Here's How Much You Can Get Fined In Toronto If You Choose Not To Shovel Today

If you're a Toronto resident who tends to not shovel snow off your property for days at a time, you might want to check yourself before you get fined.

According to the City of Toronto, residents are required to clear ice and snow from sidewalks in front of or adjacent to their homes to help keep their neighbours and community safe.

And that's not a suggestion. Home, property and business owners must clear the snow or ice on the adjacent public property if the snowfall accumulation is 2 centimetres or less in-depth and within 12 hours of the end of the snowfall—or be prepared to pay a hefty fine.

"The set fine for not clearing snow from public and private property is $500 plus $115 surcharge, total of $615," the city stated.

Residents who fail to clear snow from a public property can be charged up to $5000 under the Snow and Ice Clearing Bylaw.

The bylaw also states that any costs the City incur from having to clear the snow themselves may be collected from the property owner as well.

As for private property, home and property owners are also responsible for clearing ice and snow from their driveways, parking spaces, steps, ramps and landings within 24 hours of the end of the snowfall. This is to "provide safe access and egress for persons and vehicles," the bylaw states.

Residents are also asked to contact 311 to report property owners who do not clear their sidewalks or private property.

Environment Canada issued multiple freezing rain and snowfall warnings all over southern Ontario on Thursday morning, with up to 25 centimetres expected in some spots. Some school buses were cancelled, and Toronto Police have issued a winter weather advisory for blowing debris, power outages and travel.

So if your sidewalks are still covered in snow, it might be time to grab a warm hat, some winter boots and a shovel and get started!