A fast snowfall can turn into a ticket just as quickly if you miss Troy’s sidewalk and parking rules. Winter here moves fast, and so does enforcement. You want to keep your block safe, avoid fines, and make sure buyers or tenants can reach your property without trouble.
This guide breaks down what Troy requires, how snow emergencies work, and simple steps to stay compliant. You’ll find clear deadlines, practical tips, and where to get help. Let’s dive in.
Sidewalk rules and timing
Troy requires you to clear sidewalks that border your property by the morning after a storm. The rule is simple: remove snow and ice before 10:00 a.m. the next day after snow falls or ice forms. The city expects you to clear the full width of the sidewalk.
You can review the exact language in Troy’s sidewalk snow removal ordinance. If removal would damage the walk, the code allows you to apply sand or ashes to make it safe until you can fully clear it.
What to clear and where
- Clear the entire sidewalk where feasible. For safe passage, aim for at least a 36‑inch clear path based on ADA guidance on clear routes.
- Always clear curb ramps and crosswalk approaches so people with strollers, carts, or mobility devices can pass.
- If there is a fire hydrant on or near your frontage, dig out a 3‑foot space around it so first responders can access it.
If you cannot scrape to pavement
When ice is bonded to the concrete and full removal is not possible, spread sand or ashes to reduce slipping as the ordinance allows. Keep monitoring conditions and remove ice as temperatures rise.
What not to do with snow
The city code prohibits placing snow, ice, or debris in public streets or creating piles that endanger people driving or walking. If you move any snow toward the street from the sidewalk, it must not create piles or obstructions. When in doubt, place snow on your yard or setback away from the curb. See the warning language in the city code.
Snow emergencies and parking rules
Troy uses snow emergencies to speed up plowing on key routes. A snow emergency usually lasts 48 hours and may be extended in 48‑hour blocks. It starts at either 8:00 a.m. or 8:00 p.m., and the city announces the start time, affected streets, and updates.
Check the Troy Snow Emergency page for declarations, listed streets, and official guidance.
Odd/even parking schedule
- First 24 hours: No parking on the odd‑numbered side of designated snow emergency streets.
- Second 24 hours: No parking on the even‑numbered side.
Vehicles in violation can be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense. The city’s Vehicles and Traffic code lists the specific snow emergency parking violation.
Off‑street parking and service changes
During snow emergencies, the city encourages you to use municipal garages and lots where available. Recycling collection is suspended during declared snow emergencies, and the city asks you not to place bins in the street so plows can pass. Find current details on the Snow Emergency page.
Penalties and how enforcement works
Troy can issue fines if your sidewalk stays uncleared after the deadline. The current penalty for a sidewalk violation is $75 per violation. If the condition continues, the city may issue new tickets every 72 hours, each with an additional $75. Review the penalty language in Troy’s ordinance.
If you still do not comply after written notice, the Department of Public Works can clear the sidewalk and bill you for the cost. Unpaid bills can be assessed to your property in the same way as other local assessments.
For parking during snow emergencies, expect ticketing and towing if you ignore the odd/even schedule. Fines and storage or towing fees can add up quickly. See the city’s Vehicles and Traffic code and monitor the Snow Emergency page for current instructions.
Practical tips for owners, landlords, and businesses
A little planning goes a long way on storm days, especially if you manage corner lots or multiple properties.
Safety and accessibility
- Clear a minimum 36‑inch path for pedestrian access wherever possible, per ADA guidance.
- Keep curb ramps, bus stop areas, and accessible parking spaces open.
- Mark mailboxes, driveway edges, and hydrants with flags so they are visible in deep snow.
For multi‑property owners and businesses
- Line up a contractor before the season for heavy storms and overnight events.
- Make sure contractors do not push snow onto neighboring sidewalks or create piles in the street.
- Keep main entrances and accessible routes clear to at least 36 inches, including any ramps.
How to report problems
If you find a hazardous, unshoveled sidewalk or need to report street plowing concerns, use the city’s official channels:
- Public Works (DPW) Dispatcher: 518‑270‑4579 for unplowed street or maintenance issues
- Code Enforcement: 518‑279‑7180 during business hours, with an after‑hours hotline noted on the city site
- Online forms: Use the “Report a Concern” options linked from the city’s Public Works page
Quick checklist for Troy property owners
- By 10:00 a.m. the morning after snow or ice, clear the full width of your sidewalk or apply sand/ashes if full removal would cause damage. See the ordinance.
- Keep at least a 36‑inch path clear and open curb ramps and crosswalk approaches. Dig out nearby hydrants. See ADA guidance.
- Do not create snow piles in the street or block crosswalks, curb ramps, bus stops, or hydrants. The city code warns against creating hazards.
- During a declared snow emergency, follow the odd/even schedule and use off‑street parking or municipal lots. Check the Snow Emergency page.
- Report hazards or service needs through DPW, Code Enforcement, or the city’s Public Works page.
Keeping your sidewalk clear and your parking compliant protects neighbors, reduces liability risk, and helps Troy plows do their job. If you are preparing to sell or lease this winter, good snow practices also make showings smoother and safer. If you want local, practical guidance on winter prep for your property plans, reach out to Elizabeth Ellers.
FAQs
What is the deadline to clear sidewalks in Troy, NY?
- You must remove snow and ice by 10:00 a.m. the morning after it falls or forms, and clear the full width where feasible per the city ordinance.
How does Troy’s snow emergency parking work?
- For the first 24 hours, no parking on the odd‑numbered side of designated streets; for the second 24 hours, no parking on the even‑numbered side.
What are the fines for not shoveling a sidewalk in Troy?
- The current penalty is $75 per violation, with additional $75 tickets possible every 72 hours until the condition is corrected.
Can you shovel snow from the sidewalk into the street in Troy?
- The code prohibits creating piles or obstructions in the street; avoid pushing snow into the roadway and instead place it on your yard or setback.
How long do Troy snow emergencies last and who declares them?
- They typically last 48 hours and are declared by the Mayor, who may extend them in additional 48‑hour periods if needed.
Are trash and recycling affected during a Troy snow emergency?
- Recycling collection is suspended during declared snow emergencies, and residents are asked not to place bins in the street so plows can pass.
