Shoveling snow is a task most of us approach on autopilot. The momentary ahh, pretty! of waking up to a fresh blanket of white powder fades quickly as you leap into action: You clear what needs clearing, push the snow aside and call it a job well done. But is it? As long as the sidewalk is clear, few of us pause to think about whether our shoveling could come back to haunt us.
The problem is, one hasty decision can cross a line you didn’t even know existed. In some places, it can lead to fines, warnings or even bigger issues. We check in with Thomas Simeone, an attorney based in Washington, D.C., who not only knows the law, but he’s shoveled more than his fair share of snow. Before the next winter storm hits, it’s vital you understand a common cold-weather misstep that can cost you more than sore arms.
Keep reading to learn what you’re supposed to do, and what you’re definitely not, so you can avoid running afoul of the law this winter.
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What common shoveling mistake could result in a fine this winter?
Are you ready for this? You have to keep the snow you shovel on your side of any property lines. Not the alley, not the neighbor’s side yard—and definitely not the street.
Shoveling or blowing snow into the road or onto someone else’s yard may feel like harmless problem-solving, but in many towns and cities, it’s expressly prohibited. Municipal codes across the United States make it clear: Snow cleared from your driveway or sidewalk must stay on your property to protect traffic flow and pedestrian safety.
Simeone says homeowners are often surprised by how far those rules extend. “It isn’t just about clearing your own walk,” he explains. “Where you move the snow matters. If you shovel it into the street, your town or city can issue a citation—and in places with strict ordinances, they do.”
What are the consequences of ignoring this rule?
Usually, it’s a fine (we’ll bring you those details coming up). But even if you avoid the long arm of the municipal code enforcers, Simeone says there’s another risk many people don’t consider: civil liability. Pushing snow onto a neighbor’s property without permission can be considered trespass, especially if you step onto their property.
“The minute you trespas, you’re responsible for damages,” Simeone says. And in some cases, things could quickly escalate. “If a neighbor slips and falls on snow you put there, you may be held responsible,” he adds, especially if the danger was foreseeable. (And let’s be honest, piling a soon-to-be melting and refreezing pile of snow onto your neighbor’s property, particularly a walk or driveway, probably qualifies.)
“And if your neighbor can prove damages, you’re on the hook,” Simeone says. The legal concept is similar to dumping yard waste over a fence. Placing anything, including snow, onto another person’s land without consent can expose you to responsibility for what happens next.
How much could you get fined?
Local snow ordinances vary widely, but they’re far from rare. Cities and towns across much of the Northeast, Midwest and Mountain West—anywhere winter weather is routine—have rules that prohibit dumping snow into streets, sidewalks and other public rights-of-way. In many places, enforcement starts with warnings, but fines can escalate quickly, especially for repeat violations.
In New York City, for example, failing to properly clear snow and ice from sidewalks can result in fines of $100 to $150 for a first offense, increasing to $350 or more if the violation continues. Other cold-weather cities, including Boston, Chicago and Minneapolis, also issue citations for pushing snow from private property into public spaces. In Maine, some towns explicitly warn residents against placing snow into public ways, with fines reaching up to $500. In extreme cases, where snow obstructs traffic, additional penalties can apply.
And cities are only part of it. “If you live in a community with a homeowners association, they often have their own snow-removal rules,” Simeone says. Your HOA may issue warnings or levy fines for failing to clear walkways properly or for piling snow where it doesn’t belong—sometimes regardless of whether the town gets involved. “I’ve personally received a warning letter,” Simeone adds, underscoring how common enforcement can be.
So what should you do with all that shoveled snow?
The basic rule of thumb is simple: Keep it on your property. Push snow onto your lawn or side yard—not across the sidewalk, not into the street and not onto adjacent properties. Spread it out where it won’t block sight lines or refreeze into an ice hazard.
If you simply have too much snow (a common situation after a heavy storm), consider professional snow removal or coordinate with neighbors to alternate shoveling duties. A few communities even promote using a buddy system, encouraging neighbors to spread the workload around while keeping everyone compliant.
What else should you keep in mind?
Snow has a way of testing patience and neighborly goodwill. Clearing it is necessary, and placing it thoughtfully keeps you from a fine or an awkward encounter with your neighbor come spring. Here’s what to do:
- Know your local laws. Snow-removal and placement rules vary by municipality; many towns post their ordinances online, and code enforcement is often happy to answer questions before issuing fines.
- Talk to your neighbors. A friendly heads-up about snow piles can prevent disputes before they start.
- Be cautious with shared driveways or stoops. These areas often have additional rules or neighbors who feel particularly protective of the shared space. Work together!
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Sources:
- Thomas Simeone, personal injury attorney and adjunct law professor in Washington, D.C.; interviewed, January 2026
- City of New York: “Snow Removal: Your Responsibilities”
- City of Boston: “Rules on Clearing Snow”
- City of Chicago: “Sidewalk Snow Removal”
- City of Minneapolis: “Snow Clearing Guidelines”
- MPR News: “What to know to avoid getting fined for not shoveling your sidewalks”
- City of Portland: “Winter Sidewalks”
The post If You Make This Common Mistake When Shoveling, You Could Get Fined Up to $500 Each Time appeared first on Reader's Digest.
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