City warns about clearing sidewalks

The strategy of hoping the recent snow melts away might not be your best bet.

If you’re one of those who has some ice or snow lingering on the sidewalk, the City of La Crosse has a warning for you and your pocketbook: pick a different strategy.

The city’s engineering department sent out its annual warning about keeping sidewalks clean.

City rules require sidewalks and curb ramps be cleared of snow and ice within 24 hours after the snow stops falling.

Violations could result in crews clearing the sidewalks and billing property owners $2.50 a linear foot, plus a $50 administration fee. Tickets could also be issued but they almost never are.

The city also does not plan to give warnings for snowy sidewalk violators.

It does, however, provide residents with free sand/salt mix (info below).

Per City Ordinance Section 40-8 – Snow, Ice, and Debris Removal:

• Sidewalks shall be cleared to the full width.
• If packed snow cannot be removed; it should be treated as ice and sprinkled with ashes, sand or salt until such time that it can be removed.
• Curb ramps at corner lots or cross walks should be kept free from snow and ice extending past the curb and gutter to the street pavement.
• That portion of the sidewalk that crosses an alley should be kept clear to the alley centerline by adjacent property owner/occupants.

The City provides a sand/salt mix for use on the City sidewalks free of charge to residents. The mix is available at:

1. Fire Station 2 – 626 Monitor Street
2. Fire Station 4 – 904 Gillette Street
3. Erickson Fields Parking Lot – 21st Place South
4. 1000 Marco Drive – SE corner of Hood Street and Marco Drive