When winter arrives in Southern Ontario, property managers and commercial property owners know the drill. Snowstorms hit, ice forms, and suddenly, your sidewalks become more than just a pathway—they’re a potential liability.
While Snow Plowing for parking lots and driveways gets plenty of attention, sidewalk clearing is often overlooked. Yet, it’s the first thing tenants, employees, and customers touch when they step onto your property.
An icy, neglected sidewalk can lead to costly slip-and-fall accidents, tenant complaints, and damage to your reputation.
Who Is Responsible for Sidewalk Clearing in Ontario?
In Ontario, property owners and managers are typically responsible for keeping sidewalks adjacent to their property clear of snow and ice.
Local bylaws vary, but most municipalities require snow and ice to be removed within 24 hours of a snowfall. Failure to comply can lead to fines, or worse, liability if someone is injured.
- BURLINGTON: Businesses must clear sidewalks if the sidewalk is being used to access their business.
- HAMILTON: Property owners and occupants are required to clear snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their properties within 24 hours after a snowfall or freezing rain event.
- OAKVILLE: While the Town manages public sidewalk snow removal, property owners are encouraged to assist by clearing adjacent sidewalks to enhance safety and accessibility for all pedestrians. Property owners must clear all sidewalks and pathways that are used to access their business.
Ignoring these responsibilities isn’t just about avoiding tickets. It’s about protecting people and protecting your business.
Why Winter Sidewalk Maintenance Is Critical for Commercial Properties
Reduce Liability Risk
One patch of ice can lead to a serious fall—and a lawsuit. Property managers know the legal and financial pain that can follow a personal injury claim.
A consistent Winter Maintenance plan reduces your exposure. Negligence is hard to argue when you have professional support on your side.
Protect Your Reputation
Unsafe sidewalks reflect poorly on your business. Tenants may complain. Customers may choose a competitor with a safer property. Sloppy winter care can ripple into tenant dissatisfaction and lost leases.
Keep Your Property Accessible
An icy sidewalk can block access, limiting foot traffic and disrupting operations. For retail centers or professional offices, clear sidewalks keep businesses running.
Best Practices for Sidewalk Clearing Services
Clear Early, Clear Often
Don’t wait for the snow to pile up. Start clearing during the storm if needed. The goal is to prevent ice from forming underneath compressed snow.
Use the Right Equipment
- Shovels and Ice Chippers: Best for small areas or touch-ups.
- Snow Blowers: Efficient for long stretches of sidewalk.
- Plow Attachments: Useful for wide pedestrian walkways around plazas.
- Skid Steer / Bobcat: Useful quick and efficient snow management
Apply De-Icing Products
After clearing, apply salt or alternative de-icers to prevent refreezing. Black ice can form overnight, even after a daytime melt.
Professional De-Icing Services can help reduce salt overuse while keeping surfaces safe.
Be Proactive in High-Traffic Zones
Focus on building entrances, accessible ramps, and walkways leading from parking lots. These areas demand priority attention.
Sidewalk Safety in Winter: Tips for Property Managers
- Monitor Weather Patterns: Don’t just react—stay ahead of the weather. A surprise freeze or overnight snow can undo the previous day’s work.
- Train On-Site Staff: If your team assists with snow clearing, ensure they understand safety techniques and proper use of de-icing materials.
- Schedule Regular Checks: Assign someone to inspect sidewalks throughout the day, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Protect Your Landscaping: Salt runoff can damage nearby plants. Consider Eco-Friendly Solutions or strategic snow pile placement to minimize landscape harm.
Cost-Effective Sidewalk Clearing Strategies
Bundle Services
Combining Snow Plowing, sidewalk clearing, and De-Icing Services under a single contract often reduces overall costs. Bundled packages offer consistency and eliminate the hassle of coordinating multiple vendors.
Preventative De-Icing
Anti-icing before a storm can reduce snow buildup and lower labor costs later. Experienced contractors know when preventative steps make financial sense.
Evaluate Seasonal vs. Per-Push Contracts
Seasonal contracts offer cost predictability. Per-push agreements can work for properties with lower traffic but may lead to inconsistent service.
De-Icing Sidewalks: Choosing the Right Products
- Salt (Sodium Chloride): Standard, affordable, but can damage concrete and plants.
- Calcium Chloride: Works in colder temperatures, less harmful to surfaces.
- Sand: Improves traction but doesn’t melt ice.
- Eco-Friendly Solutions: Less corrosive, safer for landscaping.
Protecting Your Property This Winter
Keeping sidewalks safe isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a reflection of how you run your property. Sidewalk clearing services protect your tenants, reduce liability, and ensure smooth business operations all winter.
If you’re evaluating snow clearing providers this season, consider bundling your Snow Plowing, De-Icing Services, and full Winter Maintenance with a trusted landscape contractor in Burlington and surrounding areas.
Learn more about our Winter Maintenance Services.
