Snow Clearing in Bozeman

What You Should Know & Best Practices

 

Know Your Snow Removal Responsibilities
Where You CANNOT Pile Snow
Use Safe and Effective De-Icing Methods.
Work With Your Neighbors
Keep a Clear Path for Mail & Waste Pickup!
Hire a Professional Snow Removal Service

 

Here at Evergreen, we've been clearing snow in Bozeman for 18 years. We know how important it is to get thru our long and snowy winters, while making it safe and functional to get around.

We've taken a look at Bozeman's Municipal Code, and here's what that means for the residential and commercial properties:

The information provided in this article is for informational and journalistic purposes only. The author is not a legal expert, safety professional, or municipal official. This content should not be interpreted as legal advice, regulatory guidance, or a substitute for consulting with qualified professionals.

 

Know Your Snow Removal Responsibilities

The City of Bozeman requires property owners to clear snow from sidewalks adjacent to their property. Failing to do so can lead to fines or unsafe conditions for pedestrians.
Source: Bozeman Municipal Code - Sec. 34.06.030

• If you own property with a paved sidewalk, you must remove snow and ice from it.

• Clear sidewalks in business district by 9:00am, the next business day or 12:00 noon the next non-business day, or within four business hours of snowfall, whichever is sooner.

• In residential areas clear sidewalks within 24 hours of snowfall.

• Oh, and if your property is a double frontage (a lot with sidewalks on both an arterial street and another street), you do not have to clear the sidewalk along the arterial street, but you must clear the other sidewalk.

 

Where You CANNOT Pile Snow

Dumping snow in the wrong places can create hazards.

• You cannot pile snow on or against fire hydrants, on sidewalks curbs or roadways, in public transportation loading zones, or in areas designated for emergency vehicle access.

 

Use Safe and Effective De-Icing Methods.

Even if sidewalks are shoveled, ice can still create dangerous slip hazards.

• Use sand, salt, or deicing agents to prevent slick conditions.

• Calcium chloride or magnesium chloride are less harmful to concrete and plants than traditional rock salt.

• If ice buildup makes shoveling difficult, apply sand or other de-icing immediately.

• Continue clearing as soon as weather conditions make it possible.

 

Work With Your Neighbors

Snow removal is easier when neighbors collaborate.

• If you're out of town, arrange for someone to clear your sidewalks.

• Help elderly or disabled neighbors clear their snow if they need assistance.

• If hiring a snow removal service, ensure they follow city regulations for disposal.

 

Keep a Clear Path for Mail & Waste Pickup!

Snow blocking driveways, mailboxes, or trash pickup areas can lead to service disruptions.

• Keep at least a three-foot wide path clear around mailboxes.

• Make sure garbage and recycling bins are accessible on collection days.

• Avoid piling snow at the end of driveways.
  Source: Bozeman Public Works Department

 

Hire a Professional Snow Removal Service

Professional services ensure timely snow removal and reduce liability risks.

• Choose a contractor with proper insurance coverage and experience in commercial snow removal.

• Ensure the contract covers plowing, shoveling, and de-icing.

• Set clear guidelines on how often snow will be removed and where excess snow will be placed.
  The Snow & Ice Management Association recommends hiring certified snow removal professionals for commercial properties.