Wondering how fast you need to clear your sidewalk in Pullman after it snows? You’re not alone. Winter storms can move in fast on the Palouse, and it’s hard to know exactly what the city expects from property owners. In this guide, you’ll learn what Pullman typically requires, how enforcement and liability can affect you, and how to set up an easy winter plan that keeps neighbors safe. Let’s dive in.
Do Pullman owners have to shovel?
Many Washington cities require adjacent property owners to remove snow and ice from sidewalks within a set time after a storm, often within 12 to 48 hours once the snowfall stops. Pullman’s exact deadline and wording live in the municipal code and on city pages that address winter operations. Because timeframes vary by city, do not rely on a generic 24-hour rule.
Use this quick process to confirm the current Pullman rule:
- Search the official Pullman city website for the municipal code and look up “snow,” “sidewalk,” or “nuisance.”
- If the language is unclear, call Pullman Public Works or the City Clerk and ask for the exact code section and the required time window after snowfall or ice.
- Ask whether elderly or disabled owner exemptions exist and whether landlords can delegate responsibility to tenants.
Two common expectations across Washington cities also apply in Pullman unless the code says otherwise:
- Keep the sidewalk adjacent to your property passable and treat ice so pedestrians can travel safely.
- Do not push or blow snow into the street, onto curb ramps, bus stops, or across to another property. Keeping curb ramps and driveways clear supports safe travel for everyone.
What happens if you don’t
Cities typically enforce sidewalk clearing through code enforcement or public works. In many places, the process starts with a notice, followed by citations or administrative fines if you do not comply. Some cities will clear an unsafe sidewalk and bill the property owner for abatement.
In Pullman, you should confirm:
- Who handles complaints and how to report an uncleared sidewalk.
- Whether the city performs abatement, typical timelines for response, and any fees.
- Current fine amounts and whether repeated violations increase penalties.
Skipping your sidewalk also increases civil risk. If someone slips on ice in front of your property, a violation history can be used as evidence of negligence in a claim. Staying ahead of storms is the best way to reduce both fines and liability.
Liability and accessibility basics
If an injury occurs on an icy sidewalk beside your property, you may face a premises-liability claim. Homeowners insurance often addresses slip-and-fall claims in public right-of-way areas next to your home, but coverage depends on your policy and the facts of the incident. If an injury happens, notify your insurer promptly and consider speaking with an attorney.
Washington applies comparative fault, which means an injured person’s recovery can be reduced by their share of responsibility. For example, if a pedestrian ignored visible warnings or wore unsafe footwear, that could factor into the outcome. The details matter, so get case-specific advice when needed.
Accessibility also matters. While the ADA primarily applies to public entities, you should avoid creating barriers in the public right-of-way. Clearing a continuous path and keeping curb ramps open helps people using strollers, walkers, and mobility devices move safely. It also reduces complaints and potential exposure.
Your winter sidewalk plan
A simple plan makes winter storms manageable. Here’s how to prepare before the first flakes fly and what to do when the snow starts.
Before the snow
- Confirm the exact Pullman deadline and put a calendar reminder tied to storm forecasts.
- Build a toolkit: ergonomic snow shovel, snow pusher, an ice scraper for steps, a push broom for light dustings, de-icer, and sand or other traction material.
- Line up help: arrange backup with a neighbor, family member, or a paid service if you travel or have limited mobility. For rentals, put sidewalk duties in writing between owner and tenant.
- Protect your property: go easy on rock salt around concrete and plants. Consider alternatives like calcium magnesium acetate or use sand for traction.
During and after a storm
- Clear early and often. Removing a few inches at a time is easier than tackling heavy wet snow after it compacts.
- Create a continuous path 36 to 48 inches wide where feasible so mobility devices can pass.
- Treat ice-prone spots on steps, landings, and textured surfaces. Reapply traction if temperatures drop and refreezing is likely.
- Document your efforts with quick photos and timestamps. If a complaint arises later, your records help show you acted promptly.
Tools that work
- Manual shovels: inexpensive and precise. Choose an ergonomic handle and lift with your legs to reduce strain.
- Snow pushers: great for wider, flat sidewalks and lighter snows.
- Snow blowers: efficient on long runs and deep accumulation but require storage and maintenance.
- De-icers: rock salt works to about 20°F but can damage vegetation and some concrete. Calcium chloride works at lower temps but costs more. Use minimal amounts for safety and environmental care.
- Traction materials: sand or kitty litter improves grip without melting ice. Expect some cleanup once conditions improve.
Special situations
- Rental properties: spell out who shovels the sidewalk in the lease. Even when tenants agree to handle it, municipal rules may still hold the property owner responsible, so verify Pullman’s code.
- Multi-unit and HOA properties: check your CC&Rs or HOA rules. Many associations take on sidewalk clearing, but owners should confirm coverage and timelines.
- Vacant homes: owners are usually still responsible. If the city abates and bills you, keep records and receipts. Abatement does not erase liability for incidents that occurred before clearing.
How to confirm and report in Pullman
Make these steps your go-to when you need clarity or need to alert the city about a problem.
- Verify the rule
- Visit the official Pullman city website and open the municipal code. Search for “snow,” “sidewalk,” and “nuisance.”
- Note the exact section and the time window for clearing after snowfall or ice.
- Call for plain-language guidance
- Contact Pullman Public Works or the City Clerk and ask: “What is the current municipal code section requiring sidewalk snow and ice removal, and what is the deadline after snowfall?”
- Ask how to report problem sidewalks, who responds, and typical response times.
- Check enforcement and fines
- Contact code enforcement or the municipal court to confirm the current fine schedule and procedures.
- If your sidewalk was abated by the city, request documentation and keep all notices and receipts.
- Ask about accessibility
- For questions on curb ramps and ADA-related access in the public right-of-way, reach out to the city’s ADA coordinator or Public Works for best-practice guidance.
Stay ahead this winter
Clearing your sidewalk quickly is about more than avoiding a ticket. It keeps neighbors safe, supports students and staff walking to and from campus, and reduces your risk of a costly claim. The easiest way to stay compliant is to confirm Pullman’s exact deadline now, set up your toolkit, and create a backup plan for days you cannot shovel.
If you want help planning around winter maintenance while you buy, sell, or prepare a rental, I’m here to help. For local guidance tailored to your property and goals, connect with Unknown Company to Request a personalized home valuation.
FAQs
What are Pullman’s sidewalk snow deadlines after a storm?
- Pullman’s exact timeframe is set in the municipal code. Because deadlines vary by city, confirm the specific code section and the required hours after snowfall before winter begins.
Can I be fined in Pullman for not shoveling my sidewalk?
- Many cities use notices, fines, or abatement when sidewalks are not cleared. Contact Pullman code enforcement or the municipal court to confirm current penalties and procedures.
What should I use for de-icing my Pullman sidewalk?
- Rock salt is common but can damage concrete and plants, and it works only to about 20°F. Calcium chloride works at lower temperatures but costs more. Use small amounts and consider sand for traction.
How wide should I clear my sidewalk for accessibility in Pullman?
- Aim for a continuous path 36 to 48 inches wide where feasible. Keep curb ramps and driveways open so mobility devices and strollers can pass safely.
Who is responsible for sidewalk snow at a rental in Pullman?
- Put responsibility in writing in the lease, but verify Pullman’s code because cities often hold the property owner responsible even if a tenant agrees to shovel.
