The Snow Season is upon us, which, in my 30 years’ experience, can run from Halloween to Tax Day. Best to be prepared with a shovel (human, gas, or electric powered), windshield scraper and wiper fluid, pet-safe ice-melt — and a review of the Residential Snow and Ice Removal Ordinance.

Passed in January 2024, only this year does it go into full effect, including fines for violations. The City has a helpful FAQ webpage here: https://www.watertown-ma.gov/1237/Residential-Snow-Ice-Removal-Ordinance-F . Both the ordinance and the debate over it were well-covered in these pages. The vote was 6-3 in favor, with dissenters arguing for a less-restrictive policy that punished only those homeowners who rarely, if ever, shoveled (which, in full disclosure, was my view).

Council President Sideris

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