Breaking this Rochester, MN Snow Rule Could Get You Fined

With snow coming our way this afternoon and evening, it's a good time to remind everyone that there are some snow rules in Rochester, Minnesota that we need to follow.

I know, we don't get snow here anymore, but when we do, we need to make sure we're following these rule or risk paying a fine.

Snow Rule in Rochester, Minnesota

One of our big snow rules in Rochester is parking on the opposite sides of the road. This is technically a rule for all winter, whether there's snow or not, but the purpose of it is to make sure the streets don't get too crowded. If you put cars on both sides of the road PLUS all of the snow piling up, you've got a problem.

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Another snow rule that isn't just a Rochester thing is to clear off ALL of your car before driving. It's tempting, especially when it's really cold, to only clear off what you need to see in front of you.

That's super dangerous. Clear off your whole windshield, side windows, back window, the top of your car, and the hood of your car. It's the safest thing to do, plus you could get pulled over if you don't.

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The Rochester snow rule I really wanted to remind you of today is how long you have to clear your sidewalk before you face a fine.

How Long You Have to Clear Snow From Your Sidewalk in Rochester, Minnesota

If you own a home in the Rochester city limits and have a sidewalk along your property, it's your job to make sure the sidewalk is clear of snow and ice. If you don't, someone can file a complaint and you'll be cited and have to pay a fee.

According to the City of Rochester, MN website, here's how the fees work in a residential area:

Residential Zone:

• 1st Citation = $40
• 2nd Citation = $60
• 3rd or more = $120

In a commercial area, it costs a bit more:

Commercial/CBD or Industrial Zone

• 1st Citation = $60
• 2nd Citation = $100
• 3rd or more = $200

In order to avoid a citation, you need to "remove snow and ice from sidewalks and intersection handicap ramps abutting your property within 24-hours of snowfall ending."

So there's plenty of time but don't put it off too long and risk it.

If you deal with someone who doesn't clear their sidewalk, it's quite easy to file a complaint if needed.

How to File a Complaint About Un-Cleared Sidewalk

If you see that there's a sidewalk and/or handicap ramp that isn't cleared in that 24 hour period, you can file a complaint by calling the Public Works office (507-328-2400) or you can submit an online request.

So be sure to get those sidewalks cleared. And if you'll be out of town during the winter and snow may hit while you're away, make sure to ask a neighbor to clear the sidewalk for you.