URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) – The City of Urbana has declared that the sidewalk snow and ice removal requirement is now in effect for the Downtown, University, and South Philo Road snow removal districts, effective 11 a.m. on Friday, December 12.

Following a winter storm that has resulted in at least two inches of snow and/or ice accumulation on sidewalks, the City requires adjacent property owners to clear public sidewalks within these districts within 24 hours of the declaration. The deadline for compliance is 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 13.

Under City ordinance, failure to clear sidewalks by the deadline may result in the City clearing the sidewalks at the property owner’s expense, along with additional fines and administrative fees. Property owners are encouraged to take action quickly to ensure pedestrian safety and avoid penalties.

Maps outlining the snow removal districts and additional details about snow and ice abatement methods can be found on the City’s website: Urbana Snow Removal Ordinance. Areas added by ordinance on November 4, 2019, are also subject to this requirement.

While the ordinance applies specifically to properties within the snow removal districts, the City encourages property owners outside these areas to voluntarily clear sidewalks adjacent to their properties to help ensure safe pedestrian travel.

Additionally, property owners and snowplow operators are reminded that the City of Urbana prohibits the plowing or deposition of snow from private property onto public streets and sidewalks. Violations of this ordinance may result in fines.