City of Grand Rapids Warns: Clear Snowy Sidewalks Or Expect A Bill

Winter is still lingering in West Michigan for a little while longer.

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However, for the early part of this week, temperatures are rising into the lower 50s, making it feel almost like spring.

These warmer temperatures are welcome after how cold it has been over the past month.

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With the nice warm-up, the city of Grand Rapids has announced that it will once again enforce its sidewalk snow removal requirements.

Grand Rapids Sidewalk Snow Removal

If you live in Grand Rapids, you are required to clear your sidewalks of snow and ice within 24 hours of a snow event.

If you don’t, the city will mail a notice to the property owner or post a notice on the property when it receives a complaint about a snowy sidewalk.

If the sidewalk has not been cleared 48 hours after the notice is issued, the city can hire a contractor to do the work and send the bill to the property owner.

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I'm not usually in favor of fining people for things, but in this case, I agree with the rule.

If you are physically able and it’s not a health risk, there is no reason you shouldn’t clear the sidewalk yourself.

I dislike bundling up and removing the snow repeatedly, but it’s something that needs to be done.

This is especially important for the elderly and those using wheelchairs or walkers; when the snow isn’t cleared, it makes it nearly impossible for them to get around.