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Somerville inspectional services details sidewalk‑clearing enforcement after winter storm

2257165 · February 11, 2025

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Summary

Inspectional Services described a six‑hour daylight grace period after snow events, prioritized enforcement (assisted‑living/hospitals, schools, enhanced enforcement corridors) and said staff issued about 100 tickets for the recent storm; tickets are appealable and a shoveling program exists for seniors.

Director Antana Vittgo of Inspectional Services told the committee on Feb. 10 that the city enforces sidewalk clearing after snowstorms according to an ordinance that affords a six‑hour daylight grace period after accumulation. The department notifies 311, communications, DPW and the mayor's office when the grace period ends and then deploys inspectors.

Vittgo said inspectors prioritize vulnerable areas — assisted‑living facilities, hospitals and schools — then proceed to designated enhanced enforcement corridors such as Broadway and School Street before following up on 311 complaints. "Once the storm finishes, we have 6 hours of daylight. The ordinance allows for 6 hours of daylight to clear as part of a grace period," Vittgo said.

The director said enforcement teams generally include seven to 10 staff on ticketing days; building and fire inspectors also check egress paths for places of assembly and multi‑unit residential buildings. Vittgo said approximately 100 tickets were issued for the most recent storm; residential fines start at $50 and commercial fines at $100, escalating on repeat violations.

Councilors asked about protections for seniors and residents with mobility limitations. Vittgo said the city runs a youth shoveling program and that tickets are appealable to ISD or to the city's hearing officer, who holds hearings twice monthly. The department mails tickets and leaves door hangers to notify occupants.

Councilors requested a written snow enforcement procedure describing routes, prioritization and staffing; Vittgo agreed to provide that to the committee.