Breaking this Rochester, MN Snow Rule Could Get You Fined

To go from nearly all of the snow being melted for Christmas to a blizzard was crazy! Honestly, I'm glad to see the snow back, it didn't feel like a true Minnesota winter without it.

With all of this fresh snow, I figured it would be a good time to remind you of a rule that we have in Rochester, and if you break it, you could risk paying a fine.

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How Long You Have to Clear Snow From Your Sidewalk in Rochester, MN

Hopefully, you've cleared the sidewalk outside of your home of snow by now, because that's the rule that, if you break it, could cost you!

If you own or rent a home in the Rochester city limits and have a sidewalk along your property, it's your job to make sure the sidewalk is clear of snow and ice. You have 24 hours after the snowfall ends to make this happen. If not, someone might call it in, and you could be fined.

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According to the City of Rochester, MN website, here's how the fees work in a residential area:

Residential Zone:

• 1st Citation = $40
• 2nd Citation = $60
• 3rd or more = $120

In a commercial area, it costs a bit more:

Commercial/CBD or Industrial Zone

• 1st Citation = $60
• 2nd Citation = $100
• 3rd or more = $200

In order to avoid a citation, you need to "remove snow and ice from sidewalks and intersection handicap ramps abutting your property within 24-hours of snowfall ending."

So there's plenty of time, but don't put it off too long and risk it.

If you deal with someone who doesn't clear their sidewalk, it's quite easy to file a complaint if needed.

How to File a Complaint About Snow-covered Sidewalks in Rochester, MN

If you see that there's a sidewalk and/or handicap ramp that isn't cleared in that 24-hour period, you can file a complaint by calling the Public Works office (507-328-2400), or you can submit an online request.

So be sure to get those sidewalks cleared. And if you'll be out of town during the winter and snow may hit while you're away, make sure to ask a neighbor to clear the sidewalk for you.