Winnipeg Snow Removal Bylaw Enforcement

Housing and Building Standards Manitoba 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Manitoba

In Winnipeg, Manitoba, property owners must keep sidewalks and adjacent public areas safe during winter by removing snow and ice and preventing hazardous conditions. This guide explains which city offices enforce snow removal and winter maintenance rules, how enforcement and complaints work, common violations, and practical steps for compliance for homeowners and property managers.

Property owners are expected to keep sidewalks safe and passable after snowfalls.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Winnipeg delegates enforcement of winter maintenance and sidewalk snow removal to municipal by-law enforcement and public works operations. Specific fine amounts and section citations are not specified on the cited page; see the complaint pathway below for reporting and enforcement contacts.311 Winnipeg[1]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page for sidewalk snow/ice removal; the city posts fine schedules on official bylaw pages when available.
  • Escalation: not specified on the cited page; typical municipal practice includes warning, ticket/fine, and continuing offence charges if hazards persist.
  • Non-monetary orders: the city may issue orders to remediate unsafe conditions, with compliance deadlines; further non-compliance can lead to city abatement and cost recovery.
  • Enforcer and inspections: By-law Enforcement Services and Public Works inspect and respond to complaints; property complaints are generally logged and investigated by 311 or the relevant by-law unit.
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes are typically described on the specific ticket or order; time limits and procedures are not specified on the cited page.
If a public safety order is issued, the city can remediate and bill the property owner.

Applications & Forms

There is no separate, commonly published ‘‘sidewalk snow removal’’ application form; residents report unsafe sidewalks or request by-law inspection through 311 Winnipeg.311 Winnipeg[1]

  • Complaint submission: use 311 online or phone to report snow/ice hazards; the 311 page lists how to submit requests and any required information.
  • Documentation: take photos showing location and hazard, note dates/times and prior communications.

Common Violations

  • Failing to clear sidewalks adjacent to the property.
  • Creating ice hazards by allowing water runoff to freeze on walkways.
  • Blocking public walkways with snow piles from private driveways.
Keeping records of clearing times and methods can help if a complaint leads to enforcement action.

How to

  1. Clear a safe path: shovel snow and apply sand or salt to icy patches to make sidewalks passable.
  2. Do it promptly: remove accumulations soon after the snowfall to reduce ice formation and public risk.
  3. Report hazards: if a neighbour or property is not maintaining a sidewalk, report the location to 311 Winnipeg for inspection.311 Winnipeg[1]
  4. If you receive an order or ticket: read it carefully, follow the remediation steps, and follow the stated appeal procedure and deadlines shown on the notice.

FAQ

Who enforces snow removal rules in Winnipeg?
By-law Enforcement Services and Public Works handle inspections and complaints; residents report issues through 311 Winnipeg.311 Winnipeg[1]
What penalties apply for failing to clear sidewalks?
Specific fine amounts and escalation details are not specified on the cited page; the city posts enforcement details on the applicable bylaw pages when available.
How do I appeal a ticket or order?
Appeal procedures and time limits are set out on tickets or orders; if not stated, contact the issuing office via the contact information on the notice or 311.

How-To

  1. Assess the area: identify sidewalks, ramps and curb cuts that need clearing.
  2. Clear snow: shovel to create a continuous, passable route and remove piled snow from public walkways.
  3. Manage ice: apply sand or de-icer safely to reduce slip risks.
  4. Report or request inspection: use 311 Winnipeg if enforcement action is needed.311 Winnipeg[1]

Key Takeaways

  • Property owners are responsible for keeping adjacent sidewalks safe in winter.
  • Report hazards or request inspections through 311 Winnipeg.
  • Keep photos and records of clearing to support compliance or appeal.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Winnipeg - 311 service and reporting

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