East Lansing City Council adopted a new snow and ice removal ordinance in 2011, which modifies the City’s previous ordinance. The ordinance, drafted with the assistance of student and resident input, will help to create a more safe and walkable community for all East Lansing residents.
The new snow removal ordinance, Ord. 1262, was adopted to further clarify snow removal requirements for residents. Now, snow that accumulates before noon on a property owner’s sidewalks must be cleared prior to midnight that same day. Snow that accumulates after noon must be cleared by midnight of the following day.
Ice removal requirements remain the same. Ice should be cleared or an abrasive (salt, sand, ect.) should be applied within 12 hours of formation.
Fines under this new ordinance include $25 for a first offense, $75 for a second offense and $125 for an offense occurring after more than one prior offense.
Download Snow Removal Ordinance (One-Pager Plus FAQ)
Helpful Tips If you are renting a house or building, discuss with your landlord who will take responsibility for clearing the adjacent sidewalks. Both parties can receive fines if the sidewalks are not cleared.
If residents are leaving for more than a day, the City suggests having a neighbor or a friend look after their property in case of snow or ice accumulation. This can be especially helpful for student housing when they leave for winter break.
Senior citizens (60+) who are unable to shovel their snow can contact the Prime Time Seniors' Program at (517) 337-1113 to learn more about chore service for snow removal. Chore Service Guidelines