofs and how to report.
Mateus MagnoLicensed Construction Supervisor · October 20, 2026 · 3 min read
In Somerville, property owners must clear a path at least 36 inches wide on abutting sidewalks and accessible ramps within six daylight hours after snow stops. Fines for one- to three-unit houses run $100, $200, then $300; report unshoveled sidewalks to 311 at 617-666-3311.
Snow in Somerville isn't just a nuisance. It comes with real rules and real fines. Most of my clients own triple-deckers or two-families with tight lots, shared driveways and steep back porches, so here's the plain-English version of what the City expects and how I help owners stay ahead of it.
Sidewalk shoveling: the six-hour rule
According to the City's Snow Policies & Preparedness page, owners of residential and commercial property must clear snow and ice from the sidewalks and accessible ramps next to their property. The key facts:
- Deadline: within six daylight hours after the snow stops.
- Width: a path at least 36 inches wide, down to the pavement.
- Ramps count. If your corner lot has a curb ramp, it's on you too.
- Every storm counts, not just declared snow emergencies. Ice is included.
The rule lives in Chapter 12 of the Somerville Code of Ordinances. In a triple-decker, decide in the lease or condo documents who shovels, but remember the City looks to the property.
Fines for unshoveled sidewalks
The City's snow page lists these fines:
- One-, two- and three-unit houses: $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second, and $300 for each one after that.
- Commercial property and larger apartment buildings: $150 for a first offense and $300 after that.
The City can also clear sidewalks itself and charge extra fines or place a lien on the property. Don't let it get that far.
Where the snow can go
- Not into the street, unless it's daylight and 40 degrees or warmer. Then you can break it up and spread it thin on the road so it melts.
- Fire hydrants: the City asks residents who are able to dig out hydrants 3 feet in every direction.
- Catch basins and storm drains: clearing the one in front of your house helps meltwater drain instead of flooding the corner. City crews clear them too.
Snow emergency parking
When the City declares a snow emergency, parking flips to one side of the street. For the 2026/27 winter, park on the even-numbered side unless signs say otherwise. Key points from the City:
- You have four hours after the declaration to move your car.
- Residents can park in City-owned municipal lots, and must move out within two hours after the emergency ends.
- Wrong-side parking, blocking plows, or parking near hydrants or intersections each carries a $100 ticket, and cars can be towed.
- Space savers are prohibited and may be removed.
Sign up for City Alerts by text, phone or email so you hear about declarations right away.
Roofs and porches: the safety side
This is where my builder hat comes on. Older Somerville roofs and porches take a beating in heavy winters:
- Back porches and stairs on triple-deckers are often the second way out of each unit. Keep them shoveled and salted, and don't pile snow from the roof onto them.
- Roof snow: state guidance on roof snow removal safety recommends a plastic shovel or roof rake from the ground, working from the edge in and leaving a thin layer so you don't damage shingles. Stay clear of power lines, avoid ladders in icy conditions, and never use open flames to melt ice.
- Warning signs: sagging ceilings or rooflines, new cracks in walls, or doors that suddenly stick can point to structural stress. The state says to get out and call 911.
If a porch, stair or roof feels soft or looks sagging after a storm, have it checked before spring. Rebuilding a porch usually needs a permit; my Somerville building permit guide explains the process.
How to report an unshoveled sidewalk
- Call 311 (617-666-3311 from outside the city).
- Email [email protected].
- Use the 311 app or the City's social media channels.
Older neighbors or neighbors with disabilities can sign up for the City's Teen Snow Shoveling Program, which pays local teens to shovel. Sign up well before the first storm.
Need a hand?
From Union Square to Ball Square, I help owners fix the porches, roofs and attics that make winter harder than it should be. Book a walkthrough and I'll show you what to fix before the next big storm.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to shovel my sidewalk in Somerville?
The City requires property owners to clear abutting sidewalks and accessible ramps within six daylight hours after the snow stops, with a path at least 36 inches wide down to the pavement.
What is the fine for not shoveling in Somerville?
For one-, two- and three-unit houses, the City lists $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second, and $300 for each later offense. Commercial and larger residential buildings face $150 and then $300.
Which side of the street do I park on during a Somerville snow emergency?
For the 2026/27 winter, park on the even-numbered side of the street unless signs say otherwise. You have four hours after the declaration to move, and you can also use City-owned municipal lots.
How do I report an unshoveled sidewalk in Somerville?
Call 311 (617-666-3311 from outside the city), email [email protected], or use the 311 app.
Mateus Magno is the founder of Magno & Co — a licensed Massachusetts Construction Supervisor (CS-123658), registered Home Improvement Contractor (HIC #220484) and certified Lead-Safe Renovator Supervisor who has renovated and managed over $3 million in projects across Greater Boston.
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