Who’s Responsible for Snow & Ice Removal in Chicago?

When winter hits Chicago, icy sidewalks become more than just inconvenient — they're dangerous. At the Law Offices of Leonard S. Becker, we’ve helped many clients seriously injured in slip-and-fall accidents caused by unsafe winter conditions. Knowing your legal responsibility for snow and ice removal is key to protecting both yourself and others.

 

Illinois Law: Limited Liability for Homeowners

Under Illinois law, residential property owners are generally not required to remove naturally accumulating snow and ice from their property. The Illinois Snow and Ice Removal Act was created to protect homeowners who try to help by shoveling. As long as you’re acting in good faith and not creating new hazards, you’re typically protected from liability if someone slips. However, this immunity does not extend to commercial property owners, who are expected to keep their premises reasonably safe during winter conditions.

 

Chicago’s Ordinance: Shoveling Is Required

In Chicago, the rules are stricter. The city mandates that property owners, landlords, and tenants must clear the sidewalks in front of their buildings. Snow must be removed within three hours of the snowfall ending during the day, or by 10 a.m. if it falls overnight. The law also requires that sidewalks be cleared wide enough - typically five feet - to allow safe passage. Failing to comply can result in fines, starting at $50 and increasing with repeated violations.

Even with state protection, property owners can still be held liable if a slip-and-fall is caused by unnatural accumulation. This can happen when water from a broken gutter refreezes on a walkway or when poor drainage or piled snow causes runoff that turns to ice. These man-made hazards fall outside the protections of the law, and property owners can be sued if someone gets hurt as a result.

 

Why It Matters

Ultimately, removing snow and ice isn’t just about avoiding legal trouble. It’s about preventing harm. Every winter, countless people suffer serious injuries from falls that could have been prevented with a little care and effort. Clearing your sidewalks helps protect neighbors, postal workers, delivery drivers, and anyone else who passes by your property.

 

Even if the law doesn’t always require it, taking responsibility for winter safety can protect both your community and your peace of mind. 

 

If you or someone you care about has been injured in a slip-and-fall, the Law Offices of Leonard S. Becker is here to help. With more than 30 years of experience in personal injury and premises liability, we are committed to holding negligent parties accountable and fighting for the compensation our clients deserve.