CLEVELAND — When the snow falls like it did over the weekend, it can be a struggle to find a place to put all the snow. But as you clear your driveway and the sidewalks be sure you put the snow in the right place or you could be facing a fine.
For snow plow operators, there are some basic rules that are pretty much the same no matter where you go.
“I’ve seen guys get ticketed,” said Ben Reynolds, owner of Reynolds Property Management. He’s been plowing snow in Cleveland suburbs for years. The first thing he does when plowing somewhere new is check in with city hall to see if there are any special requirements.
“They always give you a list of all the rules in that city,” Reynolds said.
“It’s always going to be the same thing. No stacking across from the residence or business. Making sure that if you stack at the apron, people can still see while coming out.”
Cities all over the area have ordinances on the books that specifically cover snow, including Cleveland, Akron, Canton, Parma and Mentor.
Breaking the rules is typically a misdemeanor that would result in a fine. But each city is different.
And whether you’re a snow plow operator or you’re just a homeowner using a shovel or snowblower, moving snow from your property into the street or blocking a public sidewalk isn’t allowed.
Reynolds says this is one of the main rules, saying, “that’s one of the things, when I first got in this business, guys told me not to do.”
If the snow starts on your property, it must end on your property.
Some cities also require snow plow operators to display a permit and have flashing lights on your vehicle. Lighting, and anything else that can make the job safer, is a priority for Reynolds.
“A truck the size of this, we’re going to make sure all 4 corners are lit,” referring to his dump truck. “Lights on the dump truck. Lights on the top of the truck.”
Again, the laws vary depending on what city you go to, so be sure to check the local ordinances. This is especially true for homeowners as some cities require you to clear sidewalks too.
For example, Twinsburg requires residents to clear sidewalks within 24 hours after snow stops. And there are others with similar laws. You’ve been warned.