Snow is in the forecast again and the City of Richmond has updated its regulations for shovelling sidewalks.
According to updated bylaws, the fine for not shovelling the sidewalk has increased from $70 to $125.
Residents and businesses are required to clear snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their properties no later than 10 a.m. every day.
This applies to residential properties, including single-family and multi-family, and commercial and industrial properties. The city has also added properties that are undeveloped or under construction to the list.
Those shovelling snow off the sidewalks are asked to shovel snow onto lawns or into a parking stall or the side of a driveway rather than the street, and leave a path in the snow banks for pedestrians to pass through.
The city is also warning that placing snow onto the street creates a hazard for vehicles and slows down the road clearing process.
Community members who wish to report properties that have not been shovelled can email [email protected] with the property address, date and time of your experience and details and/or photos. A Bylaw Enforcement Officer will be dispatched.
They can also call 604-276-4345 to speak directly with an associate.
The bylaws email is monitored Monday to Sunday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and the phone number is monitored Monday to Friday, excluding holidays, from 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bylaw officers may not be able to reply depending on request volume.
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