Two days after the first significant snowfall of the year, some sidewalks in Kitchener neighbourhoods are still covered in snow.
This could land the property owner with a fine up to $400.
Dozens of complaints about unshoveled sidewalks were made on Monday, leading the City of Kitchener to hand out warnings.
If someone receives a warning and doesn’t take action, they can expect a fine in the form of a bill roughly 24 hours later.
The snow removal bylaw for sidewalks in Kitchener has been stepped up to protect those with disabilities, older adults, parents with strollers, or anyone using mobility devices.
“I am in a power wheelchair and I hate it, the snow is horrible because I can’t always get a ride,” explains Faith Austin.
She says she has been stuck in front of her house and on her way to the bus stop.
Once a bylaw officer inspects a property after a complaint and issues a notice, they can give an invoice if the sidewalk is not cleared to the pavement.
According to the city, 65 such notices were handed out in one day.
"Just a little bit of snow or a little bit of ice can be a huge barrier for people with accessibility issues," says Andrena Lockley-Brown, the program manager at the Independent Living Centre.
These fines can average $280, depending on the size of the sidewalk.
Agencies that provide snow removal to seniors or others who are unable to clear their sidewalks are available, such as Community Support Connections and the Working Centre.
Homeowners can pick up free sand for icy walks at the Kitchener Operations Facility on Goodrich Drive.
