The first real snowstorm of the season always seems to catch someone off guard. For Salt Lake City landlords, the question is not just whether the sidewalk gets shoveled. It is who is responsible when it does not, and who gets the ticket.
Fall is the right time to answer that question, before the first storm rolls off the Wasatch. Here is what Salt Lake City's snow removal ordinance requires and how to set clear expectations with your tenants.
Key Takeaways
- Salt Lake City Code 14.20.070 requires clearing snow and ice from sidewalks within 24 hours after a storm ends.
- The cleared path must be at least 42 inches wide and cover the full length of the sidewalk, including curb ramps.
- The city can ticket the owner, lessor, or occupant, so your lease should specify who handles snow.
- Enforcement is largely complaint-driven, but fines can add up after each storm.
- Neighboring Wasatch Front cities have their own rules, so check each property's city code.
What Salt Lake City's Ordinance Requires
According to Salt Lake City's snow removal page, property owners must clear snow and ice from the sidewalk next to their property within 24 hours after a storm ends. The rule applies to all residents and businesses.
- Clear a path at least 42 inches wide, or the full width if the sidewalk is narrower
- Clear the full length of the sidewalk, including corners and curb ramps
- Do not push snow into the street or onto other sidewalks
- Clear snow after every storm, not just the big ones
The city also notes that clearing only a single snow-blower-width strip may not meet the standard. Remove or treat ice so the path is safe to walk on.
Who Can Be Ticketed
This is where rentals get tricky. The city can ticket the owner, lessor, or occupant of the property. That means you and your tenant could both be on the hook if the sidewalk isn't cleared.
Fines are civil penalties that can increase the longer the sidewalk stays uncleared. Check the city's current fine schedule, since amounts depend on the length of your street frontage.
Why Your Lease Needs a Snow Clause
Because the ordinance does not decide who handles snow at a rental, your lease should. A clear snow clause prevents arguments during a storm.
- Single-family homes: Many owners assign sidewalk and driveway snow removal to the tenant. If you do, say so clearly and explain the 24-hour rule.
- Duplexes and small multifamily: Shared sidewalks often work better with owner-arranged service, since it is unclear which tenant is responsible.
- Larger properties: Owner-managed snow contracts are usually the safest choice for common walkways, parking areas, and entrances.
Whatever you choose, put it in writing and review it with tenants at move-in. Our property management services can help you add clear, consistent language.
Safety and Liability Considerations
Icy walkways are a real injury risk. Utah Code 57-22-4 sets out an owner's duty to maintain safe premises, and a slip on an uncleared walkway can lead to claims against owners.
Even if your tenant handles snow, you may still want to check that the work gets done, especially at entrances, stairs, and common areas. Talk with your insurance agent about liability coverage and with an attorney about how your lease language allocates responsibility.
Your Pre-Storm Checklist
- Review every lease for a clear snow removal clause.
- Leave a shovel and ice melt at single-family rentals if tenants are responsible.
- Line up a snow removal vendor for shared or vacant properties before the first storm. Track storms with the National Weather Service Salt Lake City forecast.
- Choose ice melt that is safe for concrete and pets.
- Clean gutters and check downspouts so melting snow drains away from walkways.
- Look for low spots where water pools and refreezes.
Vacant units need extra attention. With no occupant to shovel, the owner is likely the only one to get ticketed, so arrange service in advance.
Protecting the Property Itself
- Snow removal isn't just about sidewalks. Heavy snow and repeated freeze-thaw cycles can damage the rental if you are not prepared.
- Roofs and ice dams: Poor attic insulation can cause melting snow to refreeze at the eaves and back up under shingles.
- Gutters and downspouts: Clogged gutters can cause ice buildup and water damage.
- Driveways and concrete: Some de-icers can damage newer concrete, so check product labels.
- Pipes: Remind tenants to keep the heat on and report any signs of frozen pipes right away.
A fall inspection by your maintenance team can catch these issues early. Small fixes in October usually cost much less than emergency repairs in January.
Rules in Other Wasatch Front Cities
Most Utah cities have their own snow removal ordinances, and timelines and fines vary. If you own rentals in places like West Valley City, Sandy, or Murray, check each city's code rather than assuming Salt Lake City's rules apply. For broader market context, see our 2026 Salt Lake market forecast.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to clear snow in Salt Lake City?
Within 24 hours after the storm ends, under Salt Lake City Code 14.20.070.
Can my tenant get a ticket for not shoveling?
Yes. The city can ticket the owner, lessor, or occupant. Your lease should explain who is responsible.
How wide does the cleared path need to be?
At least 42 inches wide, or the full width of the sidewalk if it is narrower, including curb ramps.
How do I report an uncleared sidewalk?
Salt Lake City lists a phone line for reports on its snow removal page: 801-535-7225.
Get Ready Before the First Flakes Fall
A few minutes reviewing leases and lining up help this fall can prevent tickets, injuries, and tense tenant conversations this winter. Clear expectations make snow season easier for everyone.
TierOne Real Estate helps Salt Lake City and Wasatch Front owners prepare rentals for every season. Contact our team to talk about your property.
