You know those sidewalks still clogged with snow?
Westport’s Code of Ordinances spends 3 pages talking about who’s responsible for removing it, where they can put it, and what happens if they don’t.
A few highlights:
Removal of Snow and Ice. The owner, occupant or person in charge of any parcel or lot which fronts upon or abuts any sidewalk, paved trail, walking path or similar facility (hereinafter throughout this chapter referred to as “sidewalk”) shall keep such sidewalk clear of all snow and ice. If snow accumulates on the sidewalk due to natural means or by any other means, the sidewalk shall be cleared of all accumulated snow and ice within 24 hours from the time the snow ceases to accumulate on the sidewalk. Sidewalks are to be kept clear of snow and ice to a minimum of four feet in width. If ice has formed on any sidewalk in such a manner that it cannot be removed, the owner, occupant or person in charge of the parcel or lot which fronts upon or adjoins the sidewalk shall keep the sidewalk sprinkled with sand or salt to permit safe travel by pedestrians.
Post Road store owners are responsible for clearing snow from their sidewalks. So is everyone else in town. (Photo by Katherine Hooper)
Encroachment Into Street or Onto Sidewalks. No person shall push, shove, or in any way deposit any snow or ice onto any public highway, road, street, public or private sidewalk, or public lands dedicated to public use, except for parcels or lots located where existing buildings are constructed within five feet of the street right-of-way and the sidewalks exist from the Town right-of-way to the curb line. In such instances, the owner, occupant or employee of the owner or occupant of the parcel or lot shall be permitted to deposit snow and ice from the sidewalk onto the public street.
The “Town Administrator” must provide written notice — hand-delivered or mailed — for non-compliance. If the town removes the snow or ice, the owner will be billed.