Do you know that Cincinnati’s first snowfall of 2025 almost broke a record? Since then, we’ve had a couple more opportunities to get outside and shovel, even if we’d rather admire the winter wonderland from inside as we sip hot chocolate.
If you’ve been tempted to skip the shoveling and salting all together, we have some advice: don’t. Homeowners in Cincinnati and most cities in Ohio are legally responsible for the snow and ice on sidewalks within their property as well as the sidewalk area that directly adjoins their property.
Below, we answer frequently asked questions about wintertime sidewalk safety to help you avoid liability and make sure you’re compliant with local laws.
When am I required to clear snow from my sidewalks?
In the Queen City (and in most cities across the country that get snow in the winter), homeowners are required to clear the sidewalks in front of their property of snow and ice in a timely manner. If you fail to do so, you could be liable for any injuries that occur in front of or on your property due to slippery conditions.
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How soon do I need to remove snow from the sidewalk?
Ohio’s laws typically require homeowners to remove snow and ice from their sidewalks within a certain period after a snowfall or freezing rain. This period varies by location, but in Cincinnati, you’re expected to clear the sidewalk within 24 to 48 hours after the snow or ice has accumulated.
What happens if someone slips on the sidewalk in front of my property?
If someone slips and falls on the snow or ice on your sidewalk, you could be held liable for their injuries. In Ohio, the concept of “premises liability” means that property owners must maintain their sidewalks to prevent foreseeable harm to others
If the conditions on your sidewalk are deemed hazardous and someone is injured as a result, you could be required to pay medical bills, lost wages, or even damages for pain and suffering. We recommend asking yourself if a mail carrier or delivery driver could access your walkway and front door safely. If the answer is “no” or you aren’t sure, it’s time to start shoveling.
What are the risks of not shoveling the sidewalk on my personal property?
Keeping your personal sidewalk clear helps protect you from liability. If your walkways are damaged or have cracks, we recommend getting them repaired, as damaged walkways can create additional hazards in winter.
In some areas, homeowners associations (HOAs) may also require you to maintain sidewalks, so it's worth checking if any rules apply to your neighborhood.
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Easy ways to keep sidewalks safe in the winter
Here are a few tips to help you stay ahead of the snow and ice buildup and reduce the risk of accidents:
Shovel early and often. Don’t wait for snow to pile up. The more snow and ice build up, the more difficult it is to remove. It’s also easier to shovel after a lighter snowfall. Clear your sidewalk multiple times a day if necessary.
Use salt or salt alternatives - Salt or other ice-melting products can help prevent ice from forming and make it easier to remove accumulated snow. However, use these products sparingly, as they can damage concrete over time – and salt can be b . Consider using sand or other alternatives to provide traction in particularly icy conditions.
Check for slick spots - After shoveling, inspect your sidewalk for any remaining slick spots or hazards. Areas with poor drainage or shaded spots may refreeze overnight, causing dangerous black ice to form. Pay attention to these spots and treat them with extra ice melt if necessary.
Keeping your sidewalks safe doesn’t just make you a good neighbor – it helps you avoid liabilities. So, the next time it snows, grab your shovel and the ice melt of your choice and clear your walkways. Afterwards, you can kick back and relax, knowing you’ve made the world – or at least the sidewalks in front of your home – at little safer for you and your loved ones.
