Winter Sidewalk Clearing

Sidewalks are an essential part of the transportation system for pedestrians. Just as motorists need roads clear of snow and ice to get around, pedestrians need clear sidewalks to get to places work, school, the bus stop, doctors offices, and the grocery store.

The big difference between streets and sidewalks in the KC metro is that sidewalk maintenance and clearing is the responsibility the property owner and/or tenant, not the city. Pedestrians rely on homeowners, tenants, and businesses to keep sidewalks safe and passable. However, local cities to play an important role in setting and enforcing policies that ensure safety and accessibility for pedestrians. The rules vary from city to city:

Kansas City, MO has the most comprehensive regional policy. According to Sec. 64.246 of the Code of Ordinances: 

“it shall be the duty of all persons owning or occupying any real property, fronting upon any street, boulevard or highway, to remove from the sidewalks in front or alongside of such property all ice and snow within a reasonable time after cessation of a storm depositing such ice or snow. The provisions of chapter 62, article III, pertaining to littering, and penalties for violations thereof, shall be applicable to violations of this section.”

KCMO's policy is enforced by the Neighborhoods and Housing Department. Fines range from $25 to $100, depending on the severity of the situation. You can report uncleared sidewalks to the 3-1-1 Action Center:

Kansas City, KS and Wyandotte County

Overland Park, KS

Independence, MO

Olathe, KS

Mission, KS – Snow Angels
This program matches volunteers with elderly or disabled residents who need help clearing sidewalks.

Businesses and Parking Lots

Businesses that use plows or contractors to clear their parking lots should ensure that snow is not piled up on or blocking sidewalks.