Snow Removal in Kitchener-Waterloo: What You Need to Know
Keeping sidewalks and entrances clear of snow and ice isn’t just a courtesy in Kitchener and Waterloo, it’s a legal responsibility. Property owners who don’t clear their sidewalks on time risk fines, extra charges from the City, and even liability if someone slips and falls.
In this guide, we’ll cover the snow removal rules in both cities, explain when and how snow should be cleared, and show how working with a reliable snow removal company can give you peace of mind all winter.
Snow Removal Rules & Bylaws in Kitchener
Both cities take sidewalk safety seriously. Slips and falls create huge liability risks for homeowners and businesses.
Snow Removal Requirements in Kitchener
- Homeowners and property managers must clear snow and ice from all sidewalks bordering their property within 24 hours after snowfall stops.
- Sidewalks must be cleared down to bare pavement.
- If sidewalks aren’t cleared, the City can remove the snow and bill the property owner, with fines for repeat violations.
Snow Removal Requirements in Waterloo
- Property owners are required to remove snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their property within 24 hours of accumulation.
- If a roof slopes onto a public sidewalk, snow and ice must be removed from the roof within 24 hours.
- Failure to comply can result in fines from $250 up to $100,000 for serious or repeat violations. The City may also clear the sidewalk and charge the cost to the property owner.
Having an agreement with a reliable snow removal company gives peace of mind, ensures sidewalks are cleared on time, and helps you avoid hefty fines or liability issues.
Plus, you won’t have to break your back shovelling snow! We’ll do the heavy lifting for you.
Call 519-721-8214 to speak with us about snow removal for your property.
Timing & Best Practices for Homeowners and Property Managers
The bylaws tell you when you must clear snow, but in reality, the best time to shovel or plow is as soon as possible after accumulation. Think about when people actually use the sidewalks around your property:
- Early in the morning when kids walk to school or neighbours head to work
- Midday when people are out with strollers, groceries, or mobility devices
- Evenings when sidewalks can re-freeze and become icy hazards
Residential: Aim to clear by early morning so sidewalks are safe before school and work traffic begins.
Commercial & Condos: Keep entrances, lots, and sidewalks clear during business hours. This may require multiple visits during a heavy storm.
Snow removal isn’t just about shovelling or plowing. Salting and de-icing are critical for preventing slips on ice and slush.
At Maple Leaf, we monitor weather conditions overnight and dispatch crews in the early hours of the morning so your property is clear before most people are out for the day.
How Much Does Snow Removal Cost in Kitchener-Waterloo?
Residential snow removal starts from $395/month as part of our year-round maintenance packages. Pricing depends on the size of your property and the level of service you need. For commercial and condo properties, please contact us for a customized quote.
How Maple Leaf Lawn Maintenance Helps
Reliable Snow & Ice Response
Many customers switch to Maple Leaf after dealing with contractors who simply don’t show up. We closely monitor the weather, and when snow or ice arrives, you can count on us to be there every time. Our reputation is built on reliability and consistent service, storm after storm.
Comprehensive Snow & Ice Management
Our services include efficient snow plowing for driveways and parking lots, prompt clearing of sidewalks and entrances, plus proactive salting and de-icing to keep surfaces safe.
Owner-Operated, No Subcontractors
With us, there’s no faceless crew. Our trained, local team handles every job directly and consistently.
Flexible, Customized Plans
We build service packages tailored to your residential, condo, or commercial property to meet your specific needs and budget.
Key Takeaway
Snow removal in Kitchener and Waterloo is your legal responsibility as a property owner. By staying ahead of snow and ice, you can avoid costly fines, reduce liability risks, and keep your property safe. Partnering with a reliable snow removal company like Maple Leaf ensures peace of mind all winter.