Amherst, N.Y. (WBEN) Amherst Supervisor Brian Kulpa says the rules haven't changed. "If you have a sidewalk in front of your house or business,
you're responsible for snow removal."
About ten years ago, the town established snow removal districts due to problems on major arterials. Businesses and residents were often "plowed in"
and unable to handle the snow removal. For a fee, the town will maintain the service.
"Under our snow relief program, there are districts where the town removes
snow along major arterials, such as Maple Road," said Kulpa.
Everywhere else in the town, Kulpa said it's up to the property owner
to handle the snow in front of their business or in front of their house.
The town has issued over 200 citations so far this winter. The town code
states that property and business owners must clear sidewalks and will be
liable for any injury or damage.
Property owners in Amherst generally have about 24 hours to clear their
sidewalks after a snow event. "The first thing we have to do is indicate to
the property owner that they are in violation. That's when the 24 hour period begins. After that, if they are found not to be in compliance, they can face a fine, which can vary, depending on the property."
Kulpa says Amherst is no different than any other town. "If your property or the sidewalk in front of your property is in bad shape, and someone falls, or there is an accident related to it, you're liable."
He acknowledges there are a lot of businesses and residents who don't maintain their snow and there are options for them. "If they are elderly, they can call out senior center. We also have volunteer programs to help people remove snow."
The supervisor said he grew up learning that as you clear your own sidewalk,
you also clear your neighbor's sidewalk in both directions. "That type of attitude would go a long way today," he added.
