Sidewalk snow & ice removal rules in Cedar Rapids

The City would like to take this opportunity to inform the public of the ordinance requirements regarding sidewalk clearing in Cedar Rapids.

Sidewalks must be cleared within a reasonable time, but in no case longer than 48 hours, after the snow has fallen or ice has formed, except in cases of severe weather. Exceptions to severe weather are periods normally defined as blizzards or severe frost bite warnings by the National Weather Service.

If it is not reasonably practicable to remove the snow and ice from the sidewalk, the property owner shall spread suitable material upon the sidewalk to prevent the surface from being slippery. The failure of the owner of the abutting property to remove snow or ice from the sidewalk shall not make the City liable to any person for damages, arising out of damages caused by the failure to the abutting property owner to remove snow or ice from the sidewalk.

After the 48 hour period, the City will take actions per its ordinance. The same requirements for snow or freezing rain apply to sump pump or a house gutter discharge that forms ice on a sidewalk.  The weather combination of rain on Wednesday and Thursday and cold temperatures on Friday could result in the formation of ice on sidewalks.

To report a sidewalk, you can contact Public Works at 286-5802 or email

Street@cedar-rapids.org.

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