Do Pennsylvania Businesses Have to Remove Snow and Ice from Sidewalks?

Winter in Pennsylvania brings heavy snowfall, ice storms, and freezing temperatures, creating hazardous conditions for pedestrians and drivers alike. While many homeowners understand their responsibility to clear sidewalks in front of their residences, business owners must also comply with strict regulations regarding snow and ice removal. In 2025, Pennsylvania continues to enforce laws that require businesses to keep sidewalks and entryways clear to prevent injuries and maintain accessibility.

State and local governments recognize that uncleared sidewalks can pose serious risks. Pedestrians walking past a business may slip, fall, and suffer injuries that could lead to costly lawsuits. Additionally, customers and employees may struggle to enter a building safely if walkways are covered in ice or heavy snow. To ensure public safety, municipalities throughout Pennsylvania hold property owners accountable for keeping pedestrian areas safe during winter weather.

Each city and township may have slightly different rules, but in general, commercial property owners are expected to remove snow and ice within a specific time frame after a storm ends. Failing to do so can result in fines, legal liability, and reputational damage.

How Quickly Must Businesses Clear Snow and Ice?

In Pennsylvania, snow removal deadlines vary by location. Many cities and townships have established specific time limits that business owners must follow. These timeframes are designed to ensure that sidewalks remain safe for pedestrians as soon as possible after a storm. Some common municipal requirements include:

• 12 to 24 hours: Many cities, including Pittsburgh and Harrisburg, require property owners to clear sidewalks within 24 hours after snowfall stops.
• 6 to 12 hours: Some urban areas, such as Philadelphia, have stricter guidelines that mandate removal within just six hours of the storm ending.
• Up to 48 hours: Rural areas and townships with lower foot traffic may allow more time, but businesses are still expected to clear paths as soon as possible.
• Immediate removal: If snow accumulation presents an immediate hazard, such as blocking a building entrance or causing ice buildup on a slope, businesses may be required to address the issue promptly, even before the official deadline.

Business owners should familiarize themselves with their local regulations to avoid penalties. Since these rules can change, checking with municipal offices or reviewing city ordinances online is a smart practice at the beginning of each winter season.

What Are the Penalties for Not Clearing Sidewalks?

Failure to comply with Pennsylvania’s snow and ice removal laws can lead to several consequences. Businesses that neglect their responsibilities may face the following penalties:

• Fines: Many cities impose fines for unshoveled sidewalks. Depending on the municipality, these fines can range from $50 to $300 per offense. Repeated violations may result in increased penalties.
• Legal Liability: If someone slips and falls on a poorly maintained sidewalk outside a business, the property owner could be held legally responsible. This can lead to personal injury lawsuits, which may result in significant financial settlements or court-ordered compensation.
• Increased Insurance Costs: Businesses that face multiple liability claims due to unsafe walkways may see their insurance premiums rise. Some insurers may even refuse to renew policies if a business has a history of claims related to winter hazards.
• Reputation Damage: Customers are unlikely to visit a business that does not prioritize safety. If a storefront is consistently difficult to access during the winter months, people may choose to shop elsewhere, leading to lost revenue.

To avoid these consequences, businesses should take a proactive approach to snow and ice removal. Proper planning and swift action can prevent fines, legal trouble, and customer dissatisfaction.

Best Practices for Business Owners

Preparing for winter weather can make all the difference when it comes to keeping a business compliant and safe. Here are some essential best practices that business owners should follow:

1. Monitor Weather Reports and Plan Ahead

Business owners should stay informed about upcoming winter storms and be ready to act. Keeping track of weather forecasts can help ensure that snow removal efforts begin as soon as a storm passes. If a major snowfall is expected overnight, it’s wise to have a plan in place before closing for the evening.

2. Hire a Snow Removal Service

For businesses with large properties, such as shopping centers or office buildings, hiring a professional snow removal company is often the best solution. These services can plow parking lots, shovel sidewalks, and apply de-icing treatments, ensuring compliance with local laws.

3. Apply Salt and Sand for Ice Prevention

Even after shoveling, sidewalks can become slippery due to refreezing. Applying salt or sand can help improve traction and reduce the risk of accidents. Many municipalities recommend using environmentally friendly de-icing products to minimize damage to pavement and surrounding vegetation.

4. Clear Snow from All Entrances and Pathways

In addition to sidewalks, business owners should make sure that all building entrances, emergency exits, and walkways are free from snow and ice. A blocked entrance can create a fire hazard, while an icy walkway can deter customers from entering a store or office.

5. Keep a Record of Snow Removal Efforts

Maintaining documentation of snow removal efforts can be useful in case of legal disputes. Business owners should keep records of when snow was cleared, which areas were treated with salt or sand, and any complaints or concerns reported by customers or employees.

6. Clarify Responsibilities in Lease Agreements

If a business operates in a rented space, the lease agreement should clearly define who is responsible for snow and ice removal. In some cases, landlords handle maintenance, while in others, tenants must take care of it themselves. Understanding these obligations can prevent confusion and ensure compliance with local laws.

Call Allin Rose for Snow and Ice Consultation

While the focus is often on sidewalks and storefronts, Pennsylvania businesses must also consider other winter maintenance responsibilities. For example:

• Parking Lots: Large commercial properties must ensure that parking areas are plowed and salted to prevent vehicle accidents and pedestrian injuries.
• Handicap Accessibility: Businesses must keep handicap-accessible ramps and parking spaces clear of snow and ice to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Snow Piles: Pushing snow into the street or blocking fire hydrants with plowed snow is illegal in many municipalities and can result in fines.

By staying on top of these responsibilities, businesses can provide a safe and welcoming environment for customers, employees, and visitors throughout the winter months.

Don’t let winter weather put your business at risk. If you have questions about snow and ice removal regulations in Pennsylvania or need legal guidance, contact us today for expert assistance.