Regina residents will have to shovel more than just their driveways starting Saturday.
That’s when the City of Regina’s new sidewalk snow-clearing bylaw takes effect. The city is looking to make sidewalks safer and more accessible for those on foot, for those pushing a stroller or for those who use a mobility device.
“Regina is a winter city – we want everyone to get out and enjoy winter, and that includes having safe, accessible sidewalks throughout our community,” Kim Onrait, the executive director of citizen services for the City of Regina, said in a media release.
“As the new sidewalk snow-clearing bylaw comes into effect, the first year is focused on education. We already have a lot of people doing a great job of clearing sidewalks in a timely way, and we’re encouraging everyone to be a good neighbour. Make it easy to get out and be active this winter.”
Property owners must clear snow and ice from city sidewalks by their property within 48 hours of a snowstorm or ice storm. Some properties, primarily in the downtown area, must clear sidewalks within 24 hours.
Sidewalks must be cleared to the edges and as close to the concrete as possible.
Snow can be put onto a resident’s property or along the curb next to the sidewalk, provided it doesn’t interfere with traffic or cover storm drains. Snow shouldn’t be shovelled or blown into the road.
The city reminded people there now are 19 sand/salt mix barrels in the city. The mixture can be put on sidewalks for traction and can help get rid of ice during thaw and freeze cycles.