In Chicago, sidewalk snow removal isn't optional — it's the law. Whether you're a homeowner, a tenant, a landlord, or a business operator, the responsibility for keeping the sidewalk in front of your property clear falls on you. Snow Pushers handles it on your behalf, professionally and reliably.
The Law: Chicago Municipal Code 10-8-180
Under Chicago's Municipal Code, "every owner, lessee, tenant, occupant or other person having charge of any building or lot of ground" must remove snow and ice from public sidewalks immediately after the snow stops falling. The ordinance applies to both residential and commercial properties — and noncompliance can result in fines plus liability exposure if someone is injured.
The kicker: it's not just about avoiding fines. If a pedestrian slips on snow or ice in front of your property and gets injured, you can be sued for damages. Professional snow removal isn't an expense — it's insurance.
What Our Sidewalk Service Covers
- Full sidewalk clearing along the property's frontage
- Walkway from sidewalk to front door
- Steps and stoop
- Salting to prevent refreeze (included)
- Corner properties: additional sidewalk frontage covered for $69 extra per visit
- Commercial sidewalks up to 40 ft: $189 per visit
Why This Is a Service Worth Outsourcing
The 24-Hour Window
Chicago's ordinance requires snow to be cleared by the time it stops falling — and certainly within hours. Most homeowners can't pull this off reliably, especially if they're at work, traveling, or physically unable. We monitor the storm and dispatch crews so your sidewalk is cleared on schedule, not whenever you happen to get home.
Salt That Actually Works
Throwing a handful of rock salt down isn't enough. Effective salting requires correct application rate, timing, and product selection for the temperature. We use commercial-grade salt and apply it where it matters — preventing the partial-melt-and-refreeze cycle that creates dangerous black ice.
Liability Documentation
If a slip-and-fall lawsuit ever crosses your desk, the first question is: "Can you document your snow removal practices?" We provide service records you can produce to your insurer or legal counsel — proof you took reasonable steps to keep your sidewalk safe.
Snow Plus Salting — Both Required
The ordinance covers both snow AND ice. Plowing a sidewalk isn't enough if it refreezes. We include salting on every visit, ensuring the surface stays safe long after we leave.
Coverage Across Chicago
We handle sidewalk snow removal across the city — from Lincoln Park, Logan Square, Avondale, and Wicker Park to Beverly, Hyde Park, Bridgeport, and the broader Chicagoland suburbs. Wherever you are, we're routed to you.
Get a free sidewalk snow removal quote or call (773) 299-9203. We make Chicago compliance simple.