In an incident that has stirred discussion across Ontario, a homeowner in Toronto was baffled to find a bill from the city for snow removal — despite personally shoveling their sidewalk promptly after a snowfall. The charge, which came without warning, has raised serious questions about the enforcement of municipal bylaws, what counts as “sufficient” snow removal, and how local authorities determine compliance.
This situation is not as isolated as it may seem. Cases of residents receiving fines or service charges even after personally attempting to comply with snow clearing rules have been increasing in recent years. City officials argue that safety and accessibility are paramount, but many homeowners feel blindsided — unclear on how to fulfill their obligations under city ordinances. So why are conscientious residents still getting charged?
At a glance: Why Ontario homeowners are being billed
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Toronto, Ontario |
| Cause of bill | Alleged failure to adequately clear snow within mandated timeframe |
| Municipal rule | Sidewalks must be cleared within 12 hours after snowfall |
| Resident’s claim | Snow was cleared manually shortly after snowfall ended |
| City policy | Inspection may have occurred before complete clearing was finished |
| Fine/Charge | Average $300-$450 per infraction for city-conducted snow removal |
What changed this year
Toronto, along with other municipalities in Ontario, recently intensified enforcement of its snow removal bylaws. While the rules about prompt snow clearing are not new, increased focus on pedestrian safety — especially for seniors and people with disabilities — has led to quicker inspections and stricter interpretation of the guidelines. The city has hired more inspectors and is using public service crews to automatically clear properties judged to be non-compliant, billing homeowners after the fact.
The tightening of these rules follows several slip-and-fall incidents in past winters that led to insurance claims and lawsuits. Municipalities are now under pressure to ensure sidewalks remain accessible. But some residents argue that the standards for what constitutes “adequate” removal are vague, and penalties come with little warning or recourse.
What the municipal bylaw says
According to Toronto’s Municipal Code, homeowners are required to clear snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their property within 12 hours of the end of a snowfall. This rule is intended to maintain pedestrian access and minimize injury risks. If a sidewalk is deemed impassable or hazardous when inspectors are in the area, a work order can be logged immediately — with city crews dispatched to do the clearing and a charge applied to the property.
What’s less clear is how consistently these inspections are performed and what criteria determine “non-compliance.” Some experts argue that minor snow remnants, or compacted snow that quickly re-ices, might trigger a citation even if a homeowner did shovel promptly.
There’s a disconnect between what residents think is sufficient and how inspectors evaluate the clearance, especially in borderline weather conditions.
— Emily Thorne, Urban Policy Specialist
Why some shoveling efforts don’t protect you from charges
In the case grabbing headlines, the homeowner claims to have cleared the snow early in the morning after an overnight snowstorm. The bill from the city came several days later, stating that the snow removal service had to be performed because the sidewalk was not adequately cleared. According to city records, the inspection happened during mid-morning hours — possibly before salt could fully melt thin layers of ice or before the snow removal was 100% complete.
Residents often assume that making a reasonable effort is enough, but under current enforcement practices, partial clearance or remaining slippery conditions can trigger intervention. City officials also note that some sidewalks re-freeze, especially if they’re not salted, which can be just as hazardous as untouched snow.
Who qualifies and why it matters
Notably, there are exemptions and programs available to seniors and people with disabilities who physically cannot maintain their sidewalks. The city also runs subsidized snow removal programs for qualified applicants. However, these services are limited and must be applied for annually. Many residents are unaware of these options, or discover them only after facing hefty fines.
For residents who do not qualify for exemptions, the responsibility is absolute — regardless of age, weather conditions, or effort made. Some argue this fails to consider good-faith attempts and disproportionately punishes homeowners without resources for professional snow removal.
The cost of a single snow removal offense can equal a month’s groceries. For lower-income homeowners, it’s a devastating penalty.
— James Park, Housing Justice Advocate
Winners and losers from stricter enforcement
| Winners | Losers |
|---|---|
| Pedestrians and accessibility advocates | Homeowners who manually shovel sidewalks |
| City liability teams | Seniors unaware of exemption programs |
| Snow removal contractors | Residents with corner lots or wide frontage |
How to avoid getting charged
To minimize risk of being wrongly billed, homeowners should follow best practices that go beyond basic shoveling:
- Clear full width of sidewalks — not just a narrow path
- Use salt or sand to prevent re-freezing
- Photograph the cleared sidewalk with time-stamped photos
- Check weather apps to know when the 12-hour window closes
- Create a log of your clearing routines in case disputes arise
Additionally, consider speaking to your city councillor about signage or clarification guidelines to ensure municipal staff are enforcing uniformly. Some areas have begun posting notice tags before conducting removal — a move welcomed by residents as fairer and more transparent.
How to appeal a snow removal bill
If you receive a bill for snow removal you believe was in error, you can initiate a dispute through the city’s municipal services office. The appeal window is typically 30 days. You’ll be asked to provide any evidence of snow removal (e.g., time-stamped photos, witness statements, payment receipts from contractors). However, success rates for appeals vary, and many are denied due to insufficient documentation or subjective assessment by inspectors.
Keep receipts, take photos. Without proof, you’re at a disadvantage. We advise homeowners to treat snow clearing just like any professional maintenance obligation.
— Sarah Nkomo, Municipal Law Attorney
Calls for proactive reform
In light of the recent controversy, city councillors and advocacy groups are pushing for reform in the policy’s enforcement process. Proposals include notification tags before fines, a grace period after initial warnings, and clearer guidelines for what qualifies as “adequate” clearance.
Toronto’s winter challenges are real — but so are the limitations of homeowners doing their best in unpredictable conditions. As more residents face unexpected fees, the push for clarity, fairness, and a strong community-lens in bylaw enforcement will only intensify with future snow seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to clear my sidewalk after snowfall in Ontario?
In most Ontario cities, including Toronto, you are required to clear sidewalks within 12 hours after the snowfall ends. Check your local municipal code for exact timing.
Can I be fined even if I shoveled my sidewalk?
Yes, if the city deems your sidewalk inadequately cleared — such as remaining icy or narrow — you may still be billed for a snow removal service.
How much can the city charge for snow removal?
Charges vary, but typically range from $300 to $450 per instance, depending on the size and location of the removal.
Can I fight or appeal a snow clearing bill?
Yes, you can dispute the charge through a municipal appeal process. Be ready with photographic or documented evidence of your efforts.
Are there exemptions for seniors or people with disabilities?
Yes, but you must apply before the winter season. Eligibility depends on age, mobility, and income requirements. Space in these programs may be limited.
Related Posts
