Champaign Enforces Snow Removal Ordinance Following Overnight Accumulation

Share and Follow

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Early Monday morning, Central Illinois experienced its first snowfall of the season, as snow from Chicago’s lake effect pushed southward. This weather event triggered the City of Champaign to enforce its sidewalk snow removal ordinance.

According to a news release from the Public Works Department, snowfall records show that at least two inches blanketed the city. To ensure pedestrian safety, Director Terry Lusby announced that the ordinance would go into effect starting at 10:30 a.m. on Monday.

The local ordinance mandates that property owners clear their sidewalks within 24 hours of the director’s announcement. Failure to comply could result in the city taking action and billing the property owner for the clearance. Sidewalks must be cleared to their full width or at least 48 inches across, whichever measurement is smaller. For properties located at intersections, owners are also responsible for clearing the ramps that connect sidewalks to the street.

Residents are advised to avoid shoveling snow onto the street to prevent additional hazards.

The ordinance is in effect for the Downtown, Midtown and Campustown areas. Maps of these areas and more information on snow removal can be found on the City of Champaign’s website.

“The City appreciates the cooperation of property owners in making these sidewalks safer for pedestrians and those with multimodal needs for transportation,” Public Works officials said.