Snow and Ice Removal Guidelines for Medford Residents

Many Medford residents could be dealing with icy sidewalks tomorrow morning as a result of Wednesday’s Freezing Rain Advisory.

The city of Medford has rules about snow and ice removal that you may not know about. With ice falling from the sky, it is important to review what is and isn’t allowed when it comes to snow and ice removal.

Residents are required to keep adjacent sidewalks clear of snow and ice. If you are out of town, the city suggests that you have a friend or neighbor take care of it for you. It is the responsibility of the resident to clear openings at corners, openings and curb cuts so that pedestrians can navigate those areas safely. Residents are also required to dig out fire hydrants and catch basins.

Residents are also reminded to park no closer than 20 feet from a street corner so that plows can safely clear the area.

According the City of Medford website, here’s a list of materials that you should take note of while clearing sidewalks:

• Use ice melt with calcium chloride (CaCl2). It has environmental benefits and works efficiently
• Use biodegradable cat litter for traction on icy surfaces
• Rock salt (NaCl or sodium chloride) should be avoided as it is harmful to the environment
• Sand should be avoided because it makes hard ice more slippery and can get into storm drains and catch basins.

Residents are required to remove snow and ice within six hours of a storm. You will be fined $25 for the first offense and $50 for every day thereafter. Also, throwing snow from the sidewalks into the street could result in a $50 fine.

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