Snow removal
How soon after it snows do I have to clear my sidewalk in Madison, and what if I don't?
A common question, answered by the MadisonWI.com editors · November 9, 2026
1 answer
From MadisonWI.com
In the City of Madison, you need to clear public sidewalks by noon the day after the snow stops. That means the entire width of the sidewalk, edge to edge, with the ice removed too. Clear the curb ramps to crosswalks and driveways next to your property as well. You can use sand, or salt when it's above 15°F. Property owners are responsible; if you rent, check your lease to see who shovels. If the sidewalk isn't cleared, the City may give you a citation with a fine. For a curb ramp, the City starts with a warning and issues a ticket if the ramp still isn't cleared by the next day. If you hire a snow removal service, make sure it can meet the noon deadline. This covers the City of Madison only; Middleton, Fitchburg and other towns set their own rules. Source: City of Madison, Sidewalks (Winter) (checked November 2026).
Written by the MadisonWI.com editors · November 9, 2026